2020 Mercedes-benz Sprinter 1500 problems

General information about Mercedes-benz-Sprinter 1500
Overview of popular issues
Recalls list

The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is a light commercial vehicle (van) built by Mercedes-Benz Group AG of Stuttgart, Germany as a large van, chassis cab, minibus, and pickup truck. In the past, the Sprinter had been sold under the Mercedes-Benz, Dodge, and Freightliner nameplates. In the U.S., it was built from complete knock down (CKD) kits by Freightliner. Re-badged and re-engined Sprinters were also sold by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles as the Volkswagen LT and the Volkswagen Crafter. They are now primarily marketed by Mercedes-Benz.

In the Mercedes-Benz van lineup, the Sprinter is the largest model offered, followed by the mid-size Vito (aka Viano, V-Class, and EQV) and small Citan.

First generation (1995–2006, T1N)

Europe

The first generation Sprinter was launched in Europe in 1995 to replace the famous but outdated T1 Transporter van dating from 1977. Compared to the T1, the Sprinter had reduced the aerodynamic drag and moved the engine 290 mm (11 in) further forward to increase cabin space. It was the first Mercedes-Benz product to carry a name rather than an alphanumeric designation. It was released with four-wheel disc brakes equipped with an antilock braking system and was driven by the most powerful diesel engine in its class, with a power output of 90 kW (120 hp). The Sprinter was voted International Van of the Year for 1995.

The styling was updated in 2000 and 2002, accompanied by technical changes that included standard electronic stability control (2002).

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Common 2020 Mercedes-benz Sprinter 1500 problems

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 1500 is a highly configurable van that offers class-leading cargo space and available all-wheel drive. However, it faces stiff competition from lower-priced competitors, and there are some common problems that owners have reported.

One common issue is with the engine. The Sprinter relies exclusively on diesel power, which serves dutifully but without a sense of urgency. The base engine is a 2.0-liter turbodiesel rated for 168 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, while the optional high-output engine is rated for 208 hp and 332 pound-feet. Both feed a nine-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive is available, but only with the high-output engine. However, the Sprinter's diesels are not as potent as some of its competitors, such as the Ford Transit's 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 or the GMC Savana's 6.6-liter V-8.

Another common issue is with the power train. The 4wd does not break away appropriately, particularly at higher altitudes, where there is an issue with the engine control factors. This can cause a lack of sufficient power, which is not just normal power loss due to density altitude.

The service brake is another area where owners have reported issues. The contact owns a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 from 2020 and indicated that the brakes were applied independently while driving at various speeds. According to the contact, the brake alert light was illuminated.

The steering is another area where owners have reported issues. The contact owns a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 from 2020 and stated that highly pressurized power steering tubing is too short and unplugged from the power steering pump. This can cause a loss of vehicle control and power steering.

Safety complaints have also been reported. The contact owns a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 from 2020 and stated that following inclement weather, the cruise control, Forward Collision Avoidance, and Automatic Emergency Braking failed to function properly. The automatic crash avoidance on the sprinter van applied, causing the van to instantly jam on the brake pedal.

In addition to these specific issues, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is known for its complicated systems, which can be expensive to repair. The diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) pump, for example, is comprised of a DEF temperature sensor, level sensor, tank, and control unit sensors and actuators. When these parts fail, they can cost anywhere from $600 to $1,200 to replace. Maintenance is often dealer-exclusive for these vans, which can add to the expense of owning a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.

In conclusion, while the 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 1500 is a highly configurable van with class-leading cargo space and available all-wheel drive, it faces stiff competition from lower-priced competitors and has some common problems that owners have reported. These include issues with the engine, power train, service brake, steering, and safety features. Additionally, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is known for its complicated systems, which can be expensive to repair.

What is the transmission problem on a 2020 Mercedes Sprinter?

If you don't routinely change your fluids at least every 30,000 miles or so, you may find that your 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Van transmission will slip.

Are Mercedes-Benz Sprinters reliable?

The Sprinter is a pretty solid and reliable van. I've had about 8 recalls, almost all of them software updates. That's the way it is with modern computer controlled vehicles with all their bells and whistles.

Are Mercedes Sprinters expensive to maintain?

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Van Maintenance Costs

The national average for the Mercedes-Benz annual maintenance cost is about $908. Your Sprinter should be serviced at least once every year, and every other time your Sprinter is serviced, Service A* will be performed on it.

