Pet Peeves with your Sprinter

[sikwan]

I know the Sprinter is a great vehicle, but like anything it's not perfect. So what are you pet peeves?

I'll list the ones that I can think of now.

1. Side mirrors that vibrate.
2. Sun shade that doesn't swing out.
3. Can't restart the engine without going to the key ignition "0" position.
4. The passenger window switch "light" goes out when the window is rolled up using the driver's side switch.
5. The famous transmission RSN (Rumble Strip Noise). Mine happens consistently at 20mph.

:D Seek

[Altered Sprinter]

I know the Sprinter is a great vehicle, but like anything it's not perfect. So what are you pet peeves?

I'll list the ones that I can think of now.

1. Side mirrors that vibrate.
Mine don't vibrate, plastic
2. Sun shade that doesn't swing out.
Side windows optioned for 95% UV block-out
Optioned full tint wind deflectors, cool unit
3. Can't restart the engine without going to the key ignition "0" position.
Agree it's a pain
4. The passenger window switch "light" goes out when the window is rolled up using the driver's side switch.
Gave the electric windows the flick for manual
5. The famous transmission RSN (Rumble Strip Noise). Mine happens consistently at 20mph.
Manual no issues:thumbup:
Instrument cluster (day time viewing) has the worst lighting arrangement I have ever seen, on any vehicle.
New one no problemo', even if your half blind.

:D Seek
But one thing that does bug me is how the dam thing jumps about like a Kangaroo when it's empty, need pump up shocks:thumbup:
In all honesty It has been the best of at least twenty new units I have owned since 1972, The Sprinter is not perfect! But the new one 2006-2007 is awesome. Your in heaven with a 2003 C Class Mercedes, Soooooooo quite, the engine sound from the V6 has the unique Mercedes rumble at 160 KLM the magic ton.
Trade them in for the experience of a lifetime, and enjoy the thrill of the hunt! when you blow away all opposition in a Mercedes-Benz:tongue:
Richard
484

[hkpierce]

Compilation of Pet Peeves from YahooSprinterVan


9.5 quarts Now what are you going to do with that last pint of motor oil? Most dealers just dump it in!
15" wheels Something so big equipped with tires that are so small? Fine in EU with lots of tire suppliers. But what was DC thinking for the US market?
ASSYST reset Put your hands through the steering wheel while turning the key to exactly position 2 or 0 while counting to ten or it chimes. Oh, you screwed up? Too bad, back to default.
Anonymous A Freightliner Sprinter that loses its "Freightliner" emblem. As the time for Freightliner dropping Sprinters approaches, it seems old Freightliners are, in turn, shedding their Freightliner branding, leaving 5 or 6 dots of construction adhesive visible. Probably related to "Orphan" Sprinter syndrome (see below)
Are you a Bosch, ATE or Teves Sprinter? Most automobile manufacturers purchase parts and assemblies from others. DC is no different. But the manufacturers usually require the supplied parts be interchangeable. Not so with Mercedes. Sprinter brakes as supplied by at least three different suppliers, each using a different brake pad design that are not interchangeable. Crawl under the van and look at the front and rear brakes for the stamp. Must take off the wheel for the front. Information is not in the VIN records.
Buzz-buzz Must be the electric door locks on the fritz again because of a bump in the road, an oversensitive control card, or just for the heck of it.
Clock Good German time chips are so much superior to those cheap Asian ones. Who cares about a little loss in time? Don't you have a Seiko to keep your appointments by?
Dodge Management suffers from "not invented here" syndrome; they can't figure out why people flip out of the RAM 3500.
Driver's side bracket Now what in the world is that thing for anyway? At least it has a part number in case you need to replace it!
Driver's side cup holders Put your head below the level of the dashboard while reaching for the cup in the cupholder
Driving south in the morning; driving north in the evening Get an eyeful of sun as the visor doesn't rotate to the left
Dualee's 42" clearance US standard is 48" minimum clearance between wheel wells. Was DC trying to maintain the Sprinter's lean and svelte profile?
External Air Filter Air Mass Sensor Maybe it works when the van is running at 2300 rpm and 70mph. Just open the hood and see!
Find the switch Must be hiding behind the shifter or the stearing wheel
Freightliner Pity the Sprinter Freightliner dealer - promised the Sprinter to make up for massive losses when DC's big-rig marketing strategy back-fired, at the cost of million or so per dealer and two computer system changes [first to Mercedes, then to Dodge], only to have all the 2001 and most of the 2002 inventory sold out from under them by DC to FedEx and UPS, then 2003 Dodge takes more inventory away, and now Freightliner is to lose the whole Sprinter franchise to Dodge in 2006. No wonder car dealers have such a bad reputation!
Fresh air Only filtered air is permitted to circulate inside a Sprinter. That is why no windows in the back open unless you order us to do it.
Fuel filter Hard to tell that Mercedes has been doing this probably longer than any other manufacturer. An easy task as performed by most others; for the Sprinter unreasonably difficult. But, never fear, they came up with a partial solution - at 4 times the cost of the first try!
Ideographs Forget Guttenburg and movable type - it is back to picture drawings to communicate. Now how would a German picture a driver's side lock?
Insulation You mean insulation is intended to reduce heat transmission? And it can be used to deaden sound also? DC thinks it is just intended as filler to back up the liners! And you don't need much to do that job.
Key jamming The sport of finding the location for the ignition in the dark, and jamming the key into the gap between the ignition switch and steering wheel cowling instead
Lazy fuel gauge You only really need to know when the tank is nearing empty, and the gauge does a good job at that.
Mercedes - USA We have no association with something as low class as a van - or their customers.
Moveable seats Certainly the seats are moveable - in and out. Why would anyone possibly want to move the seats to a different location within the van? Unimagineable.
Note clip Great for the driver to practice multi-tasking, as the note clip is too far away to read any attached notes, too far away to reach, and needs two hands to operate.
One eyed Sprinter Get that dashing pirate look when one or both headlights die. Headlights seem to have a short lifespan with Sprinters.
Orphan Sprinters 2001 through late 2003 Freightliner Sprinters, whose ECMs were not readable by Dodge dealers certified to service Sprinters. West Coast owners of these Orphan Sprinters didn't even have orphanages to go to, as there were no certified Freightliner or Dodge Sprinter dealers in California or Nevada for these years' Sprinters. [Note: Dodge now claims to have the equipment to read 2001-2003 Sprinters' ECUs.]
Ouch The sound of someone getting a hernia moving the passenger seats in or out of the van!
Paper disposal Sprinter comes with its own waste paper disposer - just put any flat sheets of paper/maps in the lower door storage areas, and the paper will magically slip out of the slot coveniently provided at the bottom. [Fix with duct tape.]
Passenger's side cupholders Spread your legs to use these cupholders
Ping-ping The sound of another chip on the hood for those without clear coat paint jobs or paint protection film
Rear passenger seat cup holders Who draws the unlucky straw and has to sit between a cup holder and its user?
Rumble Strip No need to drive over a rumble strip to have that rumble strip feeling! Sprinters of all years have this feature built in as the electronic transmission in low load situations hunts for the optimal gear. DC denies the vibration exists or that there is a problem. No known cure. See YahooSprinterVan Post 23857 and thread.
Sergeant Shultz "I know nothing!!!" The response from DC at all levels with regard to long-term issues like tire valves, EGRs, and rumble strip vibration.
Shearing pulleys If in a 2005 at highway speeds, don't get clipped by shearing crankcase pulleys! (and hope it flies off in a downward direction!!!!)
Speedometer We know that Big Brother is watching. So we programed the computer to make you think that you are going 3 mph faster than you really are so you won't get a ticket. Isn't that thoughtful of us?
Sprinter Watershed That massive windshield and hi-top collects large quantities of rain and debris (especially in fall), all washing downhill into the hidden valley behind the hood. The valley floods, as there are only two small subterranean exits for the water, and they often clog, creating ponds for algea, protozoa, tadpoles and other swamp life to grow. See YahooSprinterVan Post 30196 for more.
Sprinter's Trailer lighting harness A brillant electrical engineering feat that provides a complicated and costly solution to a simple problem
The Hump The mole of a growth located on the back roof of a Sprinter that replaced the ineffective interior mount Bump AC in early models.
Transponder key range The Sprinter is so big it blocks reception of its own transponder key when approached from the rear; from the front or side 20 feet on a good day
Vibrating driver's floor board Foot massage provided by 2004's vibrating fuel lines!
Washing Invest in ladders and scaffolding to reach the top and roof. Or take the philosophy that what you can't see won't matter.
What is a lumbar support? It is the hand-squeezing balloon thing DC provides to give drivers and passengers tension relief. Certainly never works anything else in the seats.
Where is your transit? NO, not the Ford Transit If you are low on fuel, better be traveling, parking on level ground, or near a diesel pump, or face the DREADED REPRIME.

