2015 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500 is a versatile commercial van popular for its spacious cargo area and robust build quality. In 2015, the Sprinter 3500 was offered with two engine options: a 2.1L inline-4 cylinder diesel engine producing 161 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0L V6 diesel engine generating 188 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate the Sprinter’s payload capacity and fuel efficiency for its class, however, some common complaints include issues with the emissions system and electrical components, as well as general maintenance costs.

Engine

2.1L Inline-4 Cylinder Diesel

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Clogging
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, DPF warning light illuminated, potential for limp mode. Caused by short trips and failure to complete regeneration cycles.
  • Solution: Forced regeneration of the DPF by a mechanic, or replacement of the DPF.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on repair/replacement needed.
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor acceleration, black smoke from exhaust, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6 Diesel

• Oil Cooler Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, often found around the oil filter housing or underneath the vehicle. Can lead to low oil levels and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the oil cooler and gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whining noise from the turbocharger, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, slipping between gears, rough shifting.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, harsh engagement of gears, transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Valve body replacement or rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging/Breaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end sagging, reduced load capacity, rough ride.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, loose steering.
  • Solution: Replacement of the ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Glow Plug Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, especially in cold weather, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty glow plug(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, including lights not working, sensors malfunctioning, and starting problems.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the damaged wiring harness sections.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+, depends on the location and severity of the damage
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Roller Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding door, grinding noises.
  • Solution: Replacement of the sliding door rollers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No air blowing from the vents, even with the HVAC system turned on.
  • Solution: Replacement of the blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500, while a capable work van, is prone to a range of issues. Engine problems such as DPF clogging, oil cooler leaks and turbocharger failures can be costly to repair, especially on the 3.0L V6 diesel. Transmission issues like torque converter and valve body problems can also add to the maintenance expenses. Suspension and electrical gremlins can further contribute to the overall cost of ownership. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major repairs that can significantly impact the van’s usability and reliability.