2013 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is a versatile van favored for its cargo capacity, fuel efficiency (especially in the diesel models), and relatively comfortable ride. It comes in various configurations, including cargo van, passenger van, and chassis cab, catering to a wide range of needs from commercial to recreational. The 2013 Sprinter offered two engine options: a 2.1L four-cylinder diesel (OM651) producing 161 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0L V6 diesel (OM642) that generates 188 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque. The 2.1L diesel engine was typically paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission (7G-TRONIC), while the 3.0L V6 diesel usually came with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Sprinter’s fuel economy, especially the diesel models, as well as its spacious interior and cargo capacity. Some common complaints include higher maintenance costs compared to domestic vans, electrical issues, and potential for rust in certain climates.

Engine

2.1L Four-Cylinder Diesel (OM651)

• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, reduced power, and the check engine light illuminating.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per injector (including labor).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Clogging
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, frequent regeneration cycles, and the DPF warning light illuminating. This is more common with short trips and city driving.
  • Solution: Forced DPF regeneration by a mechanic, cleaning the DPF, or replacing the DPF.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 for forced regeneration/cleaning, $1500 - $3000+ for DPF replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6 Diesel (OM642)

• Oil Cooler Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks near the engine valley, oil consumption, and potential overheating.
  • Solution: Replacing the oil cooler and related seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises from the engine, loss of power, and the check engine light illuminating.
  • Solution: Replacing the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $3500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (paired with 3.0L V6)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during gear changes, slipping, and harsh shifting.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

7-Speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC) (paired with 2.1L Four-Cylinder)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, delayed engagement, and slipping.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging/Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the van sitting lower than normal, especially when loaded. Uneven ride height, decreased load capacity and potential clunking noises
  • Solution: Replacing the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ (depending on the extent of damage and whether replacing in pairs)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Glow Plug Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, especially in cold weather, and the check engine light illuminating.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty glow plug(s) and glow plug module if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ (depending on the number of glow plugs needing replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as malfunctioning lights, sensors, or other electronic components. Can be challenging to diagnose.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the damaged wiring harness section.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ (depending on the location and severity of the damage).
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Especially around wheel wells and lower body panels)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust spots forming on the body panels.
  • Solution: Rust repair, bodywork, and repainting. Addressing underlying causes of moisture build-up.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ (depending on the severity and extent of the rust).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sliding Door Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding door, sticking, or binding. Can be due to worn rollers, misaligned latches, or damaged tracks.
  • Solution: Replacing the door rollers, adjusting the latch, or repairing/replacing the track.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The HVAC blower motor stops working, resulting in no airflow from the vents.
  • Solution: Replacing the blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sprinter Roof Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water Leaks into the cabin and condensation on the ceiling.
  • Solution: Resealing the roof
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, while a capable and popular van, can present owners with a range of issues. Engine issues, particularly concerning fuel injectors, oil cooler leaks, and turbocharger problems, can be costly to address. Transmission problems, whether related to the 5-speed or 7-speed automatic, can also lead to significant repair bills. Electrical gremlins and rust formation are common concerns that should be carefully inspected before purchasing a used model. While some issues, like sliding door adjustments or HVAC repairs, are relatively minor, others can quickly escalate into major expenses, making a thorough pre-purchase inspection highly recommended.