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2007 Mercedes-Benz Boxer 60

The 2007 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (marketed as the “Boxer 60” in some regions and also sold under the Freightliner name) is a popular van known for its versatility and cargo capacity. Engine options include a 2.1L inline-4 diesel engine (CDI) and a 3.0L V6 diesel engine (CDI). The 2.1L diesel produces around 109 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.0L V6 generates approximately 154 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. The standard transmission is typically a 5-speed automatic. Owners often praise the Sprinter’s fuel efficiency (especially with the diesel engines), spacious interior, and smooth ride. However, common complaints include higher maintenance costs compared to domestic vans and potential issues with specific components like the emissions system and electrical components.

Engine

2.1L Inline-4 Diesel (CDI)

  • Fuel Injector Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, reduced power, black smoke from the exhaust.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty fuel injector(s). It is recommended to replace all injectors at once to maintain optimal engine performance.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per injector, including labor.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • EGR Valve Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced power, rough idling, excessive smoke. The EGR valve can become clogged with carbon deposits.
    • Solution: Clean or replace the EGR valve.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500, including labor.
    • Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6 Diesel (CDI)

  • Oil Cooler Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak, often dripping near the front of the engine. Low oil level warning light.
    • Solution: Replace the oil cooler and potentially the oil cooler seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+, including labor due to the location of the oil cooler.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Turbocharger Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noise from the turbocharger, check engine light.
    • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+, including labor.
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. Slipping between gears.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2500, including labor.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve Body Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, slipping between gears.
    • Solution: Rebuild or replace the valve body.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1800, including labor.
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Rear Leaf Spring Sagging/Cracking
    • Description/Symptoms: Rear end of the van sits lower than normal, especially when loaded. Squeaking noises from the rear suspension. Visible cracks in the leaf springs.
    • Solution: Replace the rear leaf springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200, including labor per side.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Front Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll, leaking fluid from the strut/shock.
    • Solution: Replace the front struts/shock absorbers.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800, including labor per side.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Glow Plug Failure (Diesel Engines)
    • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting in cold weather, excessive smoke on startup, check engine light.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty glow plug(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400, including labor, depending on the number of glow plugs replaced and accessibility.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Wiring Harness Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as malfunctioning lights, sensors, or accessories.
    • Solution: Diagnose and repair the damaged wiring harness. This can involve tracing wires, replacing connectors, and repairing insulation.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+, depending on the severity and location of the wiring issue.
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Sliding Door Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficult to open or close the sliding door, sticking, binding, or requiring excessive force. Broken or worn rollers, hinges, or latches.
    • Solution: Replace or repair the damaged components of the sliding door mechanism.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800+, depending on the extent of the damage.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • HVAC Blower Motor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: No air blowing from the vents, even with the fan turned on. Weak airflow. Unusual noises from the blower motor area.
    • Solution: Replace the HVAC blower motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500, including labor.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Power Window Regulator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Window not moving up or down, slow or erratic window movement, clicking noises from inside the door.
    • Solution: Replace the power window regulator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500, including labor per window.
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, while offering versatility and practicality, can be prone to certain issues. The diesel engines, while fuel-efficient, can experience problems with fuel injectors, EGR valves, turbochargers, and oil cooler leaks. The automatic transmission might suffer from torque converter and valve body failures. Suspension issues, particularly with rear leaf springs, are also common. Electrical problems, including glow plug and wiring harness issues, can arise. Interior issues include HVAC blower motor and power window regulator failures. The severity and cost of these issues can vary, with engine and transmission repairs often being the most expensive. Potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic.

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