2018 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500 is a popular choice for commercial use and recreational vehicle conversions, prized for its spacious cargo area, robust build, and Mercedes-Benz quality. Engine options include a 3.0L Turbocharged Diesel V6 producing 188 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque and a 2.0L Turbocharged Gas I4 producing 188 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are generally paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Sprinter’s versatility, comfortable ride (especially with upgraded suspension), and fuel efficiency for its size. However, some common complaints include the high cost of maintenance and repairs, potential issues with the emissions system, and the limited availability of qualified service technicians in certain areas.

Engine

3.0L Turbocharged Diesel V6

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Frequent regeneration cycles, DPF clogging, reduced engine performance, and dashboard warning lights (e.g., check engine light). Can be caused by short trips where the DPF doesn’t reach optimal temperature for regeneration.
  • Solution: Forced DPF regeneration by a mechanic, replacement of the DPF, or addressing underlying issues causing excessive soot production.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2500+ depending on the solution needed
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor acceleration, black smoke from the exhaust, and check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• AdBlue (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) System Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Warning lights related to AdBlue levels or system malfunction, potential limp mode, and failure to meet emissions standards. This can involve the DEF pump, level sensor, or injector.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the specific component failure and replacing the faulty part. This could be the DEF pump, injector, or sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ depending on the failed component.
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Turbocharged Gas I4

• No Issues Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic Transmission (7G-TRONIC)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. Can also manifest as harsh or delayed shifting.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, slipping between gears, harsh downshifts, or failure to shift at all. This can often be caused by debris accumulating in the valve body or failing solenoids.
  • Solution: Valve body replacement or rebuild, including cleaning and replacing faulty solenoids.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Leaf Spring Sagging/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, reduced load capacity, rough ride, and potential for bottoming out when carrying heavy loads.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear leaf springs with upgraded or heavy-duty options.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ depending on the springs used.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy or unstable ride, excessive body roll in corners, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front struts/shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Various warning lights (check engine, ABS, etc.), inaccurate readings from sensors (e.g., coolant temperature, O2 sensors), and potential for reduced engine performance or other system malfunctions.
  • Solution: Diagnostic testing to identify the faulty sensor and replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per sensor, depending on the sensor and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as lights flickering, systems not functioning correctly, or difficulty starting the vehicle. Can be caused by chafing, corrosion, or damaged wiring.
  • Solution: Inspection of the wiring harness to identify damaged sections and repair or replace the affected wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the severity of the damage and the amount of labor required.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding door, sticking, or unusual noises. This can be caused by worn rollers, damaged tracks, or a malfunctioning latch mechanism.
  • Solution: Lubricating the rollers and tracks, replacing worn or damaged rollers, or repairing or replacing the latch mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the severity of the problem and the parts needed.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

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

Summary

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500, while a capable and versatile vehicle, can be prone to certain issues. Diesel models can have issues with the DPF, EGR, and AdBlue systems. Both gas and diesel models can encounter transmission problems. Suspension issues may arise, particularly with sagging rear leaf springs. Electrical glitches and sliding door malfunctions are also reported. While some issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, others can be more costly, particularly those related to the emissions system, transmission, or suspension.