2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 1500

2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 1500

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 1500 is a versatile full-size van offered in multiple configurations for a range of needs. It comes equipped with a 3.0L V6 turbocharged diesel engine producing 188 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. The Sprinter is praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and impressive cargo capacity. However, it has also encountered some issues reported by owners.

Engine

3.0L V6 Turbocharged Diesel

• Faulty Fuel Injector: Leaks fuel, causing a rough idle and decreased performance.
  • Solution: Replace affected fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $900+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure: Loss of power, excessive smoke, and whistling sounds.
  • Solution: Replace or repair turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic

• Shifting Issues: Hard or delayed shifts, slipping gears, and transmission jerking.
  • Solution: Update transmission software, replace transmission fluid, or overhaul transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaking Shock Absorbers: Fluid leaks from shock absorbers, affecting ride quality and handling.
  • Solution: Replace affected shock absorber(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+ per shock absorber
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sway Bar Link Failure: Worn or broken sway bar links cause rattling or clunking noises and reduced stability.
  • Solution: Replace affected sway bar link(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per link
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: Loss of charging capacity, dead battery, and electrical system malfunction.
  • Solution: Replace alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain: Battery discharge even when vehicle is parked.
  • Solution: Identify and address source of parasitic current drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the underlying issue

Exterior

• Rust Issues: Corrosion on body panels, especially on rear door frames.
  • Solution: Repair or replace affected panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Plastic Trim Breakage: Brittle or poorly designed plastic trim pieces may crack or break.
  • Solution: Replace affected trim pieces.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Malfunction: HVAC system performance issues, including failure to heat or cool.
  • Solution: Repair or replace affected components (e.g., fan motor, heater core).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 1500 has received both praise and criticism from owners. While it offers a spacious interior, comfortable ride, and impressive cargo capacity, it has also been plagued by a number of issues, particularly in the engine, transmission, and suspension systems. The severity of these issues ranges from minor annoyances to major mechanical failures. Costs to repair these issues can be substantial, especially for complex issues like turbocharger failure or transmission overhauls.