[chaozz]

Compilation of Pet Peeves from YahooSprinterVan


Key jamming The sport of finding the location for the ignition in the dark, and jamming the key into the gap between the ignition switch and steering wheel cowling instead
.

Is this why my 06 comes with 2 spare key and tumblers
for the ignition.I asked the sales man he had no idea
and has always wondered why they where included.

those seats even with the so called luxury upgraded
seats my butt goes numb after 100 miles of driving.

[soflo316]

funny, my 06 came with 2 spare keys (4 electronic keys total) plus the 2 tumblers I found in the ashtray. I just assumed that they needed to fix a lock or something and left the old ones in there!

[Altered Sprinter]

Sprinter's US Style!

Az DR Z would say.

Gooday' Gueten Tag" depending on the time zone of day and the never never Guten Morgen or Gute Naught.
Or even as the French may say which is appropriate for the Sprinter "Good Moaning"
U'mmm. very interesting as SGT Schultz would remark But Dumb' from the sitcom Laugh in ,,, sock it to me here come D'e Judge.

You know i do feel for you guys and all the issues that The U.S.A Sprinter's have had.
Especially when the Aussie Sprinter's are almost 100% defect and trouble free since their introduction in 1998.
So I would say "ASK" the Famous DR Z! Why is it so:lol:
Questions and answers to popular topics for Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge including employee pricing plus incentive programs: AskDrZ.com (https://www.askdrz.com/)
Richard
PS" Sock it to him, sock it to him, sock it to him.:yell:

[chaozz]

sent in a question about the key and tumblers
and the 3 mph error on all sprinters
which my 2006 has.
but i dont have those odd noises..
"well yet"

[chaozz]

sent in a question about the key and tumblers
and the 3 mph error on all sprinters
which my 2006 has.
but i dont have those odd noises..
"well yet"
oh this is good haha they replied already
Thanks for contacting Dr.Z. regarding your 2006 Dodge Sprinter. Your message has been forwarded to us for response.

The information you are seeking is unavailable from DaimlerChrysler Motors Corporation. You may wish to consult with the service department of your local dealership.


ok you put the key and tumblers in my car and dont know why.
and for years the speedo is off by 3mph and that is to tough to
answer.

[rvdriverca]

The one's I love are, heater 3 knobs 4 switches and not one that will shut the dash air vents, I have since learned that you can set the cruise control tie of steering wheel and get up so you can close or open the far right one. the one speed intermittent wiper with the switch on the wrong side of the steering wheel. And taking about the steering wheel, I was wondering if more spokes can be added to the top part as that is the only place I can hold the wheel comfortably, and that is just plain wrong since they have screwed up the bottom so well. And finaly the head light switch that by magic changes to high beam when you make left turn and use the signal, I have trim my finger nails all the time for that one.

[sikwan]

And finaly the head light switch that by magic changes to high beam when you make left turn and use the signal, I have trim my finger nails all the time for that one.

This irks me to no end too. :bash: :thumbdown:

[sikwan]

Compilation of Pet Peeves from YahooSprinterVan

Rumble Strip No need to drive over a rumble strip to have that rumble strip feeling! Sprinters of all years have this feature built in as the electronic transmission in low load situations hunts for the optimal gear. DC denies the vibration exists or that there is a problem. No known cure. See YahooSprinterVan Post 23857 and thread.

A possible fix...

http://www.sprinter-source.com/forum/showthread.php?t=626

...at least for me. :D

Seek

[Altered Sprinter]

I have to admit My sprinter has never had any mechanically issues! Hum' touch the faux wood dash
Electric sensors No problem as Mine are in neutral:bounce:
Did push the interior light button one late night, and it went ping and dam it hit me square in the head, what a shock, Fix was simple,after I fumbled for the parts behind the roof lining, One bit was in the far back of the van, man when the light escapes from it's holding pattern,that light goes ballistic,"Fair Dinkum. I would not lie" But took a little bit to work out why the cig lighter and radio went out? reset the code replaced the fuse.
Book said the fuse was under the steering column! Which it was, but the sticker under the drivers side seat's main fuse panel said it was there too? which it wasn't.
seamless windows on the cargo van! good one , Ok it's an extra to install windows if required, so you get the seamless rubber seals, what annoys me is the Ford transit is a better design and the option for them is seamless seams no rubber! Well if the Ford can work that one out! OK it's only a cosmetic thing, then Why can't Mercedes! Do the same? as they cost ten grand more per unit.
Apart from that, I have no problems , to write about:thumbup:
Richard

[BaywoodBill]

[QUOTE=hkpierce;1725]Compilation of Pet Peeves from YahooSprinterVan

Speedometer We know that Big Brother is watching. So we programed the computer to make you think that you are going 3 mph faster than you really are so you won't get a ticket. Isn't that thoughtful of us?



You know, after many hours of meditation and strenuous thought, I finally figured out why the speedometer registers the wrong speed: the darned stencil that paints the numbers on the dash is made wrong. All they have to do is to move the numbers just a little bit and the problem goes away.

[chaozz]

[QUOTE=hkpierce;1725]Compilation of Pet Peeves from YahooSprinterVan

Speedometer We know that Big Brother is watching. So we programed the computer to make you think that you are going 3 mph faster than you really are so you won't get a ticket. Isn't that thoughtful of us?



