2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500XD

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500XD is a heavy-duty van popular for commercial use and RV conversions. It offers a blend of utility, comfort, and Mercedes-Benz engineering. Engine options for this model year include a 3.0L Turbocharged Diesel V6 producing 188 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque. Another engine option is a 2.0L Turbocharged Gas Inline-4 engine producing 188 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Sprinter’s spacious cargo area, comfortable ride (for a van), and fuel efficiency compared to other vans in its class. Criticisms commonly include the higher price point compared to competitors and the cost of maintenance and repairs.

Engine

3.0L Turbocharged Diesel V6

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Clogging of the DPF, leading to reduced engine performance, increased fuel consumption, and frequent regeneration cycles. The dashboard may display a warning light related to the DPF.
  • Solution: Forced regeneration, cleaning the DPF, or replacement of the DPF. Ensuring the van regularly operates at highway speeds can also help prevent clogging.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ (depending on the severity and whether cleaning or replacement is required)
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve, resulting in rough idling, poor acceleration, and the check engine light illuminating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Turbocharged Gas Inline-4

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks originating from various locations, such as the valve cover gasket or oil pan.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ (depending on the location and severity of the leak)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, especially between certain gears. Some owners report a noticeable hesitation when accelerating from a stop.
  • Solution: Software update of the Transmission Control Module (TCM), transmission fluid flush, or in severe cases, valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $2,500+ (depending on the required solution)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: A shaking or vibrating sensation, especially at lower speeds or during light acceleration. This can be caused by issues with the torque converter.
  • Solution: Transmission flush using the correct fluid type, or replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+ (depending on the severity and if the Torque Converter needs to be replaced.)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive sagging of the rear suspension, especially when the van is loaded. This can lead to a poor ride quality and reduced handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear springs or installation of auxiliary air springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ (depending on the chosen solution)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensor failures (e.g., oxygen sensors, mass airflow sensor) leading to inaccurate readings, check engine light illumination, and poor engine performance.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ (per sensor)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Glow Plug Issues (Diesel)
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting in cold weather, rough idling, and excessive smoke upon startup due to faulty glow plugs.
  • Solution: Replacement of the glow plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain, often related to parasitic draw from aftermarket accessories or electrical components that don’t fully shut down.
  • Solution: Identifying and repairing the source of the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the complexity of the issue)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding door, often due to worn rollers or damaged tracks.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rollers, repair of the tracks, or adjustment of the door.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The HVAC blower motor stops working, resulting in no airflow from the vents.
  • Solution: Replacement of the blower motor or blower motor resistor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500XD, while a capable and popular van, can experience a range of issues. Engine problems, especially with the diesel particulate filter and EGR valve in the diesel engine, are common. Transmission issues, like rough shifting, can also arise. Electrical problems and suspension issues like rear sag are also concerns. While some issues are relatively inexpensive to fix, others, particularly those involving the DPF or transmission, can be quite costly. Potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and factor them into their purchasing decision, including budgeting for potential repairs. Thoroughly inspecting the van’s service history and performing a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic are highly recommended.