Used buying guide · Large van · panel van conversions and motorhomes
The Sprinter is the classic base for large panel van conversions and many coachbuilt motorhomes. It is tough mechanically, but the 2006-2018 model has a serious reputation for rust.
This guide covers the Mercedes Sprinter problems owners report most often on used vans and campervans, what each one looks like on a viewing and what to ask the seller. Not every van will have them. But knowing where to look stops you paying for someone else’s repair bill.
Engines you’ll find: 2.1 and 2.2 CDI (2006-2018), 3.0 V6 CDI, 2.1 and 3.0 diesel (2018 on)
The 2006-2016 Sprinter shares its body with the VW Crafter of the same era.
Common problems on a used Mercedes Sprinter
1. Rust on 2006-2018 vans
The Sprinter rusts at the wheel arches, sills, door bottoms, around the windscreen and under the rear lights. Check every seam and the underside, because repairs are expensive.
2. Leaking injector seals
Injector seal leaks leave black, tar-like carbon around the injectors and cause a chuffing noise. Look under the engine cover and listen at idle.
3. Swirl flaps, EGR and DPF
Clogged EGR valves, sticking swirl flaps and blocked DPFs bring up warning lights and limp mode. Ask what has been replaced.
4. AdBlue and NOx sensors
Euro 6 Sprinters use AdBlue, and NOx sensor and heater failures are common. Check for warnings and ask for any fault code history.
5. Rear springs and weight
Heavy conversions can sag the rear springs. Look at the ride height and ask for a weighbridge ticket.
Our tip: Lift the carpets in the cab and the side door step. Rust often starts where water sits under the mats.
These are problems commonly reported by owners, garages and the motoring press. They are not a diagnosis of any particular van. A van with a full service history and the right repairs already done can be a very good buy.
Checking the conversion as well as the van
On a campervan or motorhome, the living area can cost as much to put right as the engine. However good the base vehicle is, check these before you buy:
- Damp readings around windows, rooflights, lockers and the floor. Damp is the most expensive hidden problem in a camper.
- Gas appliances light and work, and the regulator hose is in date.
- Leisure battery, 12V system and mains hook-up all work and look professionally installed.
- Water pump, taps and tanks do not leak.
- Any added seats have proper fixings and belts, and the V5C body type matches the conversion for insurance.
- A pop-top or high-top roof does not leak, and the mechanism works.
Before you pay for a used Mercedes Sprinter
- Check the history. Run the free MOT history check online and look for mileage gaps and repeat advisories. Pay for a full history check for finance, theft and write-off markers.
- Match the paperwork. The seller’s ID, the V5C and the VIN on the van should all match. Be wary of a seller who is selling for someone else.
- See it running from cold. Ask the seller not to start it before you arrive. Many faults show up in the first few minutes.
- Never send a deposit unseen. Pay only at handover, by bank transfer, once you have the keys and the V5C.
Can’t get there to see it? We’ll check it for you
SafeBuy views campervans and motorhomes for buyers across the UK. We check the seller and paperwork against the V5C, run a history and finance check, walk you round the Mercedes Sprinter on a live video call and send you a photo report. Add our Habitation Check and we take damp readings throughout and test the gas, electrics, battery and water.
Viewing & Verify
£149 + travel
Seller and document checks, history and finance check, live video walk-round and photo report.
Viewing + Habitation Check
£299 + travel
Everything above plus damp readings and checks of the gas, electrics, battery and water.
Drive It Home
By mileage
If you buy it, we drive it to your door. Fixed quote before you commit.
A viewing is not a full mechanical inspection. We report what we can see and measure on the day, so you can decide with the facts in front of you. See the areas we cover.
Other buying guides
Looking at more than one van? Read our guides to VW Crafter common problems and Fiat Ducato common problems, or see every model we cover.
Questions about buying a Mercedes Sprinter
What are the most common problems with a used Mercedes Sprinter?
The problems reported most often are: Rust on 2006-2018 vans; Leaking injector seals; Swirl flaps, EGR and DPF; AdBlue and NOx sensors; and Rear springs and weight. Not every van will have them, so check the service history and see the van running from cold.
Is a Mercedes Sprinter a good base for a campervan?
It can be. Mercedes Sprinter vans are widely used for panel van conversions and motorhomes. The best buys have a full service history, a professionally fitted conversion and no damp in the living area.
Can SafeBuy check a Mercedes Sprinter before I buy it?
Yes. We view the van for you, check the seller and paperwork, walk you round it on a live video call and can test the living area with our Habitation Check. Prices start at £149 plus travel.
Ready to view one? We’ll check the Mercedes Sprinter for you
Send us the advert and we’ll reply within one working day with a fixed quote to view it for you.