You know, after many hours of meditation and strenuous thought, I finally figured out why the speedometer registers the wrong speed: the darned stencil that paints the numbers on the dash is made wrong. All they have to do is to move the numbers just a little bit and the problem goes away.

that would cost millions to redo and would also cause someone
to think..
wont happen:tongue:

[BaywoodBill]

[QUOTE=BaywoodBill;2844]

that would cost millions to redo and would also cause someone
to think..
wont happen:tongue:

Quite true. I was thinking about future production. Sililarly, it would not be a simple task for an individual owner to dissamble the dash panel in order to repaint the numbers.

But, like the poster who suggested the speedo error was a scheme to help us keep to the limit, I offered the idea as a bit of humor.

[mtnmasher]

Worst remote key fob I've ever seen. Mercedes should be ashamed.

You can press the unlock button numerous times, and nothing happens. Then you press the lock button, and the doors UNLOCK!

In order to get the remote to behave properly, you've got to time your button presses exactly right, while ignoring the light on the remote.

The only thing the light on the remote means is that the battery in the remote isn't dead. It doesn't mean you've held the button down long enough. It doesn't mean the receiver has received the signal. It doesn't mean you've waited long enough between button presses.

This POS was designed by a complete idiot.

[xtraworx]

Don't think I saw this one posted -- no light in ignition key. Hard to find the hole in the dark.

[hkpierce]

Don't think I saw this one posted -- no light in ignition key. Hard to find the hole in the dark.

Sport of Key Jamming

[Altered Sprinter]

Sport of Key Jamming
Never too late, Mercedes saw the light and now it glows in the after dark, of the new generation Sprinters:thumbup:
Richard

[Scott_Mc]

...Hard to find the hole in the dark.

Sounds personal:smilewink:

[rvdriverca]

Yep, sure does!:smirk:

[jriordan]

I am surprised no one has mentioned the turbo resonator failures. I spoke with a guy this AM who has had 3 failures in 9,300 miles, the last one almost causing an 18 wheeler to hit him from behind and costing him 5 days in a motel waiting for repairs. That is after driving 118 miles to find a dealer that could service it in Mississippi. We love our Sprinter, the Forest River MB Cruiser RV, but suggest you guys change to the billet aluminum resonator eliminator.

[Altered Sprinter]

I am surprised no one has mentioned the turbo resonator failures. I spoke with a guy this AM who has had 3 failures in 9,300 miles, the last one almost causing an 18 wheeler to hit him from behind and costing him 5 days in a motel waiting for repairs. That is after driving 118 miles to find a dealer that could service it in Mississippi. We love our Sprinter, the Forest River MB Cruiser RV, but suggest you guys change to the billet aluminum resonator eliminator.
Thats been mentioned in another thread, If I had the time I'd pin it , but look about under turbo failure.
Richard

[Old Master]

turbo resonator failures...the billet aluminum resonator eliminator.

Can someone explain to this non-mechanically inclined Sprinter owner what this thing is, what the problem with it is, where I can obtain the repair part, how many $$$ it is, and whether or not I can install it myself? :idunno::professor:

Other than those questions, I'm pretty well up on the subject. :laughing:

Thanks!

John

[boatmangc]

So far my biggest beef is no cushion on the door armrest. Only 550 miles on it, gimme time!

[Altered Sprinter]

I am surprised no one has mentioned the turbo resonator failures. I spoke with a guy this AM who has had 3 failures in 9,300 miles, the last one almost causing an 18 wheeler to hit him from behind and costing him 5 days in a motel waiting for repairs. That is after driving 118 miles to find a dealer that could service it in Mississippi. We love our Sprinter, the Forest River MB Cruiser RV, but suggest you guys change to the billet aluminum resonator eliminator.

Can someone explain to this non-mechanically inclined Sprinter owner what this thing is, what the problem with it is, where I can obtain the repair part, how many $$$ it is, and whether or not I can install it myself? :idunno::professor:

Other than those questions, I'm pretty well up on the subject. :laughing:

Thanks!

John
Guys there is a few links to the turbo issues running between threads not in the correct placing so not an easy one to find, as Some are new to the forum, I'd suggest one looks at the highway of information that has been placed in the forum hopefully to prevent multiple threads on the same subject. looks like I'll have to set up a ready reference indicator on my data banks to link the sites in for members, to ask further questions
I'll pimp the master on this question to see if we can improve on it OK.

John Follow the link and it will have a direct link to the turbo replacement parts you would like more information on.
Page Two: no 16 0n the thread
Any one think of modify their ECU? - Page 2 - Sprinter-Forum.com (http://www.sprinter-source.com/forum/showthread.php?t=537&page=2)
Again in part this may help you guys as the failure is due to other problems that may effect the resonator failure
Richard
Dodge Sprinter Flaw in Resonator.jpg (http://www.sprinter-source.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=1169&stc=1&d=1172209571)

[sikwan]

Richard:

I moved the posts from the Adventure Mexico thread to here...

http://www.sprinter-source.com/forum/showthread.php?t=796

It'll look messy, but having links in threads that point to turbo resonator problem will help everyone even if they're not looking for it.

Thanks,
Seek

[Altered Sprinter]

Thanks:thumbup:
Richard

[michigandon]

Wanna know what I dislike about these vans more than anything????????

That your wife can use it to pack up all of her **** and leave you! :thumbdown:

Cause that's EXACTLY what happend to me a few weeks ago! :cry:

'Course, some of you guys might think that that's a good thing too. :smirk: I dunno.

[Altered Sprinter]

Wanna know what I dislike about these vans more than anything????????

That your wife can use it to pack up all of her **** and leave you! :thumbdown:

Cause that's EXACTLY what happend to me a few weeks ago! :cry:

'Course, some of you guys might think that that's a good thing too. :smirk: I dunno.
Not really it happened to me long, long time ago!never knew who won:thumbdown:
Richard

[stp57]

I just sold my old 1986 Dodge Ram van to a man in Houston who had the same thing happen to him. He had a new Sprinter 3500 & came home to find the van, his wife & belongings gone (she also burned his house down). He didn't find the van for 4 months, unfortunately, the repo guy found it first. Now he's driving my old van with 212K miles on it. Sad story, but he will end up with another Sprinter in time, I'm sure.
Steve

[michigandon]

Dayum, at least my house wasn't burnt down! It did look like someone had broke into it though.

[sikwan]

Wanna know what I dislike about these vans more than anything????????

That your wife can use it to pack up all of her **** and leave you! :thumbdown:

Cause that's EXACTLY what happend to me a few weeks ago! :cry:

'Course, some of you guys might think that that's a good thing too. :smirk: I dunno.

:wtf: Sorry to hear that Don. Hopefully you'll get your van back or maybe it's that time again for a new vehicle.

