2013 Mercedes-benz Sprinter 2500 problems

General information about Mercedes-benz-Sprinter 2500
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
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The first generation Sprinter was launched in Europe in 1995 to replace the famous but outdated T1 Transporter van dating from 1977.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 2013 Mercedes-benz Sprinter 2500 problems

The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 2013 has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners:

Alternator Voltage Regulator: Some owners have faced issues with the alternator, leading to dim lights and slow wipers while driving. This problem is typically caused by a faulty alternator voltage regulator, requiring the alternator to be removed and either the regulator or the entire alternator to be replaced.

Suspension System: The Sprinter's suspension system undergoes significant stress due to constant movement and road conditions. Front shock absorbers can develop leaks, especially from the strain of urban road conditions, potholes, and kerbs. This issue can lead to reduced suspension performance and potential safety concerns.

Engine Noise and Starting Problems: Some Sprinter owners have reported untoward rattling noises from the engine, often caused by a faulty pulley. Starting issues have also been a common complaint, impacting the vehicle's reliability and usability.

DEF System Problems: The Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) system has been a recurring issue for some Sprinter owners. DEF system malfunctions, including warning lights indicating problems, have led to multiple visits to repair shops and dealerships. These issues can affect the vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency.

Engine Light and EGR Valve: Instances of engine light problems have been reported, with issues such as EGR valve replacements needed at relatively low mileage. These engine-related problems can impact the vehicle's performance and reliability, requiring costly repairs and maintenance.

These common problems with the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 2013 highlight various mechanical and electrical issues that owners have encountered. Addressing these issues promptly through proper maintenance and repairs can help ensure the vehicle's longevity and performance.

2013 Mercedes-benz Sprinter 2500 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mercedes-benz Sprinter 2500 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Engine problems
Wheels problems
Air bags problems
Engine and engine cooling problems
Steering problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2013 Mercedes-benz Sprinter 2500 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2013 Mercedes-benz Sprinter 2500 complaints

The NHTSA has received 7 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2013 Mercedes-benz Sprinter 2500.

2023-11-07

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2023-10-01
VIN: WD3PE8CC5D5
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Summary: The contact owns a 2013 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500. The contact stated that the vehicle was leaking engine oil with the oil warning light flashing on the instrument panel. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that there were no recalls on the VIN regarding the issue. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 180,000.

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2023-01-11

STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2023-01-11
VIN: WD3PE7CC9D5
Components: STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Summary: The electronic steering lock "jams". The only way to get the ignition to turn is to jack up the front tires to release the pressure on the wheels and jiggle the steering wheel while trying to start the car. Even doing this isn't instantaneous. Sometimes you have to physically wiggle the tires left/right while jiggling the wheel. This is well documented on Youtube/other internet sites. This has happened at least 6 or more times and has been taken into the Sprinter Dealer for repair. They couldn't replicate the issue and therefore did nothing.

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2019-05-10

POWER TRAIN,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,STRUCTURE,INTERIOR LIGHTING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2014-10-01
VIN: WDAPF4CC7D5
Components: POWER TRAIN,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,STRUCTURE,INTERIOR LIGHTING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 MERCEDES BENZ SPRINTER 2500. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO ENGAGE IN REVERSE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO LOCAL DEALER MERCEDES-BENZ OF RENO (11500 S VIRGINIA ST, RENO, NV 89511, (855) 661-9151) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS OPERATING AS DESIGNED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED AND THE FAILURE CONTINUED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD BEEN INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE CONSUMER STATED AFTER CHECKING THE OIL AND OIL FILTER, THE ENGINE FROZE WHILE DRIVING. IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE FAILURE WAS DUE TO A LACK OF OIL. THERE WERE NO WARNING LIGHTS INDICATING THE VEHICLE NEEDED OIL. THE VEHICLE ALSO LACKS ENOUGH POWER TO REVERSE UP AN INCLINE, SUCH AS A DRIVEWAY.*JS THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE'S HAVE PERSISTED SINCE PURCHASING THE VEHICLE. THE CONSUMER WAS INFORMED IT SEEMS AS IF THE COMPUTER WAS NOT COMMUNICATING WITH THE OTHER ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS IN THE VEHICLE SUCH AS LIGHTING, TORQUE CONVERTER AND TRANSMISSION. *JS

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2018-04-13

PARKING BRAKE,WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2018-04-04
VIN: WDZPE8CC9D5
Components: PARKING BRAKE,WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 MERCEDES-BENZ SPRINTER 2500. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CHECK ENGINE AND TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. ADDITIONALLY, WHILE THE EMERGENCY BRAKE WAS ENGAGED, THE VEHICLE MOVED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO MERCEDES-BENZ OF MASSAPEQUA (101 EAST SUNRISE HIGHWAY, AMITYVILLE, NY 11701, (631) 213-2023) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE SENSORS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AND THE TIRES NEEDED AIR. THE DEALER INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE EMERGENCY BRAKE WAS WORKING AS INTENDED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 49,092.

