ExhaustHigh
DPF, EGR and AdBlue system faults
- Typically appears
- 100,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check AdBlue warnings and drive at sustained speed
2013–2025 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter · common problems & known faults
The large van of choice for conversions and long-distance work. Mileages are enormous, so drivetrain evidence is everything.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed August 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2013–2025 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter are DPF, EGR and AdBlue system faults, Injector and turbo wear on very high-mileage vans and Automatic gearbox and clutch wear on loaded vans. 5 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
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Build the inspection planReliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.
2.8/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 5
- Medium
- 3
- Low
- 0
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Known faults to check
EngineHigh
Injector and turbo wear on very high-mileage vans
- Typically appears
- 150,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check for smoke, rough idle and power loss on load
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Build the inspection planTransmissionHigh
Automatic gearbox and clutch wear on loaded vans
- Typically appears
- 120,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Test kickdown and feel for slip under load
BodyMedium
Rust on wheel arches, sills and door bottoms
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Probe arches and sills, especially on older W906 vans
DrivetrainMedium
Juddering or vibration through the cabin floor under acceleration.
- Typically appears
- 80,000-120,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Look under the middle of the van and physically push up on the propshaft. Excessive upward play or visibly torn rubber in the centre support bearing indicates imminent failure.
ElectricalHigh
Key inserts but fails to turn, or dashboard fails to illuminate.
- Typically appears
- 7-10 years
- What to inspect
- Insert the fob into the Electronic Ignition Switch (EIS) multiple times. Listen for the electronic steering lock disengaging with a distinct click and ensure the dashboard lights up instantly every time.
SuspensionHigh
Uneven front ride height, knocking over bumps, or severe inner tyre edge wear.
- Typically appears
- 60,000-100,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Check the front wheel arch gaps on level ground to see if one side sits lower. Shine a torch under the front subframe to check the composite transverse leaf spring for delamination or cracks.
Cooling SystemMedium
Coolant loss, sweet smell from the engine bay, or crust around the engine block.
- Typically appears
- 70,000-90,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Shine a torch down the front of the engine block behind the radiator fan. Look for dried coolant residue or active dripping around the water pump pulley and the thermostat housing.
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Build my inspection planFrequently asked questions
What mileage is normal on a Sprinter?
Well over 150,000. Buyers accept it when the service record and condition back it up.
Which fault stops a sale?
Visible corrosion. It suggests neglect even when the drivetrain is healthy.
Are conversions harder to value?
Yes. Inspect the habitation or fit-out work separately from the base vehicle.
How can I quickly check for timing chain stretch on the OM651 engine?
The OM651 timing chain is located at the rear of the engine, making visual inspection impossible on the forecourt. Instead, start the engine from cold and listen carefully at the bulkhead. A distinct metallic rattle lasting for three to five seconds before oil pressure builds strongly indicates a stretched chain or failing tensioner.
Does the front-wheel-drive W907 model have different inspection requirements?
Yes. Introduced in 2018, the FWD Sprinter has a higher payload and a lower load floor, but it introduces CV joints and front drive shafts. You must inspect the CV boots for splits and listen for clicking on full lock during a test drive, which are non-issues on the traditional RWD variants.
What electrical checks are essential for the W907 MBUX infotainment system?
The MBUX screens can suffer from software glitches, freezing, or complete blanking. Turn the ignition on and immediately test the reversing camera, touchscreen responsiveness, and steering wheel touchpads. If the system takes longer than thirty seconds to boot or the screen flickers, it may require a costly control unit replacement.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.
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