14 Best & Worst Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Years (Facts & Stats)

The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is a practical full size van that was introduced in North America in 2003.

It comes in various configurations, has a long list of standard and optional features, and offers great interior and exterior customizability. 

In this article, we’ll be checking out all of the best and worst model years of the Sprinter.

Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Are:

The best Mercedes-Benz Sprinter model years are 2024, 2023, 2018, 2017, 2013, 2012, and 2010. The worst model years of this model are 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2016, 2015, 2014, and 2011. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.

What Are The Best Years For The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter?

2024 and 2023 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

The 2024 and 2023 Sprinter vans are the most recent third-gen models that are available in today’s market.

New features for these models include an all-new turbo 4-cylinder engine, a 9-speed transmission system, and an all-wheel-drive.

These features replaced the diesel V6, 7-speed transmission, and four-wheel-drive, respectively.

There are dozens of variations of these models, falling under 4 main trim levels: 1500, 2500, 3500, and 4500. 

Base pricing ranges from approximately $46,000 to $66,000. 

For the best value for money, we suggest going with either of the regular models (1500 and 2500 variants). 

The standard engine for most of the regular models is a turbocharged 2-liter 4-cylinder engine (188 horsepower) paired to a 9-speed automatic transmission that delivers power to the rear wheels.

2024 Sprinter:

• Edmunds: NA
• Kelley Blue Book: 4.1 / 5.0

2023 Sprinter:

• Edmunds: NA
• Kelley Blue Book: 4.1 / 5.0

2023 Sprinter, Kelly Blue Book Review:

“Great on fuel! VERY comfortable! Stylish, roomy, handles like a sports car! lots of power! tows great! quiet on the inside! 5 STARS!!!! highly recommend this van to anyone or any professional business!”

2018 and 2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

The 2018 and 2017 Sprinter models cap off the long-running second generation, which originally began in 2007.

Both model years provide excellent interior space, a true walk-through cabin, several passenger and cargo configurations (endless customizability), and surprising maneuverability.

There are 2 wheelbase lengths, 2 roof heights, and 2 main trims: regular 2500 and heavy-duty 3500.

For most individuals, a standard 2500 trim would be suitable and practical. Standard features include:

• 16-inch steel wheels
• Hill start assist
• Passenger-side sliding rear door
• Wood cargo floor
• 270-degree rear doors
• Rearview camera
• 5.8-inch center display

There are countless optional items as well, such as:

• 16-inch alloy wheels
• Driver-side sliding rear door
• Heavy-duty suspension
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Xenon headlights
• Fog lights
• Automatic headlights
• Automatic wipers

2018 Sprinter:

• Edmunds: NA
• Kelley Blue Book: 4.1 / 5.0

2017 Sprinter:

• Edmunds: NA
• Kelley Blue Book: 4.1 / 5.0

2017 Sprinter, Edmunds Review:

“Best vehicle I have ever owned! Best looking Van on the road! Never any major issues…”

2013 and 2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

The 2013 and 2012 Sprinter models are a couple of the earlier second-gen models that were praised for their technology, customizability, and practicality.

According to owners, these were the noteworthy aspects of the models:

• Value
• Sound system
• Brake system
• Engine power
• Towing capability
• Hauling capability

These models are divided into 2 main trims: 2500 and 3500. There are also 2 wheelbases: 144 and 170. Finally, there are 3 interior configurations: Cargo, Passenger, and Crew.

In other words, countless combinations of features and equipment could be made for these models to answer the varying needs of van-loving owners who would typically travel with either lots of friends and family or tons of cargo and equipment. 

2013 Sprinter:

• Edmunds: 3.4 / 5.0
• Kelley Blue Book: 4.1 / 5.0

2012 Sprinter:

• Edmunds: 3.1 / 5.0
• Kelley Blue Book: 4.1 / 5.0

2012 Sprinter, Edmunds Review:

“This is by far the best 12 passenger van on the market! We have put on about 10K miles now… This has been wonderful. We get stopped all the time to ask what kind of van we have. The diesel motor has plenty of power and has been smooth up and down hills, with plenty of pickup power…”

2010 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter marks the rebranding of the model (as it was originally known as the Dodge Sprinter). 

In addition to the name change, an engine upgrade has also been integrated for this model year. 

It is now powered by a sizable 3-liter turbodiesel engine with Bluetec exhaust-scrubbing technology with a horsepower of 188 and a torque of 325 pound-feet.

Due to its powerful engine, this model can tow as much as 5,000 pounds (when properly equipped). 

Notable safety features include the following:

• Stability control
• Traction control
• 4-wheel ABS
• Emergency braking assist
• Tire pressure monitoring

For added variety and customizability, there are several interior and exterior options available, as well as a handful of safety and entertainment packages. 

• Edmunds: 3.2 / 5.0
• Kelley Blue Book: 4.1 / 5.0

2010 Sprinter, Edmunds Review:

“Bought this van to tote around our large family (9 kids)… More room than any of the competitors and much much better gas mileage. Drives like a much smaller vehicle and not at all intimidating, even my wife loves to drive it. Parking is always an issue with large vans, but the visibility in the sprinter is excellent. Heartily recommend.”

Consumer Scores For Best Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Years

Related: 15 Most Common Mercedes Benz Sprinter Problems (Explained)

What Are The Worst Years For The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter?

