2020 Mercedes-Benz MBO 1218

Introduction to the 2020 Mercedes-Benz MBO 1218

The Mercedes-Benz MBO 1218 is a heavy-duty truck designed for medium-haul applications. It is available with a variety of engine and transmission options, including a 354 horsepower, 1,320 lb-ft torque OM473 engine mated to an Allison TC10 automatic transmission.

People like the MBO 1218 for its powerful engine, robust construction, and comfortable cab. However, it has been known to experience some issues, which are detailed below.

Engine

OM473

• Injector failure: Symptoms include rough idling, reduced power, and increased emissions. Solution: Replace the injectors. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
• Turbocharger failure: Symptoms include loss of power, black smoke from the exhaust, and a whistling sound. Solution: Replace the turbocharger. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
• EGR valve failure: Symptoms include reduced power, increased emissions, and a check engine light. Solution: Clean or replace the EGR valve. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Oil leak from the oil pan: Symptoms include a puddle of oil under the truck and a decrease in oil level. Solution: Replace the oil pan gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• DPC filter clogging: Symptoms include reduced power, increased emissions, and a check engine light. Solution: Replace the DPC filter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Transmission

Allison TC10 Automatic

• Shifting problems: Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears, delayed shifts, and hard shifts. Solution: Flush the transmission fluid and replace the filter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Torque converter failure: Symptoms include slipping gears, loss of power, and a burnt smell. Solution: Replace the torque converter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
• Transmission cooler failure: Symptoms include overheating transmission fluid and a check engine light. Solution: Replace the transmission cooler. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
• Oil leak from the transmission pan: Symptoms include a puddle of transmission fluid under the truck and a decrease in fluid level. Solution: Replace the transmission pan gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+

Suspension

• Leaf spring failure: Symptoms include a sagging rear suspension and uneven tire wear. Solution: Replace the leaf springs. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per spring
• Shock absorber failure: Symptoms include a bouncy ride and poor handling. Solution: Replace the shock absorbers. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per shock
• Stabilizer bar link failure: Symptoms include a clunking noise when turning or going over bumps. Solution: Replace the stabilizer bar links. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ per link

Electrical

• Battery failure: Symptoms include difficulty starting the truck, flickering lights, and a dead battery. Solution: Replace the battery. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• Alternator failure: Symptoms include dimming lights, a dead battery, and a check engine light. Solution: Replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
• Starter failure: Symptoms include difficulty starting the truck or no response when turning the key. Solution: Replace the starter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Wiring harness issues: Symptoms include intermittent electrical problems, such as lights and gauges not working properly. Solution: Repair or replace the affected wiring harness. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Exterior

• Headlight failure: Symptoms include dim or flickering headlights. Solution: Replace the headlight bulbs or assemblies. Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ per headlight
• Taillight failure: Symptoms include dim or inoperable taillights. Solution: Replace the taillight bulbs or assemblies. Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $100+ per taillight
• Turn signal failure: Symptoms include inoperable turn signals or hyperflashing. Solution: Replace the turn signal bulbs or flasher relay. Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $50+
• Rust: Symptoms include visible rust on the body panels or frame. Solution: Repair or replace the affected areas. Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the extent of the damage

Interior

• Climate control failure: Symptoms include inoperable heating or air conditioning. Solution: Repair or replace the climate control system. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
• Radio failure: Symptoms include no sound or intermittent sound from the radio. Solution: Repair or replace the radio. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
• Seat adjustment failure: Symptoms include difficulty adjusting the driver’s seat. Solution: Repair or replace the seat adjustment mechanisms. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Dashboard cracks: Symptoms include visible cracks on the dashboard. Solution: Replace the dashboard. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Summary

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz MBO 1218 is a capable truck, but it has been known to experience some issues. The most common problems are related to the engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical system. The severity of these issues varies, but some can be expensive to repair. Overall, the MBO 1218 is a solid truck, but it is important to be aware of the potential issues before making a purchase.