Sprinter 515 a good engine?

bonzo2002

New member
Hi all,
I'm just about to buy a Sprinter 515 motorhome with 40k miles but I've seen some posts in the Aussy bit on here that say the 315 engine goes bang? I'm guessing it's the same engine? Or is there a difference between Aussy van engines and UK van engines so I don't make a move I will regret? Thanks
 

Cheyenne

UK 2004 T1N 313CDi
I'm pretty certain it is the same engine in UK as Aus. Run the VIN through one of the free VIN checker websites such as https://mbepc.net/en/vin and you will get the full engine model designation and you can check if it is indeed the ill reputed OM646 as in this thread https://sprinter-source.com/forums/index.php?threads/53008/

Also engine info here https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_OM646_engine

The failures reported all seem to be around 200,000 km or 120,000 miles so you may be OK for a while but if you are pushing 5 Tonnes then this may be reduced!

So, do you feel lucky???

Keith.
 

mean_in_green

>2,000,000m in MB vans
It was one of the introductory UK Sprinter engine options back in 2007, was short lived / dropped fairly soon after the new model launch amid a lot of criticism over payload and fuel economy in particular.

A new six manual transmission coupled with the then new OM651 took over I think in late 2008 or 2009.
 

bonzo2002

New member
Crap that's a shame but thanks for the heads up. Can"t say I'm not disappointed but at least I will avoid the heartache. :thanx:
 

Cheyenne

UK 2004 T1N 313CDi
If you want something more reliable then look for a T1N (ie pre 2007) with a manual gearbox and you will be set for easy maintenance hopefully none of the worries that come with the NCV3's and there emissions systems.

Keith.
 

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