2017 Mercedes-benz Sprinter 2500 problems
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The first generation Sprinter was launched in Europe in 1995 to replace the famous but outdated T1 Transporter van dating from 1977.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 2017 Mercedes-benz Sprinter 2500 problems
Based on the information provided in the search results, here is a detailed list of common problems with the 2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 as reported by owners:
- Transmission Issues:
- Warning signs include odd noises, grinding sounds, gears catching, delayed shifting, transmission warning light, and fluid leaks.
- Transmission replacement can be complex, requiring a choice between rebuilding or replacing based on the condition of the parts.
- Automatic vs Manual Transmission:
- Automatic and manual transmissions require different fluids due to their distinct lubrication needs.
- Regular transmission fluid changes are crucial to prevent damage and maintain optimal performance.
- Start Countdown Alert:
- Owners have reported a "start countdown" alert, indicating potential issues with the NOx oxygen sensor or DEF system.
- Immediate attention is advised to prevent starting problems, especially for vehicles with multiple daily starts.
- Glow Plug Problems:
- Glow plugs in diesel engines like the Sprinter can wear out over time, requiring replacement.
- Seized glow plugs can lead to more significant repairs, impacting the vehicle's performance.
- DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) Issues:
- The DPF traps soot to reduce emissions, but issues with regeneration can lead to clogging and power loss.
- Ash buildup inside the DPF can cause restrictions and require manual regeneration or replacement.
- Limp Mode Activation:
- Limp mode is a safety feature that reduces engine power to prevent damage.
- It can be triggered by various issues like faulty EGR, oxygen sensor, or intercooler hoses, necessitating prompt servicing.
- Oil Cooler Leaks:
- Common on Sprinter models with the OM642 engine, oil cooler leaks often occur at the seals.
- Repairing oil cooler leaks can be challenging and costly due to the disassembly required to access the component.
- Injector Issues or "Black Death":
- "Black Death" refers to combustion gas leaks caused by deteriorating copper seal rings in the injectors.
- Neglecting to replace these seals can lead to carbon buildup, affecting engine performance and requiring injector replacement.
These common problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to warning signs to ensure the longevity and performance of the 2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500.
2017 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:
- Steering problems
- Electrical system problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Tires problems
- Latches/locks/linkages problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2017 Mercedes-benz Sprinter 2500 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2017 Mercedes-benz Sprinter 2500 complaints
The NHTSA has received 11 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2017 Mercedes-benz Sprinter 2500.
2024-06-12
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-12
- VIN: WD3PE8CD0HP
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Check engine light Nox sensor failure message
2023-08-31
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-23
- VIN: WD4PE7CDXHP
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 equipped with Kumho Tires, Tire Line: Road Venture TR, Tire Size: LT245/75/R16, DOT Number: H211YD5F1717. The contact stated that while he was cleaning the vehicle, he noticed that the front tires had pieces of tire rubber around the tire and that the tread was delaminating. The contact inspected the rear tires and noticed that there was premature tire wear on the tread of both tires. The contact called the tire manufacturer who directed him to take the vehicle to an independent tire dealer for diagnostic testing where it was confirmed that the tires were undergoing premature wear. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate vehicle failure mileage was 18,000 and the tire failure mileage was 18,000.
2022-02-22
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-03
- VIN: WDAPE7CD8HP
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Pleasure Way RV built on a 2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 chassis. The contact stated while driving approximately 70 MPH, the vehicle experienced a loss of motive power, brakes, power steering, and engine functionality. The vehicle was pulled over and restarted and functioned as designed however, the failure recurred. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact had the vehicle towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed with needing the engine wiring harness replaced. The dealer reported that the harness showed signs of abrasions which caused the harness to ground out leading to loss of power. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 55,000.
2021-10-13
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-01
- VIN: WDAPE7CD1HP
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 20V663000 (Steering) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact called the local dealer who stated that parts were not yet available. The contact was informed the parts were backordered until May 30, 2022. The contact stated the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not notified. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
2021-05-11
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-04-11
- VIN: WD3PE7CDXHP
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 MERCEDES-BENZ SPRINTER 2500. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CARGO SLIDING DOOR FAILED TO OPEN FROM THE INSIDE OR OUTSIDE. THE CONTACT STATED NO WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT UNDER RECALL. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 36,000.
