2013 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500
Introduction:
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 is a full-size commercial van available with three engine options: a 3.0L V6 turbodiesel (OM642), a 4.0L V6 gasoline (M272), and a 3.5L V6 gasoline (M276). The OM642 engine produces 188 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, the M272 engine produces 259 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, and the M276 engine produces 280 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed automatic (722.6) and a 7-speed automatic (722.9). The Sprinter 2500 is known for its reliability, versatility, and powerful engines. However, some owners have reported experiencing specific issues with their vehicles.
Engine
3.0L V6 Turbodiesel (OM642)
- Injector Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, rough idling, decreased power, increased emissions
- Solution: Replace failed injector(s)
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Intake Manifold Flap Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Reduced power, engine stalling, check engine light
- Solution: Replace intake manifold
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1,500+
- EGR Valve Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Increased emissions, reduced power, rough idling
- Solution: Replace EGR valve
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
- Timing Chain Tensioner Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Engine rattling, reduced power, check engine light
- Solution: Replace timing chain and tensioner
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $3,500+
Transmission
5-Speed Automatic (722.6)
- Torque Converter Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Slipping gears, shuddering, delayed engagement
- Solution: Replace torque converter
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
7-Speed Automatic (722.9)
- Mechatronic Unit Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Delayed gear engagement, rough shifting, transmission slipping
- Solution: Replace mechatronic unit
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
- Valve Body Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Hard shifting, slipping gears, check engine light
- Solution: Replace valve body
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
Suspension
- Strut Mount Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise over bumps, reduced handling
- Solution: Replace strut mount(s)
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per side
- Coil Spring Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Sagging suspension, reduced handling
- Solution: Replace coil spring(s)
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 per side
Electrical
- Battery Discharge:
- Description/Symptoms: Battery drains prematurely
- Solution: Test electrical system for parasitic drain
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
- Alternator Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, reduced electrical power
- Solution: Replace alternator
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200+
Exterior
- Tailgate Latch Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Tailgate won’t open or close properly
- Solution: Replace tailgate latch
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
- Side Mirror Adjustment Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Side mirrors won’t adjust properly
- Solution: Replace side mirror motor(s)
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per mirror
Interior
- Cruise Control Switch Malfunction:
- Description/Symptoms: Cruise control won’t engage or disengage
- Solution: Replace cruise control switch
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
- HVAC Blower Motor Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: No air blowing from vents
- Solution: Replace HVAC blower motor
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
- Radio Display Black Screen:
- Description/Symptoms: Radio display goes black
- Solution: Replace radio display module
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
Summary:
Overall, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 is a reliable and capable commercial van, but it’s not immune to issues. The most severe and expensive issues reported by owners include injector failure, timing chain tensioner failure, and mechatronic unit failure. The estimated cost to fix these issues can range from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It’s important for owners to maintain their vehicles regularly and address any issues promptly to prevent them from becoming more severe and costly.