2018 Mercedes-Benz Safety Bus
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, often upfitted as a “Safety Bus” or mobile command center, is a versatile vehicle known for its spaciousness and utility. The 2018 model year offered several engine options, including a 2.1L 4-cylinder diesel engine (2143cc) producing around 161 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque and a 3.0L V6 diesel engine (2987cc) producing around 188 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque. The Sprinter is favored for its cargo capacity, customization options, and relatively smooth ride for a commercial vehicle. However, some owners report issues with reliability and the cost of maintenance and repairs.
Engine
2.1L 4-Cylinder Diesel (OM651)
- Failed Injectors
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, excessive smoke, fuel leaks, and potential engine damage.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty injectors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Timing Chain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Rattling noises from the engine, particularly on startup. Can lead to significant engine damage if left unaddressed.
- Solution: Replacing the timing chain, tensioner, and guides.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
- Recalls: None Found
3.0L V6 Diesel (OM642)
- Oil Cooler Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks near the oil cooler, often collecting in the valley of the engine. Can lead to low oil levels and potential engine damage if not addressed.
- Solution: Replacement of the oil cooler and related gaskets.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Swirl Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated. Can be verified with a scanner pulling codes related to the swirl flaps or swirl motor. Loss of power.
- Solution: Replacement of the swirl motor. In some cases, intake manifold replacement is recommended as well.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
7G-Tronic (722.9)
- Valve Body Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, slipping between gears, failure to shift, or getting stuck in a gear.
- Solution: Replacement or repair of the valve body.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, unusual noises, or complete transmission failure.
- Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $4000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Suspension Sagging (Leaf Springs)
- Description/Symptoms: The rear of the van sits lower than normal, especially when loaded. This can affect handling and ride quality.
- Solution: Replacement or reinforcement of the leaf springs. Adding helper springs or air suspension can also be considered.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Front Strut Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Excessive bouncing, poor handling, uneven tire wear, and noises from the front suspension.
- Solution: Replacement of the front struts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical issues, including problems with lights, wipers, power windows, and other electronic accessories.
- Solution: Replacement or reprogramming of the SAM unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Glow Plug Module Failure (Diesel)
- Description/Symptoms: Difficult starting, especially in cold weather. Check engine light may be illuminated.
- Solution: Replacement of the glow plug module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Door Lock Actuator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking properly, either manually or with the key fob.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Sliding Door Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding door, jamming, or the door not aligning properly. This can be due to worn rollers, damaged tracks, or a faulty latch mechanism.
- Solution: Replacement of rollers, repair of the track, or replacement of the latch.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- HVAC Blower Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The blower motor stops working or only works intermittently. This results in no air or weak airflow from the vents.
- Solution: Replacement of the blower motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
- Navigation/Infotainment System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: System freezes, glitches, or fails to load.
- Solution: Software updates, or replacement of the head unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, when configured as a Safety Bus, presents a range of potential issues that owners should be aware of. Engine and transmission problems, such as injector failures, oil cooler leaks, valve body issues, and torque converter problems, can be costly to repair. Electrical issues with the SAM and glow plug module can also be troublesome. Sliding door and HVAC blower motor malfunctions are also common annoyances. While not all Sprinters will experience these issues, being aware of them can help potential buyers make informed decisions and budget accordingly for potential repairs. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs spanning from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.