2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 is a popular choice for commercial and recreational use, known for its spacious interior, customizable configurations, and robust build quality. The 2017 model offered a choice of two engines: a 2.1-liter four-cylinder diesel engine producing 161 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine producing 188 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Sprinter’s cargo capacity, versatility, and comfortable ride. Some common complaints include the cost of maintenance, occasional electrical issues, and some reports of emissions system problems.

Engine

2.1L Four-Cylinder Diesel

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the turbocharger, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Clogging
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, check engine light, frequent regeneration cycles.
  • Solution: Forced regeneration, DPF cleaning, or replacement of the DPF.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, reduced power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6 Diesel

• Oil Cooler Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak, coolant contamination, overheating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the oil cooler and associated gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Clogging
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, check engine light, frequent regeneration cycles.
  • Solution: Forced regeneration, DPF cleaning, or replacement of the DPF.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the turbocharger, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC)

• Rough Shifting/Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, especially between certain gears.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement, valve body repair or replacement, or complete transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, especially when accelerating, or complete failure to move.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll, clunking noises from the front suspension.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front struts/shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ (per pair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Glow Plug Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting in cold weather, engine misfires, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty glow plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wiring Harness Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical faults, malfunctioning sensors, difficulty starting, check engine light.
  • Solution: Inspection and repair or replacement of damaged wiring harnesses.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficult to start, electrical issues, battery draining.
  • Solution: Battery replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficult to open or close, sticking, alignment issues.
  • Solution: Adjustment, lubrication, or replacement of sliding door components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No air blowing from the vents, or intermittent operation.
  • Solution: Replacement of the blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 can experience a range of issues, with engine-related problems (particularly with emissions components) and electrical glitches being relatively common. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive (e.g., glow plug replacement), others, such as turbocharger or transmission repairs, can be quite costly. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and ensure a thorough inspection before purchasing a used model. Given the cost of some repairs, a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic familiar with Sprinter vans is highly recommended.