Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (2006-2026)
Also referred to as: Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2025 and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2027.48 reviews
Confident car to drive – Bought 313 cdi MWB high roof new in 2017 very happy to drive van smooth and enough power to do the job great on freeway even on windy days has great control did good as a locksmith van Only did 15000 kms a year so the service timing was pricey but overall ok with me but if your driving a lot of kms would recommend more regular oil change Good… Read more
fuel in the van is a good thing no cheap diesel 3 year warranty service is not enough as it passed so quickly now they are offering 5year warranty as it should be overall quality is good compared to other van to choose from
Fort a mercedes im very disappointed – Fuel economy 6km /litre .73 litre fuel tank ..Who on earth thought that thru ?(No One).Bought 163 litre tank and fitted it .Get 900 km if I am lucky .Uses too much fuel and ad blue . Very front heavy .Poor headlights .Back seats of dual cab have the person sitting at 90 degrees to the seat so its Very uncomfortable for them . Show details
- +1
2019 319 sprinter – After the first 20k thing went down hill with egr problems that mercedes could not fix.After 100k and a bonnet flying up and smashing the windscreen,I ordered a vw and nursed this van for 15 months until the vw arrived .Was a american built an it showed in handling and quality of the car. Show details
Reviews with attachments
- +2
Mercedes-benz.. do you really want one? - review of 3 brand new sprinter vans below – Ill start with all the problems, then give the pro's in the end. Also a little info on the 2024 VW crafter for anyone interested.. I have purchased 3 brand new Sprinters in the last 8 years. The first was a 2012 model 316 manual (owned until 200,000km), second was a 2015 model 416 manual (owned until 270,000km), and third a 2020 model 516 (auto).… Read more
Both the first and second Sprinters had the engine light come on multiple times over the 3-4 years I owned them. Both started displaying engine lights from around 5000km mark. Both went into limp mode (huge decrease in power) regularly. This is major inconvenience, and extremely dangerous. Picture yourself pulling out of an intersection only to have the van go into limp mode halfway across the road. That was a reality more than once. Plenty of electric problems throughout their time from starter motors, ECU contact issues, EGR valve, clutch replacement in both vans just before 200,000km, hairline crack in two of the 4 wheel rims in the 416 (no impact or other damage on either wheel, just decided to crack forcing me to replace), and a handful of others that I cant recall. Both these vans had 30,000km service intervals. Not only did I change the oil at twice the recommended intervals, but I also ran an oil and fuel additive in them since new, thinking they would love me back. The 416 at the 250,000km point started to give a loud knocking noise from the engine. I was told by Merc that the injectors needed replacing (despite running a fuel additive from day 1) so they were replaced for over $3500. The noise was still there, just as loud.. they then wanted me to leave it with them until they could work it out. After 4 different mechanic businesses tried to diagnose it over the course of a few weeks, everything seemed to point to a dropped cylinder (even though the power never dropped off, and it continued to perform well despite the loud noise the whole time).I never went any further knowing I wouldn't have much change from $20,000, so I traded it for a 3rd Sprinter. This 2020 model 516 even lasted to 14,000km before forcing into limp mode and restricting speed to 20km/h. They blamed it on the Adblue sensors malfunctioning. This brings me to another reason for you to beware of buying a Merc.. I was told by dealership my van would take 6 weeks for repair as they waited on part from Germany. I was told there was no vehicle as a courtesy car. Then after 2 days they rang and gave me a tiny Vito which I couldn't use as it wasn't big enough. After pleading with the dealership and Mercedes Australia for them to hire me an equivalent sized vehicle, I realised it wasn't coming so I hired one at my cost for just over $5100. After a few attempts at getting hold of someone higher up in Merc head office, they had a man call me. I explained the situation and told him other branded vehicle dealerships hire their customers like-for-like cars if ours happens to be in for warranty, which is my experience with Mazda. He responded with words to the effect of "we can't do that as we don't have the funds available and have shareholders to consider". I reminded him that i've spent a quarter of a million dollars with Merc in the last 8 years, and asked how much I'd have to spend in order to be seen as a loyal customer or even given some customer service. He kept going back to the shareholder excuse. I've had the van back for a week, and in that time the audio touch screen on the dash has malfunctioned twice. Always blacks out making bluetooth/stereo and other features useless . These vans constantly need wheel alignments from the showroom floor throughout their whole life. No-one seems to be able to align them correctly. Seems like another factory fault. The latest of the sprinters have even more annoying features and distractions than previous models. Like complicated buttons and controls. No simplicity. They took away the glovebox that was great in the last model and left the 2020 model without. They replaced the top dash storage compartment in this van with a smaller, flimsier one. Worse, they put the only USB port in the van inside this box, so you have to jam the lid shut over the cord in order to charge your phone in the cradle. They also took the constant 12v supply away. Why do I keep buying them? They're the only vans that can take a pay load of almost 2000kg, while still being able to take a full size pallet between the rear wheel arches due to the fact they run a single wheel. If you can do with a smaller van, look no further than a Toyota Hiace. Merc customer service is not there. I can't say any of the other branded European vans are any better by what I see amongst colleagues, but their customer service might be.
