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2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter problems, recalls and owner complaints
What the 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter has been recalled for, how often it fails the UK MOT and what owners report, from official government data. Updated October 25, 2026.
- 16safety recalls
- 91owner complaints
- 3crash reports
- 3fire reports
- 23%fail the UK MOT
91 complaints, against an average of 49 for the other 13 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter model years.
Every Mercedes-Benz Sprinter model year with its number of owner complaints. Pick a year to compare.
What goes wrong with the 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter?
The components named most often in the 91 owner complaints. One complaint can name several, so the shares can add up to more than 100%.
What symptoms do 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter owners describe?
Found by reading the text of all 91 owner complaints. Tap a symptom for the answer, a real owner quote and any related recall.
- Why are the ABS and stability control lights on in my 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter?16 owners · 17.6%
- Why is the check engine light on in my 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter?8 owners · 8.8%
- Why does my 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter transmission jerk, shudder or shift hard?4 owners · 4.4%
- Why do multiple warning lights come on at once in my 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter?4 owners · 4.4%
- Why does my 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter accelerate unexpectedly or surge?3 owners · 3.3%
Has the 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter been recalled?
16 U.S. safety recalls. Repairs are free at a franchised dealer; some are done over the air.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Control Module Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2012-2018 Mercedes Benz Sprinter 3500 and Freightliner Sprinter 3500 vehicles upfitted into campers or recreational vehicles. The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) unit may become disabled on these vehicles.
Risk: If ESC becomes disabled, vehicle driving stability may be impacted under certain driving conditions, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear-wheel speed sensor with a more robust sensor, free of charge. DVUSA issued owners an interim notification on March 10, 2021. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this recall is NC3DREZAHA.
Steering: Hydraulic Power Assist: Hose, Piping, And Connections Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Mercedes Benz Sprinter and Freightliner Sprinter vehicles. The hydraulic power steering return line hoses may detach at their connection points under certain operating conditions, causing hydraulic fluid to leak.
Risk: The sudden loss of power steering assist and hydraulic steering fluid leaking onto the roadway may increase the risk of a crash.
Fix: DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will check the return line connections of the power steering system, correcting it as needed, free of charge. The recall began December 23, 2020. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. DVUSA's number for this campaign is NV3LETULPE.
Air Bags: Frontal: Driver Side: Inflator Module Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Freightliner Sprinter 2500 and 3500 and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 and 3500 vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the driver frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Fix: DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front driver air bag module, free of charge. The recall is began March 15, 2019. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267.
Air Bags: Frontal: Passenger Side: Inflator Module Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2014-2017 Freightliner Sprinter 2500 and 3500 and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 and 3500 vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Fix: DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag module, free of charge. The recall began March 15, 2019. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267.
Equipment: Other: Labels Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 and Sprinter 3500 vehicles, equipped with folding seats (sales code S20). The unloaded vehicle weight (UVW) label on these incomplete vehicles may be incorrect.
Risk: The incorrect UVW label can result in final stage manufacturers exceeding the maximum vehicle weight once the vehicle is completed. A vehicle that exceeds its maximum weight has an increased risk of a crash.
Fix: DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the UVW label and inspect the vehicle to make sure that it is not overloaded, free of charge. The recall began on April 3, 2018. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267.
Equipment Midwest Automotive Designs, LLC (Midwest) is recalling certain Custom Vans and Camper Van recreational vehicles built on 2014-2017 Mercedes Benz Sprinter chassis and 2016-2017 RAM Promaster chassis. These vehicles are equipped with Kidde Plastic-Handle or Push Button 'Pindicator' fire extinguishers that may become clogged, preventing the extinguisher from discharging as expected or excessive force may be needed to activate the extinguisher. Additionally, in certain models, the nozzle may detach from the valve assembly with enough force that it could cause injury and also render the product inoperable. For a full list of the affected fire extinguisher models visit: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17E062-5427.pdf
Risk: In the event of a fire, if the fire extinguisher does not function properly, it can increase the risk of injury.
Fix: Midwest will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fire extinguisher with a different brand, free of charge. The recall began on December 11, 2017. Owners may contact Kidde customer service for their replacement extinguisher at 1-855-262-3540, or online at www.kidde.com and click on "Product Safety Recall" for more information.
Equipment: Other: Labels Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 and 3500 vehicles. The label on the B-pillar may state a higher maximum vehicle load capacity than the vehicle is designed for. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of 49 CFR Part 567, "Certification."
Risk: If the load capacity information is incorrect on the label, the vehicle may be overloaded, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will check the label and replace it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began on December 15, 2017. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267.
Power Train: Driveline: Driveshaft Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500/3500 vehicles. The affected vehicles were manufactured without a driveshaft catch strap, allowing a loose driveshaft to strike the fuel tank.
Risk: A loose driveshaft may strike and puncture the gas tank, resulting in a fuel leak, increasing the risk of a fire.
Fix: DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will install the missing catch strap for the driveshaft, free of charge. Daimler issued an interim notification to owners on November 17, 2017. The recall began on December 21, 2017. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267.
Equipment: Other: Labels Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2016 Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner Sprinter 2500 and 3500 vehicles equipped with reinforced front axles. The affected vehicles have tire labels on the B-pillar that list a tire pressure that is too low.
Risk: Operating the vehicle with low front tire pressures may result in tire damage, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: DVUSA will notify owners, Freightliner Sprinter and Mercedes-Benz dealers will check and replace the tire label, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on August 5, 2017. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267.
Power Train: Driveline: Driveshaft Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 and 3500 vehicles and Freightliner Sprinter 2500 and 3500 vehicles. The bracket for the center support bearing of the drive shaft may not have been properly welded.
Risk: If the event of a crash, the bracket may detach and the drive shaft may damage the fuel system, increasing the risk of a fire.
Fix: DVUSA will notify owners and dealers will install three additional rivets to secure the bracket, free of charge. Interim notices informing owners of the safety risk were mailed on May 5, 2017. The recall began on July 7, 2017. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267.
Air Bags Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain 2013-2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 and 3500 and Freightliner Sprinter 2500 and 3500 vans. These vehicles were manufactured without a reinforcement plate and protective bracket on the air bag control unit. As a result, the air bag control unit may not remain functional after the initial impact, possibly preventing additional air bags from deploying in response to a secondary impact.
Risk: If additional air bags do not deploy as intended, the occupants are at an increased risk of injury.
Fix: DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will install a reinforcement plate and protective bracket around the air bag control unit, free of charge. The recall began on May 26, 2017. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267.
Seat Belts: Front: Anchorage Midwest Automotive Designs, LLC (Midwest) is recalling certain model year 2016 Mercedes Benz Sprinter 2500 and 3500 vehicles manufactured July 1, 2016, to September 30, 2016, equipped with certain left side seat adjusters, model number 486077 manufactured by Atwood. The affected seat adjusters may allow the seats to move in the event of a crash. As such, these adjusters fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 210, "Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages", and 207 "Seating Systems."
Risk: If the seat moves in the event of a crash, the seat occupant would be at an increased risk of injury.
Fix: Midwest will notify owners, and dealers will replace the left slide track, free of charge. The recall began on December 22, 2016. Owners may contact Midwest customer service at 1-574-522-4878.
Seat Belts: Rear/Other Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain model year 2016 Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner Sprinter 2500 and 3500 vehicles manufactured March 1, 2016, to May 31, 2016. The bolts connecting the lower seat belt connection to the rear bench seat may not have been properly tightened.
Risk: If the bolts were not properly tightened, the seat belt may fail to secure the seat occupant in the event of a crash.
Fix: DVUSA will notify owners, and Sprinter dealers will inspect the connecting bolts, tightening them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on November 18, 2016. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267.
Structure: Body: Roof And Pillars Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 and 3500 vehicles manufactured May 31, 2015, to April 30, 2016, and 2015-2016 Freightliner Sprinter 2500 and 3500 vehicles manufactured May 1, 2015, to April 30, 2016. The affected vehicles are configured to have super-high roofs, but may not be equipped with the required crash pads.
Risk: If the required crash pads are missing, it can increase the risk of injury to a front passenger seat occupant if they are unbelted.
Fix: DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will install the required crash-pads, free of charge. The recall began on August 11, 2016. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267.
Structure: Body Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Mercedes Benz and Freightliner Sprinter 2500 and 3500 vehicles manufactured April 1, 2015, to October 31, 2015. The affected vehicles may have had multiple layers of paint applied, and as a result, in a crash, the windows may separate from the vehicle when the outer layer of paint peels from the layer below.
Risk: If the windows separate from the vehicle in a crash, the occupants are at a greater risk of injury.
Fix: DVUSA will notify owners, and dealers will remove the windows and inspect the paintwork, repainting the vehicles as necessary, free of charge. This recall began August 4, 2016. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-770-705-2070.
Equipment: Other: Labels Daimler Vans USA, LLC (DVUSA) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner Sprinter 2500 and 3500 vans manufactured April 29, 2015, to December 15, 2015. The affected vehicles have a tire pressure label that incorrectly states a higher maximum load capacity than the vehicle is designed for.
Risk: The vehicle may be overloaded if loaded to the incorrect weight shown on the label, possibly resulting in axle or tire failure, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: DVUSA will notify owners, and Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner dealers will replace the incorrect tire pressure label, free of charge. The recall began March 2016. Owners may contact DVUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267.
Is the 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter recalled in the UK or Europe?
Recalls issued by the UK's DVSA and through the EU's Safety Gate system that cover this model and build period. European models can differ from U.S. ones, and "years estimated" means the recall gave no build dates, so confirm your own car with your registration or VIN.
UK DVSAOn affected vehicles certain climatic conditions could over time lead to chemical alteration of the passenger airbag inflator propellant.On affected vehicles certain climatic conditions could over time lead to chemical alteration of the passenger airbag inflator propellant. In the event of a crash the inflator could rupture when the airbag is deployed.
Risk: On affected vehicles certain climatic conditions could over time lead to chemical alteration of the passenger airbag inflator propellant. In the event of a crash the inflator could rupture when the airbag is deployed.
Fix: Replace the passenger airbag
UK DVSASpecific climatic conditions may over time cause a chemical change in the propellant in the airbag inflator of certain Takata airbags.Specific climatic conditions may over time cause a chemical change in the propellant in the airbag inflator of certain Takata airbags. In the event of an accident in which the airbag is deployed this change could cause the airbag inflator to burst due to increased internal pressure.
Risk: Specific climatic conditions may over time cause a chemical change in the propellant in the airbag inflator of certain Takata airbags. In the event of an accident in which the airbag is deployed this change could cause the airbag inflator to burst due to increased internal pressure.
Fix: Replace the affected front passenger airbags on the affected vehicles.
UK DVSAThe driver airbag may not deploy correctly if activated.
Risk: The driver airbag may not deploy correctly if activated.
Fix: Replace the drivers air bag.
UK DVSAThe driver airbag may not deploy correctly if activated
Risk: The driver airbag may not deploy correctly if activated.
Fix: Replace the drivers air bag.
UK DVSAThe driver's front air bag may not deploy as intended
Risk: The Drivers front air bag may not deploy as intended.
Fix: Replace the drivers front airbag.
UK DVSAThe driver's front air bag may not deploy as intended
Risk: The Driver's front air bag may not deploy as intended.
Fix: Replace the driver's front airbag.
UK DVSAChanges to specific aspects of the engine control system calibration are required
Risk: Changes to specific aspects of the engine control system calibration are required.
Fix: Depending on vehicle specification and options software updates to multiple control units will be conducted.
UK DVSAOne or more of the rear wheel speed sensors may experience an electrical failure
Risk: One or more of the rear-wheel speed sensors may experience an electrical failure.
Fix: Replace the rear-wheel speed sensors on affected vehicles
UK DVSAA thermal overload can occur at the fuse carrier of the compressor for the air suspension and associated lines
Risk: A thermal overload can occur at the fuse carrier of the compressor for the air suspension as well as at the associated lines.
Fix: The fuse holder and fuses of the air suspension compressor will be removed and the electric lines will be checked and replaced if necessary.
UK DVSAFailure of the glow plug relay
Risk: A failure of the glow plug relay may result in an electrical short circuit and in overheating of the component.
Fix: Replace the glow plug relay and provide an additional protective relay shield on the vehicles affected.
UK DVSAVehicle control unit may not have been correctly updated
Risk: The vehicles electronic control unit (ECU) may have been incorrectly updated. This may affect the operation of systems controlled by the ECU
Fix: On affected vehicles update the software of the control unit
UK DVSARear spring seat bases may fail
Risk: The rear spring seat bases may develop cracks. Therse could case the seat base(s) to fail and the spriing(s) may detach.
Fix: On affected vehicles repalce the rear spring seat bases
UK DVSASeat belt restraint may be impaired
Risk: The seatbelt mountings on the two seater bench seats may not be correctly tightened. This could cause the seatbelts not fully restrain the passengers and heighten the risk of injury if the vehicle is involved in a collision.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and check the seatbelt mouintings. Retighten the seatbelt mountings to the correct torque.
UK DVSABonded windows may detach in a collision
Risk: In the event of an accident the windows bonded tie down rails and the super high roof (if fitted) could detach and increase the risk of injury due to the lack of adhesion of non-conforming paint.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and remove/install all bonded windows (excluding the windshield) and tie down rails and/or super high roof (if present) as well as repainting the corresponding bonding surfaces.
UK DVSAWindow adhesion may not be sufficiently bonded
Risk: In the event of an accident the windows bonded tie down rails and the super high roof (if fitted) could detach and increase the risk of injury due to the lack of adhesion of non-conforming paint.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and remove/install all bonded windows (excluding the windshield) and tie down rails and/or super high roof (if present) as well as repainting the corresponding bonding surfaces.
UK DVSAWindows may detach
Risk: On vehicles with multi layered paint it is possible the layers may not have bonded as intended. This could allow the windscreen to detach in the event of excessive forces such as an accident. This may similarly affect bonded tie downs and/or super high roof.
Fix: Recall affected vehicles and check stability of the paint. Where necessary reapply paint to affected areas.
UK DVSARisk of fireYears estimated
Risk: On vehicles fitted with the four cylinder (OM651) engine the high pressure fuel lines may not have been manufactured to specifications. These lines may crack and allow fuel to leak. If an ignition source is present there is a risk of fire.
Fix: On affected vehicles replace high pressure fuel lines.
UK DVSARisk of fire
Risk: On vehicles fitted with the four cylinder (OM651) engine the high pressure fuel lines may not have been manufactured to specifications. These lines may crack and allow fuel to leak. If an ignition source is present there is a risk of fire.
Fix: On affected vehicles replace high pressure fuel lines.
UK DVSASeatbelt fixing bolts may work looseYears estimated
Risk: The retaining bolts securing the front seat belts to the 'B' Pillar may not have been tightened to the correct specification. They may work loose and the seat belt could detach.
Fix: On affected vehicles check retaining bolts for tightness and correct if necessary.
UK DVSASeatbelt mechanism may malfunction
Risk: The threaded connections of the seatbelts at the B-Pillars were possibly not tightened with the required torque. If the required torque is not present it is possible the threaded connection may loosen further. In the event of a loosened threaded connection the intended restraint effect of the seat belt cannot be guaranteed in the event of a collision and the risk of injury during an event may possibly be increased.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and check and where necessary tighten the threaded connection.
EU Safety GateA coding of a control unit may not match the individual vehicle equipment so that the affected control units may malfunction.As a result, some functions of the electronic stability program control unit may not be fully available, thus changing the braking and control behavior, increasing the risk of an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateA chemical change in the active substance in the front airbag gas generator can cause an increase in the internal pressure.In the event of an accident, the gas generator may burst and injure the occupants of the vehicle with metal fragments. Furthermore, the airbag will not unfold and protect properly in this situation.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Importer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe functioning of the emergency call system may in some cases be impaired.The communication module software will be updated on affected vehicles.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe Electronic Stability Program (ESP) control unit may cut out under certain circumstances.This will impair the driving stability, increasing the risk of an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe fatigue strength of the ball coupling device may be inadequate.As a result, the device could crack and break, increasing the risk of an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GatePossible thermal overload of the fuse holder of the air suspension compressor and associated wires.This increases the risk of the vehicle catching fire.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateFailure of the glow plug relay may result in an electrical short circuit and in overheating of the component.Overheating can result in smouldering of the relay, increasing the risk of fire.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe incorrect update of the control units may result in malfunctioning of the airbag control device, the Electronic Stability Programme or…The incorrect update of the control units may result in malfunctioning of the airbag control device, the Electronic Stability Programme or the distance control system.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateA breakage in the flat spring support can cause the flat spring on the rear axle to break and result in loss of driving stability.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateScrews on the trailer hitch may not have been screwed tightly enough.This could lead to the trailer becoming detached.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe screw connections for the rear passenger safety seat belts may not be properly secured which could lead to an increased risk of injury…The screw connections for the rear passenger safety seat belts may not be properly secured which could lead to an increased risk of injury in the event of an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateAs a result of inadequate paint adhesion, the windows and lashing rails may become detached in the event of an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateFuel leaking from the high-pressure fuel lines may cause a fire, even after the vehicle engine has been switched off.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe bolts attaching the left-hand and right-hand seatbelts to the car body may loosen.In the case of a loose bolt, the risk of injury would be increased in the event of an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Other; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
How often does the 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter fail its MOT?
Why they failed: the share of failed tests with at least one fault in each area (a test can fail on several). Cars first registered in 2016, tested in Great Britain in 2023; first registration is usually, but not always, the model year. Source: DVSA anonymised MOT tests and results, Open Government Licence v3.0.
What do 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter owners report?
12 of the 91 complaints, the most recent for the most-reported components, as the owners wrote them. NHTSA removes names and VINs; long reports are trimmed. CarHooq has not verified individual claims.
Unshielded rear-center generator exhaust pipe positioned with approx 12 in clearance above the ground, ignited the exterior of vehicle when generator operated, causing total loss. My safety as well as my pets was put at great risk due to this design and lack of shielding. The problem has not been reproduced of confirmed by dealer or independent service center, however the fact of such pipe getting hot, and nbeing related to the generator was recognized by the dealer. There were no warning lamps, warning stickers near the electronic start switch in the vehicle; no messages or other symptoms of…
Had 2 rims develop cracks causing loss of air pressure in tires. 1st occurred at approx. 45000 miles (2019), 2nd occurred at 110000 (2023). Both failures occurred to area of rim where welds to lock in center (with lug holes) on outer rim (where tire sits) are situated. Both failures manifested as small air leak then suddenly crack increases in size dramatically to where tire can only hold air for a few hours before deflating fully
The check engine light came on in the Sprinter van. There is a Hissing noise coming from the engine when accelerating. The Sprinter van loses speed when on the highway. The vehicle could not keep up with traffic on the road. The Mercedes Benz dealer, Ft. Mitchell, Kentucky has inspected the vehicle and stated that it has a defective intake manifold. This vehicle has 140,000 miles at this time. At this time the van has not been repaired, the cost is $3132.77
The contact owns a 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V003000 (Air Bags), 19V004000 (Air Bags), and 20V663000 (Steering) however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repairs. The dealer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
The contact owns a 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500. The contact stated that while driving at 30 MPH, the ABS warning light and the electronic stability control warning lights illuminated. The contact also stated that the motorhome was making abnormal clunking sounds. The contact was able to continue to drive at less than 30 MPH. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and advised the contact that one of the wheels must have failed to patch the ground. The manufacturer advised the contact to turn the vehicle on and off three times using the ignition key for the warning lights to…
trucks cut speed limit 65 to 10 normal highway i do understood %35 degrees slow down but its only %2 degrees uprise there is no power at engine rpm is shows less then 1 rpm and even if press the gas pedal all the way the truck does not accelerate like truck is lock right there very dangers any one drive back of me they are not accept that much speed change they are in dangers scarr to drive truck be couse same one get git back of truck and can get kill
There is a known issue and recall for wheel speed sensors on Mercedes Sprinter 3500 models. However, this same issue applied to 2500 models also. Along with other RV owners, I have just experienced this problem. I was in city traffic when all the sudden multiple warning lights came on: "ESP, visit workshop", "Brake force distribution, visit workshop", ABS warning light, ESP, warning light, collision prevention malfunction warning light, check engine light with fault code U0416. The presence of all these errors, beeping, red messages sounds extremely scary to any driver. The fact that it says…
The contact owns a 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V042000 (Electronic Stability Control) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that while driving over a railroad track at a slow speed, the vehicle independently accelerated with the ABS, check engine, and traction control warning lights illuminated. The contact was able to safely stop the vehicle and shut-off the vehicle. Due to the failure, the contact had the vehicle towed to the dealer. Due to the parts for the repair not being available…
The contact owns a 2016 Mercedes-Benz 2500. The contact stated while driving 21 mph, the vehicle independently accelerated when the brake pedal was depressed. The contact was not able to control the vehicle however, the contact was able to shift the vehicle into neutral to stop the vehicle. The contact stated there was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to a local dealer nor an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact was relating the failure to faulty wheel speed sensors. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The…
THE WHEEL SPEED SENSORS ON THIS VEHICLE HAVE BEEN REPLACED FOUR TIMES IN 15000 MOLES. WHEN THE SENSOR FAILS THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY SHUDDERS TO A LOS SPEED WHICH CAN CREATE A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION FOR MYSELF AND MY FAMILY
WHEEL SPEED SENSORS KEEP FAILING. I HAVE HAD EIGHT SENSORS FAIL IN THREE YEARS OF OWNERSHIP. TRANSMISSION SHIFTS ERRATICALLY, SPEED SURGES, ABS, CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AND BRAKING IS IMPAIRED. THIS HAPPENS WHEN VEHICLE IS IN MOTION.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 MERCEDES-BENZ SPRINTER 3500. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V003000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT CONTACTED TROPHY MERCEDES-BENZ OF VALENCIA (23355 VALENCIA BLVD, SANTA CLARITA, CA 91355, (661) 753-5555) WHERE IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT PARTS WERE NOT YET AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
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2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter: questions owners ask
Is the 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter reliable?
NHTSA data alone cannot rate reliability, but it shows what owners reported. Owners filed 91 complaints with NHTSA about the 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter; the most common categories were air bags (21, 23.1%), service brakes (18, 19.8%), power train (16, 17.6%). There are 16 safety recalls. 3 complaints mention a crash, 3 mention a fire, 6 injuries were reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter?
Across 91 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the categories mentioned most often are air bags (23.1% of complaints), service brakes (19.8% of complaints), power train (17.6% of complaints), vehicle speed control (16.5% of complaints), electronic stability control (esc) (14.3% of complaints). One complaint can name several components.
Does the 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 16 recalls for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter; the most recent (campaign 21V042000, 2021-02-03) concerns Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Control Module. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer; check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Why are the ABS and stability control lights on in my 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter?
16 of the 91 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (17.6%) describe ABS, traction or stability control warnings or faults. One owner wrote: "Wheel speed sensors keep failing. i have had eight sensors fail in three years of ownership. transmission shifts erratically, speed surges, abs, check engine light and braking is impaired. this happens when vehicle is in motion." (NHTSA complaint 11390889, January 2021). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why is the check engine light on in my 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter?
8 of the 91 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (8.8%) describe the check engine light coming on. One owner wrote: "The check engine light came on in the Sprinter van. There is a Hissing noise coming from the engine when accelerating. The Sprinter van loses speed when on the highway. The vehicle could not keep up with traffic on the road. The Mercedes Benz dealer, Ft." (NHTSA complaint 11532688, July 2023). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why does my 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter transmission jerk, shudder or shift hard?
4 of the 91 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (4.4%) describe harsh, jerky or delayed transmission shifting or shuddering. One owner wrote: "The wheel speed sensors on this vehicle have been replaced four times in 15000 moles. when the sensor fails the vehicle suddenly shudders to a los speed which can create a very dangerous situation for myself and my family" (NHTSA complaint 11414039, April 2021). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why do multiple warning lights come on at once in my 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter?
4 of the 91 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (4.4%) describe several dashboard warning lights coming on at the same time. One owner wrote: "There is a known issue and recall for wheel speed sensors on Mercedes Sprinter 3500 models. However, this same issue applied to 2500 models also. Along with other RV owners, I have just experienced this problem." (NHTSA complaint 11440448, November 2021). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why does my 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter accelerate unexpectedly or surge?
3 of the 91 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (3.3%) describe unexpected or sudden acceleration, or surging. One owner wrote: "Wheel speed sensors keep failing. i have had eight sensors fail in three years of ownership. transmission shifts erratically, speed surges, abs, check engine light and braking is impaired. this happens when vehicle is in motion." (NHTSA complaint 11390889, January 2021). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Check your own Sprinter
Counts are a starting point, not a verdict: popular models collect more complaints because more of them are on the road, and NHTSA does not verify individual reports. To see whether a recall is still open on your car, enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls (U.S.) or your registration at check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk (UK). Had a safety problem? Report it to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations and recalls.
Data: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation recall and complaint databases (public domain), DVSA anonymised MOT results (Open Government Licence v3.0), DVSA vehicle recalls (Open Government Licence v3.0), EU Safety Gate alerts (© European Union), retrieved October 25, 2026. Model year 2016 only; combines NHTSA's entries for SPRINTER 1500, SPRINTER 2500, SPRINTER 3500 and SPRINTER 4500.