Before you consider purchasing a 2008 Mercedes Benz Sprinter for your business or personal use, it’s crucial to understand a potentially significant issue that could impact your ownership experience. This article is based on extensive experience with Mercedes Benz Sprinter vans used in demanding commercial applications, and aims to provide a clear picture of the challenges owners may face, particularly with models from 2008 onwards. While not an automotive expert, the insights shared here come from years of real-world operation and meticulous maintenance tracking of a large fleet of Sprinters.
Prior to 2008, the Mercedes Benz Sprinter, then often sold as a Dodge Sprinter in the US market, had a strong reputation as a reliable workhorse. These earlier models were known for their longevity, often exceeding 500,000 miles with proper care. The slightly higher maintenance costs compared to domestic vans were justified by their dependability and extended service life.
A 2008 Mercedes Benz Sprinter van, showcasing its design for commercial use.
However, with the introduction of stricter diesel emissions regulations in 2008, Mercedes Benz implemented a complex exhaust system in the Sprinter. This system, designed to meet these new standards, has unfortunately become a major source of problems and high repair costs for owners. The core issue lies within the intricate EGR-DEF-exhaust system, which is significantly different from the simpler and more robust systems found in pre-2008 models.
The Complexities and Components of the 2008 Sprinter Exhaust System
The 2008 Mercedes Benz Sprinter’s exhaust system is a sophisticated network of sensors, valves, and catalytic converters. Understanding its components is key to grasping the potential issues. The system starts with an EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve, which reroutes exhaust gases back into the engine intake to reduce NOx emissions. The exhaust system management is governed by a CDI (Common Rail Diesel Injection) control unit, which monitors and regulates various sensors and actuators throughout the system.
Further down the exhaust line, you’ll find a DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) system. This includes a DEF pump, a DEF tank, a DEF temperature sensor, and a DEF level sensor. These components work in conjunction with an SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) control unit, which also has its own set of actuators and sensors. All these parts are typically located in the engine compartment, adding to the under-hood complexity.
The exhaust system itself is comprised of three main sections:
- OXI-Cat and DPF Section: This section houses the oxidation catalytic converter (OXI-Cat) and the diesel particulate filter (DPF). It’s also equipped with an oxygen sensor, an exhaust temperature sensor, and a backpressure sensor to monitor performance.
- First SCR Cat Section: Located after the OXI-Cat section, this contains the first SCR catalytic converter. A NOx sensor and a dosing valve are positioned between the OXI-Cat and this SCR section to control and monitor NOx reduction. This section also has its own temperature sensor.
- Second SCR Cat Section: The final stage includes another SCR catalytic converter and a final NOx sensor to ensure emissions are within regulation.
A detailed diagram of the 2008 Mercedes Benz Sprinter exhaust system, showing the interconnected components and sensors.
The High Cost of Maintaining and Repairing the 2008 Sprinter Exhaust System
The complexity of the 2008 Sprinter’s exhaust system translates directly into potentially high maintenance and repair costs. When components in this system fail, owners can face significant expenses. For example, a single NOx sensor, of which there are two in the system, can cost around $600 to replace. The EGR valve, another common failure point, can range from $800 to $1000. More significantly, the SCR catalytic converters and the particulate filter can each cost thousands of dollars to replace.
Adding to the financial burden is the variability in pricing and service quality at Mercedes Benz dealerships. Routine maintenance, like an oil change, can vary dramatically in price from one dealership to another, sometimes ranging from $170 to $400. Similarly, repair costs for the exhaust system can fluctuate widely, and inconsistent diagnoses can lead to repeated repairs and expenses without resolving the underlying problem. There are numerous reports of owners spending thousands of dollars on repairs at dealerships, only to have the check engine light reappear shortly after, indicating unresolved or misdiagnosed issues. In worst-case scenarios, a completely clogged and failed exhaust system requiring full replacement can cost upwards of $6000.
Reliability Concerns and Comparison to Competitors
The reliability of the 2008 and later Mercedes Benz Sprinter models, particularly concerning the exhaust system, becomes a significant concern when compared to competitors. The average maintenance and repair cost for these Sprinters has been observed to be around ten cents per mile. This is substantially higher than comparable vans like the Dodge Ram ProMaster and Ford Transit, where maintenance costs are typically less than two cents per mile.
A visual comparison between a 2008 Mercedes Benz Sprinter and a Ford Transit, highlighting their similar size and purpose in the commercial van market.
This cost difference extends to routine maintenance as well. An oil change for a Ford Transit or Ram ProMaster might cost between $30 and $40, while the same service for a Mercedes Sprinter can be four to ten times more expensive. Over 100,000 miles, these seemingly small differences in routine maintenance costs add up significantly, not even considering the potential for major exhaust system repairs on the Sprinter.
For businesses that rely on their vans for high-mileage commercial use, these factors are critical. The higher upfront cost of a Mercedes Benz Sprinter might seem justified by its brand reputation, but the potential for increased downtime and exorbitant repair bills can quickly negate any perceived benefits. Experience with a fleet of 28 Sprinter vans (2012 and 2013 models) revealed staggering maintenance and repair expenses of $270,000 in a single year, averaging nearly $10,000 per van. Such costs can be unsustainable for many businesses.
Conclusion: Consider the Total Cost of Ownership of a 2008 Mercedes Benz Sprinter
While Mercedes Benz Sprinter sales may still be strong, particularly in certain markets, it is essential for potential buyers to be fully aware of the potential “fatal flaw” related to the EGR-DEF-exhaust system in 2008 and newer models. The increased complexity designed to meet emissions regulations has unfortunately resulted in a less reliable and significantly more expensive vehicle to maintain, especially for high-mileage commercial applications.
If you are planning to use a van for demanding commercial purposes and anticipate high annual mileage, it is strongly advisable to carefully consider alternatives like the Ford Transit or Ram ProMaster. The lower maintenance costs and greater reliability of these alternatives could translate into substantial savings and reduced downtime over the lifespan of the vehicle. Before making a purchase decision, thoroughly research the long-term ownership costs, not just the initial price, of a 2008 Mercedes Benz Sprinter, and weigh them against more affordable and dependable options in the commercial van market. Mercedes Benz needs to address these exhaust system issues and reduce parts and service costs to remain competitive in the commercial van sector, especially in markets like the United States where cost-effectiveness and reliability are paramount for business owners.