2021-02-09
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-02-08
- VIN: WD3FE7CD4HP
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: EVERY 400 0R SO MILES THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON. CODES ARE 19DE00H AND P16CC00 AND P18F100 RELATING TO THE DEF BURN. I HAVE STOPPED AT THREE MB DEALERSHIPS. THEY LOOK AT CODE AND RESET SYSTEM AND TELL ME TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE. THEY ALSO HAVE SENT SEVERAL PEOPLE LETTERS TO REQUEST THEY HAVE THE VEHICLES FOR TWO WEEKS TO STUDY THE PROBLEM. I CAN'T DO THAT.
2020-08-15
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-08-14
- VIN: WD3FE7CD7HP
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: LOWER POWER STEERING HOSE DETACHING FROM COOLER CAUSING LOSS OF POWER STEERING. I HAVE 8500 MILES ON THE VAN. THIS IS A KNOWN ISSUE ACROSS ALL SPRINTER FORUMS. I HAVE TO ADD A NEW CLAMP TO FIX THE ISSUE. IM SO SURPRISED TO LEARN THAT MB HAVE DONE NOTHING TO FIX THAT ISSUE ON ALL SPRINTER VAN... ITS A "TIME BOMB" TO HAPPEN 7 COULD SERIOUSLY HAVE A DEADLY CONSEQUENCE IN AN EMERGENCY LOSING YOUR POWER STEERING
2018-08-30
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-07-11
- VIN: WD3PE7CD3JP
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 MERCEDES-BENZ SPRINTER 2500 (NA). WHILE DRIVING 10 MPH, THE TRANSMISSION WENT INTO NEUTRAL AND THE VEHICLE FAILED TO ACCELERATE. THE CONTACT HAD TO QUICKLY SHIFT GEARS WHILE IN TRAFFIC. AFTERWARDS, THE VEHICLE DROVE NORMALLY. THERE WAS NO WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE FAILURE RECURRED THREE TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO MERCEDES-BENZ OF PEMBROKE PINES (14199 PINES BLVD, PEMBROKE, FL 33027, (954) 644-5033) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE TRANSMISSION SENSOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 10.
2018-06-29
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-20
- VIN: WDAPE7CD5HP
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: THE CROSSWIND ASSIST IS NOT WORKING. BECAUSE OF THE HIGH PROFILE ON THIS VAN, IT BECOMES VERY DANGEROUS IN WINDY CONDITIONS. WE ALMOST GOT BLOWN OUT OF THE FREEWAY BECAUSE OF THIS FEATURE NOT WORKING ON OUR 2017 VAN. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER AND THEY CAN NOT DUPLICATE THE ISSUE. OF COURSE NOT, WE LIVE IN FRESNO WHERE ONLY GETS WINDY ONCE A YEAR.
2018-06-14
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-09-27
- VIN: WD3PE8CD2HP
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 MERCEDES-BENZ SPRINTER 2500. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, A RATTLING NOISE WAS HEARD INSIDE THE CARGO AREA. ALSO, DURING EXTREME HEAT, THE PASSENGER SIDE WOULD WARP. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO MERCEDES-BENZ OF TEMECULA (40910 TEMECULA CENTER DR., TEMECULA, CA 92591, (951) 216-7800) WHERE NO FAILURE WAS FOUND AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS DESIGNED IN THAT MANNER. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN TAKEN TO MERCEDES-BENZ OF LONG BEACH (2300 E SPRING ST, SIGNAL HILL, CA 90755, (562) 372-2707) WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE NEEDED TO BE INSULATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE SEVERAL TIMES AND A CASE WAS OPENED. THE MANUFACTURER REFERRED THE CONTACT BACK TO THE DEALER. THE CONTACT ALSO FILED A COMPLAINT WITH THE FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION AND WAS INFORMED OF A PENDING RECALL IN REGARDS TO THE VEHICLE STRUCTURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80. *TT CONSUMER STATED THE BUMPER WAS DAMAGED AND REPLACED WHEN THE TRUCK WAS DELIVERED IN THE DARK. THE CARGO FLOOR WAS DEFECTIVE 2 FLORRS WERE ORDERED. UPDATED 9/25/18*JB
2018-06-12
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-06-05
- VIN: WD3FE7CD5HP
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING SLOWLY (10MPH), ROUGHLY STRAIGHT, ON A GRAVEL ROAD, THE POWER STEERING SUDDENLY FAILED. I WAS ABLE TO STEER, BUT STEERING EFFORT WAS VERY HIGH. THE LOWER HOSE CONNECTED TO THE COOLER FOR THE POWER STEERING FLUID HAD FALLEN OFF AND ALL THE FLUID HAD BEEN EXPELLED. I COULD SEE NO REASON FOR THIS TO HAVE HAPPENED. THE CLAMP WAS STILL CONNECTED TO THE HOSE. THERE WAS NO EVIDENCE OF ANYTHING HITTING THE HOSE. THERE WAS NO EVIDENCE OF DAMAGE TO THE HOSE. I RE-ATTACHED THE HOSE. I DROVE TO THE NEAREST AUTO-PARTS STORE (~ 70 MILES, MIXED GRAVEL AND PAVEMENT) AND REFILLED THE POWER STEERING FLUID. I CONTINUED TO CHECK THE HOSE FREQUENTLY. I FOUND THAT DRIVING SLOWLY (10-15 MPH) ON GRAVEL ROADS, THE HOSE WORKS LOSE AND HAS TO BE PUSHED BACK ON EVERY 10 MILES OR SO. I THINK THERE IS CONSTANT RISK OF SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER STEERING. SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER STEERING IN A CORNER WITH A HEAVY VEHICLE LIKE THIS COULD BE CATASTROPHIC. THE TWO IMAGES BELOW SHOW THE CONNECTIONS TO THE COOLER FOR THE POWER STEERING FLUID BEFORE AND AFTER A SECTION OF GRAVEL ROAD THAT IS ABOUT 10 MILES LONG. THE ROAD WAS DRIVEN AT ABOUT 10 MPH. THE RECOMMENDED SPEED FOR THIS ROAD IS 25 MPH. THE LOWER HOSE IN THESE IMAGES IS THE HOSE IN QUESTION. IN THE SECOND IMAGE NOTICE THAT THE CLAMP IS ON THE FLARE. THIS HOSE IS ABOUT TO FALL OFF. *TT *JS *JS
