2020 Mercedes-Benz Gran Viale RF

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz Gran Viale RF is a luxury Class B RV built on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis. It offers comfortable accommodations and is powered by a 3.0L turbo-diesel V6 engine producing 188 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. People often appreciate the Gran Viale RF for its compact size, making it easier to maneuver and park than larger RVs, as well as its luxurious interior features and Mercedes-Benz build quality. Some common dislikes include its relatively high price point and the potential for maintenance costs associated with the Mercedes-Benz platform.

Engine

3.0L Turbo-Diesel V6

• Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning DEF system, leading to “check engine” lights, reduced engine power, and potential inability to start the vehicle. Faulty sensors, pumps, or DEF heaters are common culprits.
  • Solution: Diagnosis by a qualified technician is necessary to pinpoint the failing component. Replacement of the faulty sensor, pump, or heater.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, often originating from the oil cooler seals, turbocharger oil lines, or the rear main seal. Visible oil drips, low oil levels, and the smell of burning oil are indicators.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking seals or lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises from the turbocharger, lack of power, excessive smoke from the exhaust, and potential “check engine” lights.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic (7G-Tronic)

• Rough or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, particularly between certain gears. Can be more pronounced when cold.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update may resolve the issue. In others, valve body replacement or a full transmission rebuild may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (Software Update) - $5000+ (Transmission Rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at low speeds, particularly when accelerating from a stop or maintaining a constant speed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sag/Failure (Air Suspension if Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sagging, particularly when loaded. Air compressor running excessively or not at all. “Check engine” lights or suspension warning lights may be illuminated.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the air suspension system, including checking for leaks in the air springs, lines, or compressor. Replacement of faulty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front Suspension Component Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear of front suspension components such as ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings. Can lead to steering issues, noises, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Malfunctioning Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensor failures, including those related to the emissions system (NOx sensors), ABS system, and engine management. This can lead to warning lights, drivability issues, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
  • Solution: Diagnosis to identify the faulty sensor and replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain, leading to difficulty starting or a completely dead battery.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to identify the parasitic drain, which can be caused by faulty modules, aftermarket accessories, or wiring issues. Repair or replacement of the offending component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The MBUX infotainment system may freeze, crash, or become unresponsive.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $1500+ (Infotainment Unit Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulties opening or closing the sliding door.
  • Solution: Adjustment of the door mechanism or replacement of the sliding door motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Awning Malfunctions (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with the operation of the awning, such as failure to extend or retract fully.
  • Solution: Inspection and repair or replacement of the awning motor, arms, or fabric.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Water Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks, often originating from the roof, windows, or plumbing connections. Can lead to water damage, mold growth, and musty odors.
  • Solution: Identification and sealing of the leak source. Repair of any water damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Appliance Failures (Refrigerator, Stove, Water Heater)
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions of the onboard appliances, such as the refrigerator not cooling, the stove not igniting, or the water heater not producing hot water.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair or replacement of the faulty appliance component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ per appliance
  • Recalls: None Found
• Plumbing Issues (Water Pump, Faucets, Toilet)
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaks, clogs, or failures in the water pump, faucets, or toilet.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the faulty plumbing component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz Gran Viale RF can experience a range of issues. Engine and transmission issues, while not universally reported, can be costly to repair. Electrical and interior issues are more commonly reported and can range in severity from minor inconveniences to major problems that affect the usability of the RV. Potential owners should carefully inspect the vehicle and be prepared for the possibility of repairs, particularly to the diesel emissions system and the various RV-specific components.