How long will a Mercedes Sprinter engine last?

250,000 to 300,000 miles

Sprinter vans, with proper maintenance and best-driving practices, last anywhere from 250,000 to 300,000 miles. However, depending on your driving habits, routes, and how diligent you are with routinely servicing your Sprinter, this estimation can dramatically decrease or extend.

2020 Mercedes-benz Sprinter 1500 complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2020 Mercedes-benz Sprinter 1500.

You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.

Latest 20 recalls2020 Mercedes-benz Sprinter 1500

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 21 recalls for different components of the 2020 Mercedes-benz Sprinter 1500.

2023-12-21

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: STRUCTURE:BODY
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The connection between the propeller shaft bearing and crossmember may loosen, reducing vehicle control.
Consequence: Reduced vehicle control increases the risk of a crash. Additionally, the propeller shaft may damage the fuel tank during a crash, causing a leak and increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the crossmember as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 19, 2024. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3QUERTR.

2023-12-21

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: STRUCTURE:CRITICAL FASTENERS
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2023 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and 2019-2021 Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The partition wall may be missing bolts, allowing the wall to detach during a crash.
Consequence: A detached partition wall can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and secure the partition wall as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed February 16, 2024. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3TREWAN.

2023-12-21

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: STRUCTURE:CRITICAL FASTENERS
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The longitudinal frame members may be missing reinforcement fasteners, reducing vehicle stability and decreasing the structural integrity of the third-row seats.
Consequence: Reduced stability increases the risk of a crash. Additionally, the third-row seat mountings can fail, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and repair the frame members as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 4, 2024. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3ROHRAH.

2023-03-24

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and 2019-2021 Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The instrument cluster may fail to display any information when the vehicle is started.
Consequence: A blank instrument panel will not show critical information, such as vehicle speed, fuel gauge, warning messages, and warning lights, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the instrument cluster software on the affected vehicles, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 5, 2023. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3KOMBAUS.

2022-10-21

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:INTERNAL:PARK PAWL
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles equipped with a manual parking brake and 7-speed automatic transmission. The guide bushing on the parking pawl may fatigue, which can cause the parking pawl not to engage and result in vehicle rollaway.
Consequence: Vehicle rollaway increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the software of the electronic stability, transmission control, direct select module, and electronic ignition switch control units, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 10, 2023. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's numbers for this recall are 22V2790611, 22V2790612, and 22V2790613.

2022-05-20

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Freightliner Sprinter, Mercedes-Benz Metris, and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vehicles. An error in the communication module's SIM card software can cause a mobile network connection failure, disabling the emergency call (eCall) system.
Consequence: A disabled eCall system would prevent a vehicle occupant from contacting the emergency services call center in an emergency, potentially delaying emergency responders and increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: The communication module software will be updated through an Over-the-Air (OTA) update, or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 13, 2022. Owners may contact DVUSA at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS2SIMKOM/VS3SIMKOM.

2022-04-27

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Freightliner Sprinter and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vehicles. The rearview camera may not display the rearview image due to a software error. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Consequence: An inoperable rearview camera display reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 20, 2022. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3KOMRUE.

2021-12-15

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. A software error in the park lock system may allow the vehicle to move after the gear selector has been placed in the Park 'P' position without the parking brake applied.
Consequence: Unintentional vehicle movement can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the electronic stability program control unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 11, 2022. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3PA27 ERI/ERO.

2021-06-02

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The MBUX multimedia system software may cause the display to remain black, or reboot after startup. This could result in the rearview camera image not displaying properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Consequence: A backup camera that displays a blank image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy: The multimedia system software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. DVUSA issued owners an interim notification on July 23, 2021. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3UXPOBOX.

2021-06-02

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling 2019-2021 Mercedes Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles equipped with swivel seats. The wiring harnesses for the front seats may have been routed incorrectly and could become jammed and damaged in the swivel seat frames.
Consequence: Damage to the wiring harness can prevent the side air bag within the seat to deploy inadvertently or not deploy as designed, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will attach the mounting clip to the correct position, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 11, 2021. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3DREHSEL.

2021-05-17

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vehicles. The screws for the front door hinges may not have been tightened properly.
Consequence: Loose door hinge screws could change the gap between the door and vehicle body, increasing the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will check the screws and tighten them as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 18, 2021. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3TURSCHA.

