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2020 Mercedes-Benz OF 1318

2020 Mercedes-Benz OF 1318

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz OF 1318 is a heavy-duty truck that is available with a variety of engine and transmission options. The engine options include a 7.2-liter OM 926 LA inline-6 diesel engine that produces 238 horsepower and 850 lb-ft of torque, and an 11.0-liter OM 460 LA inline-6 diesel engine that produces 425 horsepower and 1,325 lb-ft of torque. The transmission options include a 6-speed manual transmission or an 8-speed Allison automatic transmission.

The OF 1318 is praised for its powerful engines, sturdy construction, and comfortable cabin. However, it has been reported to have several issues.

Engine

7.2-liter OM 926 LA Inline-6 Diesel Engine

  • Turbocharger Failure: The turbocharger can fail prematurely, resulting in a loss of power and black smoke from the exhaust pipe. The solution is to replace the turbocharger, which costs around $2,000 to $3,000.
  • Fuel Injector Issues: The fuel injectors can become clogged or fail, causing rough idling, poor fuel economy, and black smoke from the exhaust pipe. The solution is to replace the fuel injectors, which costs around $500 to $1,000.

11.0-liter OM 460 LA Inline-6 Diesel Engine

  • EGR Cooler Failure: The EGR cooler can fail, causing the engine to overheat. The solution is to replace the EGR cooler, which costs around $1,500 to $2,000.

Transmission

6-Speed Manual Transmission

  • Gear Grinding: The gears can grind when shifting, especially when the transmission is cold. The solution is to replace the synchronizers, which costs around $500 to $1,000.

8-Speed Allison Automatic Transmission

  • Shifting Problems: The transmission may hesitate or slip when shifting gears. The solution is to replace the transmission solenoid pack, which costs around $1,000 to $1,500.

Suspension

  • Leaf Spring Breakage: The leaf springs can break, causing the truck to sag and ride rough. The solution is to replace the leaf springs, which costs around $500 to $1,000 per spring.

Electrical

  • Battery Drain: The battery can drain prematurely, especially when the truck is parked. The solution is to replace the battery or alternator, which costs around $200 to $500.

Exterior

  • Door Handle Failure: The door handles can break or become loose, making it difficult to open the doors. The solution is to replace the door handles, which costs around $100 to $200 per handle.

Interior

  • HVAC System Malfunction: The HVAC system may not blow air or may blow only cold or hot air. The solution is to replace the HVAC blower motor or control module, which costs around $200 to $500.

Summary

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz OF 1318 is a capable heavy-duty truck, but it has been reported to have several issues, including turbocharger failure, fuel injector issues, EGR cooler failure, gear grinding, shifting problems, leaf spring breakage, battery drain, door handle failure, and HVAC system malfunction. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but some can be significant.

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