Some General Information for Owners New to Sprinters
I presume if you are reading this then you are new to Sprinters so first let me extend to you a hale and hearty welcome to the forum.
The Sprinter has some quirks and differences that many people wouldn't be aware of even if familiar with other brand vans. If you aren't generally inclined to read the operator manual, you really should read your Sprinter manual. If you don't have one there are downloads listed in the Database sections of Sprinter-source.
or
Daytime Running Lights (DRL) - If you run with only DRL's then the backlighting for the heater controls and other dash switches will not light. You also will only have the stalk high beam flash. The constant high beam select isn't available until you twist the stalk end and manually turn on your light circuit.
Shift Select - The various forward gears can be selected by gently bumping the shift lever side to side. The gear number on the dash shows what is selected. It does not change to show which gear the transmission is presently in. "Drive" is actually an overdrive gear ratio so if fully loaded you might best tap down a gear on long uphill grades.
Side Mirrors - The flat side mirrors have huge blind spots. Get into the habit of checking the optional OEM top smaller mirror before any lane changes. Consider adding stick on blind spot mirrors if you don't have the small top mirrors.
Backup Alarm - If you have an OEM backup alarm there is a low volume feature. The noise level toggles up and down by moving the shifter to neutral and then back into reverse.
ASR/ESP - Anti Skid Response/Electronic Stability Program The computer will take over by using braking controls should it sense that your wheels are slipping or you've gone into a skid. The control pulses the brakes so when it activates there may be chattering noises which could sound like drive line component problems. It is normal operation and is especially likely to happen in icy conditions.
Truck Fuel Nozzles - If you need to use a diesel large spout high volume nozzle (I avoid them whenever possible) be certain to use it on a low flow setting. When the truck nozzle is used fully open the fuel can pressure lock and blow off your fuel tank vent components before the handle auto shutoff can react to stop flow.
Tire Size - All the tires on your Sprinter need to be the same size. The ESP computer monitors and compares all wheel speeds while moving. If the tires aren't the same size the computer will interpret that as a problem.
Speed Limiter - U.S. and Canadian Sprinters have a speed limiter. It is likely set to 85 mph max. With stock tire size that will actually top out at 82 - 83 mph by your GPS.
Engine Oil - The Sprinter has a high and low oil level sensor and dash indication. It does NOT have an oil pressure monitor or gauge. It is fairly sensitive to over filling at oil change. The T1N takes 9.5 quarts of oil. The NCV3 needs 13.5 quarts. Not a drop more. Do not dump in that extra last 1/2 quart of the 10 or 14 you bought. When I change my oil I personally leave the last 0.5 quart for later.
The low level monitor is for obvious reasons. The high level monitor is to warn you in case the oil level is raised by fuel dilution. That is not a common problem, but if the high oil level monitor comes on at a time other than right after an oil change (people add too much oil) then it shouldn't be ignored. If the oil level gets excessively high the oil can dilute or be drawn into the intake and burned as fuel uncontrollably (runaway).
I personally recommend NOT using MB229.51 or MB229.52 oil unless you have a DPF that requires it. Some detail is here.
Engine Oil MB 229.51 or 229.52 best for T1N's?
https://sprinter-source.com/forums/showthread.php?t=53059
Adding Options - Some factory options are difficult to add to Sprinters after the fact. Some are next to impossible to add no matter how much money you are willing to spend. If you order a Sprinter make certain to research what options you need to get it right the first time.
Wire Harnesses - All Sprinters are built with custom wire harnesses as to options ordered. If your Sprinter was not ordered with rear speakers, backup camera, trailer wiring, etc. then the wiring is not there for those things. In most cases don't even bother to look for it.
Transmission Dipstick - The Sprinter does not come with a transmission dipstick for checking level. There are "good and bad" aftermarket dipsticks on the market. The good ones have stop ears.
Starting Fluid - Do not regularly use starting fluid (ether) with your diesel Sprinter. It can ignite at the wrong time during the piston stroke and cause major damage. The glow plugs can easily ignite starting fluid at the wrong time.
Fuse Locations - There are 3 places to check for fuses in a T1N. A large capacity fuse block mounted right on the battery. Fuse Block #1 under the steering column. Fuse/Relay Block #2/3 under the driver seat. You must consult the fuse maps on the covers because fuse/relay locations can vary greatly based upon options ordered from the factory. Do not completely trust the fuse maps. They are notoriously incomplete. Always check ALL fuses for electrical issues.
