Mercedes-Benz Vito W638 (1996–2003)

3.7/5
Reliability score Average
Email-verified reliability report

Model and generation reliability insights from verified owners. Variants are selected when adding reviews.

6 Verified owner reports

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Most reported affected parts

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No affected parts have been reported yet.

Engine reliability summary

Petrol

Engine Score Reports Common issues
V 200 CDI (102 Hp) (OM 611 DE22LA) No reports 0 No issues reported
V 230 (143 Hp) (M 111 E23) No reports 0 No issues reported
V 230 (143 Hp) Manual 4-speed (M 111 E 23 / 111.978) No reports 0 No issues reported
V 230 (143 Hp) Manual 5-speed (M 111 E 23 / 111.978) No reports 0 No issues reported
Show 1 more engine
V 280 (174 Hp) (M 104.900) No reports 0 No issues reported

Diesel

Engine Score Reports Common issues
V 220 CDI (122 Hp) (OM 611 DE22LA) No reports 0 No issues reported
V 230 TD (98 Hp) (OM 601 D 23 LA) No reports 0 No issues reported

Owner reviews

Verified owner Verified
Model not specified Mileage unknown

Vito W638: A Workhorse for Scraps

This is simply a car for transporting... in my case, scrap metal. The comfort is nonexistent, and the dynamism is not even worth mentioning, but it did its job - it served diligently. You can't praise or complain here, as it depends on the condition you buy it in.

Pros: Served diligently
Cons: Nonexistent comfort, Poor dynamism
Verified owner Verified
Model not specified Mileage unknown

Mercedes Vito W638: A User's Perspective

Despite unfavorable opinions found on internet forums, I decided to buy a W638. I previously owned a T4 (which forums called the ideal van...). My Vito currently has 378,000 km. I've replaced the clutch and am now planning to address injector seat milling – a typical CDI issue. Visually, it looks much better than the T4, with significantly better interior ergonomics. Regarding the bodywork, rust appears as in any van. It seems a bit shorter than the T4.

Pros: Visually more appealing than T4, Better interior ergonomics
Cons: Typical CDI injector seat issue, Rust is common on bodywork, Slightly shorter than T4
Verified owner Verified
Model not specified Mileage unknown

Vito W638: Years Later, Still Costly Repairs

Hello. I'm reviewing again because after another year of use, I spent another 5000 PLN on repairs, totaling 10000 PLN over 2.5 years. Almost everything breaks in this car. Maybe I got a faulty unit. The car has had issues with the radiator, thermostat, heater core, AC, power windows, central locking, lights are always out (fuses blow constantly), alternator (reconditioned), engine mounts, gearbox failed, linkage, belt, pulley, etc. The car was rattling incredibly.

Pros: Spacious interior, Versatile for cargo/people
Cons: Frequent and expensive repairs, Reliability issues across multiple components, Electrical problems, Transmission failure
Verified owner Verified
Model not specified Mileage unknown

Vito w639

The car is OK. The only problem is how the service staff treats us drivers. I own a Mercedes Vito 639 2.2 CDI from 2007. I've had contact with Mercedes service several times. Considering Mercedes is associated with luxury, reliability, and prestige, I was more and more disappointed after each visit. Since the nearest service center to my home is in Zabrze, I used their services. The first job they did for me was painting.

Pros: Reliable vehicle
Cons: Poor customer service at the dealership, Disappointing after-sales experience
Verified owner Verified
Model not specified Mileage unknown

Vito W639: A Reliable Workhorse

Never let me down. High driving comfort and a quite flexible engine. I recommend at least 150 HP. For me, that's the minimum power for this car. In most cases, passenger cars are left behind. Unfortunately, the first gear is short, but it goes well after that. Gears don't shift effortlessly, but it gives a good feeling. A feeling of solidness. Drives very well. Suspension is rather soft, but without excessive body roll in corners. Very good visibility! Mine has large mirrors (not in every...

Pros: Reliable, never failed, High driving comfort, Flexible engine, Good performance for its class, Solid build, Drives well, Good suspension/handling balance, Excellent visibility, Large mirrors
Cons: Short first gear, Gears don't shift effortlessly
Verified owner Verified
Model not specified Mileage unknown

Mercedes Vito W638 Review

Bought the V-Class/Vito for construction use, and to transport up to 7 people at once. I like the dashboard and the automatic transmission is good. Some minor work was needed after purchase, as expected. The engines drive nicely. It's not a young car anymore, but it's still good. My main drawback is that suspension imperfections are transmitted to the body, causing some creaking over bumps, which can be annoying. The good audio system somewhat compensates for this. The interior is spacious, and with a tow hitch, it's generally a cool and practical car.

Pros: Spacious interior, Comfortable for 7 occupants, Good engine performance, Functional automatic transmission
Cons: Road imperfections transmitted to cabin, Can creak over bumps, Requires some post-purchase maintenance

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