Launched almost thirty years ago, the Mercedes Sprinter is marketed in as many countries and has sold over four million units. A light commercial vehicle par excellence, the Sprinter can be adapted to any professional use. In fact, the combination of different chassis, tonnages, equipment, body styles and transmission modes makes it possible to produce over a thousand different versions of the vehicle straight from the factory! The versatile Sprinter is even ideal for conversion into a camper van.
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What makes the Mercedes Sprinter so special?
Sprinter technical features
The first generation of the Sprinter, from 1995 to 2006, mainly featured rear-wheel drive as standard. This means that engine power is transmitted to the rear wheels, as with most light commercial vehicles of this era. Depending on the type of engine, however, some models offer all-wheel drive as an option. In this case, all the vehicle's wheels are driven.
It's not until the third generation, launched in 2018, that front-wheel drive is available. The new Sprinter also sees the discontinuation of the petrol engine, but now offers an electric version in addition to the diesel.
Mercedes Sprinter gearboxes
Mercedes Sprinter gearboxes come as standard with a five-speed manual gearbox for the first generation, which is then upgraded to six speeds for the second generation.
The first generation features a Mercedes innovation: the Sprintshift system. This six-speed manual gearbox is automated by sensors controlling the clutch. The driver can change gear by moving the gearshift up or down, without needing a clutch pedal: the vehicle is therefore clutchless. A fully automatic mode is also available.
This Sprintshift system has since been replaced by another Mercedes technology: the 7G Tronic. This is the first automatic gearbox to offer seven gears to the general public, equipped with an electronic control system capable of adapting to the driver's preferences.
Troubleshooting the Mercedes Sprinter gearbox
Identifying telltale signs
There are a few warning signs that can alert you to a problem with your gearbox. When you encounter one, it's essential to act without delay, as an unresolved fault is likely to cause lasting damage to your vehicle. These signals include, but are not limited to:
- Excessive vibrations ;
- Clutch pedal or gearshift resistance;
- Unusual noises, such as creaking or humming ;
- Lack of engine responsiveness after a gear change;
- A smell of burnt rubber, especially when starting up;
- Oil under the vehicle.
If you notice one or more of these elements, contact your garage.
Mercedes Sprinter gearbox repair
A gearbox is a complex system, and determining the precise origin of a fault can only be done after removal and careful inspection.
Advanced corrosion is the main cause of bearing failure. Located at the ends of drive shafts, their role is to maintain the rotational movement generated by the motor.
If you've spotted a leak under your Mercedes Sprinter, or the gearbox oil is thick and black, the gears at the heart of the gearbox may be insufficiently lubricated as a result. Another visual indicator of this type of failure are the pinions, which may be damaged.
SPI seals are likely to be the cause of such a leak: their role is to seal the system. Under the effect of heat, these seals harden, and can rupture while damaging other components.
Gearbox replacement
Only a professional mechanic can determine with certainty whether your gearbox is repairable or needs to be completely replaced. If your Mercedes Sprinter is in the latter case, EDEN BOÎTES is there for you!
To avoid buying a factory gearbox at a prohibitive price, EDEN BOITES offers thousands of them as standard exchanges.
A reconditioned box is the guarantee of new for the price of used: each one has been scrupulously dismantled and inspected, part by part, before being cleaned and reassembled.
To replace your old Mercedes Benz Sprinter 2.2 CDi gearbox, for example, first note the code on your current gearbox (found on the oil pan or label) and check the part number.
Need help or further information? Our advisors are at your service, by telephone or via the online quotation form , providing you with your registration number: fast response guaranteed!
