Mercedes Diesel Sprinter motorhome

I’ve only had mine a year, but I really like it. I put 15,000 miles on in 11 months with no issues. It averages between 14 and 16 mpg. Did my first oil change a few weeks ago and it was extremely easy because everything is very accessible. I’m sure there are some folks on here that have had theirs longer with more miles that can give you more information, but I am a happy camper so far.

Have a Pleasure-Way on a 2015 MB Sprinter.
15,000 miles like above and no problems.
Get 17 MPG on a average.

I am not a fan of the Mercedes Sprinter diesel. It has very specific oil requirements that even Mercedes dealers don't know. Finding a dealer who can and will work on it can be challenging.

DownTheAvenue wrote:
I am not a fan of the Mercedes Sprinter diesel. It has very specific oil requirements that even Mercedes dealers don't know. Finding a dealer who can and will work on it can be challenging.

The Sprinter is not really a car which is probably why the Mercedes dealers don't know anything about them. Find a Freightliner dealer, they sell and service them.

Bill

Another 2015 Sprinter owner here - 17k miles, no chassis/engine issues. Drives well, good power - we pull a 3200# Subaru - been thru CO Rockies, down to FL Keys, toured WV mountains - still get 15+ mpg with the toad. I should add maintenance costs really aren't bad - about $150 for oil/filter service, but that's once a year before I park it. Used to do 2 or 3 a year in our Chevy-based Roadtrek, and they were about $60 each, so cost is quite similar. ST

Ours is a 2007 View 24H. It had 24K, now 35K on the odo. Given us very good service. Had an EGR valve failure and one glow plug failure. Other little problems caused by mechanic.

We've had it 5 years now. Just had our longest trip, 1250 miles to Jellystone NP and back.

15 MPG: @65 MPH without toad, @55 MPH with toad.


See M-B oils and other specs here: List of M-B specs.

Best deal I got on oil was from Amazon and also the tools.

Moose and Squirel wrote:
We are looking at a 2015 Winnebago Navion 24V. Anyone had any problems with this engine/chassie/model? We have never owned a diesel and would like to hear from those who have.

Hi Moose and Squirel,

No doubt about it, the Mercedes Sprinter has a strong following. And I say "Good For Those Sprinter Owners".

Just make sure the Sprinter diesel will meet your particular needs. Here are some considerations when comparing the Sprinter chassis to it's main rival, the Ford E350 chassis with gasoline V10 engine.

Advantages Of The Mercedes Sprinter With Diesel Engine
- Offers a 35%-50% improvement in fuel economy over the Ford E350-V10, when both are loaded and driven identically.
- More ergonomic driver compartment with more leg room.
- Comfort continues with a car-like feel & quiet ride.
- A grander view out the windshield
- Made by Mercedes which people are attracted to.

Advantages Of The Ford E350 with V10 Engine
- Given identical motor homes both brand and model, the Ford is around $13,000 MSRP cheaper
- The Ford V10 engine has 50% more horse power and torque
- The Ford E350 chassis handles 1430 pounds more weight.
- The E350 is able to tow a heavier load.
- The E350 rear axle is significantly wider which translates to better stability.
- In most places traveled, gasoline costs less than diesel fuel
- The Sprinter diesel has limited mechanical service shops around North America
- The Sprinter diesel is typically outfitted with a propane generator. Propane is a critical fuel for RV operations, and generally needs to be rationed when dry camping.
- This Next Point Is Debatable But Still Worth Noting....The V6 Sprinter diesel engine is not allowed to idle for extended periods. This limitation is detrimental when you need a/c but there are generator restrictions, you are low on propane, or you have a mechanical failure with the generator or roof a/c. The Ford offers a great backup system. The V10 with the 55 gallon fuel tank, can safely idle for hours on end, heating, cooling, and battery charging, all valuable if you have a baby, pets, or health/respiratory issues.

Setting your priorities will help make the better choice for your particular travel needs. I personally feel the Sprinter is ideal for putting on piles of miles, like people who follow ball clubs around the country. But if you drive only around 5000 miles per as my wife and I do with our E350, our lesser fuel economy has not been a factor. Our 55 gallon gas tank with gas generator has been very comforting and useful for extended stays in remote locations, and being able to tow our Jeep Liberty with ease has also been great. Because of our travel style and destinations, our E350-V10 meets our particular needs much better than a Sprinter could.

Each to their own.

ours is older 2007 with 5cyc engine 40k and no problems and service is not a problem any freightliner shop can take care of you. there is a sprinter club .we pass big gassers going up some mountains.cruise all day at 65.

Thanks for all the great information!! We're heading off now to look at the unit again with our magnifying glass and tape measure in hand :)
We love that this unit has the twin bed set-up, the real reason for our interest in this vehicle, not many make this bed set-up. More to follow......

Just don't have any collision related issues. Sprinters have no actual frame, all spot welded sheet metal box sections welded to the main body / floorpan and a nightmare to repair.