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2007 Dodge Sprinter 2500

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By Research the Car 5 min read

The 2007 Dodge Sprinter 2500 is a popular cargo and passenger van known for its spacious interior, fuel efficiency (especially with the diesel engine), and tall roof options. The 2007 model year offered two engine options: a 3.5L V6 gasoline engine producing 254 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque and a 3.0L V6 turbo-diesel engine producing 154 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Sprinter’s utility and cargo capacity, but common complaints often involve maintenance costs, electrical issues, and some specific engine/transmission problems.

Engine

3.0L V6 Turbo-Diesel

  • Black Death (Injector Seal Leaks)
    • Description/Symptoms: Leaking fuel injector seals cause a buildup of hard, tar-like carbon around the injectors, often referred to as “black death.” This can lead to poor engine performance, fuel leaks, and injector damage.
    • Solution: Removal of the injectors, cleaning the injector bores, replacing the injector seals with updated copper seals, and potentially replacing damaged injectors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ depending on the number of injectors affected and the extent of the damage.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Turbocharger Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises from the turbo, loss of power, excessive black smoke, and potentially a check engine light.
    • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+ depending on the source and whether the labor is included.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • EGR Valve Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, hesitation during acceleration, reduced fuel economy, and a check engine light. Often caused by carbon buildup.
    • Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the EGR valve.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
    • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6 Gasoline

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the vehicle, low oil level, burning oil smell, and potential engine damage if not addressed. Commonly from valve cover gaskets.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Ignition Coil Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, poor acceleration, and a check engine light.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty ignition coil(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 per coil depending on labor.
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (Both Engine Options)

  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds, slipping between gears, and potential transmission overheating.
    • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ including labor.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve Body Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, erratic shifting behavior, and difficulty engaging certain gears.
    • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Slipping or Complete Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: High RPMs with little or no movement, difficulty shifting, and unusual noises coming from the transmission.
    • Solution: A full transmission rebuild or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2500 - $5000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Leaf Spring Sagging/Breakage
    • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the van sitting lower than usual, poor ride quality, and potential handling issues, especially when loaded.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaf springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per side.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Ball Joint Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, loose steering, and uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replacement of the worn ball joints.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per ball joint.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Glow Plug Failure (Diesel Only)
    • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, especially in cold weather, excessive white smoke upon startup, and a check engine light.
    • Solution: Replacement of the faulty glow plug(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on labor.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Wiring Harness Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as lights flickering, sensors malfunctioning, and difficulty starting. Corrosion in the wire harness is a common cause.
    • Solution: Inspection and repair or replacement of damaged wiring harnesses.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Highly variable, depending on the extent of the damage and the location of the harness. $200 - $2000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Door Lock Actuator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Doors that won’t lock or unlock with the key fob or interior switch, requiring manual operation.
    • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per door.
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust (Especially Around Wheel Wells and Seams)
    • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust spots, bubbling paint, and potential structural damage in severe cases.
    • Solution: Rust repair, including sanding, patching, and repainting.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Highly variable depending on the extent of the rust. $200 - $2000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Sliding Door Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding door, sticking, grinding noises, and latching problems.
    • Solution: Adjustment of the door, lubrication of the tracks and rollers, or replacement of worn components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50-$500+ depending on the repairs needed.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • HVAC Blower Motor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: No air blowing from the vents, weak airflow, or unusual noises coming from the blower motor.
    • Solution: Replacement of the blower motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ including labor.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Seat Swivel Mechanism Issues (If Equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty swiveling the seats, sticking, or complete failure of the swivel mechanism.
    • Solution: Lubrication, repair, or replacement of the swivel mechanism.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Dodge Sprinter 2500, while valued for its utility, is prone to several common issues. The diesel engine can suffer from “black death” injector problems and turbocharger failures, leading to significant repair costs. Electrical issues, particularly with wiring harnesses and door lock actuators, are also prevalent. Rust is a significant concern, especially in regions with harsh winters. Transmission problems, though not universally experienced, can be expensive to address. While some issues are relatively minor, others can result in substantial repair bills, making thorough inspection and preventative maintenance crucial for prospective buyers.

Dodge, Sprinter 2500
Dodge Sprinter 2500 2007
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