2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500
2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500
Overview
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500 is a robust and capable commercial van known for its utility and cargo capacity. Reliability is generally strong, reflecting Mercedes-Benz’s engineering standards. However, like any vehicle, especially those used in demanding commercial applications, certain components can experience issues over time. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential problem areas and their associated costs for various engine and transmission configurations. Understanding these potential issues can aid in proactive maintenance and informed decision-making for fleet managers and owners.
Engine
2.1L OM651 Diesel
AdBlue System Failures
- Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced engine power, “AdBlue system fault” message.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of AdBlue pump, sensors, or injector.
- Cost: $500 - $1500
EGR Cooler Leaks
- Symptoms: Coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, engine overheating.
- Solution: Replacement of the EGR cooler.
- Cost: $600 - $1200
3.0L OM642 Diesel
Turbocharger Issues
- Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noises, black smoke from exhaust.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the turbocharger assembly.
- Cost: $1500 - $3000
Glow Plug Failure
- Symptoms: Hard starting, especially in cold weather, check engine light.
- Solution: Replacement of faulty glow plugs and potentially the control module.
- Cost: $300 - $700
Transmission
7G-TRONIC Automatic
Torque Converter Problems
- Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, slipping gears, rough shifting.
- Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
- Cost: $1200 - $2500
Transmission Fluid Leaks
- Symptoms: Leaking fluid from transmission pan or seals, rough shifting, overheating.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of seals, gaskets, or transmission pan.
- Cost: $300 - $800
Suspension
Standard Chassis
Leaf Spring Breakage
- Symptoms: Sagging rear end, clunking noises over bumps, uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replacement of broken leaf springs.
- Cost: $400 - $900
Electrical
General Electrical System
Sensor Malfunctions
- Symptoms: Various warning lights on the dashboard, erratic gauge readings, performance issues.
- Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of faulty sensors (e.g., ABS, O2, temperature).
- Cost: $200 - $600
Battery Drain Issues
- Symptoms: Difficulty starting, dead battery after short periods, electrical components not functioning.
- Solution: Diagnosis of parasitic draw, replacement of faulty modules or wiring.
- Cost: $300 - $900
Exterior
Body Panels and Doors
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: N/A
Interior
Cabin Components
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: N/A
Summary Verdict
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500 generally offers good reliability for its class, particularly with its robust diesel engines. The most commonly reported technical issues tend to revolve around the emissions control systems (AdBlue, EGR) on the 2.1L engine and turbocharger or glow plug concerns on the 3.0L. The automatic transmission can occasionally suffer from torque converter issues or fluid leaks. Suspension components, specifically leaf springs, may require attention on heavily used vehicles. Electrical gremlins, often related to sensor failures or battery drain, are also noted. While these issues can be costly to repair, they are not universally present and often depend on usage and maintenance history. Overall, the Sprinter 3500 remains a dependable workhorse, but owners should be aware of these potential maintenance points.