*update 5/6/21 - the 516 sprinter now has 52,000km on it & is exactly 1 year old.. Since writing the above, multiple more issues have happened. The dash board continues to randomly black out (the part that controls the audio & reverse camera display) and can stay this way for hours. maybe about every 3 weeks, when driving at speed it suddenly senses something that doesn't exist and displays on the dash a hazard while slamming brakes on for a split second & scaring the crap out of you. Thankfully the brakes are on & off so fast all it does is scare you and the van keeps moving. Still, it's just another thing that shouldn't happen. One week it did it t least 3 times. other weeks nothing at all. It has also been making a knocking noise from the rear end regularly. I've mentioned this to them & they tried telling me it was the fire extinguisher rolling around my cabin. I went under the van today to look for myself. See the photos below of the broken metal part. There is nothing that I could have done to cause this (no dirt/bumpy road use), its just another example of the quality I've come to expect from merc. I've also attached proof of purchase so readers can see this a is legitimate post (the named dealership in the invoice are not to blame for anything in this post). I have only showed my latest vans receipt but it wouldn't be hard for me to go through the filing cabinet to prove ownership of the other two. *UPDATE* - 26/4/22.. I've been meaning to do an update for some time.. the van is not even two years old yet. It has 104,000km on it. I've had a reasonably good run since the time it went in for an adblu issue (noted above) with only 14,000km on it. About a week and a half ago the engine light came on & the dash said it has another Adblue issue. I went to dealer, they diagnosed as needing a new tank. I was told this is very common in these vans (my last 2 sprinters didn't have Adblue) & many ambulances were waiting on the same parts. They sent me away saying they don't know when the parts would be here in Aus, as they're on backorder in Germany! I made clear to them I need it for work & that if I kept driving it, it would go into limp mode (it was already in the first stage of limp mode where it reduces power about 20%). They said they couldn't help, and the very next morning it went into limp mode, a maximum of 20km/h. Its good that I have warranty, but potential buyers of these vans beware - Mercedes do not care about giving after sales service. You will not be given a courtesy vehicle. They will not pay or contribute to a rental. They can't even tell you when your parts will be in the country. They don't care that I am losing thousands of dollars income weekly due to the holes in their company. You're on your own. While I am at it, I've had multiple incidents of the van displaying "sidewind assist" or something similar where it slams the brakes on momentarily when no wind is present. Also the part of the dash that displays the reverse camera and audio features completely blacks out at random. As noted above, this is a regular thing thats happened since new.. Very frustrating not having the rear camera work. Each time Merc fail me with their lack of customer service, they send me a survey asking how they went. I happily copy & paste the link to this review each time for their convenience. * update 4/7/23 .. since July 2022, I am putting only half the kilometres per week on the 2020 model van than what I have for the last 10 years on all 3 vans, so future problems may not be so evident now. A new problem has started though. The wheel bolt (nuts) sheer off randomly. Just over the last few months, I’ve had 4 Sheer off - 3 on one wheel, 1 on the other. Both rear wheels. They were done up by me using manual force, just as I always have. The van is never overweight, although I bet the weight is the cause. I constantly have about 1400kg in the rear (payload is 1900kg+). I didn’t have this problem in any of the vans prior to July 2022. The vans loads fluctuated back then. Now it is constant, but well within its limit. I’ve never heard of or experienced wheel nuts/bolts snapping off as a vehicle is being driven. Just another example of the low quality of these vehicles.
Onto some positives.. when these vans are working trouble-free, they are nice to drive. Just like a car. I have since sold the 2020 model 516 with 197,000km on it. I deliberately sold it while still under new car warranty having learnt my lesson with the other two. The last 80,000km of this van before selling have been the best run ive ever had. Right at the end it went into limp mode for Adblu issues again. It needed a new injector & something else. Besides that, it has been real good.
- These vans have very impressive power for a 2.1L four cylinder. I could haul 4T (2T in van, 2T in trailer) and it pulls it very well. - They have an excellent turning circle just like a car - No issues with bluetooth/apple car play - all phonecalls are clear & good. - Very comfortable just like a car. I happily would drive the van just the same as i would our car. - Fuel economy is also very impressive - 7sp Automoatic transmission was very precise & quick to get into the next gear. - Holds cruise control & auto brakes downhill to keep speed consistant.
The below info is a comparison of the VW Crafter vs Merc Sprinter
I bought a 2024 model LWB VW Crafter 410 to replace the 516. Reason being it was $20k cheaper. I now know why. After being in this van only a short time, this is what i've noticed:
Despite having the same size engine & an extra gear (8sp auto), it uses considerably more fuel which seems odd. This might explain it..
I noticed at any given speed, the VW revs higher: 80km/h Merc 1700rpm. VW 1800 100km/h Merc 2000rpm. VW 2200 110km/h Merc 2250rpm. VW 2500+ 115km/h Merc 2300rpm. VW 2600
As you can imagine, over a tank of fuel these extra revs add up. If i own this van for years, i'd be paying thousands of dollars more in fuel for the same KM in a Merc Sprinter.
- The service intervals are 20,000km in the VW. Merc is 40,000km. - The cruise control in the VW is not as advanced as the merc. It fails to auto brake downhill & doesn't hold your speed. This can be annoying. - The Apple Car Play is very frustrating. About 50% of my callers can't hear me at all, forcing me to switch over to loudspeaker on the phone. Its a 2024 model & they can't even get this right. It has to be the most frustrating thing of the van. - Revese camera is of low quality - unclear and far too much crap all over the screen (functions) when all you want is to see the camera working - Turning cirlce is the worst i have ever experienced. I mean to the point i have to do 3 point turns at some of the smaller roundabouts! Never had to do such a thing in the merc. This is dangerous as i've held up traffic multiple times trying to simply use the roundabout. A big let down by VW. - Rear cargo area is 200-300mm shorter in length than the Merc. Head height is around 100mm less too. - Auto 8sp is nowhere near as sharp as the Merc. It's not terrible, but definitely noticeably worse. There are also times where it can't decide what gear it wants and keeps going back & forth. - The steering wheel is not as comfy to hold & is too thin. I've never even noticed an uncomfortable steering wheel in any vehicle i've ever driven until this one. - The Merc, even with 197,000km on it was more comfortable and overall much nicer to drive than the VW staright from the showroom floor.
As i write this, i've only put 10,000km on the van so i can't say anymore. Mechanically it's been fine so far. I will evetually do a separate review for the VW under its own title.
Limp Mode – I am trying to make people aware of Mercedes bullshit stories and scams. In my personal opinion, Mercedes Limp Mode is the bigger rip-off by a Manufacture in Australia. The ‘limp mode’ fault with this vehicle puts the driver at risk by randomly taking control from the driver and being forced to continue with limited power and control until you… Read more
are able to stop the vehicle to reset the feature. This fault has had an enormous impact on me causing many ‘near misses’ on both highway and suburban driving. I have outlined these in previous correspondence and Mercedes Australia/Cricks Auto Group are aware of the safety risks that they put drivers into. I believe that Mercedes Australia has now stopped my van randomly switching into limp mode after 3 years, which after having this problem reported to Cricks Auto Croup ever since I’ve had this vehicle and they could not fix this!. I believe this is why Cricks did not want to fix my vehicle under warranty and continued to delay repairing this, as well as telling their customers that ‘limp mode’ is part of the vehicle’s safety network. It seems that by delaying this work, they can then charge their customers over and over again when the vehicles are out of warranty to perform this work. They are prepared to put their customer’s safety at serious risk, even injury or death over money. Cricks Auto Group using it to diagnose whatever they want and are charging customers triple that of other mechanic as the have a monopoly on this. Crick's Scams - Wrong oil, oil leaks fixed with sealant, Radiator flushes $500.00, Tyres – you need to change your tyres, Brakes need changing, we have changed your brakes, no services performed at all, Differential, Gearbox, Paint, seating protection, Clear coating, and many more scams, All bullshit scams – Be aware of Crooked Cricks and their merry men of crooks.
In-depth reviews
Mercedes Warranty Disappointment – Bought a new Sprinter in October 2020 to fit it out as a campervan. A few days after delivery we noticed rust in the roof and reported the problem. Apparently a roof joint seal has failed and the fitout could not be done because two thirds of the roof was to be replaced. It took Mercedes 3 and a half months to get the van fixed! This involved… Read more
inspections, quotes from panel shops, endless phone calls, warranty approval procedures, roof panel delivery from Singapore, four weeks for the actual repair and another week to fix the unprofessional first repair. The new van was sitting idle and was of no use for us over those 3 and a half month. This incurred real losses to us, being proportional loss of rego and insurance, new car deprecation for the period, loss of warranty period and loss of use, having a new car with a major repair. We demanded compensation but Mercedes refused, offering nothing whilst acknowledging that it was was an "unfortunate" situation.
Which is best for Australia - Ducato or Sprinter? – I’d like to see a genuine set of comments solely on the reliability of the Ducato vs the Sprinter from real people who actually own the vehicles or operate them. It’s hard to find objective quantitative data on reliability alone, but anecdotally the FIAT experience seems terrible with people who own motorhomes being the most frequent users. And… Read more
Motorhome manufacturers use FIAT for no other reason than the clever means by which FIAT import the chassis, enabling them to import them CKD and save enormously on costs. And FIAT have become the major supplier by far to the Motorhome industry worldwide. But are the FIAT’s hopelessly unreliable or is there a campaign to discredit them? Ditto the Sprinter, where in this forum many comments savage the Sprinter for unreliability whereas we all know they are used almost exclusively worldwide for Ambulance duties where reliability I would have thought was paramount. So where lies the truth about which is the most reliable and dependable?
perfect van, wouldnt buy anything else – 643.000k and still going strong. yes we do over 100k per year in all our vans. Hyundai's, Crafters ( which we also own ) are NO match for the Benz. I will NEVER EVER buy another VW even if it were given to me IT WONT DO MY JOB. Now the Sprinter, one seized power steering pump @ 550k. dual mass flywheel 590k and an exhaust sensor @ 620k. 1 set of F… Read more
disc pads and front shocks. . . Preventive maintenance every 300k new belts and pulleys. Since warranty ran out I service it myself, complete oil and filter change including air cleaner every 33k. ( GENUINE filters only - vectron oil ) it doesn't use oil between changes and we service the mining industry in central OZ so 10% dirt roads. Fuel consumption is on par with the Hyundai's and less than the crafter. I only use the best quality diesel, BP and the likes. Poor quality fuel and oils can and will lead to early particulate filter and injector failure. so look after your Mercedes and it will give you years and many Ks service.
Positive reviews
Vantastic – Bought demo from dealer in Victoria and can absolutely recommend this model. 416 with MBUX and suspension seats. It’s so easy to drive. Feels secure in the road and has plenty acceleration to give traffic light racers a fright. Love the driver ergonomics and smart features. Show details
Love this van – *heaps of power *easy gears *lwb n high roof is great *heaps of legroom in front of cab *very easy to drive considering its 6.5metres long * driven daily * if service n look after great vehicle Show details
Fabulous Truck – We bought this truck from a dealer because it was a cancelled sale with specials. Wow what a deal. I could sell it now one year later for at least another $12,000 [going by the 2nd hand market prices]. It has been a god send to our business and the powerful V6 just keeps on thundering along. We absolutely love it and are really grateful. Our… Read more
Ops Manager is from the UK where he said they had several of these in service and they ran constantly all over UK. He cannot speak highly enough of the job they do.
Negative reviews
Tronic transmission – What a POS. Every 100-120k these gearboxes just collapse. Do transmission specialists want to touch them because they are a Cee You Next Tuesday of a gearbox. Average cost of repair (quoted on phone by Mercedes) $3000-$4000. Trying to find someone who will swap out the auto-tronic gearbox for a clutch and shift 5 or 6 speed box. At least you know… Read more
that around $50k-75k you swap out the clutch kit for a set price. These horrible gearboxes are only still used by Renault. We bought this Winnebago Sprinter not that long ago. Should have done our homework a little better. If you're thinking of buying one of these don't buy an automatic. A nightmare waiting to happen is how I'd describe the design.
Mercedes Sprinter Van – My god, I have never had as much trouble with a vehicle in all my life . Ihave spent $$$$ and $$$$$ when the computer said this was wrong, you'd replace that then something else would show. In the end Mercedes still couldn't get it to start and after all the money I have spent says it now needs a engine rebuild. You expect more from a vehicle that has done 300k kilometres. Stay away from this brand. Show details
Find out how Mercedes-Benz Sprinter compares to other Vans
Know better, choose better.
Drives Smooth, Costs Huge!!! – Sprinter van driven 32,000 miles a year used in delivering Bread, Rolls, donuts, etc... 30 60 seconds stops every night, 6 days a week. At 250,000 mile it still drives close to a new feeling in steering and comfort. I have gotten used to the dashboard being a christmas tree of lights after 100,000. The emissions has cost $10,000 in repairs, … Read more
and, there are still many things wrong with the emissions. I doubt it will pass the test this coming year. I get about 15.5 mpg and compared to Gas, the fuel/cost is a little more. The exhaust has fallen apart in all locations (no short trips here for moisture condensation). The driveshaft failed at 150,000. Brake calipers get sticky on the sliders and cause uneven pad/caliper wear (fluid flushed every 2 years). Glow plugs changed, Fuel injectors all leaked creating "Black Death" syndrome. If I had gone to the dealer this would have been a $4,000 repair, I cleaned and chiseled my way through it myself for $200 and 8 hours of r&r. Front shocks failed at 90,000. Eats headlight bulbs every 60 days now for 8 years. ha ha ha....Two heating fans, One heating control unit, side door tracking system (we use this 5 times a night, mostly use back doors. (lube all doors every 14 days), and grease all suspension every 6 months. Fuse box is melted by heater fan fuse. variious rust spots on exterior, car is kept clean regularly.
Recent reviews
Difficult to compare so inspect with a good mechanic – Bought the 2011 313cdi campervan, medium WB high roof 6 speed manual 4 months ago.It had previously done 275,000 km. as a courier van, & mechanically is perfect.A slight patch of rust{near the sliding door} was the only disapointment-you should check that carefully. They can have a big range of safety features, from 1{driver only} airbag,, etc etc… Read more
.If you put the VIN.into the Mercedes website, it will show the complete specs,so you know exactly what it has. Preferably have a good Merc or diesel mechanic check it over before buying.
