2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500 is a versatile work van known for its spacious cargo area, robust build quality, and available configurations. Engine options include a 3.0L Turbo Diesel V6 engine producing 188 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Some owners appreciate the Sprinter’s fuel efficiency (for a van of its size), comfortable ride, and customization options. Common complaints often revolve around the cost of maintenance and repairs, some electrical issues, and the van’s large size making it challenging to maneuver in tight spaces. Engine

3.0L Turbo Diesel V6

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Frequent regeneration cycles, reduced engine power, illuminated check engine light. The DPF may become clogged prematurely due to short trips or issues with the fuel system.
  • Solution: Forced regeneration, cleaning or replacement of the DPF. Diagnosing and repairing underlying issues causing excessive soot production.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ (depending on the extent of the damage and parts needed)
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, reduced engine performance, check engine light. The EGR valve can become clogged with carbon deposits, preventing it from functioning correctly.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, poor fuel economy, excessive smoke. Fuel injectors can become clogged or fail, leading to improper fuel delivery.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the faulty fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping during acceleration, shuddering, abnormal noises, difficulty shifting.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter. May require transmission removal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, gear slipping, failure to shift into certain gears. The valve body controls fluid flow within the transmission and can become worn or clogged.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging/Breaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end sagging, uneven ride height, reduced load capacity, clunking noises. The leaf springs can weaken or break under heavy loads or due to corrosion.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaf spring(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000+ per spring
  • 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) and glow plug module if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, malfunctioning sensors, lights not working, starting issues.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair/replacement of damaged wiring harness sections.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ (depending on the extent of the damage)
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Cooler Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, loss of coolant, overheating, white smoke from exhaust. The EGR cooler can corrode and leak coolant into the exhaust system.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EGR cooler.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing, sticking, noisy operation, latching issues. The sliding door mechanism can become worn or misaligned.
  • Solution: Adjustment of the door alignment, lubrication of the rollers and tracks, repair or replacement of worn parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No air blowing from the vents, weak airflow, noisy blower motor.
  • Solution: Replacement of the blower motor and/or resistor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500, while a capable van, can present owners with a range of issues. Engine and transmission problems can be costly, particularly concerning the diesel particulate filter, EGR valve, and torque converter. Electrical issues, such as glow plug failure and wiring harness problems, are also common. The severity of these issues varies, but some repairs, especially those involving the engine or transmission, can be expensive. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor in the cost of maintenance and repairs when considering this vehicle.