2014 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500 is a popular choice for commercial use and camper van conversions, known for its spacious cargo area and robust build. Engine options for this year include a 2.1L four-cylinder diesel and a 3.0L V6 diesel. The 3.0L V6 diesel engine produces 188 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. Owners often appreciate the Sprinter’s high roof, allowing for easy movement inside, and its relatively good fuel economy for its size. Downsides frequently mentioned are the higher initial cost compared to competitors and the potential for expensive repairs.

Engine

3.0L V6 Diesel

• Oil Cooler Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant and oil mixing due to a cracked or leaking oil cooler. Often presents with a milky substance in the coolant reservoir or excessive oil consumption without visible leaks.
  • Solution: Replace the oil cooler.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Clogging of the DPF, leading to reduced engine performance, increased fuel consumption, and the engine going into limp mode. Can be caused by short trips that don’t allow the DPF to regenerate properly.
  • Solution: Forced regeneration of the DPF by a mechanic, or replacement of the DPF.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (regeneration) - $2500+ (replacement)
• Glow Plug Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting in cold weather, rough idling, and potentially a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace faulty glow plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

2.1L Four-Cylinder Diesel

• Fuel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, poor fuel economy, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+

Transmission

Mercedes-Benz 5-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or slipping during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. Can also cause a lack of power or difficulty shifting.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, harsh shifting, or failure to shift into certain gears.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging/Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sagging, especially when loaded. Uneven tire wear. In extreme cases, a broken leaf spring.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per side.
• Front Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the front struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+ per pair.

Electrical

• EGR Valve Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idling, poor acceleration, reduced fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
• Sensor Failures (ABS, Wheel Speed, etc.)
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS light illumination, traction control issues, speedometer malfunctions, or check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per sensor.

Exterior

• Sliding Door Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding door, sticking, or requiring excessive force. Can be caused by worn rollers, misaligned tracks, or damaged latches.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sliding door rollers, tracks, or latches.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The blower motor stops working, resulting in no air coming from the vents. Can sometimes work intermittently before failing completely.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
• Seat Swivel Mechanism Failure (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty swiveling the front seats, sticking, or becoming locked in one position.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the swivel mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+

Recalls

• Recall Campaign Number: 22V-769
  • Description/Symptoms: Certain vehicles may be equipped with tires that can experience sidewall cracking, potentially leading to tire failure and increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Solution: The manufacturer will inspect the tires and replace them free of charge, as necessary.
• Recall Campaign Number: 23V-708
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may shift into neutral without warning, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Solution: The manufacturer will update the transmission control unit (TCU) software free of charge.

Summary

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500, while a capable and versatile vehicle, is prone to certain issues, particularly concerning its engine and transmission. Oil cooler leaks and DPF problems can be costly on the 3.0L V6 diesel. Transmission issues such as torque converter failure can also lead to significant repair bills. Recalls address potential tire and transmission issues. Addressing these potential problems proactively can help mitigate potential expensive repairs down the line.