2013 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500 is a popular choice for commercial use, known for its spacious cargo area, payload capacity, and relatively comfortable ride for a work van. Available engine options included a 2.1L I4 diesel engine producing 161 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque and a 3.0L V6 diesel engine producing 188 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, both paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise its versatility and fuel economy (relative to other vans of its size). Common complaints include the cost of maintenance and repairs, as well as some reliability concerns.

Engine

2.1L I4 Diesel

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Clogging
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, warning lights, and the engine entering limp mode. This is exacerbated by frequent short trips that do not allow the DPF to regenerate properly.
  • Solution: Forced regeneration (performed by a mechanic), cleaning the DPF, or replacement of the DPF.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ depending on the severity and chosen solution.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, reduced fuel economy, black smoke from exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per injector.
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6 Diesel

• Oil Cooler Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks near the oil cooler, oil consumption, possible overheating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the oil cooler and gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idling, reduced power, poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. Delayed or harsh shifting.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, slipping, or failure to shift. Can trigger transmission warning lights.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuilding of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Leaf Spring Sagging/Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the van sitting lower than normal, reduced ride quality, potential for spring breakage under heavy load.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Glow Plug Module Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting in cold weather, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the glow plug module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as lights flickering or sensors malfunctioning. Corrosion can be a contributing factor.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of damaged wiring harnesses.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Roller Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding door, grinding noises, the door not aligning properly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the sliding door rollers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The blower motor for the heating and air conditioning stops working, resulting in no airflow.
  • Solution: Replacement of the blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500 can be a reliable workhorse, but potential owners should be aware of common issues. Engine problems like DPF clogging (2.1L I4) and oil cooler leaks (3.0L V6) can be expensive to repair. Transmission issues, particularly with the torque converter and valve body, are also a concern. Suspension, electrical, exterior, and interior issues exist as well. While the Sprinter offers great utility, the potential for costly repairs necessitates thorough inspection and maintenance.