Seek

[sikwan]

I am surprised no one has mentioned the turbo resonator failures. I spoke with a guy this AM who has had 3 failures in 9,300 miles, the last one almost causing an 18 wheeler to hit him from behind and costing him 5 days in a motel waiting for repairs. That is after driving 118 miles to find a dealer that could service it in Mississippi. We love our Sprinter, the Forest River MB Cruiser RV, but suggest you guys change to the billet aluminum resonator eliminator.

Discussion of the Turbo Resonator is here...

http://sprinter-source.com/forum/showthread.php?t=796

[rvdriverca]

Wheel bolts instead of studs and nuts, with no alignment pins on the hub.

[michigandon]

:wtf: Sorry to hear that Don. Hopefully you'll get your van back or maybe it's that time again for a new vehicle.

Seek

I don't even want it back Seek. I couldn't afford to make the payments on it right now if I wanted to. If she wants to keep it and pay for it, than she can have it. Just take my name off the title and send me my plate back.

[Joes05VC]

:yell: I would like to add: service people who are intentionally stupid and seem only competent with only 2 phrases "they all do that" and "can't find any problem".

Mismatched brake pads and rotors that can grind away the rotors and burn the pads until they are cracked and black in less than 30,000 miles of easy light braking.

Transmission that is sluggish when going from reverse to drive when cold, transmission shudder on hard 1st gear acceleration, torque converter that lacks the dicipline to stay locked when trying to gently accelerate at highway speeds and unlocks when going down steep grades.

[Altered Sprinter]

[quote=Joes05VC;4594]:yell: I would like to add: service people who are intentionally stupid and seem only competent with only 2 phrases "they all do that" and "can't find any problem".

Mismatched brake pads and rotors that can grind away the rotors and burn the pads until they are cracked and black in less than 30,000 miles of easy light braking.

Mismatched Brake pads and rotors !
I assume the dealer ship was a Chrysler dealership> Therefore the mistake was rectified at dealers costs, and an apology given?
Richard

[talkinghorse43]

Transmission that is sluggish when going from reverse to drive when cold, transmission shudder on hard 1st gear acceleration, torque converter that lacks the dicipline to stay locked when trying to gently accelerate at highway speeds and unlocks when going down steep grades.

The tranny problems you describe are most likely fluid-related. Low level and/or contaminated fluid. My '02 does none of that. If still under warranty, I'd look until I found a dealer who would fix it. I once had a problem my selling dealer wouldn't rectify, so I called DC's customer service and the rep found me a dealer who would. If not under warranty, then it's your call.

[techpro]

I didn't see these pet peeves (I have an '05 Gulfstream RV conversion):

- stock speakers: two issues, only two front speakers, and they are embarassingly awful (I have two replacements on order based on suggestions here on the forum). Hard to believe they make speakers so awful (and only two??).

- I would like option to turn OFF driving lights. Unlke my Chevy Express (driving lights would go off automatically when in Drive and parking brake applied), these things never go off as long as the engine is running (except for pulling 3 fuses from under the seat I think). But sometimes I want to run the engine in stealth mode, particularly in an RV park or if I'm way-laying for an evening at Wal-mart.

- ditto on key fob auto-lock problems....truly awful range. A side note: I wish the horn would chirp when locked or unlocked, rather then the lights flashing briefly (lock only). I'm standing at the back LISTENING for the locks to sound "unlock." bad!

- Funny: I still have not figured out how the inside lock/unlock rocker works to lock/unlock the doors (and no, I haven't looked it up in the owner's manual-this could be intuitive, shouldn't it?). I press Up, Up, Up to cycle through things...down, down, down seems to do something else. Laughable.

- Did I mention the stock speakers s*ck? :laughing:

- ditto on early replacement of headlights (probably related to always-on running lights?), BUT I will say: easiest headlight bulb replacement EVER! Keep extras on hand.

- I wish I had heated seats. Wasn't an option for the Gulfstream RV.

- I didn't know the Sprinter had an adjustable lumbar until I accidentally discovered "this bulb thingie" and squeezed it. I would have preferred a more intuitive solution (and it doesn't expand enough for me, and lumber support is a MUST at least for me).

- reaching through the steering wheel to adjust the brightness of the dash (night driving) is a ludicrous design.


This said, I LOVE my Sprinter and driving it daily. The two most annoying things are the stock speakers and the inability to shut off the running lights.

pete

[mgameros]

A side note: I wish the horn would chirp when locked or unlocked, rather then the lights flashing briefly (lock only). I'm standing at the back LISTENING for the locks to sound "unlock." bad!

Calling out SEEK! I do agree with this, maybe you can find out if we can add the horn to the system?

mgameros

[sikwan]

Calling out SEEK! I do agree with this, maybe you can find out if we can add the horn to the system?

Not that easy, well I guess it depends on what you want to do with it.

Easiest would be to hook a relay up to the keyless entry box and have it activate the horn. However, the horn will beep 3 times when you lock it and beep once every time you press the unlock button.

I would rather use this (they even have a sound file :clapping:)...

http://www.digikey.com/scripts/DkSearch/dksus.dll?Detail?Ref=581&Row=17115&Site=US

...than the horn. A lot quieter and a lot less annoying (to me). Can you imagine...honk, honk, honk (goes the horn), every time I lock the vehicle. :D

For me, I would want it to beep once only when all the doors are locked but it will take more effort than maybe anyone would want to do.

:idunno:

[Joes05VC]

Altered Sprinter:

After 3 dealers kissed off the problem and my grinding brakes complaints as "they all do that" I went to an independent autoshop "Upscale Automotive" in Tualatin, Oregon USA and paid to have the front rotors and pads replaced. At 3,000+ miles later the Performance Friction pads that were put on the front do not produce the large quantity of brake dust the OEM pads did and the rotors are smooth and ungroved, and there is no sound or feel of grinding brakes.

I guess I fell for DC's plan that a driver will pay for failing brakes rather than risk dying in a crash while trying to get DC to fix the brakes under warranty.

John at Upscale Automotive during a test drive said there is something wrong with the brakes. He removed the front wheels and checked the pads; he found them black, burned, and serious cracks in the lining material even though they still had about 5/16 of lining material left. The rotors were too thin to turn. I had 29,600 miles on the 2004 Sprinter which were easy miles since they were for pleasure driving and I baby my Sprinter. It is now six months later and I am wondering if the OEM brakes had been dragging and caused the excessive heat. I only drive with my right foot and do not rest my left foot on the brake pedal.

[nadz]

Excuse the newbee...<that is the only internet forum related term i know> my '01 312d 199kkms wont start. First i got it at auction in Sydney, drove it to Canberra in limp home mode, no fun, now all ive got is a red EDC light and it wont start.What have i got myself into???? <v sorry if im in wrong place for this message..i am the internet gumby>

[BaywoodBill]

Excellent question. Wait until you hear from Richard! He will help you a lot.

