2005 Mercedes-Benz OMC 1400

The 2005 Mercedes-Benz OMC 1400, also known as the Sprinter, is a versatile commercial van renowned for its cargo capacity and adaptability. Engine options typically include a 2.7L inline-5 diesel engine (OM612) producing approximately 154 hp and 243 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5L V6 gasoline engine (M112) producing approximately 258 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque depending on the specific market. Transmission options are usually a 5-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciate the Sprinter’s spacious interior and payload capacity, but often express concerns about its reliability and maintenance costs, as well as potential rust issues.

Engine

2.7L Inline-5 Diesel (OM612)

• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, black smoke, reduced power, difficulty starting, and potential for engine damage if not addressed promptly.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty fuel injectors. Often recommended to replace all injectors at the same time.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per injector, plus labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine, loss of power, black smoke, and potential for oil leaks.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement or rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6 Gasoline (M112)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the vehicle, low oil level, and potential for engine damage if not addressed. Often occurs at the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, or rear main seal.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Stalling, rough idling, difficulty starting, and check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (NAG1 / WA580)

• Slipping or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips during gear changes, shifts harshly, or fails to engage certain gears.
  • Solution: Requires transmission repair or replacement. Often caused by worn clutch packs or valve body issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2500 - $5000+ depending on the extent of the damage.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, stalling, and transmission overheating.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sits lower than normal, poor ride quality, and reduced load capacity.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the front suspension, loose steering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per ball joint
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Glow Plug Failure (Diesel)
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting in cold weather, excessive smoke upon starting, and engine misfires.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty glow plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as malfunctioning lights, sensors, or other electrical components. Often related to corrosion or damaged wiring.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the damaged wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the extent of the damage and location of the harness.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation on body panels, especially around seams, wheel wells, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Rust repair, panel replacement, and rust prevention treatments.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $5000+ depending on the severity of the rust.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sliding Door Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficult opening or closing, sticking, or failure to latch properly.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sliding door mechanism or rollers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The blower motor stops working, resulting in no air blowing from the vents.
  • Solution: Replacement of the blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The door locks fail to lock or unlock electronically.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2005 Mercedes-Benz OMC 1400/Sprinter is a capable work van, but owners should be aware of potential issues. Engine problems, particularly with fuel injectors and turbochargers on the diesel models, can be costly. Transmission issues, suspension wear, electrical gremlins, and rust are also common concerns. The severity of these issues ranges from moderate to severe, with repair costs potentially exceeding several thousand dollars depending on the specific problem and the extent of the damage. Pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended.