2013 Mercedes-Benz Boxer 50
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, also known as the Boxer 50 in some markets, is a popular van known for its versatility and cargo capacity. Engine options include a 2.1L inline-4 diesel (OM651) producing around 161 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque, as well as a 3.0L V6 diesel (OM642) with approximately 188 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. While owners appreciate its spaciousness and functionality, common complaints often revolve around reliability, particularly concerning the diesel engine components and electrical systems. The 2013 Sprinter generally comes equipped with a 5-speed automatic or a 7-speed automatic transmission depending on the engine choice.
Engine
2.1L Inline-4 Diesel (OM651)
- Failed or Leaking Fuel Injectors
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor fuel economy, black smoke from exhaust, engine misfires, and a strong diesel smell.
- Solution: Replace faulty fuel injectors. The injector should also be properly coded to the engine control unit (ECU).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Clogging
- Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, frequent regeneration cycles, DPF warning light illuminated, and potential for engine damage if ignored.
- Solution: Attempt forced regeneration. If unsuccessful, replacement of the DPF is necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Turbocharger Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the turbo, reduced engine power, black smoke from exhaust.
- Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
- Recalls: None Found
3.0L V6 Diesel (OM642)
- Oil Cooler Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking externally from the engine, often pooling in the valley between the cylinder banks. Can lead to overheating and low oil pressure if not addressed.
- Solution: Replace the oil cooler and associated seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Swirl Flap Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced engine power, poor fuel economy.
- Solution: Replace the swirl flap motor or remove the swirl flaps entirely and remap the ECU.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Failed Fuel Injectors
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor fuel economy, black smoke from exhaust, engine misfires, and a strong diesel smell.
- Solution: Replace faulty fuel injectors. The injector should also be properly coded to the engine control unit (ECU).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
5-Speed Automatic
- Rough Shifting/Slipping
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, transmission slipping out of gear, and unusual noises during gear changes.
- Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter change. If the problem persists, further diagnostics and potential valve body repair or replacement might be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
7-Speed Automatic
- Rough Shifting/Slipping
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, transmission slipping out of gear, and unusual noises during gear changes.
- Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter change. If the problem persists, further diagnostics and potential valve body repair or replacement might be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Worn Suspension Bushings
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially over bumps. Poor handling and steering response.
- Solution: Replace worn suspension bushings (e.g., control arm bushings, sway bar bushings).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Failed Shocks/Struts
- Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll during cornering, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replace worn shocks and/or struts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1200+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Faulty Glow Plug Module
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting in cold weather, check engine light.
- Solution: Replace the glow plug module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- EGR Valve Sensor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced power, poor fuel economy
- Solution: Replace the EGR Valve Sensor
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Wiring Harness Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as lights flickering, sensors malfunctioning, or the vehicle failing to start.
- Solution: Diagnose and repair damaged wiring harnesses. This may involve replacing sections of the harness or repairing individual wires.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on the severity)
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Sliding Door Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding door, sticking, or unusual noises.
- Solution: Inspect and lubricate the door tracks and rollers. Adjust or replace worn rollers or latches.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- HVAC Blower Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: No air blowing from the vents, weak airflow, or unusual noises from the blower motor.
- Solution: Replace the HVAC blower motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
- Faulty Door Lock Actuators
- Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking properly, or unusual noises coming from the door locks.
- Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per door
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (Boxer 50) presents a mix of potential issues, with the diesel engine components (injectors, DPF, oil cooler) and electrical systems being the most common areas of concern. Repair costs can vary significantly depending on the issue, but owners should be prepared for potentially high expenses, especially for engine-related problems. While some issues are relatively minor, others can lead to significant downtime and repair bills.