2021-04-06

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:HOSE, PIPING, AND CONNECTIONS
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Mercedes Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The hydraulic power steering return line hoses may detach and cause hydraulic fluid to leak.
Consequence: A hydraulic fluid leak may cause a sudden loss of power steering assist, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will install a screw-type clamp, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 28, 2021. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is NV3LETULPX.

2021-04-05

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Mercedes Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The multifunctional display in the instrument cluster may not be adjustable and appear too bright in certain lighting conditions. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 101, "Control and Displays."
Consequence: A display that is too bright can hinder the driver's vision, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will update the instrument cluster software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 28, 2021. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3DISPKI.

2021-03-10

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:PEDALS AND LINKAGES
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The retaining washer and bolt that connect the brake pedal to the bearing block, may come loose and detach. This could cause the brake lights to stay illuminated, even when the brake pedal is not pressed.
Consequence: Malfunctioning brake lights can fail to alert other motorists of the driver's intention, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: DVUSA will notify owners and dealers will secure a bearing bracket to brake pedal by retrofitting an additional retaining ring (with PNR A 907 994 01 00) at the bearing bracket of brake pedal, free of charge. DVUSA issued owners an interim notification on May 3, 2021. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3BREBOL.

2021-03-10

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LOCK
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Mercedes Benz Sprinter vehicles equipped with an optional electric sliding door. The auxiliary lock on the sliding door may be the incorrect type for an electric sliding door. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 226, "Ejection Mitigation."
Consequence: In the event of a crash, the sliding door could dislocate more than intended, and increase the risk of injury to vehicle occupants.
Remedy: DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will convert the sliding door from electric to manual function, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 20, 2023. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3SCHIEBT.

2021-02-17

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Mercedes Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles equipped with the multimedia system "Connect 5" and a rearview camera. The rearview image may not display within 2 seconds from the start of the backing event. In addition, the rearview image may be obscured or covered by the visual display of the Emergency Call (eCall) pop-up window if the eCall system is activated while the reverse gear is engaged. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Consequence: A delayed or obstructed rearview camera display can reduce the driver's view of what is behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will perform a software update on the vehicles, free of charge. The recall began March 5, 2021. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3RUECON.

2021-02-05

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2016-2020 Mercedes-Benz Metris and 2019-2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vehicles. The software design of the communication module may fail to communicate the correct vehicle location for the emergency call system (eCall) in the event of a crash.
Consequence: Failure of the eCall system may result in emergency responders being dispatched to the wrong location, increasing the risk of injury following a crash.
Remedy: DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will update the software communication module for the automatic emergency call system, free of charge. The recall began on May 5, 2021. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VSXHERMPOS.

2020-12-21

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles equipped with electric parking brakes. The rear brake calipers may leak brake fluid into the housing of the electric parking brake connected to the rear axle service brake system, allowing air to enter the hydraulic brake system.
Consequence: Air in the brake system can result in extended brake pedal travel, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: DVUSA will replace the rear brake calipers, free of charge. Owners notification letters were mailed on January 4, 2022. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3BREPB.

2020-10-28

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:HOSE, PIPING, AND CONNECTIONS
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Mercedes Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The hydraulic power steering return line hoses may detach at their connection points under certain operating conditions, causing hydraulic fluid to leak.
Consequence: The sudden loss of power steering assist and hydraulic steering fluid leaking onto the roadway may increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will check the return line connections of the power steering system, correcting it as needed, free of charge. The recall began December 23, 2020. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this campaign is NV3LETULPE.

2020-10-14

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vehicles. The outer area of the brake hoses on the front and rear axles may have been damaged during production.
Consequence: Over time, the hose could begin to leak brake fluid, affecting the braking performance of the vehicle, including the potential loss of directional stability when braking, thereby increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will check the condition of the brake hoses on the front and rear axles and replace them as needed, free of charge. The recall began November 24, 2020. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3MONTLAU.

2020-09-29

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling 2019-2020 Mercedes Benz and Freightliner Sprinters. The fuel line clamps may loosen and result in a fuel leak.
Consequence: A fuel leak can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will check the fuel hose clamp connections and tighten or replace the components as needed, free of charge. DVUSA issued owners an interim notification on November 9, 2020. The recall began January 19, 2021. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3SCHELLE.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2020 Mercedes-benz Sprinter 1500 problems:

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