2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 is a versatile van popular for commercial use, camper conversions, and passenger transport. It offers a blend of practicality, capability, and Mercedes-Benz refinement. Engine options for the 2021 Sprinter 2500 include a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine producing 188 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0L turbocharged diesel V6 producing 188 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are typically paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Sprinter for its spacious cargo area, comfortable ride (especially with upgraded suspension), and available technology features. Common criticisms include the higher price point compared to competitors and potentially higher maintenance costs.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder Gasoline Engine

• Crankshaft position sensor failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls intermittently, difficulty starting the engine, check engine light illuminated.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L Turbocharged Diesel V6 Engine

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, warning lights related to the DPF, frequent regeneration cycles, potential for DPF clogging. This is often related to short trip driving.
  • Solution: Forced DPF regeneration (if possible), or replacement of the DPF. Ensuring proper driving conditions to allow for regeneration.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor engine performance, black smoke from exhaust, check engine light.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Rough or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable hesitation or harshness during gear changes, particularly at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Software update to the transmission control module (TCM). In some cases, valve body replacement or full transmission replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $6,000+ depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission oil leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil puddles underneath the vehicle, visible transmission oil on the transmission housing. Low transmission fluid can lead to slipping and damage the transmission.
  • Solution: Locate and repair the source of the leak. Most commonly the seals on the transmission oil pan.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Airbag Leaks (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sits lower than normal, the air compressor runs frequently or continuously, and error messages regarding the air suspension system may appear.
  • Solution: Identify and replace the leaking airbag(s) or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Excessive Sway or Body Roll
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive leaning during turns, instability at highway speeds, especially when carrying heavy loads or driving in windy conditions.
  • Solution: Upgrade or replace the sway bar(s). Inspection and potential replacement of shocks and struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Multiple sensors can fail prematurely. These include, but are not limited to: ABS sensors, wheel speed sensors, and oxygen sensors. Symptoms will vary depending on which sensor fails, but generally include warning lights and potentially degraded performance.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty door wiring harness
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks malfunction, speakers in door stop working, power windows stop working.
  • Solution: Replace the door wiring harness
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding door malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Sliding door is hard to open or close. Sliding door gets stuck open or closed.
  • Solution: Replace the door actuator motor, repair the wiring, or replace the entire sliding door.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Fan Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The blower motor stops working, only works on certain speeds, or makes excessive noise.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor or blower motor resistor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 can have a range of issues from relatively minor sensor failures to more significant powertrain problems. DPF issues on diesel models and potential transmission problems can be costly. While some problems are infrequent, the potential for higher maintenance costs, especially on diesel models and those equipped with air suspension, should be considered.