With numerous vans on the market claiming to provide versatility and durability, nothing stands close to the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van. Learn more about the capabilities and history of this longstanding vehicle!
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is a popular light commercial van that was originally launched back in 1995. Even though the original model has been around for 27 years, the Mercedes Sprinter Van is continuing to grow in popularity both recreationally and corporately. Whether you want it for its spacious 15-passenger seating option or its hauling capabilities up to 12,125 lbs, the Mercedes Sprinter Van provides both drivers and passengers with the highest standards. If you want a multi-purpose van that has impressive cargo space and hauling capabilities, then the Mercedes Sprinter Van is exactly what you need.
Unlike its competitors, the Mercedes Sprinter Van offers a variety of models with professional and recreational features. From its cargo van and cab chassis to its crew van and passenger van, the Mercedes Sprinter knows how to give every driver what they need.
Today we’re going to discover the history of this vehicle and some of the common problems drivers experience with it. We’ll also share some information about the vehicle’s cylinder head and how to replace this part if needed in the future.
The History of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
This popular van was first launched in Europe in 1995 to replace the previous Mercedes-Benz TN. During its first year in production, the Sprinter was voted the International Van of the Year for its huge impact on the industry. It took six years for the vehicle to head over to the U.S., where it was launched in 2001 and branded as the Freightliner. The van was sold around the world under various names, such as the Mercedes-Benz Transporter T1N in Japan. In Iran, it is used as an ambulance, showing just how versatile this van can be.
After the success of the first-generation Sprinter, the second generation of the vehicle was launched in Europe in 2006. It once again received recognition throughout the industry before being launched in the US the following year. In 2013, the Sprinter received a much-needed update with additions such as new assistance systems, a blind spot monitor, and Euro VI emissions compliance. Currently, the third generation Sprinter is on sale, which was first introduced in 2018. It offers a front-wheel-drive and a variety of optional add-ons for improved technology and handling.
Watch the history of the Mercedes Sprinter unfold by checking out the short YouTube clip below!
Mercedes Sprinter Van Awards
Each generation of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter has been well received by critics and drivers alike. The attention to detail in the design and easy handling of this vehicle are both commended awards, which is why it’s been such a popular van over the past couple of decades. Let’s look at some of the Sprinter’s top awards!
- The first-generation vehicle was voted International Van of the Year in its first year of production.
- When the second generation launched in 2006, it received Van of the Year in both 2007 and 2008 from the Professional Van and Light Truck Magazine.
- From 2017 to 2021, the ALG has awarded the Mercedes Sprinter van with the Residual Value Award.
- Voted Vincentric Best Fleet Value in America.
- 2016 Sprinter models earned Edmunds Highest Retained Value in the small commercial van and large commercial van categories.
High Mileage for the Mercedes Sprinter
When purchasing a van, one of the top considerations is how many years you’ll be able to use it. With good care and maintenance, the Mercedes Sprinter can usually last for about 300,000 miles. That being said, there are many stories of vehicles lasting for up to 500,000 miles when they are taken care of properly. Keep in mind that you’ll usually experience your first issues and repairs when you reach about 150,000 miles, and this is the point at which you may find the vehicle needs extra attention.
Driver Reviews of the Mercedes Sprinter
The Mercedes Sprinter is well received by drivers looking to use this versatile vehicle for a wide range of applications. It’s commonly used by delivery drivers and those looking to explore the outdoors, all of which commend the spacious vehicle and how well it can be configured. While it’s more expensive than some of the other options on the market, drivers generally find the high mileage and easy handling make it worth the investment.
Check out what The Fast Lane Truck on YouTube has to say about his Mercedes Sprinter Van.
The Mercedes Sprinter in the News
The Mercedes Sprinter has gained a lot of attention in recent years due to the popular van life movement. More people than ever are looking to head out on the road in a converted van that doubles up as a place to live and work. Heart Evangelista is an example of someone living on the road in a Sprinter, sharing her life on YouTube and the incredible traveling hotel she’s created in the Sprinter. The spaciousness of the interior of the van makes it the ideal option for this type of conversion, and we only expect this movement to continue to grow in the future.
Fun Facts About the Mercedes Sprinter
- The Sprinter comes in a variety of designs, including cargo, crew, and passenger options.
- The passenger van can hold up to 15 people in the four or five rows of seats.
- They are a popular option for employee shuttles, with many businesses investing in these popular vans.
- They meet the EU VI emissions standards, which means they are an eco-friendlier option than many other vans on the market.
- In 2019, the company also started to offer an electric model, taking another step towards lowering the emissions this van produces.
Common Problems with the Sprinter
While the Mercedes Sprinter is generally favorably reviewed by drivers, there are naturally some issues with the vehicle. The most commonly reported issues include a rumbling noise and injector issues. A broken flex pipe and clogged diesel particulate filter are two other problems you may experience, and you may need to work with an experienced mechanic to fix these issues. Finally, you may find the cylinder head needs replacing at some point during the life of your van, especially if you plan to use it for many years to come.
For a quick overview of the Mercedes Sprinters’ common problems, check out the video below.
Replacing Cylinder Heads in the Mercedes Sprinter
With the amazing hauling capabilities, the Mercedes Sprinter is bound to require some repairs after a while. It can be difficult to know when you should get your cylinder head repaired so we have come up with a quick checklist for you. If your Mercedes Sprinter is experiencing any of these symptoms, you will want to get a replacement cylinder head.
- Leaking Coolant/Low Coolant Levels
- White Smoke
- Engine Overheating
- Engine Misfiring
- Low Coolant
If you do find you need to replace the cylinder head in your Mercedes Sprinter in the future, the good news is you can consider doing this yourself to save money. This video offers an excellent guide to this process, helping you to discover how you can complete this work without visiting a garage.
The Mercedes Sprinter has remained one of the most popular vans of its size for many years at this point, and we don’t see its popularity dropping any time soon. By taking good care of your vehicle, you’ll find that you can enjoy years of professional or personal use with the Sprinter. It can be used for a variety of applications, and with the popularity of the van life movement, we only expect interest in the Sprinter to continue to grow for many years to come.
Buy Replacement Heads at Clearwater Cylinder Head
With over 50,000 happy clients and 25+ years of business, Clearwater Cylinder Head prioritizes customer satisfaction through our top-quality cylinder heads. Just like the high mileage stories, we are all about producing a reliable product that is worth your money. Our employees are dedicated to manufacturing, inspecting, restoring, and replacing cylinder heads on all vehicles. If you are looking for a replacement cylinder head or just an inspection, then Clearwater Cylinder Head is the place to call. Our team is happy to assist you with any questions regarding cylinder head selection.
Please call us to inquire about new cylinder heads for your vehicle by calling us toll-free at 1-800-572-1963. We look forward to serving you!