2018 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is a popular choice for commercial use and van conversions, known for its spacious cargo area and relatively comfortable ride. Engine options include a 2.1-liter four-cylinder diesel producing 161 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0-liter V6 diesel generating 188 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. The Sprinter is praised for its versatility and customization options, but some owners have reported issues with reliability, particularly concerning the emissions system and electrical components. Common dislikes include the relatively high cost of maintenance and repairs.

Engine

2.1L Four-Cylinder Diesel

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Clogging
  • Description/Symptoms: Frequent regeneration cycles, reduced engine power, DPF warning light illumination.
  • Solution: Forced regeneration, DPF cleaning, or DPF replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the solution.
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, decreased fuel economy, check engine light.
  • Solution: EGR valve replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6 Diesel

• Oil Cooler Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks near the front of the engine, coolant contamination, overheating.
  • Solution: Oil cooler replacement and coolant flush.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive smoke, whistling noise from the engine.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Both Transmissions

• Torque Converter Issues (7G-Tronic)
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, harsh shifting.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Leaf Spring Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear suspension, poor ride quality, clunking noises.
  • Solution: Leaf spring replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500 per side.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Glow Plug Module Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting in cold weather, check engine light.
  • Solution: Glow plug module replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, warning lights, malfunctioning sensors.
  • Solution: Wiring harness repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ depending on the location and severity.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Auxiliary Battery Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: “Consumers Offline” message, issues with starting or auxillary accessories
  • Solution: Auxiliary Battery Replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficult to open or close, sticking, misalignment.
  • Solution: Adjustment, lubrication, or replacement of sliding door components (rollers, cables, latch).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No air blowing from the vents, intermittent operation.
  • Solution: Blower motor replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation/Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: System freezing, unresponsive touchscreen, software errors.
  • Solution: Software update, system reset, or replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,500+ depending on the solution.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, while versatile, can suffer from a range of issues. The most commonly reported problems involve the diesel engine, particularly related to the emissions system (DPF, EGR) and oil leaks on the V6. Electrical issues and sliding door malfunctions are also notable. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs varying widely from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and factor them into their purchasing decision, including considering a pre-purchase inspection to identify any existing or potential issues.