2022, 2021, 2020, and 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

The models produced between 2019 and 2022 were quite problematic. The most commonly reported issues involved electrical system defects, engine problems, and unreliable driver assistance features. 

Many owners have reported problems with their airbag system, caused by the wiring harness being compressed and damaged beneath the swivel seat, electronic ignition switch issues due to installation defects and susceptibility to rust and corrosion, and issues with crosswind assist, leading to unintended brake activation and loss of steering control.

Adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning, which were frequently mentioned, were unreliable and posed a significant safety hazard.

According to information from owners and online accounts, malfunctions were quite frequent and often happened unexpectedly. The ramifications of these feature failures include:

• Warning lights illuminating
• Activation of limp mode
• Loss of driver assistance capabilities

No major causes have been officially identified but based on our research, this seems to be related to the previously mentioned electrical defects and flaws of the model years. 

“The adaptive cruise control, auto emergency braking and collision warning stopped working on the vehicle on a clear day as I was entering the freeway for a long drive. It said the sensors were dirty. I stopped, shut off the vehicle, cleaned all sensor locations, and restarted the vehicle. Sensors worked for 5 min and then stopped again and have yet to start functioning after 4 days and extensive driving…” – NHTSA.gov

• The 2022 Sprinter had a total of 16 problems based on NHTSA.gov data.
• The 2021 Sprinter had a total of 23 problems based on NHTSA.gov data.
• The 2020 Sprinter had a total of 2 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 65 problems based on NHTSA.gov data.
• The 2019 Sprinter had a total of 51 problems based on NHTSA.gov data.

Other common problems:

• Damaged wheel sensors
• Engine failure
• Transmission issues
• Adaptive brake assist problems

2016, 2015, and 2014 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

The 2016, 2015, and 2014 have several issues, including problems related to the engine, transmission, brakes, and electronics.

The primary issue highlighted in online posts is the failure of the exhaust system recall. Owners have reported that after their vans underwent the required service, they began encountering numerous error codes, leading the vehicle to switch to limp mode during highway driving.

“All of the following has started happening since an exhaust recall was done by Mercedes. In September 2022, we were driving cross country to Denver Colorado and enough codes piled up in the background that we went into limp mode in the middle of 70 MPH highway traffic. This happened without warning and was an extreme safety concern…” – NHTSA.gov

Another major issue is wheel speed sensor failure. This is an important safety component that is in charge of the effectiveness of safety features such as ABS and stability control. 

Due to issues with the sensor, owners reported inadvertent downshifting, warning lights popping up, and constant sensor replacements.

“The contact stated while driving 60 mph, the rear wheel speed sensor failed causing the transmission to inadvertently downshift. The contact stated that the abs warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer to be diagnosed. The mechanic determined that the rear wheel speed sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired however, the failure recurred two years later.” – NHTSA.gov

• The 2016 Sprinter had a total of 14 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 24 problems based on NHTSA.gov data.
• The 2015 Sprinter had a total of 5 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 16 problems based on NHTSA.gov data.
• The 2014 Sprinter had a total of 3 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 54 problems based on NHTSA.gov data.

Other common problems:

• Tires worn out prematurely
• Engine dies while driving
• ABS sensor issues
• Rear window exploded
• Transmission failure
• Roof leakage
• Radio problems

2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

Apart from the Takata airbag recall, owners of the 2011 Sprinter have encountered issues with the SRS warning light, which might also indicate a problem with the seatbelt mechanism.

“it is has been over a year and we are still waiting for an airbag replacement. this is quite dangerous and we believe that waiting for more than one year is too long.” – NHTSA.gov

Another frequently mentioned problem was leakage in the air conditioning systems, especially those installed on the roof.

Although no definitive cause has been identified for this prevalent issue, both technicians and owners have suggested that it might be due to a design or installation defect in the manufacturing process of this specific model.

“roof mounted a/c leaks water inside the van every time it rains. this is my second sprinter with this problem, and it affects my business tremendously as i own an executive transportation company, not the type of problem expected on a mercedes” – NHTSA.gov

• The 2011 Sprinter had a total of 16 problems based on NHTSA.gov data.

Other common problems:

• Airbag defects
• Loss of acceleration and power
• Headlight issues
• Check engine light on

Related: 9 Best & Worst Mercedes-Benz GLC Years (With Pictures)

What Years Have The Most Complaints?

What Problems Do Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Have?

• Damaged wheel sensors
• Engine failure
• Transmission issues
• Adaptive brake assist problems
• Tires worn out prematurely
• Engine dies while driving
• ABS sensor issues
• Rear window exploded
• Roof leakage
• Radio problems
• Airbag defects
• Loss of acceleration and power
• Headlight issues
• Check engine light on

Related: Are Mercedes Benz Worth the Money? (Solved & Explained)

References

https://www.caranddriver.com/mercedes-benz/sprinter

https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/mercedes-benz+vans

https://www.edmunds.com/mercedes-benz/sprinter/

https://www.kbb.com/mercedes-benz/sprinter/

https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2024/mercedes-benz/sprinter-cargo-van

https://www.carcomplaints.com/Mercedes-Benz/Sprinter/

https://www.carproblemzoo.com/tsb/mercedes-benz/sprinter3500/

https://www.cars.com/research/mercedes_benz-sprinter/recalls/

https://www.nhtsa.gov/