Credov's researched list of the 6 faults the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is known for (2006–2018), 6 of them serious or costly. Each one says what to look for when you check the car, so you can spot it before you buy. Not every car has these faults: they are the ones worth checking on this model.
What to look for: With a torch, check the lower power steering hoses near the radiator for wet fluid or a stretched hose.
Why it matters: A hose working loose dumps the power steering fluid suddenly and leaves the driver with heavy, hard-to-control steering while under way, a safety hazard in a loaded van.
What to look for: With a torch, check the lower power steering hose near the radiator for wet fluid or a stretched hose.
Why it matters: A hose pulling off suddenly dumps the power steering fluid and causes sudden heavy steering, a safety hazard in a loaded van, and the fault has shown up early in affected vans' lives.
What to look for: Check the sliding door bottom and runner, door bottoms, wheel arches, and inside the load area for roof-leak stains.
Why it matters: Ladder racks and camper roof fittings break the paint and start rust under them, and a roof leak that goes unnoticed can corrode the body from the inside before it is visible from outside.
What to look for: With the engine running, listen for ticking or chuffing near the injectors, and look for black crust with a torch.
Why it matters: Left long, the injectors seize and the injector bores corrode, making removal and repair expensive compared with catching the leak early.
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What to look for: Check the dash for an AdBlue message or start countdown, and look in the filler for white crystals.
Why it matters: Full SCR system repairs have run to several thousand dollars, and a van showing the countdown is close to being undriveable until the fault is fixed.
What to look for: With a torch, look down the back of the engine between the heads and at the bellhousing for oil.
Why it matters: Many owners live with the leak, but oil running onto the bellhousing and the exhaust smell it gives off can be a fire risk, and the fix means removing the intake and turbo despite the seals themselves being cheap.
Got a question about a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter? Ask Credov: a noise, a warning light, a part or how to fix it.
On top of the faults above, every Credov inspection covers the basics: fuel smell, leaks or filler rust, engine oil leaks, power steering fluid leak, drive belt cracks or squeal, rust underneath: chassis and mounts, engine mounts, engine oil level and colour, coolant level, colour and leaks, head gasket failure signs, cold start: rattle, knock or smoke, rough or hunting idle, engine running hot on gauge, gearbox or diff oil leak, swapped gearbox without lvv and more.
Researched by Credov from manufacturer recalls and service bulletins, owner reports and workshop sources. Repair prices are typical ranges, not quotes. See also fault codes and repair costs.