2020 Mercedes-Benz Gran Viale Articulado
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz Gran Viale Articulado is a high-capacity city bus designed for efficient public transportation. Specific engine options and their performance figures vary depending on regional specifications and operator requirements. Common engine choices include diesel variants compliant with Euro VI emissions standards. Horsepower and torque figures depend on the specific engine model but typically fall within the range of 220-360 hp and 800-1400 Nm of torque, respectively. A common transmission option is the ZF Ecolife automatic transmission. People often appreciate the Gran Viale Articulado for its high passenger capacity, accessibility features, and modern design. Potential dislikes can include maintenance costs associated with a large vehicle and challenges maneuvering in dense urban environments.
Engine
Diesel Engines (Euro VI Compliant)
- Excessive Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Regeneration
- Description/Symptoms: Frequent DPF regeneration cycles, leading to increased fuel consumption and potential engine wear. The dashboard may display a DPF warning light more often than expected.
- Solution: Investigate potential causes of excessive soot production, such as faulty injectors, turbocharger issues, or EGR system malfunctions. Replace or repair the faulty components and ensure the DPF is functioning correctly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+ depending on the cause and components needing replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
- Turbocharger Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, black smoke from the exhaust, and a whistling or whining noise from the engine.
- Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
ZF Ecolife Automatic Transmission
- Harsh Shifting or Slipping
- Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky gear changes, delays in shifting, or the transmission slipping out of gear.
- Solution: Begin with a transmission fluid flush and filter change, however, if that does not resolve the issue, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild may be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $5,000+ depending on the severity and repair needed.
- Recalls: None Found
- Transmission Overheating
- Description/Symptoms: The transmission temperature warning light illuminates, and the vehicle may experience reduced performance or inability to shift gears.
- Solution: Check the transmission fluid level and condition. Inspect the transmission cooler for leaks or blockages. Repair or replace the cooler as needed. In some cases, internal transmission damage may require a rebuild.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension System Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: The vehicle may lean to one side, the ride height may be uneven, or the air compressor may run constantly to compensate for the leak. Hissing sound near the air springs or lines.
- Solution: Locate the source of the leak (air springs, air lines, valve block, or compressor). Replace the faulty component.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+ depending on the component
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Multiplexing System Faults
- Description/Symptoms: Intermittent failures of various electrical components, such as lights, door controls, or the instrument cluster. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to communication errors on the CAN bus.
- Solution: Diagnose the faulty module or wiring harness causing the communication issue. Replace the faulty component or repair the wiring.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
- Recalls: None Found
- Door Control Module Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Doors failing to open or close properly, issues with door locking mechanisms, or warning lights related to door malfunctions.
- Solution: Diagnose and replace the faulty door control module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per door.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Automatic Door System Failures
- Description/Symptoms: Doors failing to open or close fully, erratic door movements, or error messages on the driver’s display.
- Solution: Inspect door sensors, actuators, and control modules. Repair or replace faulty components. Calibrate the door system.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ per door, depending on the nature of the failure.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- HVAC System Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent temperature control, blower motor failures, or air conditioning compressor issues.
- Solution: Diagnose the faulty component (blower motor, compressor, control module, actuators, or sensors). Replace the faulty part.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the part.
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz Gran Viale Articulado, like many large commercial vehicles, can experience a range of issues. Common complaints include problems with the diesel engine’s DPF system and turbocharger, transmission issues (particularly with the ZF Ecolife), and malfunctions with the air suspension, electrical multiplexing, and automatic door systems. The severity of these issues varies, with some requiring relatively inexpensive fixes while others can lead to significant repair costs. Addressing these problems promptly is crucial for maintaining the vehicle’s operational efficiency and passenger safety.