Love my van – Use car to live in has high roof can stand up in it has so many hidden safety features like wind assist it brakes that side of car so you dont get blown all over place. Also esp and somthing that stops will spins lowers revs got stuck on gravel hill when first got it didnt no there was but to turn off so you could gun it up dirt hills spin wheels… Read more
but mecedes literture doesnt tell you about all theses things you have to find out from forums and google and trail and error great van love it well built drives awsomely but only get about 12litres per 100kilometers which i dont thinks right for little4 cylinder 311cdi 2010
Absolute p.o.s.a death trap – fuel economy ok.but cant make use of it because it breaks down consistently.seatings good.driving position & glass ok.entry exits ok steering circle good.heating.air con good.my view on this vehicle is dont buy one ! You will go bankrupt paying dealers to delete codes that pop up for no reason but put the van into limp mode or worse into neutral in the middle of the road.merc benz should be sued!!! Show details
If they`ve been crap,Ambulance wouldnt use them – 450,000kms so far, goes and goes and goes...regular service and maintenance and No Headaches, I'm using it as a Owner-Driver 10-12 hours per day/5days per week.Great turning circle, breaks/stops like a Thunder, consumption is not the very BEST German part(Renault is more cheaper to run),drives like a luxury car, city, freeways..max speed(my… Read more
personal160km/h),for some reason bulbs are going off very often, can recommend it for every kind of industrial work
It’s Amazing! – I’ve had the 2016 Sprinter 513CDI for 12 Months. It drives like an absolute dream. My confidence in the brand has not been tested. The oil was due to be changed at 30’000 km. Like any Diesel engine the oil gets dark and I changed it at 18’000. I like to keep on top of the preventative maintenance to avoid issues. I’m not putting the vehicle… Read more
under exhaustive commercial demands, rather it’s a motorhome. It comes in at 4.5 ton and has had to tackle some steep terrain, in both blistering hot and freezing cold conditions. I can’t fault it.
I’m not going to break any land speed records but for reliability it’s 10/10.
New Mercedes Sprinter 4x4 Clunks like a Junker – my preordered optioned out $$$ 2016 sprinter 4x4 developed Terrible drivetrain clunk's after 10,000 kms Took it in 3 times to 2 dealerships and was told it was normal after break in period by both dealerships including the regional sales manager because Mercedes engineering told them so over the phone. Thanks a lot for the fuhk around! I feel… Read more
like a whipped dog after this humiliating experience and tremendous waste of time, patience and money. And yes its that bad.
CANBUS system the big headake. Does its own thing on a regular basis. Indicates errors that dont exi – Driving experience excellent with aftermarket shocks. Interior is as good as we need, all well positioned. Electrical system hopeless. Battery flat in a week. Standby current one amp! Should be nearer 259ma. Intermittent srs fault. Check engine light more on than off with mostly long trips. (motorhome). Front bulbar running lights faulty,… Read more
globes perfect. Key battery went flat now all record of mileage lost. Latest is check engine cannot be reset and DPF will not clear. This makes the vehicle useless. Cannot afford huge repair bills. There are 5 computers that stop connecting. Brake fluid is sometimes empty but actually full. Top Gear was correct about Mercedes.
In 1973 I was on the team for and built a new car plant. Prepared rally cars for WRC events.
November 6th 2018 Update: Mercedes-Benz Sprinter NCV3 Computer Problems
Specifically an ambulance conversion bought at auction. Local MB dealer not interested as they service the local QAS units and know how hard they are to sort.
In desperation went to Euro Car, 30 Maud Street, Maroochydore. In the workshop was a sprinter motorhome from Tasmania getting sorted. Apparently the word gets around. Having experienced the most severe limp home mode ‘black death’ where the vehicle just goes, no dash, no lights at all except brake lights, no clue as to how fast you are going, serious help was needed. These gentlemen work with MB who recommended replacing the emergency vehicle specific computer and supplied a new standard one. Unfortunately not a simple plug in. The other 4 computers had taken strain and needed coding. Euro Car have a contact in Germany. With his help errors were eliminated one by one. The radio, distance recorder, abs brakes, door locks, blown light bulbs dash warning with globes perfect, tyre pressure warning, indicators flashing too fast and many more.
Three camping trips later now going like a dream. Very good cruiser with the optioned ambulance seats, good direct steering, firm brakes. RWC reqd new shocks which are German aftermarket. I now know why they are a top seller, well built body, engine just run in at 350k, no oil showing in the crankcase breather pipe to the turbo inlet. RWD means does not bog on campsites as easily as the other Euro vans. Nothing like this is cheap but still way ahead on buying any standard dealer van.
One caution:- do not let battery voltage drop below 12V! This can confuse the computers. Can discharge in less than a week as the computers have a high standby current.
Two engines in and two engines blown. What a joke – I will not fix it, again. 3 strikes you are out. I will sell for scrap so that no one has to go through what I went through with this crap vehicle. I consider myself lucky reading other reviews.. I paid 2k CAD for one then motor blew within 4 months light use and then changed engine which cost me near 4k Cad installed. Lasted all of 3000km and… Read more
blew. I don't understand how a class action suit has not gone through. I will not get into all the details but it had no injector black death probs, h20 pump good, turbo good, changed oil but still just blew. Mine was the dually 3500 and many told me a 5 inline was and is a joke for it but heck even lesser lighter models with the same motor blow. many other probs too numerous to mention but..
