2005 Mercedes-Benz Multego

The 2005 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, also known as the Multego in some markets, is a popular van known for its versatility and practicality. It was offered with a few engine options, including diesel variants. One common diesel engine was the 2.7L Inline-5 cylinder diesel engine, producing around 154 horsepower and 243 lb-ft of torque. Owners often appreciate its spacious cargo area and fuel efficiency (for a van), but some common complaints include electrical issues and some reliability concerns.

Engine

2.7L Inline-5 Diesel

• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, difficulty starting, black smoke from the exhaust, and decreased fuel economy. Can be caused by contaminated fuel or general wear and tear.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty fuel injector(s). Ensure the fuel system is clean and free of contaminants.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per injector, depending on the shop and parts used.
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining or screeching noise from the engine bay, loss of power, and potential for the engine to go into limp mode. Can be caused by oil starvation, foreign object damage, or general wear.
  • Solution: Inspect the turbocharger for damage and replace it if necessary. Check oil supply lines to the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+, depending on whether a new or remanufactured turbo is used.
• Glow Plug Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting in cold weather, rough idling after start-up, white smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replace all glow plugs. It is best practice to replace them all at the same time.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Transmission

Automatic Transmission (Specific type unspecified)

• Slipping or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips between gears, shifts harshly, or fails to engage gears properly. This could be due to worn clutch packs, valve body issues, or low transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter change. If the problem persists, further diagnostics may be required, potentially leading to a valve body rebuild or transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 for a fluid flush and filter change. $800 - $1500+ for valve body repair. $3,000 - $6,000+ for a transmission replacement.
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, stalling at stops, poor acceleration.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging or Breaking
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the van sits lower than normal, and the ride quality is poor. May experience clunking noises.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs. Consider upgrading to heavy-duty springs if the van is frequently used for heavy loads.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per spring replacement.
• Worn Ball Joints and Tie Rod Ends
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, wandering on the road, clunking noises from the front suspension, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the worn ball joints and tie rod ends. An alignment is recommended after replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side

Electrical

• Faulty ABS Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS light illuminated on the dashboard, ABS system not functioning, reduced braking performance.
  • Solution: Diagnose the faulty ABS sensor and replace it.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per sensor.
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks intermittently working or not working at all, difficulty locking or unlocking the doors.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per actuator.
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges not working properly, warning lights illuminated intermittently, complete failure of the instrument cluster.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+

Exterior

• Sliding Door Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding door, the door gets stuck, or the rollers are worn out.
  • Solution: Replace the sliding door rollers and lubricate the tracks. Adjust the door alignment.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The blower motor does not work, only works on certain settings, or makes excessive noise.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor resistor or the blower motor itself.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+

Summary

The 2005 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (Multego) can be a reliable workhorse, but like any vehicle of its age, it’s prone to certain issues. The diesel engine, while durable, can suffer from fuel injector and turbocharger problems, which can be costly to repair. Electrical gremlins and suspension wear are also common. While some issues are relatively minor, others can be significant and expensive. Potential buyers should thoroughly inspect the vehicle and be prepared for potential maintenance costs.