Radio Code - The OEM Sprinter Sound series radio has a security code feature. If your battery goes dead or is disconnected then you will need to enter the code to return radio operation. Someone once quipped that given the audio quality of the OEM Sprinter radio, needing a code is like putting a security guard on a manure pile. A decent new DIN mount radio/head unit with cell phone capability is about 100 bucks. Worth the investment.
Alloy Wheels - Do not use the longer alloy wheel bolts on the steel spare. The bolts will extend too far into the hub and cause serious damage. Be very aware that many aftermarket alloy wheels may not be rated to proper capacity for a Sprinter.
Fuel Gauge Display - NCV3 fuel level display is calculated by monitored consumption not just the fuel level sensor. (This may apply to T1N's too??) Extended use of a generator or diesel fired heater may cause the fuel gauge to not show a proper level. Beware. It can be optimistic.
This thread is closed. I plan to update this list as time goes on. Anyone who has suggestions for additions can contact me via PM. vic
There is more information in these threads.
An unabashed advertisement.
If you find the style of the above thread helpful I have some others.
Stoopid Things - condensed.
https://sprinter-source.com/forums/showthread.php?t=8285
Cheap Tricks condensed
(The condensed list has short descriptions to aid searching.)
https://sprinter-source.com/forums/showthread.php?t=9255
Used Sprinter Buying Tips
https://sprinter-source.com/forums/showthread.php?t=5174
Check Engine Light DTC MIL Codes List
https://sprinter-source.com/forums/showthread.php?t=5369
Limp Home Mode comments
https://sprinter-source.com/forums/showthread.php?t=7173
Trailer Wiring OEM Harness vs. Light Module
https://sprinter-source.com/forums/showthread.php?t=7328
Tools - Quality, Special, Dodge, MB, Mercedes, Hose Clamp
https://sprinter-source.com/forums/showthread.php?t=10485
20170727 Edit:Add your vehicle info to all your posts automatically!!!!!It will help you to get answers. Thank you.
The most direct method is probably in your "Details".
In the Blue bar above click "Quick Links".
Scroll down to the "Custom User Title" box.
Click in that box and type in at least your Sprinter MY (Model Year).
Scroll down to the "Save Changes" box. Click on that and you are done.
Whatever you enter will be displayed at the bottom of your member icon.
The other place is in your "Signature".
In the Blue bar above click "Quick Links".
Select "Edit Signature".
Scroll down to the text box which looks like what you use to add a post to the forum. Type in at least your Sprinter MY (Model Year).
Scroll down to "Preview Signature". If the preview looks like what you want, scroll down to "Save Signature", click on that and you're done.
Whatever you enter will be displayed at the bottom of every one of your posts.
(If signatures don't display go back to "Quick Links" and "Edit Options" to allow signature display.)
***************
Doktor A is Andy Bittenbinder. An excellent mechanic/designer who specializes in Sprinters. He is generously willing to share his vast knowledge to those in need.
A most important phone number to keep handy.
I have it saved to my cell phone and written in grease pencil under my hood.
Should you call him please remember that he is in the Eastern Time Zone.
****
A posted response by Doktor A.
****
Re: Searching for Doctor A
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My 24/7 Sprinter Hot Line(412-366-6165) is alive and well. I happily return most phone calls within several days of hearing your message.
I ask that callers please leave their phone number, model year of Sprinter and brief details of their Sprinter related issue. Kindly identify if you are a repair tech or an owner.
I find that the Hot Line is a valuable tool which helps expand my data base and my mind. Many callers become friends, clients and visitors.
My new Doktor A commercial annex location, here inPittsburgh, features 7 day a week complete Sprinter service by appointment. I feature all service from routine maintenance to black death surgery to same day transmission replacement. On site windshield replacement by one of the nations best (and affordable!) Sprinter glass installers.
My in house parts department stocks EVERYTHING for Sprinter, new and used.
Messages asking for emergency road advice are always given priority.
Doktor A
I presume if you are reading this then you are new to Sprinters so first let me extend to you a hale and hearty welcome to the forum.
The Sprinter has some quirks and differences that many people wouldn't be aware of even if familiar with other brand vans. If you aren't generally inclined to read the operator manual, you really should read your Sprinter manual. If you don't have one there are downloads listed in the Database sections of Sprinter-source.
or
...
Download the service manual, owner's manual and parts catalog from http://diysprinter.co.uk/reference
http://aie-services-2.net/Sprinter/
[Thanks goes to jmoller99 for providing and maintaining the AIE Services web page documents.