If you can not remove the glow plugs do not buy the engine or van.
If black death present( remove injector cover and look) do not buy.
Check engine light on (being off is almost impossible) do not buy
Dually 3500 do not buy
Just terrible.
Find out how Mercedes-Benz Sprinter compares to other Vans
Know better, choose better.
Scary info – I am lucky to know a mechanic who works on the ambos for 20years. He said since merceedes put maintainance to 30.000 km, he’s seeing new motor replacements needed at round 300.000. A replacement motor cost is round $20,000 My merceedes sprinter 2011 - Yearly service 13.000 to 14.000 per year. My sprinter with only 82000. Mechanic said “I… Read more
have things going on mine van which he’d only ever seen in vans with much higher klms.” Now that’s scary thinking of what he’d said regarding motor.
2015
Several engine oil leaks - Merceedes Goldcoast fixed under warrenty.
2016
* Coolent - leak common place at fuel holder. Hard to see. Easy fix.
* 70,000 New Tyres (
stop building intimidating vehicles its sadistic for no reason other than conseet because its a merc – handles ok, interior ok, very bad sound system. can be a reliable vehicle if computer wasnt set up to drag you to the dealer every other day.your identification in badge section is for engineers not us! when working on these vehicle trying to tell the scanner what your working on is difficult. Show details
Broke down again no one with knowledge to fix in akaska – Driving fine. InterI or fine. Running cost good milage. This has been a money pit. Repair....repair. ...repair! Shame on mercedes and dodge. Resonator. Electrical. Transmission. Much more. Every trip was a tow. Every trip was hotels. The worst is the No one is experienced to fix it. Had to fly home from alaska and return and still not ready. Show details
Man in Van for a Day – Anyone out their taken a third class train ride in Vietnam? Then you know where Mercedes got the prototype for their seating for this van, just cover the bench in a little artificial slippery fabric and that is done. The drivers seat is so flat, lacks any support of any kind, I hated the vehicle from the moment I sat on it (Sic). I am in the… Read more
market for a van and the Sprinter is in my market segment, but after a day of a little suburban and mostly highway driving I have concerns, oh and then I read the other reviews on product review and these concerns have grown.
I tested a 2016 313 CDI from a hire company. 31,000 ks on the clock.
20 kms into the journey on a quiet country back road the first problem struck, BIg Red Warning light on the 1960's design dashboard said I needed to get oil out as the engine was overfull. Stopped immediately and rang the hire company, they said "Oh its just what Sprinters do, their a little bit sensitive", really! I should just drive on and ignore it, "yes", OK . The warning light with a beep came and went all day long.
Twice the engine just turned off, yes that's right, just moving along and no power train, Pulled to the side of the road, turned it off and on and it seemed to fix itself. I think this Van has mental problems and on these three incidents alone I have ruled it out of my buying process.
Now what do you get for $60K?
Let me be positive before I harpoon this whale in the last few paragraphs.
Its got lots of space, everywhere. So lots of air contained in a white tin box.
On good tarmac it is smooth and handles surprisingly well.
Light and easy to drive
Its little engine (2.1lt) is able to keep up in traffic and on the highway/expressway, no problems at all
The Auto gearbox is smooth and does the job without any concerns.
The drivers position is panoramic and the glass goes on forever, which makes looking around at the scenery a pleasure, like sitting on a bench in a lovely park
7.1 litres to the 100kms actual driving result without trying is remarkable for a vehicle this size,
Lots of cup holders and storage pockets
Cruise control
Rear reversing camera and sensors
The rest of it is CRAP, and I don't use that term lightly.
On your little hard bench you are surrounded by hard cheep ill fitting plastic like they made Boombox recorders out of in the 1980's. Brittle, grey and slab like, its inhuman. Think cheep Chinese/Korean van of 20 years ago
Pocked just out of drivers reach are heaps of buttons and the radio, no concession to any man in a van here
Hard to see dashboard, you have to peer through the steering wheel and wobble your head around.
No where to put your elbows, maybe Germans don't have them, I must look next time I meet one. BYO slings from the First Aid Kit at work.
Hit chopped up pavement going around a bend at 70 K's both front wheels leave the road the Van continues to go straight ahead until the tarmac become smooth again and the wheels get a grip. It tried to kill me.
Turns itself off at will (not yours)
Now read the other reviews, as I have just done, and weep. Discount the five stars reviews as they all seem to only have one review in the system, dead give away for dealers who need to move this expensive junk out of the yard.
No love lost with this Fraulein when I gave her back.
So ended my day as a man in a van, I thought I would celebrate my survival with this little essay.
Bye for now
We are finished with Mercedes - Benz Sprinters!! – We had a 2006 Pleasure Way Class B and now a 2013 Winnebago Era and will never buy another Mercedes Diesel. Spent a couple vacations at Dealers waiting for failed sensors with the 2006 but the 2013 has far exceeded that. Nearly every trip we've taken in this Era has included a day at a dealers - Atlanta, GA, Nashville TN, Savannah GA, Scarborough… Read more
ME, Gainesville FL - to name a few. Sensors won't talk to each other, DEF sensors fail, and on and on. So much for thinking we could travel the ALCAN highway. We won't even try Route 66! Another problem is finding a MB dealer that can service our RV. There are only 3 in our state, the closest being 175 miles away. We thought Mercedes Benz would be a reliable ride. We would never advise anyone to even consider these vehicles.
The Best Discision I Ever Made In My Life – Second To None ,comfortable to drive big and high cargo compartment.It's like you're living in a different world.Handles heavy load pretty well.One good thing oil and filter change in every ten to fifteen thousand km instead of thirty thousand km's recommended by the dealer.When you look after it ie service in time, drive to the speed limit, road… Read more
and weather condition it will in return reap you reward as far as running cost is concerned. Very reliable vehicle.
We all though Mercedes Benz meant quality!!!!!!!!!!!! – We all though Mercedes Benz meant quality. I am interested in collecting owner information of those individuals or companies who have had major expenses & Faults in maintaining Mercedes Benz Sprinters, who would be interested in being included in a class action law suit again Mercedes Australia. David 0429 999 958 Only 6 of the 275 Sprinter… Read more
owners I spoke to so far would recommend to buy a Mercedes Sprinter van again. They are Poor quality Sprinter van. I am on my 2nd “Lemon” Mercedes Sprinter! My first van had been towed 10 times during the first 8,000 kms. And this was my fifth harmonic balancer to be replaced and would take another 4 days?! When I purchased a brand new Mercedes Sprinter van I was immediately faced with continuous faults, break downs and issues with the engine and the mechanical working of the vehicle. After months of Cricks mechanics working on my vehicle and replacing parts constantly due to many different mechanical issues. Sprinters have a bit of a reputation for rust, Although lots also attribute the Sprinter’s pockmarks to thin, water-based paints? What are we paying for.!!!!!
December 29th 2016 Update: Limp Mode
"Limp Mode"
I am trying to ensure that Mercedes Australia fix their Sprinter vans, before they kill somebody. I was talking to one of your drivers, [name removed] (Sunshine coast) which has one of the latest Sprinters and like I am, he and many others are very concerned about one of the major problems with Mercedes Sprinters. The problem is that is randomly switches into Limp Mode, without any warning at all. Similar to [name removed], I drive all day, every day in my Sprinter van on the highway, suburbs and around smaller streets with the van deciding when and where it has full power and when it doesn't giving no warning at all to the driver this is a very dangerous fault and I have been caught on the highway without any power at all, not able to move out of the way of heavy traffic. Mercedes dismiss this problem as being a major issue, however unless you have driven in limp mode you do not realize just how bad it can be. I believe someone will die or be severely hurt, it is just a matter of time if not already. [name removed] was telling me of two examples of many. One, he was going to turn at a set of lights, when he started to turn the other vehicles on the other side were quite a way off and he should have had plenty of time to make the turn, however the vehicle randomly went into limp mode and he had no power what so ever! The vehicles coming towards him, saw he was struggling and they slowed down. This time everything was okay, however it will take just one driver to be distracted and someone will die, due directly to the problem of the Sprinter van randomly going in to limp mode. I do tolerate this every day! The second example [name removed] was going up a step drive way and the van went into limp mode again, having no power on a step driveway and started to roll back which would have been very freighting, not having control of the vehicle. These safety issues are my immediate concern however I also need to mention the wasted time I endure every time the vehicle goes into limp mode, as you have to stop and waiting up to 20min to turn the van off and back on again. This problem has increased as my van has aged and is now switching 3 to 6 times a day. My van has only done 140,000km and I purchased it new. I can't count the number of times I have nearly been hit while driving due to this problem, sometimes only cms and nobody would ever know it was due to a fault in the vehicle and nothing that the driver was doing. Mercedes have a duty of care to all their customers and it seems they put their profits over safety. I believe this problem will also cause additional problems with the mechanical working of the vehicle later on. One particular incident that I will never forget, with my first lemon van was when the van just stopped turned off in the middle of the DAguilar Highway and a truck almost hit me at highway speed, narrowly missing me - an extremely frightening experience and this is why I so persistent that this problem needs to be rectified! Another experience I had was when I was going through an intersection and my van went into limp mode and a vehicle coming towards me, did not slow down until she got close enough for me to see she was texting, I had to beep and she swerved at the last minute to just miss me.
Mercedes customers demand that firm (Mercedes Australia) come clean over Engine & Body faults. We demand you come clean!!!!.
At 370,000km Plus 2010 Mercedes Sprinter 416 (906) – HI Guys Thought I might share my experience as a driver in Sydney NSW. I bought my Sprinter brand new 2010 automatic high roof, MWB, 416 which is the super single. over time this is what I had to change, PROS- Overall I enjoy the driving experience, but durability it is ok, I still think Toyota van are more durable and $$$ better. CONS-… Read more
repair cost , it will get expensive to maintain. I think Mercedes expect you to change or upgrade vehicle in a few years. Another issues is finding a good mechanic that want to work on the van and charge a decent price. A lot prefer not to work on the vehicle or charge higher price because of the Mercedes badge.
5 speed - updated version 7 speed is better
@ 370,000km
Under Warranty 3 years or 100,00km
new computer, new engine sump,
After Warranty
2 front shocks had to change twice, $1000 and one time
Alternator changed twice $1000
water pump $1000
Drive Shaft $2700
These prices included labour
Also
There is the usual maintenance, which Mercedes recommended 30,000km oil change
after warranty I change the oil every 15,000km
Transmission fluid
Change of timing belt
diff fluid change
power steering fluid
oil, air, cabin filter changed
brake fluid changed
Cost $$$$
changed the brake pad and rotors probable 5 times cost $1,200 at one time.
&
Regular insurances cost every year
Windscreen changed due to crack from flying rocks- make sure you have insurance for this.
U need a high paying job to look after yourself, earning just average wage as a driver won't work,
Take care of your Sprinter! – Hi folks) As a man who drives so many cars I can say that Sprinter is a pretty good choice if you know how to take care of it! Since I used to drive long distance I try to check it every 6 months without looking at the number of miles. It's like going to a doctor regularly LOL). Generally speaking the car is reliable. But honestly, I'm a big… Read more
fan of Germans!
Running costs would also go down if you do your regular checks. I could write a long review, but I'd better point out one of the most important things in my opinion.
Do check oil more frequently and make sure you know how much you need.
It all depends on ur model, year and engine.
For ur convenience u can find some sort of table in the Web.
I use the one on this site for instance:
http://cararac.com/engine_oil/mercedes-benz/sprinter.html
Oh, I've almost forgotten my fav part about mercedes that stands out among others - is soundproofing!
Germans are the best!!
Dont buy a second hand Sprinter – Unless you have a bottomless pit of money don't buy a second hand Mercedes Sprinter. A great van up until something goes wrong, the all hell breaks loose. Was quoted $8000.00 dollars for an ECU fitted to the vehicle and IT MAY NOT solve the problem. This all eventuated from the auto gear box being stuck in 1st gear. Just for the… Read more
diagnostics on the vehicle, without any parts, the cost was $1900.00 dollars.
The verdict so far: it MAY be the ECU at $8000.00 dollars as Mercedes don't and wont use second hand parts.
It MAY be the gearbox at $7000.00 dollars.
It May be any 1 of a hundred or more sensors not "talking" to the main ECU.
There are over 7 A 4 pages of codes that could cause the problem.
The vehicle is uneconomical to fix and the laughable thing from the Mercedes people, Queensland government is silly enough to continue to buy them.
As i said great when new but once over 150,000 ks, don't bother.
Most reliable van out there in my opinion – These vans are great, reliable vans! As a mechanic, I worked on these vans & apart from rust, all of our vans did 500,000 & I'm not just saying that. Servicing was carried out every time dash warned it was due, only problems I encountered on a couple were, Seized in injectors & poor fuel pressure sensor at back of rail. Had 1 engine with a… Read more
broken crank at 520'000 miles, but little else.
No major costs involved otherwise & a replacement engine from Mercs was only £8000, so engine in in a day & back out on the road.
The firm running them abused the hell out of them, so looking at the ones I worked on, they are the best, which was reflected in the fact that the firm kept buying them. They had about 10 Sprinters in all & whilst I have left that employment, they were still running them .
Poor Quality – I have a 2006 Sprinter motor home. The transmission failed the day it crossed 30,000 miles. These vehicles do not have a transmission temperature gauge nor a dipstick to measure the fluid level. There is no way you can tell if there is a leak in the transmission until the damage is done. The first scheduled transmission service is not until… Read more
40,000 miles. $4,000 and the cost of a week in a motel down the drain. Also note that Mercedes is totally unprepared to make this repair if you use their remanufactured transmissions. It has to be shipped from Germany- 2 weeks minimum. No Mercedes dealer in the Northeast had one in stock. It drove well and get good mileage Transmission failed at 30,000 miles. A Chevy Vega would have been more reliable.
junk – Shortly after buy started having problems, def light coming on, they say that was normal, didn't matter if the fluid was full or not. Just replaced particulate filter $2400, cdi computer box. $2200, engine light stays on they want $1000 to fix it but I can drive with it on. Don't buy or you'll be sorry
Extra Information
ProductReview.com.au has affiliate partnerships. These do not influence our content moderation policies in any way, though ProductReview.com.au may earn commissions for products/services purchased via affiliate links.
2 years after the roof repair we notice the paint on the roof to peel off in large chunks. Here we go again :(