2008 Mercedes-Benz Multego
The 2008 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (marketed as “Multego” in some regions) is a versatile van prized for its cargo capacity, fuel efficiency, and maneuverability compared to traditional full-size vans. Engine options include a 3.0L V6 diesel engine, and a 3.5L V6 gasoline engine. Transmission options are typically a 5-speed automatic. People often appreciate the Sprinter’s tall roof, which allows for standing inside, and its comfortable ride. However, some dislike its relatively high cost of ownership and potential for electronic issues. The 3.0L diesel produces around 154 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. The 3.5L gasoline engine produces around 258 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.
Engine
3.0L V6 Diesel
- Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Clogging
- Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, warning lights on the dashboard, frequent regeneration cycles. Can lead to complete blockage of the DPF and engine shutdown.
- Solution: Forced regeneration by a mechanic, DPF cleaning, or DPF replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+ (depending on the chosen solution)
- Recalls: None Found
- Turbocharger Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive black smoke from the exhaust, whining or screeching noises from the engine bay.
- Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- EGR Valve Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor acceleration, check engine light.
- Solution: EGR valve cleaning or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
- Recalls: None Found
3.5L V6 Gasoline
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level. Often occurs at the valve cover gaskets or oil filter housing.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ (depending on location and severity)
- Recalls: None Found
- Ignition Coil Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running engine, 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
- Slipping or Erratic Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Delay in gear engagement, transmission slipping between gears, harsh or unpredictable shifting. Often caused by worn valve body components or low fluid level.
- Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter change, valve body repair or replacement, or complete transmission rebuild or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $4,000+ (transmission replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, especially during acceleration, stalling, or abnormal noises from the transmission.
- Solution: Torque converter replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Leaf Spring Sagging/Breaking
- Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sitting lower than normal, reduced ride quality, potential for leaf spring failure.
- Solution: Leaf spring replacement or addition of helper springs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ (depending on the extent of the repairs)
- Recalls: None Found
- Worn Ball Joints/Tie Rod Ends
- Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, clunking noises from the front suspension, uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints and/or tie rod ends.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per side.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Glow Plug Issues (Diesel)
- Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, especially in cold weather, excessive white smoke on startup, check engine light.
- Solution: Glow plug replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
- Sensor Failures (Various)
- Description/Symptoms: A wide range of issues can arise depending on the failed sensor. Common failures include ABS sensors, crank/cam position sensors, and mass airflow sensors.
- Solution: Diagnosis to identify the faulty sensor, followed by replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per sensor (depending on the sensor and location)
- Recalls: None Found
- Door Lock Actuator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking with the remote or interior switches.
- Solution: Door lock actuator replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400 per door.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Sliding Door Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding door, sticking, binding, or unusual noises.
- Solution: Lubrication of the tracks and rollers, adjustment of the door alignment, or replacement of worn rollers or cables.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ (depending on the complexity of the repair)
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- HVAC Blower Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: No air blowing from the vents, intermittent blower operation, unusual noises from the blower motor area.
- Solution: Blower motor replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2008 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter can be a reliable vehicle but is prone to certain issues depending on the engine. Diesel models face DPF, turbocharger, and EGR valve problems, while gasoline models might experience oil leaks and ignition coil failures. Transmission issues like slipping are a concern across both engine options. Suspension and electrical faults, such as leaf spring sagging, sensor failures and door lock malfunctions, are also relatively common. While some issues are minor and inexpensive to fix, others, like DPF replacement or transmission rebuilds, can be quite costly. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic to identify potential problems before buying.