We lost our good friend Jmoller99 RIP
https://sprinter-source.com/forums/showthread.php?t=51331
vic ]
good luck
--dick
Daytime Running Lights (DRL) - If you run with only DRL's then the backlighting for the heater controls and other dash switches will not light. You also will only have the stalk high beam flash. The constant high beam select isn't available until you twist the stalk end and manually turn on your light circuit.
Shift Select - The various forward gears can be selected by gently bumping the shift lever side to side. The gear number on the dash shows what is selected. It does not change to show which gear the transmission is presently in. "Drive" is actually an overdrive gear ratio so if fully loaded you might best tap down a gear on long uphill grades.
Side Mirrors - The flat side mirrors have huge blind spots. Get into the habit of checking the optional OEM top smaller mirror before any lane changes. Consider adding stick on blind spot mirrors if you don't have the small top mirrors.
Backup Alarm - If you have an OEM backup alarm there is a low volume feature. The noise level toggles up and down by moving the shifter to neutral and then back into reverse.
ASR/ESP - Anti Skid Response/Electronic Stability Program The computer will take over by using braking controls should it sense that your wheels are slipping or you've gone into a skid. The control pulses the brakes so when it activates there may be chattering noises which could sound like drive line component problems. It is normal operation and is especially likely to happen in icy conditions.
Truck Fuel Nozzles - If you need to use a diesel large spout high volume nozzle (I avoid them whenever possible) be certain to use it on a low flow setting. When the truck nozzle is used fully open the fuel can pressure lock and blow off your fuel tank vent components before the handle auto shutoff can react to stop flow.
Tire Size - All the tires on your Sprinter need to be the same size. The ESP computer monitors and compares all wheel speeds while moving. If the tires aren't the same size the computer will interpret that as a problem.
Speed Limiter - U.S. and Canadian Sprinters have a speed limiter. It is likely set to 85 mph max. With stock tire size that will actually top out at 82 - 83 mph by your GPS.
Engine Oil - The Sprinter has a high and low oil level sensor and dash indication. It does NOT have an oil pressure monitor or gauge. It is fairly sensitive to over filling at oil change. The T1N takes 9.5 quarts of oil. The NCV3 needs 13.5 quarts. Not a drop more. Do not dump in that extra last 1/2 quart of the 10 or 14 you bought. When I change my oil I personally leave the last 0.5 quart for later.
The low level monitor is for obvious reasons. The high level monitor is to warn you in case the oil level is raised by fuel dilution. That is not a common problem, but if the high oil level monitor comes on at a time other than right after an oil change (people add too much oil) then it shouldn't be ignored. If the oil level gets excessively high the oil can dilute or be drawn into the intake and burned as fuel uncontrollably (runaway).
All NAFTA NCV3 Sprinters 2007 and on have a Diesel Particulate Filter DPF in the exhaust system. The DPF requires that proper oil be used to avoid plugging up the DPF unit. That oil is not common to many big box stores. MB229.51 is one MB oil spec which meets the needs of the DPF system.My opinions.
For most modern vehicles you don't get a number for oil pressure. The monitor is a low pressure warning. Most low oil pressure situations relate to lack of oil in the sump. Serious gradual loss of oil pressure related to bearing wear is essentially a thing of the past. Engines are built to better tolerances. Metals, lubrication, cooling, etc. technology has advanced. An oil pressure number does warn if there is a catastrophic failure, but as has been mentioned, maybe even then it is too late.
It isn't like MB hasn't done anything. Mercedes has addressed two critical parameters with the oil level monitor.
The low monitor warns if the engine oil sump level gets too low.
The high monitor warns for increased sump level from fuel dilution. Fuel dilution can be serious as to thinning the engine oil, or if the level gets high enough diesel runaway is a possibility.
There are many, many Sprinters operating successfully all over the world.
[As to adding oil pressure monitoring.] Spend your money and effort somewhere else.
vic
I personally recommend NOT using MB229.51 or MB229.52 oil unless you have a DPF that requires it. Some detail is here.
Engine Oil MB 229.51 or 229.52 best for T1N's?
https://sprinter-source.com/forums/showthread.php?t=53059
Adding Options - Some factory options are difficult to add to Sprinters after the fact. Some are next to impossible to add no matter how much money you are willing to spend. If you order a Sprinter make certain to research what options you need to get it right the first time.
Wire Harnesses - All Sprinters are built with custom wire harnesses as to options ordered. If your Sprinter was not ordered with rear speakers, backup camera, trailer wiring, etc. then the wiring is not there for those things. In most cases don't even bother to look for it.
Transmission Dipstick - The Sprinter does not come with a transmission dipstick for checking level. There are "good and bad" aftermarket dipsticks on the market. The good ones have stop ears.
Starting Fluid - Do not regularly use starting fluid (ether) with your diesel Sprinter. It can ignite at the wrong time during the piston stroke and cause major damage. The glow plugs can easily ignite starting fluid at the wrong time.
Fuse Locations - There are 3 places to check for fuses in a T1N. A large capacity fuse block mounted right on the battery. Fuse Block #1 under the steering column. Fuse/Relay Block #2/3 under the driver seat. You must consult the fuse maps on the covers because fuse/relay locations can vary greatly based upon options ordered from the factory. Do not completely trust the fuse maps. They are notoriously incomplete. Always check ALL fuses for electrical issues.
Radio Code - The OEM Sprinter Sound series radio has a security code feature. If your battery goes dead or is disconnected then you will need to enter the code to return radio operation. Someone once quipped that given the audio quality of the OEM Sprinter radio, needing a code is like putting a security guard on a manure pile. A decent new DIN mount radio/head unit with cell phone capability is about 100 bucks. Worth the investment.
Alloy Wheels - Do not use the longer alloy wheel bolts on the steel spare. The bolts will extend too far into the hub and cause serious damage. Be very aware that many aftermarket alloy wheels may not be rated to proper capacity for a Sprinter.
Fuel Gauge Display - NCV3 fuel level display is calculated by monitored consumption not just the fuel level sensor. (This may apply to T1N's too??) Extended use of a generator or diesel fired heater may cause the fuel gauge to not show a proper level. Beware. It can be optimistic.
There is more information in these threads.
An unabashed advertisement.
If you find the style of the above thread helpful I have some others.
Stoopid Things - condensed.
https://sprinter-source.com/forums/showthread.php?t=8285
Cheap Tricks condensed
(The condensed list has short descriptions to aid searching.)
https://sprinter-source.com/forums/showthread.php?t=9255
Used Sprinter Buying Tips
https://sprinter-source.com/forums/showthread.php?t=5174
Check Engine Light DTC MIL Codes List
https://sprinter-source.com/forums/showthread.php?t=5369
Limp Home Mode comments
https://sprinter-source.com/forums/showthread.php?t=7173
Trailer Wiring OEM Harness vs. Light Module
https://sprinter-source.com/forums/showthread.php?t=7328
Tools - Quality, Special, Dodge, MB, Mercedes, Hose Clamp
https://sprinter-source.com/forums/showthread.php?t=10485
20170727 Edit:Add your vehicle info to all your posts automatically!!!!!It will help you to get answers. Thank you.
The most direct method is probably in your "Details".
In the Blue bar above click "Quick Links".
Scroll down to the "Custom User Title" box.
Click in that box and type in at least your Sprinter MY (Model Year).
Scroll down to the "Save Changes" box. Click on that and you are done.
Whatever you enter will be displayed at the bottom of your member icon.
The other place is in your "Signature".
In the Blue bar above click "Quick Links".
Select "Edit Signature".
Scroll down to the text box which looks like what you use to add a post to the forum. Type in at least your Sprinter MY (Model Year).
Scroll down to "Preview Signature". If the preview looks like what you want, scroll down to "Save Signature", click on that and you're done.
Whatever you enter will be displayed at the bottom of every one of your posts.
(If signatures don't display go back to "Quick Links" and "Edit Options" to allow signature display.)
***************
Doktor A is Andy Bittenbinder. An excellent mechanic/designer who specializes in Sprinters. He is generously willing to share his vast knowledge to those in need.
A most important phone number to keep handy.
I have it saved to my cell phone and written in grease pencil under my hood.
Should you call him please remember that he is in the Eastern Time Zone.
****
A posted response by Doktor A.
****
Re: Searching for Doctor A
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My 24/7 Sprinter Hot Line
I ask that callers please leave their phone number, model year of Sprinter and brief details of their Sprinter related issue. Kindly identify if you are a repair tech or an owner.
I find that the Hot Line is a valuable tool which helps expand my data base and my mind. Many callers become friends, clients and visitors.
My new Doktor A commercial annex location, here in
My in house parts department stocks EVERYTHING for Sprinter, new and used.
Messages asking for emergency road advice are always given priority.
Doktor A
We have left Pittsburgh behind and are finally fully settled in our new digs just west of Greenville, South Carolina. That's south of Asheville, NC and just off I-85 midway between Atlanta and Charlotte.
The Sprinter Hot Line phone number is now 864-623-9110.
Last edited: