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EJF04
Trad climber
boulder, co
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Topic Author's Original Post - Sep 28, 2014 - 07:52pm PT
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Hey all,
Just wondering if anyone out there has a dodge sprinter? I just have a few questions about how it is to own one. Send me a message if you'd like to help answer a few simple questions like realistic gas mileage, how it is in the snow, general maintenance costs, etc.
Thanks in advanced!
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ionlyski
Trad climber
Kalispell, Montana
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Sep 28, 2014 - 09:55pm PT
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Yes, I have a 2008 Dodge Sprinter 3500, long wheel base 170", the tall version. Bought in new in 08.
Mileage a bit under the usual claims, I'm about 16 mpg @ 70 miles an hour. Mine is the dual rear wheel model, somewhat heavier than the model 2500 which gets a little better mileage.
Thing totally sucks in the snow. It's not that the machine isn't there to handle the conditions rather it's all the high-tech automated safety shyte that gets in the way of your driving and traction. That fancy system just does not work and you cannot over ride it. Basically when it detects any wheel slipping or spinning a little, it starts applying brakes. I have gotten stuck in flat parking lots with black ice.
Other than that, it's an unreal machine. I've done all my own work on it and it's not too bad. Yeah, some parts are pretty spendy.
Arne
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Crazy Bat
Sport climber
Birmingham, AL & Seweanee, TN
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Sep 28, 2014 - 09:58pm PT
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I have friends who bought one. They were not happy with the 2wd off road capabilities. Not sure if they offer different rear ends, but they wound up with issues with a spinning tire when they hit a slick spot in some mud. But they do still love it.
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Studly
Trad climber
WA
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Sep 28, 2014 - 10:45pm PT
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Chevy Cargo Express van with AWD. Best rig ever.
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rwedgee
Ice climber
canyon country,CA
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Sep 28, 2014 - 10:46pm PT
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I have gotten stuck in sand and snow an inch deep. It is fine on firm ground and I've done some pretty steep dirt hills....as long as the ground is firm, otherwise forget it. I get a little over 22mpg at 70mph but any faster and you lose quickly. The 28 gallon tank gives you ~600 mile range. Mine is an '06 2500 short wheelbase and has the inline 5 cylinder and a K&N air filter. I think in '07 they made a bigger engine the 6 cylinder. I absolutely love it and wish I had bought one sooner. Haven't really had any problems with it, just don't go to the dealer.
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mikeyschaefer
climber
Yosemite
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Sep 29, 2014 - 03:01am PT
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I've got an '05 118" wheelbase with the high roof. Had it for 6 years and put 105k on it. No real problems with mine. Just normal maintenance. I get roughly 22.5 mpg with mine if I drive 70. I've gotten over 24 if I keep it to 60mpg. Overall I'm really happy with it.
They definitely aren't made for the snow or any slippery terrain. But they seem to do fine on bumpy dirt roads.
Werner is correct that parts and labor do a cost a lot of money.
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EJF04
Trad climber
boulder, co
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Topic Author's Reply - Sep 29, 2014 - 07:51am PT
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Awesome thanks everyone, so basically do not expect anything out of it for snow/ice. Also, two more questions;
Those that do the work yourself, would it be reasonable to read a book or do some research and fix it? Or is it much more complicated than that (sounds like it may be a little difficult based on the electronic stuff ionlyski mentioned). I know how to do car oil changes but haven't had to do much more, and I have done a reasonable amount of work on dirt bikes by reading and researching.
And, how many miles do you have on yours and how many do you expect?
Thanks again.
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BuddhaStalin
climber
Truckee, CA
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Sep 29, 2014 - 08:23am PT
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Curious, were any of these reports of poor traction coming from people running on snow tires or running on the standard tires it comes on? It needs snow tires to do well in the snow, otherwise, the traction and traction control system will be simply outdone.
Ive heard many reports from people that they do okay in winter on snow tires, but not great.
I also hear people trying to convince me that there is a 4wd model, there is not. People misinterpret the dually model as somehow being 4wd.
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ionlyski
Trad climber
Kalispell, Montana
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Sep 29, 2014 - 09:02am PT
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As long as you have traction you can cruise through some really rough terrain. Mines got miles of ground clearance. Bridger Jacks, no problem over the slick rock 4-wheeler roads. But as soon as a tires slips, you're done. I keep planning to get a beefy set of chains for the desert sand. It really is unbelievable where you can take it with traction. The 3500 model has much higher clearance.
As noted above starting in 2007, bigger engine, better tranny a bit more Murican though people really like the older efficient models too. But as to snow tires, etc. sure you want good tires but that doesn't make it good on snow traction.
They really are laid out well for working on. Most repairs you can do and there is a great forum for mechanical help. Start getting into diesel fuel pumps and solenoids and it could get hairy but even then I think they make sense.
Edit-I know Werner helped a buddy work on a problem that sounded difficult-electrical maybe?
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rwedgee
Ice climber
canyon country,CA
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Sep 29, 2014 - 09:05am PT
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http://www.roadandtrack.com/go/first-looks/4x4-mercedes-sprinter-van
Mine has a bit of turbo lag then it hits and can break the tires loose in snow then the traction control shuts it down. As far as routine maintenance goes the trans fluid needs to be changed every 25-30k miles. Mercedes calls the trans a "lifetime" sealed trans but it's not. There is not dipstick as they consider it a tool. WTF ?? Mine had a leak around the sending unit and the dealer told me that it's a sealed lifetime unit....not if it runs out of fluid. Common knowledge on the forums that a $1 O ring has destroyed many $5k transmissions. Use Shell ATF 134 not the $60/quart synthetics they tell you that you need. This is what my Mercedes dealer and the guy who rebuilds their transmissions use.
I was a bit worried that mine had 100k miles when I bought it until one of my climbing partners said his ambulance company has a dozen Sprinters that have from 400-800k miles. Game on !!
Get your own dipstick
http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p2050601.m570.l1313.TR3.TRC0.A0.H0.Xmercedes+dipstick&_nkw=mercedes+dipstick&_sacat=0
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i'm gumby dammit
Sport climber
da ow
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Sep 29, 2014 - 09:07am PT
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we have an '03 that we bought with 200k miles. 158' wheelbase high roof. mostly done converting it for camping and have had some awesome trips already. hear many tales of people getting them up to 600k with a new tranny around 300-400k. have heard horror stories about handling in snow but haven't tried ourselves yet. and we're about to find out about parts and labor
have figured it about to be around 22+ mpg even with panels on top
edit- word is there will be an awd available n 2015 models in the states. has been available for a while in europe
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i'm gumby dammit
Sport climber
da ow
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Sep 29, 2014 - 09:46am PT
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Shihtty mileage, expensive parts, and crappy handling in loose conditions....
Why not just pull an awesome tent/caravan? 22mpg for an rv is not crappy. sportsmobiles get like 15 or less. a truck big enough to pull a caravan is gonna be in the same range (15-18mpg) and worse when towing.
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apogee
climber
Technically expert, safe belayer, can lead if easy
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Sep 29, 2014 - 09:51am PT
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This is a very useful thread. Thanks to the OP for the question.
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Dapper Dan
Trad climber
Menlo Park
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Sep 29, 2014 - 10:40am PT
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I wonder if you can put a locking diff in the rear ? Anyone know if ARB makes an air locker for that puppy?
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Charlie D.
Trad climber
Western Slope, Tahoe Sierra
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Sep 29, 2014 - 11:01am PT
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We love our Dodge Sprinter. Ha, we could have paid an additional $150 and got the Mercedes identification/brand/logo!!! Anyway the mileage is great IMO, we'll get around 19 miles/gallon in the hills and in excess of 22+ mpg out on the highway if we keep the speed down.
I drive my Subaru in the winter for skiing and have yet to pull off a winter road trip in the van. That said we've got chains for the beast and have thought about these guys; http://www.onspot.com/
The 4WD option will be popular once it arrives in the US but I'm sure the mileage will be compromised.
One thing about them is they sure maintain their value given the popularity and demand.
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Dirka
Trad climber
Hustle City
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Sep 29, 2014 - 12:19pm PT
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They're kind of pricey on gas but handle like a champ. Drove one as an ambulance for a year. Loved it.
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EJF04
Trad climber
boulder, co
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Topic Author's Reply - Sep 29, 2014 - 02:26pm PT
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Wow, all of this has been extremely helpful and makes me significantly more optimistic about the Sprinter. Thanks again and if anyone has any more information to offer or consider please throw it up here.
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Splater
climber
Grey Matter
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Sep 29, 2014 - 06:03pm PT
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Onspot chains:
Q7: How much does the ONSPOT system cost?
A: Approximate pricing for vehicles WITH air brakes is $1595. per drive axle for the kit plus freight and installation. Systems WITHOUT air brakes are approximately $2075. for the kit plus Freight and installation.
Q16: How much weight will the system add to the vehicle?
A: The ONSPOT system typically weighs 125 pounds per drive axle for a large vehicle with air brakes.
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dee ee
Mountain climber
citizen of planet Earth
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Sep 29, 2014 - 06:37pm PT
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I have an '07, V6 3.0 liter turbo diesel.
I love it. I have gotten between 20 mpg(every day of the week and at 80+ mph all day) and 28 (in Yellowstone with 45 mph speed limit).
It is not a dirt road vehicle. If you have a bunch of weight in the back it helps for traction. It is just too long for good traction even though it has a really tight turning radius. I have a feeling it would be OK in the snow with a bunch of extra weight in the back and with chains.
I've been on a couple of dirt roads where I was pretty gripped. But, I have yet to get stuck. It has really good low end torque.
I can easily sleep the family of 3 and one dog and carry as much camping gear as it's dimensions allow and is humanly possible to stuff in.
Sprinter's rule.
I don't think it is mechanically that complicated. The engine is totally accessible, the suspension etc. is the same as my old Dodge Van (1999). It's not like a modern vehicle where you look in the engine compartment and can't ID a single component.
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apogee
climber
Technically expert, safe belayer, can lead if easy
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Sep 29, 2014 - 06:42pm PT
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What is the deal with the transition of the Sprinter from Dodge to Mercedes Benz? When did it happen?
Is there a preference between the two manufacturers, in terms of price, performance, or repairs?
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dee ee
Mountain climber
citizen of planet Earth
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Sep 29, 2014 - 06:51pm PT
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Love it!
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WBraun
climber
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Sep 29, 2014 - 08:09pm PT
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I don't think it is mechanically that complicated.
Just wait till you have to work on that engine.
Be prepared to have torch ready for the front grill bolts on the diesels.
The bolts and fasteners have Loctite on them because the diesels vibrate.
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BuddhaStalin
climber
Truckee, CA
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Sep 29, 2014 - 08:33pm PT
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Dont forget, the Ford Transit (not the Connect) is here, and its right on par with the Sprinter.
Do yourself a favor and dont work on your sprinter yourself.
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BuddhaStalin
climber
Truckee, CA
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Sep 29, 2014 - 08:35pm PT
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Sprinter was never an actual dodge, it was leftover from their previous affiliation, its alwys been a mercedes despite its badging, it was badge engineered into the didge sprinter and also a freightliner sprinter, all being the same.
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ionlyski
Trad climber
Kalispell, Montana
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Sep 29, 2014 - 09:03pm PT
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Do yourself a favor and dont work on your sprinter yourself.
Take it to somebody else if you want but don't be afraid to work on them. Piece of cake to change your oil and fuel filters. I smacked a deer going 70 when I first bought mine and totaled the whole front end clear back to the radiator and A/C condenser. Ordered all the parts and snapped them back together myself. The quarter panel came primed and I matched it with white. The whole thing looks and drives perfectly after 6 years and I saved $4000 bucks at least. Course I still spent $4k hitting the deer.
All in all, I've found everything easy to work on. I've heard brakes are straightforward too.
Arne
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i'm gumby dammit
Sport climber
da ow
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Sep 29, 2014 - 09:04pm PT
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Sprinter was never an actual dodge, it was leftover from their previous affiliation, its alwys been a mercedes despite its badging, it was badge engineered into the didge sprinter and also a freightliner sprinter, all being the same. this. open the hood on a dodge and everything underneath has mercedes logos.
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ionlyski
Trad climber
Kalispell, Montana
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Sep 29, 2014 - 09:07pm PT
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The version I have (2008 3500 diesel) is completely Mercedes built. Not a Dodge part on it. They were shipped from Germany with the driveline disconnected to the Dodge and Freightliner dealers, who had the contract to sell, service and supply parts.
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BuddhaStalin
climber
Truckee, CA
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Sep 30, 2014 - 01:08am PT
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Yup, and now that chrysler and merc arent affiliated anymore, they use a fiat van, which is also not dodge, just badge engineered....and FWD.
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justthemaid
climber
Jim Henson's Basement
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Sep 30, 2014 - 07:30am PT
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bump
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Wormly81
Trad climber
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Sep 30, 2014 - 10:05am PT
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I have a 2011 144" and use it all winter ice climbing in the Northeast with Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 snow tires. I have had no problems. I keep it filled with gear to keep the weight over the rear tires. I have a set of chains I keep in the back which I have never needed. I've pulled over once in conditions where it wouldn't have been smart to be driving any car on the roads and just went to sleep and finished the trip early the next morning. Things to think about include making sure that if you are pulling into a nasty parking spot or unplowed road, that it's uphill.
I'm actually more concerned in the summer about getting it stuck in deep sand or mud without the Nokian's on. That being said, its gone out west and back twice, and there hasn't been a trailhead it wasn't able to make it to including the CA Needles among others. Think of it as a two wheel pickup truck. That's what it is and that's the type of performance you get (although it is heavier so you need to be overly cautious about sand).
With regards to cost, in my opinion it's a luxury. That being said, there are few things that bring me as much pleasure as having a rolling condo and gear closet ready to go at anytime.
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Charlie D.
Trad climber
Western Slope, Tahoe Sierra
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Sep 30, 2014 - 01:39pm PT
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there are few things that bring me as much pleasure as having a rolling condo and gear closet ready to go at anytime
Amen!
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Marshall
climber
bay area
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Dec 22, 2015 - 09:40am PT
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Bump.
Can anyone comment on Sprinter reliability relative to, say, the Ford Transit? I realize that Sprinter is the van de jure for the climbing glitterati, but various web forums suggest worse reliability compared to current competitors.
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tradmanclimbs
Ice climber
Pomfert VT
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Dec 22, 2015 - 07:33pm PT
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I had a durango rental that had that traction control. Got stuck on flat ground. hideous!
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dee ee
Mountain climber
Of THIS World (Planet Earth)
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Dec 23, 2015 - 03:56pm PT
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At M.ville.
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BuddhaStalin
climber
Truckee, CA
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Dec 23, 2015 - 04:17pm PT
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2010 and newer are MB.
They actually have always been mercedes, they were just badge engineered as Dodge and also as a Freightliner. The new big dodge van like thocking has is a Fiat, not sure if it uses a dodge engine, but might also be fiat powered. Chrysler uses their partners to make what they dont know how to make.
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