Are prop shaft issues common with Viano?

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MB James

Active Member
Joined
Feb 24, 2014
Messages
83
Location
Cheltenham
Car
S-Class W222
I've got a 2011 Viano 85000 miles and its making a droning noise at low speeds, seems to be when its warmed up, then when I'm turning right or reversing. I thought it was coming from the rear, suspension or electronic suspension adjustment. But now I think it could be more to the middle.
Would this suggest prop shaft or prop shaft bearings? Is this a common problem?
I had an 06 Vito that I had to replace the propshaft on. Cant remember if it was a similar noise.

Mercedes Bath had a quick look at it but had no idea. Mind you they didn't check the prop shaft.

I'm a chauffeur and the Viano is booked all next week. The noise is intermittent but quite loud when it happens. Need to get it sorted quick. Any ideas?
 
Centre bearing is quite common, I've had one complete prop rebuilt on a Vito (2008) and a viano (2005) had 2 centre besrings fail over the course of 180k miles (taxi)

Vito produced noise when reversing.
Viano noise increased with speed.
 
Ok, thanks. I'm pretty sure that's where the problem is which is progress since Friday when I had no idea. I had the prop shift replaced on my 06 Vito which cost £700. What would you expect to pay to replace centre bearing?
 
My friend's Vito 2005 prop shaft bearing was sorted a few years ago on 150k miles for a few hundred quid. Sounds similar to what he had.
 
Labour wise there not that involved, I'd imagine you would get charged 1-2hrs labour I had the prop rebuilt for £225 inc vat
 
Thanks guys. I'm hoping my local indy garage can do the work tomorrow afternoon.
 
I know it’s an old thread but hopefully my experiment will help future members/searches.

Weird vibrations at certain circumstances only - took it to these guys JW Engineering
(Bexleyheath Kent)
Knowledgable and straight forward chaps - took it off the van in mins and checked it over- found no issues, only asked for £20 for the time and pointed me on the direction of an auto gearbox specialist as they suspected it was the torque converter.
They know the Vitos well and knew exactly what to check and what was ‘normal’ or not. Can’t remember what they quoted about £200ish for bearing replacement and would do it on the spot if needed.

Turns it it’s not the torque converter after a gearbox rebuild (which was needed). I’ve put it down to the commercial vehicle underpinnings of the Vito and accept although it has an S classs engine and gearbox its not going to be as refined!
 

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