2008 Mercedes-Benz Boxer 60

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, also known as the Boxer 60 in some markets, is a popular van known for its versatility and cargo capacity. Engine options for the 2008 Sprinter include a 3.0L V6 diesel engine (CDI) producing around 154 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.1L Inline-4 diesel engine. The Sprinter is generally praised for its spacious interior, high roof options, and fuel efficiency compared to other vans in its class. Common criticisms include the van’s turning radius, and potential maintenance costs.

Engine

3.0L V6 Diesel (CDI)

• EGR Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced engine power, rough idling, black smoke from exhaust.
  • Solution: Replace the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Clogging
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced engine power, frequent regeneration cycles, potential limp mode.
  • Solution: Forced DPF regeneration (if possible), DPF cleaning, or DPF replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ depending on the solution
  • Recalls: None Found
• Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, excessive smoke, poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per injector
  • Recalls: None Found

2.1L Inline-4 Diesel

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noise from the engine, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Automatic Transmission (Specific type not specified, but commonly a 5-speed)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, slipping between gears, stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed shifting, failure to shift, transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging/Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end sagging, poor ride quality, clunking noises from the rear suspension.
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when turning, loose steering.
  • Solution: Replace ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Glow Plug Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficult starting, especially in cold weather, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace glow plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, malfunctioning lights, sensor failures.
  • Solution: Repair or replace damaged wiring harness sections.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the extent of the damage
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, warning lights on dashboard, vehicle stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficult to open or close, sticking, binding, rollers wearing out.
  • Solution: Replace sliding door rollers, adjust door alignment, or repair damaged tracks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ depending on the issue
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rust (Especially around wheel wells and seams)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust spots.
  • Solution: Rust repair, panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Blower motor not working, no air blowing from vents, only works on certain settings.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor or blower motor resistor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent display failures, flickering lights, inaccurate readings.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, or Boxer 60, can present a range of issues, particularly related to its diesel engine, transmission, and suspension components. Engine problems such as EGR valve failure, DPF clogging, and turbocharger issues can lead to reduced performance and costly repairs. Transmission issues like torque converter failure and valve body problems can affect drivability. Suspension concerns such as leaf spring issues impact ride quality and safety. Electrical glitches like glow plug failures and wiring harness problems can also arise. While some issues are relatively minor, others require significant investment. Potential buyers should thoroughly inspect the vehicle and address any identified problems to avoid future expenses.