2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is a versatile van offered with a range of engine and transmission options. Its spacious interior, high payload capacity, and reliable performance make it popular for both commercial and personal use. However, like any vehicle, the Sprinter has experienced issues reported by owners.

Engine

3.0L V6 Diesel (OM642)

• Intake Manifold Failure: This issue affects vehicles with a 3.0L V6 diesel engine. Early models of the OM642 engines used plastic intake manifolds prone to cracking, leading to loss of engine power and potential engine damage.
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, rough idle, increased exhaust emissions
  • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold with a metal version
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.6)

• Torque Converter Lock-up Failure: This issue affects vehicles with the 5-speed automatic transmission. A defective torque converter lock-up solenoid can cause the transmission to slip or lose overdrive, leading to reduced power and fuel economy.
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, erratic shifting, slipping transmission
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter lock-up solenoid and related parts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found

7-Speed Automatic (722.9)

• Selector Cable Failure: This issue affects vehicles with the 7-speed automatic transmission. A weak or damaged selector cable can prevent the transmission from properly shifting gears, leading to difficulty in driving.
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to shift gears, transmission stuck in gear
  • Solution: Replacement of the selector cable
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Breakage: This issue affects vehicles with heavy-duty suspension configurations. Overloading or excessive wear can cause the leaf springs to break, compromising the vehicle’s stability and handling.
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging suspension, uneven ride height, decreased handling
  • Solution: Replacement of the broken leaf spring
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 per leaf spring
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Discharge: Some vehicles have experienced premature battery discharge, especially during extended periods of non-use. The cause of the discharge may vary depending on the vehicle’s specific configuration.
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the vehicle, electrical system malfunctions
  • Solution: Identify and resolve the cause of the battery drain, which may include replacing faulty components or updating software
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Underbody: Vehicles operating in harsh environments may develop rust on the underbody, especially around the exhaust system and frame.
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust on metal surfaces
  • Solution: Prevention through regular cleaning and undercoating; repair of rusted areas
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the extent of damage
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Malfunction: Some vehicles have experienced issues with the climate control system, including inoperative fans or erratic temperature regulation.
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced airflow, inability to control temperature
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of faulty climate control components, such as the blower motor or control module
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

While the 2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is generally a reliable vehicle, it has experienced some common issues that owners should be aware of. The severity and cost of repairs vary depending on the specific problem. Overall, it is important to follow recommended maintenance schedules to minimize the potential for issues and ensure the longevity of the vehicle.