[Altered Sprinter]

Excuse the newbee...<that is the only internet forum related term i know> my '01 312d 199kkms wont start. First i got it at auction in Sydney, drove it to Canberra in limp home mode, no fun, now all ive got is a red EDC light and it wont start.What have i got myself into???? <v sorry if im in wrong place for this message..i am the internet gumby>
Well hello newbee
nadz, what can I say! you bought at action which means you paid less than 13 grand , you should have got a RAC check over to find out what needed doing first. and how many owners has it had?, gee you should have asked before buying. if that was possiable, .
01 plated 2000 My first thought is your injectors are carbonized this to me would make sence as to Sydney not having even lad diesel at that time let alone ULD , for a free start don't buy discounted fuels from inderpendenants the fuels not up to scatch.
The good news is not a high milage unit so the fix at worst is going to cost you about six to seven hundred , providing there is nothing broken .
Sorry I've been off line thanks to Telstra however drop a line and tell me a little more is it an auto and is it an ex ambo job.
Have a Beaut:thumbup: day
Richard

[AVL_Sprinter]

All the little rattles. Very annoying, but what the hay. :smirk:

[BaywoodBill]

Some forum members have talked about rattles and some have found ways to solve them. If you search for posts containing "rattles" you will come up with some solutions. There are quite a few relevant posts.

[kurt]

Joes 05VC and brakes.

Most brake problemes including yourself is dirt in the line (close to the caliber) or dirt in the caliber,restricting the bads to retract and dragging on your rotors causing excessive wear.

The fix,have your system flushed,or better replace all calibers with new or remanufactured.

My 03 Sprinter LWB RV has 60K mil with over 7/16 left on my bads and practically no rotor wear.Flush my system every 2 years and refill only with DOT#"""4""".

[michigandon]

Wanted to let you guys know that Karen and I have decided to reconcile. So that means that I got my wife and the 2005 118" 2500 back! :thumbup:

Things are looking up! :bounce:

[Altered Sprinter]

Thats great, pleased to hear.
Richard
1875

[AVL_Sprinter]

Wanted to let you guys know that Karen and I have decided to reconcile. So that means that I got my wife and the 2005 118" 2500 back! :thumbup:

Things are looking up! :bounce:

CONGRATULATIONS!

3 :cheers: :cheers: :cheers:

[sikwan]

Wanted to let you guys know that Karen and I have decided to reconcile. So that means that I got my wife and the 2005 118" 2500 back! :thumbup:

Things are looking up! :bounce:

That's good to hear mDon! :thumbup: :clapping:

[BaywoodBill]

:cheers: Wanted to let you guys know that Karen and I have decided to reconcile. So that means that I got my wife and the 2005 118" 2500 back! :thumbup:

Things are looking up! :bounce:

Good luck for the future; I hope it will work for both of you. You can share the Sprinter.

[tegimr]

2 peaves

1. Cruise control stops working suddenly, intermittently, and of course, the dealer needs to 'see' it happen. RIGHT.

2. Front brake pad de-laminated.

Oh, and while we're at it. Dealerships.

Tim

[tegimr]

Wanted to let you guys know that Karen and I have decided to reconcile. So that means that I got my wife and the 2005 118" 2500 back! :thumbup:

Things are looking up! :bounce:

AWESOME! Best wishes for you both.

:clapping:

Tim

[kendall69]

So who did you miss more, the Sprinter, or your wife?:lol:

[SprntrStkd]

Let's not forget (or re-state) how savy those Dodge Sprinter Tech.'s are! Smart guys....if it weren't for this place i'd know even more nothing!

[rvdriverca]

TEGIMR check your brake light switch see if it hanging up. Lift the brake pedal with your foot see if it works than again

[tegimr]

TEGIMR check your brake light switch see if it hanging up. Lift the brake pedal with your foot see if it works than again

thanks - not that problem. It's odd, mostly when cold. just stops; no change by me, I turn it back on and all is well. no need to do anything to the brake switch. happens on smooth roads and on not-so-smooth roads.

Thank you, again for the hint. Maybe I should take it to the stealership. At least I'd know that I'd done all I can do. :lol:

Tim

[SprntrStkd]

Here's one that i keep forgetting to post...all the door handles are deeply ribbed (for pleasure?) on the inside, so when you wash your Sprinter, you need to repeatedly flick/toggle the handles, or close the door a bunch of times to get the water out. If this is not done, then you end up with those annoying hard water stains draining from each handle.

And this is in addition to the typical side mirror water collectors (common in most cars) that stain the front of the doors as well...

[Bon Jonnsen]

Dodge tells me to basically scrap the user manual when it comes to service work. Book says service the trans at 80K, but they want to do it at 50K. Service Manager at Tysinger Dodge in Virginia tried to force 30K service on me at 20K, including a new fuel filter. Many different service managers tell me that the book is way too optimistic. :idunno:

[stp57]

How about this one? I noticed that if you barely bump into the door latch mechanism it will trip & if you don't notice that it tripped, then when you try to close your door it will only bounce off the door post. Not a good sound or a good feeling at all. I always think I broke the door.
Steve

[peecee]

The side sliding door will never be properly aligned!!

[Altered Sprinter]

Unless you have Godzella's Book of The Mercedes-Benz on-line pdf:smilewink:
Richard
2267

[miki]

A few more peeves:

Adopted another oddball set of fasteners, have to buy (quote from wikipedia)

* An external TORX version exists, where the screw head has the shape of a TORX screwdriver bit, and a special TORX socket is used to drive it, although a standard hex socket can often be used. These are found primarily on automobile engines.


Service manual made for brain surgeons only. Still can't find the drain for the radiator.

[ECU]

I like mine.
You guys sound like you've never had a car before.

[maxextz]

the horn dont work without the key in:wtf:
and those hex torx bolts on places that rust "eg:gearbox"and is hard to remove whatever chance you have with a bolt you've less chance with those soft crappy ones:censored:.

max...........:popcorn:

[312 diesel (closed)]

The seats, in fact all Mercedes seats are horrible. I was so happy when I swapped my E320CDI for a Volvo 940.

[glasseye]

My wife's Hyundai is smart enough to know that, when you've just shut off the engine it's quite possible that you forgot to close one or more of the power windows. For thirty seconds or so, it lets you operate the power windows without turning the ignition back on.

The T1N's not quite so clever.:smilewink:

[Aqua Puttana]

My wife's Hyundai is smart enough to know that, when you've just shut off the engine it's quite possible that you forgot to close one or more of the power windows. For thirty seconds or so, it lets you operate the power windows without turning the ignition back on.

The T1N's not quite so clever.:smilewink:
It is convenient. GM includes that feature in some models also. I'm sure there are many other brands too.

With the relative lack of bells and whistles on the Sprinters I have often wondered if normally upscale MB just considers them work trucks. Workers don't deserve comfort, they are paid to work.:bounce: AP

[312 diesel (closed)]

They are just trucks, the vast majority get leased for three years and the driver does their level best to kill it. They want the boss to replace it ASAP.

