The copper seal ring, located middle of the injector and cylinder head, deteriorates and makes it possible for combustion gasses to escape. On the 2010 and newer models, this is part of the Diesel Particular Filter. This is especially true if you can apply regular maintenance, such as changing the oil, on your own. The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is a top choice for workhorse utility vans and van life camper builds. As a result, black tar and coal-like black material would accumulate over fuel injectors. Depending upon the seriousness, it can need tons of time to break down and loosen up this "black death" build-up accumulation andsecure injector out to change the seal. Finding a dealer who can and will work on it can be challenging. That tells me you don't have to throw away def that maybe left over between fills. Kristen recommends the Sprinter for the van life experience. I spoke to MB the best I could (not to be a huge pain in their ass and make big fusses but spoke with huge concern about it and gave them opportunity to make me happy) to get them to fix it for good. Adding to the expense of owning a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van, these complex systems are so intricate that its near impossible to find anyone to work on them. Threads 894 Messages 28.7K. Be aware of common problems with purchasing used cars that are not certified pre-owned. Keep Your Vehicle And Your Family Safe With These Pre-Winter Car Care Tips. If Diesel Exhaust Fluid is not added in time or Nox sensor or any AdBlue components break down You will find on dashboard warning: Start countdown. We have a 2017 Sprinter 2500 extended, high roof cargo. I spoke with MB St Louis Sprinter service and they indicated this was a known problem. Annunciators/Shifting After Lightning Strike, Citation Sprinter :: 2015 Thor Motorcoach Citation Sprinter 24sa, Chassis/engine battery 2005 Sprinter (leisure travel van), Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1. Check these troubleshooting and repair guides for more help on your Mercedes-Benz. There is a N0x sensor and a dosing valve between the OXI-Cat section and the first SCR Cat section. Yes we plug in for the house but chassis is on it's own. what led to the conclusion I that the right fluid wasn't used? Your Mercedes-Benz Sprinter's battery is responsible for providing electrical power to your engine and dashboard components. Front sensor went out on July 7, 2019. And where does the oil come from, if there is air? Art H - Breckenridge, CO, "The Sourcebook is already giving me confidence with tons of details I haven't seen anywhere else." Home. or, just buy it at the pump at a truck stop and give your Sprinter always-fresh DEF. But, let's say you use the wrong oil for your Sprinter (not 229.52) and you do not drive a van on longer highway speed, only in city mode. document.write('sprinter-rv.com">'); Contact Us Ask Our Experts! The DPF keeps the particles up to a certain capacity level, and once its volume full, the Sprinter ECU computer will automatically increase temp approximately to 1200 F of the exhaust to burn it. Pretty soon, these tiny small cracks "blow out" and even come to be significantly big cracks, setting the engine in limp and also destroying your timetable and plans. The dealer claims it can tow 7500 pounds. First thing to check would be the low pressure fuel system for air ingress through rubber o-rings. A glow plug is an electrical pre-heating device used in a diesel engine to warm up the fuel before ignition. When it comes to length, the wheelbase options for the ProMaster van are 136 and 159 inches. This cuts the draw from smoke detector, propane detector and any electronics, 2) I pull the disconnect just above the accelerator pedal. According to Jalopnik, the only piece of a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter that is locally sourced is the battery. The investigations resulted in the discovery of undisclosed auxiliary emission control devices and some so-called defeat devices that were used to cause the vehicles to produce compliant results during emissions testing. Support the forum. Some key lock cylinders have different layouts (bolt in place, the key to run position, and locking tabs configurations vary). This article is my personal opinion, based upon my experiences with Mercedes Benz Sprinter vans. John R - North Bay, ON, "Definitely a worthwhile read for anyone considering a Sprinter conversion. Regardless of their versatility andgerman high-quality,its important to know the topcommon fails and issues with Sprinter Vans. If you want to make sure your car is repaired correctly, its important to use an auto repair shop that has ASE certified technicians. Prices vary as it depends on each situation. What's new. TCafter rebuilding is more durable than the original. 2020. There can be many reasons behind an engine not starting. Even if you dont drive often, skipping service maintenance schedules can have serious consequences and end up costing you big money. Thanks button. Additionally, melt the DEF nozzle and lines. I'm hoping these issues are mostly about the diesel engine. I bought the van in Oregon which customers dont have the same rights as Ca customers (good and bad but it is what it is) otherwise I would have filed lemon law claim. Jon started Southwest Auto in 1988. These hoses have a metallic fitting "formed" onto the hoses. For example, at 74F in Los Angeles, Diesel Exhaust Fluid has the shelf life of 44 months. Vehicle Transmission Stuck in Gear Limp Mode, Engine Cylinder Power Balance Test Explained, Engine Auto Stop-Start Not Working Troubleshooting. Menu. Please let me know if anyone else has struggled with this same issue. This is not rare trouble. Top 11 Most Common Problems With Sprinter Van (RV)? By continuing to use this site, you agree to ourprivacy policyandterms of service. The worst thing you can do is let an untrained technician begin tinkering around with your Sprinter. Sprinters are serviced by Mercedes Benz dealerships across the country. 6660 Miramar Rd, Suite B, San Diego, CA 92121. Mercedes Dodge Freightliner Sprinter Discussion Forum. JavaScript is disabled. Sprinter vans 2010 model and above with Bluetec will start counting down remaining start cycles if any of these conditions are met: if there is an issue with the DEF Adblue system. * All prices are subject to change without notice. He did say the MB DEF has a spill proof pour. If not, then the battery is likely dead. Was on the lot for 300+ days. This can affect anySprinters from 2010+. If you are not comfortable performing these steps, please visit your local certified Mercedes-Benz technician/dealership. What their RV dealer may have neglected to mention is that Sprinters are highly complex vehicles. Yesterday I took my Era out for a spin after being parked for 7 weeks. Problems that can prevent DPF regeneration include: If not corrected, the exhaust will have severe restrictions. Yes, even the outside. Only 3 vehicles have reached 150,000 miles without serious charges for maintenance.to the EGR-DEF- exhaust system. Content is for informational purposes only. Of course, within 80 miles the problem returned and they replaced the two NOX sensors. Apply a few cranks of the dead battery vehicle's ignition switch until the engine turns on. The repairs to your exhaust system can vary almost as much as their prices to perform a simple oil change. These vehicles performed admirably, providing us with lifetime expected mileages of 500,000 and more. Also, sometimes the stubborn plugs will break off in the cylinder head. The AdBlue tank has a heater to keep the DEF from freezing. | Accessibility Statement. There are many compelling reasons to buy a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van. 2020 Ford Transit Cargo Van | Ford Her warranty covered repairs on the two Mercedes Sprinters that she has lived in because she invested in extra coverage. This is especially true of any Mercedes-Benz vehicles past the 2008 model year, as U.S. diesel regulations changed around that time, and the way Sprinters were built was altered, making repairs much more expensive. Platinum Spark Plugs: Which is Better for Your Engine? Select Accept to consent or Reject to decline non-essential cookies for this use. DieselExhaust Fluid is a non-hazardous solution consisting of32.5% urea and 67.5% de-ionized water. Why Are Sprinter Camper Vans So Expensive? to a dealership! As long as you stay on top of regular maintenance, the longevity of a Mercedes Sprinter will serve you well. I have selected the most common problems in these greate vans that require your attention. We just had a recall. The cost for maintaining these vehicles while slightly higher than their American made counterparts made up for these differences with their reliability and long term service. 6660 Miramar Rd, Suite B, San Diego, CA 92121. We have had no such problems with our Sprinter based Thor 24HL. Tom H - Temple, NH, "Just starting this process, so all of the info was valuable to me in building a base of knowledge about a Sprinter conversion." Just like many other Mercedes-Benz passenger vehicles (W211 E-Class, C219 CLS- Class, W164 M-Class), the 06' Sprinter comes with the OM642 6-Cylinder diesel engine.This diesel engine is known to have its fair share of problems including DPF issues, fuel injector seal failures (black death), oil cooler leaks, swirl flap . Get Help, Terms & Conditions "Your book has been invaluable to me! MB replaced several computor related equipment along with replacing the entire ABS system with one that repells moisture (I live in Socal desert btw, and they claimed moisture to be an issue??). Click the link above to go to the main board. This affects approximately 9,000 vehicles from the 2019 to 2020 model years, which is why Mercedes-Benz issued the recall. Just a "heads up!" Testimonials Remember there typically never any warning in advance, as the flex pipe breaks all at one time. The common problems with the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans include clogged DPF filter, AdBlue heater element failure, and transmission issues. Mercedes-Benz Sprinter reduce old level error Answered by CarsGuide 29 May 2015 If it happened shortly after a service it's probably been over-filled when the oil was changed. If ignored, it will lead to an active start countdown being initiated. Anyway, make sure you figure the 5yr extended warranty cost into your new sprinter cost, because you'll use every penny of it and make friends with your service advisor because you'll be seeing him every couple months, seriously. There are many reasons why a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter may fail to start. There are two types of DPF; the common mode is the Active; the cars ECU / ECM controls regeneration; the other is Passive. When expanded it provides a list of search options that will switch the search inputs to match the current selection. If you are using a VPN, try disabling it. The check engine light comes on and the "10 starts left" count-down begins. If you are traveling via recreational vehicle, you can set your own schedule and save tons of money on airfare and lodging. It could be the result of a dead battery, leaking fuel pump, faulty ignition switch/lock cylinder, a broken starter motor, and more. Usually, this problem may occur after 120K miles. $180The Sprinter Service & Repair in Vista CA performs quick and efficient diagnostics and repair on any Sprinter Vans & RV. Mercedes-Benz (and Dodge) Sprinter vans can last over 200,000, but before you reach that milestone, you may experience a few problems. These important tips will ensure the unpredictable Texas weather is no match for your wheels. Find a Freightliner dealer, they sell and service them. As mentioned, not all Mercedes dealers have the ability to service Sprinters. #1. It is a good resource for a fairly daunting process." Fuel tanks attract plenty of contaminants and debris. The exchanging cost of DEF heater $1,500. Sure, on the outside, Sprinter vans look simple, tough, and like they require low maintenance. document.write('lto'); In the beginning, the very small crack split might create} an "occasional" limp home mode issue and after that apparently go back to normal mode. It's saved me tons of time in research and steered me towards options I didn't even know existed." Info on engine idling and the . Jim Z - Clarendon Hills, IL, Copyright © 2010-2019 HiRes Media LLC. Fault Code Lookup 1. My original motorhome, the one I mentioned, averaged over 15 mpg, and that was towing a Mini Cooper. As long as you stay on top of regular maintenance, the longevity of a Mercedes Sprinter will serve you well. 1. Once the countdown is started, it is strongly advised to get your sprinter diagnosed before it gets to the last few remaining start cycles. document.write('@'); When MIL illuminates or Check Engine Light is flashing on your dashboard, that indicates Limp Mode. The series of probes came in the aftermath of the Dieselgate scandal. The transmission and the torque converter need to be reinstalled. If that's not the cause it could be a faulty sensor, and it might need replacing. Depending on the seriousness, you might smell an unusual exhaust/fuel odor when the engine runs and even hear it puff. Potential Drawbacks Of A Mercedes Benz Motorhome For all its strengths the Mercedes Benz motorhome platform and the Sprinter chassis do have a few potential drawbacks. The lock-up clutch of TCwears out and this is the main reason a shuddering in certain circumstances the transmission work. The real issue is the paint. Always get a second opinion. Tom Robertson with A. Blair Enterprises Inc. employed a fleet of Sprinters over several years. Sourcing Mercedes-Benz parts is a potentially tricky task, and even if you find them, buying the needed auto parts gets expensive.