2017 Mercedes-benz Sprinter 2500 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 7 recalls for different components of the 2017 Mercedes-benz Sprinter 2500.
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.
2019-01-08
- Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2014-2017 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. The recall began March 15, 2019. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267.
2019-01-08
- Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2015-2017 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 driver frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver 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 driver air bag module, free of charge. The recall is began March 15, 2019. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267.
2018-05-03
- Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY
- Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2017 Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner Sprinter 2500 and 3500 vehicles. These vehicles may be missing spot welds on the front side wall, connecting the door portal to the hinge reinforcements in the A-pillar area, possibly affecting vehicle strength in a crash.
- Consequence: If the missing welds affect body strength, there may be an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
- Remedy: DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicles and add any missing spot welds, free of charge. The recall began on July 2, 2018. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267.
2018-02-15
- Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 and Sprinter 3500 vehicles, equipped with folding seats (sales code S20). The unloaded vehicle weight (UVW) label on these incomplete vehicles may be incorrect.
- Consequence: The incorrect UVW label can result in final stage manufacturers exceeding the maximum vehicle weight once the vehicle is completed. A vehicle that exceeds its maximum weight has an increased risk of a crash.
- Remedy: DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the UVW label and inspect the vehicle to make sure that it is not overloaded, free of charge. The recall began on April 3, 2018. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267.
2017-12-08
- Manufacturer: Midwest Automotive Designs, LLC
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: Midwest Automotive Designs, LLC (Midwest) is recalling certain Custom Vans and Camper Van recreational vehicles built on 2014-2017 Mercedes Benz Sprinter chassis and 2016-2017 RAM Promaster chassis. These vehicles are equipped with Kidde Plastic-Handle or Push Button 'Pindicator' fire extinguishers that may become clogged, preventing the extinguisher from discharging as expected or excessive force may be needed to activate the extinguisher. Additionally, in certain models, the nozzle may detach from the valve assembly with enough force that it could cause injury and also render the product inoperable. For a full list of the affected fire extinguisher models visit: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17E062-5427.pdf
- Consequence: In the event of a fire, if the fire extinguisher does not function properly, it can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Midwest will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fire extinguisher with a different brand, free of charge. The recall began on December 11, 2017. Owners may contact Kidde customer service for their replacement extinguisher at 1-855-262-3540, or online at www.kidde.com and click on "Product Safety Recall" for more information.
2017-11-21
- Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
- Components: TIRES:TEMPORARY/EMERGENCY SPARE TIRE
- Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2017 Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner Sprinter 2500 and 3500 vans. The spare tire holder under the vehicle may not be properly secured.
- Consequence: If the spare tire holder is not properly secured, the spare tire may separate from the vehicle and become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: DVUSA will notify owners and dealers will lift the spare tire holder completely and tighten the securing screws as necessary, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact DVUSA custom service at 1-854-888-3214.
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