With the relative lack of bells and whistles on the Sprinters I have often wondered if normally upscale MB just considers them work trucks. Workers don't deserve comfort, they are paid to work.:bounce: AP

[ECU]

My 9 year old brags to all their friends that we can roll up/down the windows in my sprinter with the engine off. Even shows them when given a chance.
Manual windows, the latest in cool.:rad:

[312 diesel (closed)]

My 9 year old brags to all their friends that we can roll up/down the windows in my sprinter with the engine off. Even shows them when given a chance.
Manual windows, the latest in cool.:rad:

The kid will grow up a marketing genius and keep you in your old age:laughing:

[david_42]

1. Lousy radio, not that I would use it much if it was better.
2. RSN - but the John's (Upscale) replacement brace eliminated it.
3. Automatic unlocking doors when I start the engine.
4. Bang knees on steering column.
5. Rear door squeak. Hot weather only. Dab of grease on the lock fixes it.

Mighty short list, IMHO.

[gary 32]

I honestly can not think of one item I would change and if I could I would change it.
Nor can I think another vehicle I would like to own instead.

I ride my bicycle to and from work 4 days a week, so I always look forward to driving my Sprinter for some physical rest and to transport items to and from home.

The rest of the time is with cargo I enjoy fabricating or family members I enjoy being with.

[glasseye]

Here's one that's about five minutes old:

On my 04, there's a stoopid bucket, located on the floor on the driver's side of the passenger seat base. Looks like it's supposed to be a waste receptacle. It's in the way and it's gotta go.

I pushed, pulled, tugged, peeked under the passenger seat, pushed, pulled, tugged and squeezed that waste basket until finally I located a third mounting point, carefully hidden right at floor level at center bottom of the bin. Inaccessible without a long extension on my 1/4" drive wrench.

Tried to undo it with two sizes of Torx wrenches before realizing that it's RIVETTED! Those cheap b#@&%#rds! No option but to buzz off the rivet head from inside the passenger seat base.:bash:

[312 diesel (closed)]

It's not a waste receptacle; it's to stop your litre bottle of drinking water from rolling round the van. Reach behind you and pull it out, that's why it's angled.


Here's one that's about five minutes old:

On my 04, there's a stoopid bucket, located on the floor on the driver's side of the passenger seat base. Looks like it's supposed to be a waste receptacle. It's in the way and it's gotta go.

I pushed, pulled, tugged, peeked under the passenger seat, pushed, pulled, tugged and squeezed that waste basket until finally I located a third mounting point, carefully hidden right at floor level at center bottom of the bin. Inaccessible without a long extension on my 1/4" drive wrench.

Tried to undo it with two sizes of Torx wrenches before realizing that it's RIVETTED! Those cheap b#@&%#rds! No option but to buzz off the rivet head from inside the passenger seat base.:bash:

[david_42]

You mean the map holder? You can fit two stacks of maps in it. Much easier to get at than the glove compartment.

[Aqua Puttana]

Here's one that's about five minutes old:

On my 04, there's a stoopid bucket, located on the floor on the driver's side of the passenger seat base. Looks like it's supposed to be a waste receptacle. It's in the way and it's gotta go.

I pushed, pulled, tugged, peeked under the passenger seat, pushed, pulled, tugged and squeezed that waste basket until finally I located a third mounting point, carefully hidden right at floor level at center bottom of the bin. Inaccessible without a long extension on my 1/4" drive wrench.

Tried to undo it with two sizes of Torx wrenches before realizing that it's RIVETTED! Those cheap b#@&%#rds! No option but to buzz off the rivet head from inside the passenger seat base.:bash:
I found that I worked harder than I needed to get rid of that useless item. HKpierce had the better idea which he was kind enough to mention in my Cheap Tricks. On the off chance you don't know, a "Scout Foot" is kicking it into submission until it breaks loose. Wear good high top leather boots if you use this method. As an aside, not to worry if you destroy your useless gray holder in the process and then change your mind. I still have my properly removed basket hanging in the garage which is free for the taking. Links are here:
http://sprinter-source.com/forum/showpost.php?p=38512&postcount=10
http://sprinter-source.com/forum/showthread.php?t=3301

Hope this does some good. AP

[glasseye]

It's not a waste receptacle; it's to stop your litre bottle of drinking water from rolling round the van. Reach behind you and pull it out, that's why it's angled.

It is a waste receptacle, at least to me. It's a waste of space, an atrocity of design nearly as offensive as the Becker Sound 5.

As soon as I can get my Dremel tool warmed up, it's toast.

[maxextz]

i forgot to add this the air flow vent to the quarter windows is just crap so on a rainy day you cant see the mirrors with it being steamed up :idunno: even with the blower on full the air flow is useless:turd:.
im gonna mod this and connect the vent to the main hose that will sort it out.:rad:


max..........:drink:

[mendonsy]

Fastening the wheels with cap screws gets my vote!! :cry: I realize that they are easier to replace than studs, but it is a real pain to mount the wheels if you are alone. :frown:

[sprintguy]

Fastening the wheels with cap screws gets my vote!! :cry: I realize that they are easier to replace than studs, but it is a real pain to mount the wheels if you are alone. :frown:

:shhh: easy fix, take 2 bolts same thread and pich as lug bolts, cut the heads off and use as studs to aid in installing wheels and bolts ( works for NCV3, too same size ) again :shhh: this message will self destruct upon reading

Carl

[stp57]

Europart's sells an inexpensive stud that makes it real easy to mount wheels. I keep it in my jack well.
Steve

Fastening the wheels with cap screws gets my vote!! :cry: I realize that they are easier to replace than studs, but it is a real pain to mount the wheels if you are alone. :frown:

[mendonsy]

Here is another one, although this is as much a Bosch complaint as Sprinter.
What is the point in spending the time and money to install brake pad sensors that will never work!! :thumbdown: They way the Bosch caliper is constructed the pad sensor wire must be installed in the inner pad and the outer pad will always wear out first!! :frown::frown:

[Douglas Hicks]

Speaking of jacks, I think I will have to send my 2005 back to Dusseldorf to have the jack replaced in under the floor. I cannot get that thing to fit and still get the cover on.

[Altered Sprinter]

Here is another one, although this is as much a Bosch complaint as Sprinter.
What is the point in spending the time and money to install brake pad sensors that will never work!! :thumbdown: They way the Bosch caliper is constructed the pad sensor wire must be installed in the inner pad and the outer pad will always wear out first!! :frown::frown: Your a tad late on that one been there done that doesn't matter which capillary caterpillar either.
But Let me assure you the sensor will go off in time if your under a 100 Kilometres from home base and If you can get to replace them on the same day. All Three factories did it not just Düsseldorf
And while your at it did you compare front to rear pads, different composites different manufactures
Yes Mercedes reserves the right to change products and or modify, with out notification. Bosch Australia quote: do not intermix brake composites on your vehicle...:professor:
Richard
DOT ADR/Aus/Nz standards the sensor must be fitted on the outer pad there is an inquiry over this now, cause I yelled Blue Bloody Murder:rant:

16030

[sully]

My wife's Hyundai is smart enough to know that, when you've just shut off the engine it's quite possible that you forgot to close one or more of the power windows. For thirty seconds or so, it lets you operate the power windows without turning the ignition back on.

The T1N's not quite so clever.:smilewink:

This is my main peeve too. If you are sitting with the windows down and the ignition off, you can't just turn the key to ACC to put the windows up. You have to turn the ignition to "On" or "Run." I would have rather had the windows wired to the ACC circuit.

[3bells]

New owner of a 2008 Agile. First Post. Didn't see this was listed on the thread earlier, but the knob that reclines the seat is impossible. While my hubby drives, I try and reach waaay back there and turn it. (And I have long arms.) When I do reach it it's so tight that I doubt anyone could turn it, let alone me with arthritis in thumb joint. When stopped and seat is swiveled, I can barely twist it to recline. The dealer said the best they could do is add some lubricant. Not much help. Anyone know how to fix this?

Hubby couldn't get help or advice from dealer and ended up removing the bathroom sink himself (the one that juts out over the so called "twin bed") and tacking a panel on each side of the hole. The pipes still show, but with a stack of foam in the cushion gap we now have two actual narrow beds instead of one that would only fit a very short person. Much easier to make up and get in and out of and we only used the sink for storage.

We have only taken a few short trips. Planning a longer one in September. On the whole we are enjoying it. My long legs are really enjoying the generous leg room!

New to RVing as well as to the Roadtrek.

[breffni]

hey yall... i didnt see this one anywhere... is it possible i am the only one this annoys??? the indicator lever (signal lever) doesnt knock itself off on the highway if you over take someone... it needs to turn 1/4 -1/2 turn to do so.... I end up leaving my signal (indicator) on for miles!

[bikergar]

hey yall... i didnt see this one anywhere... is it possible i am the only one this annoys??? the indicator lever (signal lever) doesnt knock itself off on the highway if you over take someone... it needs to turn 1/4 -1/2 turn to do so.... I end up leaving my signal (indicator) on for miles!

Breffni

Don't know about the 07's but on the 08's if you just briefly move the lever (not all the way down or up) the turns will flash 3 or 4 times (enough for people to know what you're doing) then turn off by themselves. :clapping:

gary

[Diamondsea]

My 09 works the same as bikergar says -- just touch the lever up part way and release.

[bikergar]

This is my main peeve too. If you are sitting with the windows down and the ignition off, you can't just turn the key to ACC to put the windows up. You have to turn the ignition to "On" or "Run." I would have rather had the windows wired to the ACC circuit.

As early as the 80's several German brands would allow you to operate windows and sunroofs after shut down until you opened any door. Heck, it would be great if the windows worked the same as the radio when you shut the Sprinter down.

gary

[qualityair]

:thinking: How about using the radio voltage to trigger a relay to power the windows?

[Silver]

Didn't see these posted but how about anything metal that is inside the sprinter WILL rust.
Or being told that the EGR is defective and DC refuses to do a recall on the '02-'03.
Or NEVER being told, until your way past the milege, that your supposed to change your ATF at 60,000 instead of 100,000
that the book says and that the dealer told you to do from the first day you bought your sprinter.

[stp57]

How about that window speed? Slow as slugs.
Steve

:thinking: How about using the radio voltage to trigger a relay to power the windows?

[bikergar]

The rubber on my brake pedal seems to be showing excessive premature wear... 2008

gary

[ECU]

I hate how long it takes to drain the fuel tank. In the weeks it takes me to do so, the price of fuel goes up $0.20/gal.
I hate that the tall roof alows me to stand up. Every van I've been in makes me hunch, so I do it in this one too.
I dislike the noise the engine makes. Reminds me of a VW bus. Now my Ram, that was an engine you could hear running.
I hate the short turning radius. Just too easy to park and get out to go to the places I don't want to be.

[sully]

I don't like where the shift is on the T1N.

Sometimes when I go for the climate controls or radio, I end up bumping it and downshifting. Luckily this never happened on the highway. Usually, it's when I'm just starting out driving in a town or city and fiddling with the controls.

Still... bad location.

[Jsloane]

PEEVES:

1) Absolutely the worst steering wheel position / angle I've ever dealt with. If this doesn't give me carpal tunnel nothing will.

2) Little noises and rattles that make me think (after reading old Sprinter forum posts) something big is GONNA BLOW !

3) The lack of a dual horn switch. Even my '67 Renault had separate town & road settings. All the Sprinter has is a delivery beep suited to an idyllic village.

4) A fuel filler cap that looks like it was recovered from the ocean.

5) Others never believe me that it is really cool to drive and thinks its a sports car.

6) The conviction that I must learn to be self-sufficient because no dealer will help or even understand.

But these are far outweighed by the virtues. It's a vehicle with character that I want to keep.

[guisar]

No manual transmission
Unreliable (relative to the Eurovans, Vanagons and BMWs I've owned- really)
Stupid rattles
No adjustable or intermittent wipers
Having to clean the contacts on the door locks at least once every other month- seriously never owned a car where I ever had to do that before.

[charliebebo]

2003 Freightliner SHC 158" " NO TILT WHEEL"

[Aqua Puttana]

I don't like where the shift is on the T1N.

Sometimes when I go for the climate controls or radio, I end up bumping it and downshifting. Luckily this never happened on the highway. Usually, it's when I'm just starting out driving in a town or city and fiddling with the controls.

Still... bad location.

Sully,
The good news is that no matter how many times you bump the shifter to the left the ECM/TCM (Engine Control Module/Transmission Control Module) will not let you go down to a gear that will dangerously over rev your engine, even if you're up to freeway speed. It also seems to only shift up when it thinks it's a good idea even if you bump the lever up multiple times. YMMV. AP/vic

[teejay]

i have a 2008 sprinter.

1. most uncomfortable seat ever.
2. caveman drawings instead of writing. took a while to figure everything out.
3. adjusting the seat back. why VW and MB think a normal lever isnt good enough and they need to use some stupid hand crank wheel that takes 5 minutes to move the seat back forward. i should make that #1. man i hate that.
4. the door locks. when the van is on, you cannot lock the doors unless they are all closed. this was great when i didnt have the back door closed all the way and tried to lock the freakin doors in a fairly unfriendly area. oh they would all unlock with that stupid "press the same button to lock/unlock the locks" crap. next one..
5. stupid lock button. would it have been so hard to have a a UNLOCK button AND a LOCK button?
6. crap range on the key fobs AND pressing the GD button repeatedly to get the doors unlocked.
7. wheel bolts instead of normal wheel studs and nuts. just another thing they had to change to make it "better".
8. idiots at the dodge dealerships.
9. stupid limp home mode problems.
10. the seats are so uncomfortable its worth mentioning again..


but.. it is huge and makes it easy to work out of. im just glad im not the one paying for it.

[blakej59]

2007 loaded ($45,000 sticker)

1. Terrible radio (expensive sound 20 system)
2. Never-ending EGR problems
3. In the shop more than any vihicle I've ever owned (leaking rear end, EGR, leaking steering, EGR, oil change, EGR)
4. Oil changes cost $200 (and where do you buy a quart when it's low)
5. Goofy, hard to understand systems like lighting, radio, heater, wiring trailer light harness, wiring speakers.
6. Scarce shops that work on them. It's a production dropping it off because there aren't very many dealers handling Sprinters. Plus this thing needs a shop far to much.
7. wish it had more range. The fuel isn't always as easy as gas so extra range would be nice. Has good mileage but give it another 10-20 gallons of fuel and this would be sweet.

