2019 Mercedes-Benz Gran Viale RF

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz Gran Viale RF is a high-end recreational vehicle built on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis. It boasts luxurious amenities and comfortable living spaces, making it ideal for extended road trips. While specific engine options for the Gran Viale RF built on the Sprinter chassis may vary depending on the conversion company, a common choice is the 3.0L V6 turbo diesel engine, producing approximately 188 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. It is typically paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise its smooth ride, fuel efficiency for its size, and the quality of the interior appointments. Common complaints often revolve around the relatively high price point, occasional issues with the electronics of the Sprinter chassis, and limited storage space compared to larger RVs.

Engine

3.0L V6 Turbo Diesel

• Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) illumination, “Check Engine” light, error messages related to DEF system, reduced engine power, DEF level sensor failures.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the specific fault code, replacement of faulty DEF sensors, DEF injector, or DEF pump, software updates to the engine control unit (ECU).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil drips under the engine, oil consumption increases, burning oil smell, visible oil leaks around valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, or rear main seal.
  • Solution: Identification of the source of the leak, replacement of the affected gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC)

• Rough or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting between gears, delayed engagement when shifting from Park or Neutral to Drive or Reverse, slipping during gear changes.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement, software update to the transmission control module (TCM), replacement of valve body or individual solenoids within the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, especially during acceleration, stalling, abnormal noises
  • Solution: Torque Converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Problems (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging suspension on one or more corners, failure of the air compressor, error messages related to the air suspension system, uneven ride height.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the fault, replacement of the air struts, air compressor, or ride height sensors, repair of air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Various warning lights on the dashboard (ABS, ESP, TPMS), malfunctioning sensors (e.g., wheel speed sensors, oxygen sensors), inaccurate readings.
  • Solution: Diagnosis with a scan tool to identify the faulty sensor, replacement of the sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, frequent jump starts required, dead battery, error messages related to low voltage.
  • Solution: Battery testing and replacement, inspection of the charging system (alternator), checking for parasitic drains.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• MBUX System Glitches (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Infotainment system freezing, unresponsive touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity issues, navigation problems, software errors.
  • Solution: Software updates, system resets, replacement of the head unit (if necessary).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $2000+ (Head Unit Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding door, door not latching properly, unusual noises during operation, motor failure (if power sliding door).
  • Solution: Adjustment of the door alignment, lubrication of the door tracks and rollers, replacement of the door latch mechanism or motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• RV Component Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Refrigerator malfunctions, water pump failures, furnace issues, air conditioner problems, plumbing leaks. (These are RV-specific components added by the upfitter, not Mercedes-Benz).
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the specific fault, repair or replacement of the affected component. (Varies greatly depending on the component).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2000+
  • Recalls: Check with the RV conversion company for RV-specific recalls.
• Window Seal Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks around windows during rain, condensation inside the windows, musty odor, water stains on interior panels.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window seals, resealing the windows.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz Gran Viale RF, while luxurious, can present owners with a range of issues, primarily related to the underlying Sprinter chassis’s engine, transmission, and electrical systems. The DEF system and potential for oil leaks in the diesel engine, along with rough shifting in the 7-speed transmission, are notable concerns. RV-specific systems like plumbing and water systems are often a point of concern for owners. The cost of repairs can vary significantly, ranging from minor sensor replacements to more substantial work on the transmission or DEF system. Potential buyers should thoroughly inspect the vehicle’s service history and consider a pre-purchase inspection to identify any potential problems.