I see “MB Sprinter chassis problems” what are they?

[rhart]

We r looking for a B. I thought we wanted a diesel. What are these so called problem?
Thank you

[Mikes47]

Originally Posted by rhart

We r looking for a B. I thought we wanted a diesel. What are these so called problem?
Thank you

All the diesel engine manufacturers have had issues relating to the post 2010 emissions reductions mandates. MB is no exception. The NOX sensors have been a particularly weak spot. As you approach more current models, the issues seem to get minimized.

Another factor in customer dissatisfaction with diesels is the Diesel Exhaust Fuel (DEF) requirement. Earlier versions may or may not have a customer-friendly DEF refueling process. My 2013 Sprinter computer tells me when to replace the DEF, but I have to be very careful when doing so since there is no way to easily tell that the tank is full until it overflows. DEF evaporates to a crystalline mess rather quickly. Again, later models have made improvements.

A third factor is the relative imbalance between dealers capable of performing routine service on a gas engine v/s dealers capable of servicing a diesel engine. That goes broadly for all diesel vehicles ... but toss into the equation a fully loaded, tall, heavy RV, and the service-capable dealer universe gets smaller again.

All that being said, I am very happy with my diesel-based Sprinter RV. I did have big issues with the emissions system that was replaced under warranty. I have 119k miles on my RV and I think I'm only about 1/3 of the way through the engine lifespan.

[Winterbagoal]

Originally Posted by rhart

We r looking for a B. I thought we wanted a diesel. What are these so called problem?
Thank you

Early on in the life cycle of diesels as base vans for class B builds, there were few problems. Roadtrek, Leisure Travel, and Pleasure Way all adopted the Sprinters as their newest and bestest models around 2005-2006. Then, in 2010, the ULSD and SCR/DPF/DEF regulations tightened and that added some complexity to the pre/post exhaust system hardware on vans with diesel engines. From 2010 to around 2016 there were some problems as the newer technology evolved. NOX sensors, as mentioned, and clogged DPF filters, DEF issues, all reared their ugly heads.
Today's versions (post-2016) are much better bedded in with the SCR requirements, and you're more likely to have wheel speed sensor problems than exhaust issues.
There are just as many places that can't service a Ford based gasser, as there are MB places that can't service a Sprinter. It's an issue on both sides of the gas/diesel fence. Many dealerships won't touch a motorhome, no matter what's under the hood, which is really the problem. Ford also makes a small diesel engine, that may be in some of the Transit based motorhomes, although I think the newer ones (post 2018?) come with the gas V6 Ecoboost engines.
As a prior poster mentioned, I've had no major problems with my 2017 cab chassis, I absolutely would not go back to gas, and just last week had the power steering return hose clamp, and the rear wheel speed sensor replacement recalls done at my MB dealer, without so much as a discouraging word spoken. Do your homework on the service situation, if it bothers you, and the rest of it will take care of itself. The diesels will give you a longer service life, better fuel economy, and a more comfortable environment inside and out. In my opinion, of course.

[rhart]

Nice post. Thank you

[Winterbagoal]

You are most welcome, my friend.

[rhart]

Two great posts thanks to you both. Back to Sprinter it is, I'll just make sure to get 2019 or newer.

[smiller]

FWIW due to the all the early DPF issues MB has issued a widespread recall on 2010-2016 Sprinters under which all the expensive SCR bits (catalyst, sensors, etc.) are replaced and the emissions warranty extended. This should provide some protection for buyers of 2010 and later vehicles. Sprinters prior to 2010 have no SCR (DEF) system.

[Winterbagoal]

Originally Posted by rhart

Two great posts thanks to you both. Back to Sprinter it is, I'll just make sure to get 2019 or newer.

I would suggest anything after 2016 should be bullet proof, SCR/DEF wise, but smiller's comment about extended warranties after the fixes for 2010-2016 issues should also be OK now, too. The choice is yours.
You might check the NHTSA database for recalls on NCV3 versus VS30 model chassis, if that matters. I've seen a few recalls for the newer chassis over the last 2 years.

[KanzKran]

Originally Posted by Mikes47

My 2013 Sprinter computer tells me when to replace the DEF, but I have to be very careful when doing so since there is no way to easily tell that the tank is full until it overflows. DEF evaporates to a crystalline mess rather quickly. Again, later models have made improvements.

It's also very corrosive. I wait until the tank is a little below 1/2 full on the dash gauge, at which point it will hold the contents of a standard 2-1/2 gallon DEF jug with no risk of spillage.

BUT, I also have a garden hose with me when I fill it, and any drips get hosed off as soon as the jug is empty. There almost always are a few drips from the flex nozzle to jug connection, but it's easily washed away.

Originally Posted by rhart

Back to Sprinter it is, I'll just make sure to get 2019 or newer.

If you want the next-gen Sprinter, make sure the van itself is a 2019, not the conversion. My van is a 2017 Sprinter, but it's a 2018 Galleria. There is obviously a time delay between the manufacturing of the van or cab/chassis, and when the upfitter finishes the build. The differences are obvious at a glance in the driver's compartment, but very subtle on the outside. Also different model numbers, as mine is an NCV3 (2006-2018), whereas you're looking for a VS30 (2019-). (oops - too slow)

[jpstakun]

Nice concept, but I spoke to a man that had one. Maintenance is $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ .
Special oil-$20 per quart. Oil filters $100. Nah!

[KanzKran]

Originally Posted by jpstakun

Special oil-$20 per quart. Oil filters $100. Nah!

Maybe that's at the dealer, with labor, but the most expensive oil filter I could find at Advance Auto is $16 (most are around $10), and the oil is $7/qt. There are Sprinter oil change 'kits' with filter and 14 qts of synthetic for around $145 for Mobil 1. Again, no labor of course. I haven't verified that these kits or 5 qt jugs meet M-B's requirements ('European' 5W-30 synth), though.

I'm certainly not denying that M-Bs are expensive, but they're diesels. All diesels are costly to maintain compared to gas engines.

Edit: The web page says the oil is M-B approved, MB229.52 spec.

https://www.ecstuning.com/b-assemble...6421800009kt7/

[smiller]

Originally Posted by jpstakun

Special oil-$20 per quart. Oil filters $100. Nah!

Nonsense.