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2017-05-12

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2017-05-12
VIN: WDZPE7CD7D5
Components: AIR BAGS
Summary: TAKATA RECALL - IT APPEARS THAT MERCEDES, LIKE MANY, REMAINS CONVINCED THAT THEY CAN EVADE THE COST OF APPROPRIATE REPAIRS BY SIMPLY STATING THERE IS NO REMEDY YET AVAILABLE. HOWEVER, AS A CONSUMER I FIND THIS UNACCEPTABLE. THEY ARE SIDE STEPPING THEIR RESPONSIBILITY AND MY FAMILY IS ONE BEARING IT. THEY NEED TO FIND A SOLUTION AND IMPLEMENT IT. NOT ONLY IS THERE AN ISSUE OF SAFETY, BUT THEIR LACK OF A TIMELY SOLUTION HAS ECONOMIC IMPACTS. I WAS RECENTLY TOLD THAT I COULD NOT RECEIVE FAIR VALUE FOR A TRADE A THE MERCEDES DEALERSHIP DUE TO THIS RECALL. THE DEALER INDICATED THEY COULD NOT SELL THE CAR ON THEIR LOT DUE TO THE AIRBAG ISSUE.

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2016-05-02

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2016-04-01
VIN: WDAPF4CC2D9
Components: AIR BAGS
Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 MERCEDES-BENZ SPRINTER 2500. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE RECALL NOTICE FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V077000 (AIR BAGS) WAS RECEIVED IN APRIL OF 2016. AFTER CONTACTING THE DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER, THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE PARTS NEEDED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE WERE NOT AVAILABLE AND NO ESTIMATED TIME FOR RECEIVING THE PARTS COULD BE GIVEN. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.

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2015-07-07

WHEELS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2015-07-03
Components: WHEELS
Summary: I HAVE REPLACED AS OF TODAY 7/7/2015 -4 RIMS ON MY VEHICLE BECAUSE THEY KEEP CRACKING/ SPLITTING 1 EVEN HAD PIN HOLES. NOT ONLY IS THIS DANGEROUS TO ME AND WIFE. BUT COSTLY AS WELL FOR THE PRICE AND SITTING 2 DAYS WAITING FOR RIM. MY ENTIRE LIFE I HAVE NEVER OF STEEL RIMS DOING THIS.

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2013 Mercedes-benz Sprinter 2500 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2013 Mercedes-benz Sprinter 2500.

2018-01-09

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2013 Freightliner Sprinter 2500 and 3500 and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 and 3500 vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag module, free of charge. Daimler issued an interim notification to owners on March 13, 2018. The recall began December 28, 2018. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267.

2017-02-10

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: AIR BAGS
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2013-2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 and 3500 and Freightliner Sprinter 2500 and 3500 vans. These vehicles were manufactured without a reinforcement plate and protective bracket on the air bag control unit. As a result, the air bag control unit may not remain functional after the initial impact, possibly preventing additional air bags from deploying in response to a secondary impact.
Consequence: If additional air bags do not deploy as intended, the occupants are at an increased risk of injury.
Remedy: DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will install a reinforcement plate and protective bracket around the air bag control unit, free of charge. The recall began on May 26, 2017. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267.

2016-02-10

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (Daimler Vans) is recalling certain model year 2007-2009 Dodge Sprinter 2500 and 3500 vehicles manufactured July 1, 2006, to July 31, 2008, 2007-2014 Freightliner Sprinter 2500 and 3500 vehicles manufactured July 1, 2006, to July 1, 2014, and 2010-2014 Mercedes Benz Sprinter 2500 and 3500 vehicles manufactured July 1, 2010, to July 1, 2014. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Daimler Vans will notify the Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner owners and Fiat Chrysler will notify the Dodge owners. The respective dealers will replace the driver frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began March 31, 2017. Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner owners may contact Daimler Van's customer service at 1-877-762-8267. Dodge owners may contact Fiat Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403.