2019 Mercedes-benz Sprinter (vs30) problems

General information about Mercedes-benz-Sprinter (vs30)
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The first generation Sprinter was launched in Europe in 1995 to replace the famous but outdated T1 Transporter van dating from 1977.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).

Social links

Common 2019 Mercedes-benz Sprinter (vs30) problems

Common problems with the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (VS30) 2019 based on complaints from owners of this car include:

Rust in the roof: Some owners of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter VS30 2019 have reported issues with rust in the roof. This problem can occur due to a failed roof joint seal, which may require replacing a significant portion of the roof. In one reported case, it took Mercedes-Benz 3.5 months to fix the issue, which involved inspections, quotes from panel shops, warranty approval procedures, roof panel delivery from Singapore, and the actual repair. This incurred real losses to the owner, including proportional loss of registration and insurance, new car depreciation for the period, loss of warranty period, and loss of use. Despite acknowledging the situation as "unfortunate," Mercedes-Benz refused to offer compensation.

Potential electrical issue leading to vehicle fire: Mercedes-Benz Australia has recalled 31 examples of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz VS30 Sprinter van due to a potential electrical issue relating to the wiring harness. The cable duct of the starter-alternator wiring may become loose and damaged over time, with the potential for a short-circuit to occur and increasing the chance of a vehicle fire. Mercedes-Benz will contact affected owners, but the company can be contacted directly by calling 1300 300 896 or visiting a dealership.

Brake system fault: Mercedes-Benz Australia has recalled 2882 examples of its VS30-series Sprinter van, citing a potential fault with the brake system. Brake fluid may leak internally at the rear axle brake calliper over time, leading to increased rear brake pedal travel and reduced braking performance. This can increase the risk of an accident resulting in injury or death to vehicle occupants and/or other road users.

Lowered reliability expectations: The 2024 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is expected to be less reliable than other new cars based on the Mercedes-Benz brand scores. Consumer Reports obtains its reliability data from a questionnaire sent to subscribers, which asks them to note any problems with their cars that occurred in the past 12 months. The company then identifies serious problems due to cost, failure, safety, or downtime. A typical model has about 200 to 400 samples for each model year, but for some model years, typically those of older or less popular cars, the sample size may not be large enough to provide results of statistical confidence.

2019 Mercedes-benz Sprinter (vs30) engine

What year is a VS30 Sprinter?

VS30 is the 3rd generation, 2019 and up, they are available with the 3.0 V-6 diesel or a 2.0 turbo gas engine. All the diesel engines available are turbo. If you are trying to determine the year of your Mercedes Sprinter van after 2009, the eighth digit back on the dash VIN will be a letter - A, B, C, etc.

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.

Is the Mercedes Sprinter 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.

2019 Mercedes-benz Sprinter (vs30) car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mercedes-benz Sprinter (vs30) problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Unknown or other problems
Service brakes problems
Engine problems
Electrical system problems
Trailer hitches problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2019 Mercedes-benz Sprinter (vs30) vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2019 Mercedes-benz Sprinter (vs30) complaints

The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2019 Mercedes-benz Sprinter (vs30).

2023-12-23

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2023-12-22
Fire: 1
VIN: WDAPF4CD8KN
Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
Summary: At approximately 104 miles into a recent trip in our RV, while traveling at highway speed under cruise control, we noticed a strange odor. Almost at the same moment we immediately lost engine and braking power. The check engine light came on. We then noticed smoke coming from the engine compartment and noxious fumes had begun to enter the cabin area. After pulling to the side of the highway by use of the emergency brake, we were able to exit the vehicle. Flames could be seen coming from the engine bay and quickly engulfed the RV giving my wife, myself, and our dog only enough time to exit and get a safe distance away. The RV burned to basically nothing but the frame left.

Add Complaint

2022-04-27

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2021-05-27
VIN: WDAPF4CD3KN
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: The contact owns a 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500. The contact stated that while seated in the swivel chair inside the vehicle, she turned the swivel chair around to watch the television and several unknown warning lights started flashing on and off and the vehicle would not start. The contact stated that an independent mechanic was contacted and arrived at the residence to service the vehicle. An unknown repair was performed and the vehicle was able to be started. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer and the contact was informed that the seat wiring harness needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired however, the contact was concerned that by using electrical tape in the repair, the repair was not properly completed. The contact stated that while researching the failure, she became aware of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V410000 (Electrical System, Back Over Prevention) which she related to the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 15,000.

Add Complaint

2021-12-17

TRAILER HITCHES,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2021-09-16
VIN: wdapf4cd8k
Components: TRAILER HITCHES,EQUIPMENT
Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Tiffin Wayfarer Motorhome built on a 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500/4500 chassis. The contact stated that while driving approximately 55-65 MPH, the water tank fell onto the exhaust system. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign numbers: 21V610000 (Trailer Hitches) and 21V753000 (Equipment). The contact called the local dealer who stated additional hours were needed to complete the repairs. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified however, declined the repairs. Parts distribution disconnect. The approximate failure mileage was 15,000.

Add Complaint

2019 Mercedes-benz Sprinter (vs30) recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 14 recalls for different components of the 2019 Mercedes-benz Sprinter (vs30).

2023-02-17

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:FAN/MOTOR
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter VS30 and Freightliner Sprinter VS30 vehicles. The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) blower motor circuit may be inadequate, which can allow the wiring harness to overheat.
Consequence: A wiring harness that overheats increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Owners are advised to only operate the HVAC front blower in manual (not automatic) mode whenever the engine is on. Do not use the maximum blower or lowest/highest temperature settings until the remedy is performed. Dealers will relocate and replace the fuse and wiring harness, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 26, 2023. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is 8297010.

2021-05-17

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC):CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vehicles equipped with the camper upfit option. The Electronic Stability Control (ESP) software was not updated for vehicles with a higher center of gravity.
Consequence: The ESP may not respond as intended during certain driving scenarios, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 2, 2021. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3HOLAPLI.

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: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling one 2019 Mercedes Benz Sprinter vehicle. The VIN number listed on the vehicle's dash board, certification label, and body-in-white do not match. As such, this vehicle fails to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 567, "Certification."
Consequence: The consumer may not receive information about open safety-recall campaigns, increasing the risk of injury, a crash, or fire.
Remedy: DVUSA will notify the owner, and a dealer will replace the VIN listed on the vehicle's dash board and certification label, free of charge. The recall began May 11, 2021. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3VINCHA.

2020-12-08

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019 Mercedes Benz Sprinter vehicles. These vehicles may have been delivered with a version of the printed and digital operator's manual that may be inaccurate and/or incomplete.
Consequence: If the operator relies on the provided owner's manual, the information about vehicle functions and other safety relevant information may be inaccurate and/or incomplete, which could lead to improper operation of the vehicle and potentially increase the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy: DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the printed version of the operator's manual with the latest version and update the software of the digital version, free of charge. DVUSA distributed owners an interim notification on January 22, 2021. The recall began March 17, 2021. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3PRIDIBA.

2020-08-04

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The affected Sprinter vehicles from platform 907 (VS30) might have an open port on the fuel delivery module (fuel pump).
Consequence: An open port on the fuel pump module may result in fuel leaking onto the roadway, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will check for the additional nozzle on the fuel pump and install a closure onto the nozzle as needed, free of charge. The recall began September 18, 2020. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is VS3KRASTUF.

2020-07-27

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019 Mercedes Benz Sprinter vehicles. The chassis may be missing the additional stabilization required for its cargo capacity. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems."
Consequence: If the vehicle is operated without the additional stabilization, vehicle handling could be affected, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will upgrade the chassis by replacing the stabilizer bar on the front axle and replacing shock absorbers and installing a stabilizer bar on the rear axle, free of charge. DVUSA issued owners an interim notification on September 18, 2020. The recall began October 1, 2020. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3FAHRBA.

2020-07-27

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: SUSPENSION:REAR:SPRINGS:LEAF SPRING ASSEMBLY:LEAF
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019 Mercedes Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The incorrect leaf spring shims may have been installed between the rear axle and the leaf springs possibly affecting the vehicle's handling. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems."
Consequence: The incorrect leaf spring shims may negatively affect vehicle handling, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the leaf spring shims on both sides, renew the spring brackets, check the rubber buffers for wear, renewing them if necessary, and adjust the headlamps, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a schedule for recall notification. DVUSA issued owners an interim notification on September 18, 2020. The recall began October 1, 2020. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3LEFSPRI.

2020-06-03

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019 Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner Spinter vans (platform 970 (VS30)), 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: If the wiring harness is damaged, the side air bag within the seat may deploy inadvertently or not deploy as designed in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury to vehicle occupants.
Remedy: DVUSA will notify owners, and an authorized Mercedes-Benz or Freightliner Sprinter dealer will inspect the wire harness routing for both front seats and will repair the wiring and add clips or cable ties as needed, free of charge. The recall began August 24, 2020. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3DREHSIK.

2020-03-26

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019 Freightliner Sprinter and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vehicles. The Operator's Manual may not contain the correct information about how the automatic parking function ("Auto-P") operates.
Consequence: If the driver relies on the Auto-P function as described in the Operator's Manual, vehicle rollaway or movement may occur, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: DVUSA will notify owners, and Mercedes-Benz or Freightliner Sprinter dealers will provide the correct description of the Auto-P function for the Operator's Manual, free of charge. The recall began May 18, 2020. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3BAUTOP.

2020-03-25

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:SUPPLY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019 Freightliner Sprinter and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vehicles. The rear part of the fender liner on the front axle may contact and chafe the brake hose, possibly resulting in a loss of brake fluid.
Consequence: Loss of brake fluid can extend the distance needed to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: DVUSA will notify owners, and Mercedes-Benz or Freightliner Sprinter dealers will inspect and replace the brake hoses, as necessary. Additionally, the fender liners will be modified. All services will be performed free of charge. The recall began May 8, 2020. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3BRADVER.

2019-12-19

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: EQUIPMENT
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The lashing rails on the side walls may not have been properly installed, possibly resulting in the lashing rails detaching.
Consequence: If the lashing rails disconnect, the cargo could become unsecured, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will correctly affix the lashing rails to the side walls, free of charge. DVUSA issued owners an interim notification on February 7, 2020. The recall began April 15, 2020. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is VS3ZUSCHI.

2019-02-22

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:FOG LIGHTS
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter VS30 vehicles equipped with LED rear fog lights. The lights may not illuminate, despite the rear fog light switch being turned on.
Consequence: The lack of functioning rear fog lamps prevents the enhanced visibility of the vehicle to other drivers on the road, increasing the risk of crash.
Remedy: DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will update the software settings of the control unit body controller, free of charge. The recall began April 18, 2019. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267.

2019-01-31

Manufacturer: Daimler Vans USA, LLC
Park It: 1
Components: STEERING:GEAR BOX:SHAFT SECTOR
Summary: Daimler Vans USA, LLC (Daimler Vans) is recalling certain 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter VS30 vehicles. The steering shaft that connects to the steering gear may disconnect without warning.
Consequence: The steering shaft disconnecting from the steering gear can cause a sudden loss of steering control, increasing risk of a crash.
Remedy: Daimler Vans will notify owners, advising them to stop driving the vehicle immediately. Dealers will inspect the bolts connecting the steering shaft to the steering gear, fully tightening and/or adjusting them, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began February 15, 2019. Owners may contact Daimler Van's customer service at 1-800-367-6372. Daimler Van's number for this recall is 2019010006.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2019 Mercedes-benz Sprinter (vs30) problems:

2019 4x4 with many issues | Sprinter-Source.com

https://sprinter-source.com/forums/index.php?threads/87502/

Jul 16, 2020 ... overall ride quality does not seem great. Should I be nervous having so many issues in such a short period of time...Is this common do I try to ...

2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Reliability - Consumer Reports

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/mercedes-benz/sprinter/2019/reliability/

Additionally, the third-row seat mountings can fail, increasing the risk of injury during a crash. Read Recall Details.

New 2019 won't start | Sprinter-Source.com

https://sprinter-source.com/forums/index.php?threads/82216/

Jan 12, 2022 ... Have searched but it doesn't appear to be a common problem. Just took delivery of a 2019 German made 4x4 sprinter last week (VS30 144 + aux ...

I see “MB Sprinter chassis problems” what are they? - iRV2 Forums

https://www.irv2.com/forums/f259/i-see-mb-sprinter-chassis-problems-what-are-they-553992.html

Sep 14, 2021 ... I have 119k miles on my RV and I think I'm only about 1/3 of the way through the engine lifespan. 09-14 ...

2019 4x4 Issues | Sprinter-Source.com

https://sprinter-source.com/forums/index.php?threads/84933/

Apr 30, 2020 ... Wow! Didn't know this was such a common issue. Are all of these vehicles 2019's? So I took my Sprinter into service and of course they ...