Certainly has benefits but it's a lot easier and cheaper to own an Econoline. Biggest benefits are mileage and space.

Jim

[kjl]

the A/C indicator light, "on" for A/C off and light off for A/C "on". is there a fix for this? (2008)

[bikergar]

There is...but I don't think you'll be happy with the size...:eek: :smirk:

17415

[maxextz]

looks like the american owners got all the junk vans:frown: reading this thread makes the sprinter sound like a pile of crap thank god im in europe where the sprinters are better or so it seems:hmmm: ive noting of real note to complain about my van its fantastic:thumbup:.

oh yea gary keep your offensive pics to yourself"ford fixed or repaired daily :tongue:
dont start me off with those transits :censored:

max..........:wtf:

[bikergar]

Max

Just for u...:hugs: I'm sooo sorry..

FORD....FriggedOverRoyallyDaily



gary

[Aqua Puttana]

oh yea gary keep your offensive pics to yourself"ford fixed or repaired daily :tongue:
dont start me off with those transits :censored:

max..........:wtf:
Hey Max,
I agree. Those smutty pictures should not be allowed.

We only want pictures of Sprinters!!!!!:thumbup::thumbup:

17417

http://broadbandsports.com/node/5431&loc=mostpop

You'd think Bikar would know that.:bounce:

AP/vic

[maxextz]

thanks for that link vic:hugs: that camara man knows what he likes:drool:
and you siggi is class and true:hmmm: i like your pic but mine is better.:tongue:

http://www.sprinter-source.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=15699&stc=1&d=1249145748

max.............:popcorn:

[david_42]

Saw three white Transit vans sitting together Saturday. Made me think of baby bunnies in a basket.

[jdcaples]

I realize it's not nice, but I consider the Transit Connect an unfortunate case of Sprinter envy.

-Jon

[march]

My pet peeves are that Euro models get more HP, longer oil change intervals and can change their maintenance reminder themselves. What's up with that?!

[jdcaples]

I vaguely remember that the UK NCV3s lack a provision for an owner/operator to reset ASSYST, too.

-Jon

[Diamondsea]

I wish the dash display would show what gear is engaged as well as the selected/desired gear. Today I did a fun drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway a very hilly almost mountainous road. To tame the hills both up and down I used the shifter to select gears but sometimes I was not sure exactly what gear was engaged. Looking at the tach and speedo to figure it out took eyes off the very curvey road for excessive time.

[Mike Horton]

I have to say first off....The Sprinter is an awesome van. I am on my 2nd! It is not perfect so Heres my list:

1. How can something with a Freightliner badge not have a temp gage? My 08 has no temp gage...how can this be? I plan to find an after market solution (any help will be appreciated.)
2.No oil pressure gage.
3.No amp gage.
4.Radio sucks. Speakers weak also.
5.Fuel tank too small. 40 gal would be nice. I have found no after market solutions for this.
6.Only 1 intermittent wiper speed....please this has been around since the 1980s get with it MB!

[twistyroad]

1. How can something with a Freightliner badge not have a temp gage? My 08 has no temp gage...how can this be?

The steering-wheel-with-buttons versions have a temp guage.

2.No oil pressure gage.

Manufacturers are learning that oil pressure loss is a much more remote possibility than oil quantity loss, and are gradually moving that direction with gauges/indicators/lights. Even my '03 Yamaha motorcycle has an oil level warning light, but nothing for pressure.

4.Radio sucks. Speakers weak also.

Amen!

6.Only 1 intermittent wiper speed....please this has been around since the 1980s get with it MB!

The wipers with rain sensor take care of that. :thumbup:

[mackconsult]

I love my van.

1) rusting and paint

2) wish there was a way to get transmission temperature

3) project list is way to long ....

[Chandlerazman]

Being somewhat lazy this evening and not sure if I posted this already, but I hate the rattle noise from the calipers on my '08 that my dealers says is perfectly normal:rolleyes:
Otherwise, Mike has the same exact list I peeve. Love this van by the way :smilewink:

[Mike Horton]

The steering-wheel-with-buttons versions have a temp guage.



Manufacturers are learning that oil pressure loss is a much more remote possibility than oil quantity loss, and are gradually moving that direction with gauges/indicators/lights. Even my '03 Yamaha motorcycle has an oil level warning light, but nothing for pressure.



Amen!



The wipers with rain sensor take care of that. :thumbup:

Thanks twisty road. Back in the 70s and 80s I drove an 18 wheeler. It had over 20 various gages! YOU CANT HAVE TOO MANY GAGES! I don't have the steering wheel controls and not having a temp gage is UNFORGIVABLE! Idiot lights are for idiots! By the time you get a light it's way too late.
Any help for reasonably priced gages in the after market would be appreciated. Not that it matters, but I still like to know my oil pressure. water temp and charging rate (amp). Trans temp and rear end temp would also be nice.
I also have a hot rod (56 Chevy) and you can best believe it has GAGES!

[bikergar]

Thanks twisty road. Back in the 70s and 80s I drove an 18 wheeler. It had over 20 various gages! YOU CANT HAVE TOO MANY GAGES! I don't have the steering wheel controls and not having a temp gage is UNFORGIVABLE! Idiot lights are for idiots! By the time you get a light it's way too late.
Any help for reasonably priced gages in the after market would be appreciated. Not that it matters, but I still like to know my oil pressure. water temp and charging rate (amp). Trans temp and rear end temp would also be nice.
I also have a hot rod (56 Chevy) and you can best believe it has GAGES!

Mike

A lot of us use the Scangauge (http://www.scangauge.com/products/) because of its small size and its relatively inexpensive cost. Check this thread (http://www.sprinter-source.com/forum/showthread.php?t=8153) for other options.

As far as oil pressure, trans temp, and rear end temp if you have a NCV3 they probably ain't in your future. :yell:

How about posting some pics of that hot rod 56...

gary

[Mike Horton]

As soon as I can figure out how to down size them I will. I'm afraid I am a computer idiot!:crazy:

[maxextz]

:laughing:

[Aqua Puttana]

Being somewhat lazy this evening and not sure if I posted this already, but I hate the rattle noise from the calipers on my '08 that my dealers says is perfectly normal:rolleyes:
Otherwise, Mike has the same exact list I peeve. Love this van by the way :smilewink:
Back in the day didn't Dodge just use thin black rubber bands to stop brake pad rattle? If I recall correctly each one just kinda looped around each end and worked fairly well until they rotted away. Then again I could very well be wrong, my mind was a terrible thing to waste.:rolleyes: AP/vic

[Mike Horton]

I drive an o8 and there is NO rattles in the brakes. I would find a new Sprinter repair facility.
(BTW, my brakes in my 02 lasted over 260,000 miles before I replaced them and there was still some pad and rotor left!......the guys at the shop couldn't believe it. Must be my superior driving skills!):idunno::thumbup: