The full-size van market has a few options to choose from if you’re looking for a hauler to meet the needs of your lifestyle. One of those options is the Mercedes Sprinter van, which might be a little on the expensive side, but it does offer quite a few features that could be useful for your next trip. 

However, Mercedes-Benz recently issued a safety recall on the van which CarComplaints.com explains. What’s the problem, and what can we do about it?

What’s the problem with Mercedes Sprinter vans?

Mercedes-Benz has had a few recalls over the years, but this new one could be serious if not addressed. There’s apparently a problem with the electric parking brakes on the Mercedes Benz Sprinter, as well as the Freightliner Sprinter vans. This affects approximately 9,000 vehicles from the 2019 to 2020 model years, which is why Mercedes-Benz issued the recall. 

The problem actually occurs in the rear braking system. The calipers located in the rear brakes are known to leak brake fluid in some of these vans. Unfortunately, the leaks drip into the housing of the parking brake, which connects to the rear axle brake structure.  

Because of this, air gets into the hydraulic brake system, which causes the brake pedal to become soft. Without the firmness of the brake pedal, the brakes can’t work properly and that could spell disaster if the problem isn’t addressed and resolved. 

What’s the solution to the Mercedes Sprinter problem?

Mercedes-Benz issued a recall on the brake problem, and it expects repairs to begin around January 25th, 2021. However, Mercedes-Benz hasn’t determined what repair they will perform as of yet. 

Owners of the affected vans will receive a notice regarding the problem that their van may have. A second notice will come explaining what dealerships will do to correct the issue. Dealerships will get a service bulletin for it once the issue has a resolution determined. 

If you think your vehicle may be affected and haven’t received a recall notice for it, call 877-762-8267 and inquire about the recall #VS3BREPB.

What the Sprinter van gets right

Despite the safety issue, it’s a good full-size van. There are plenty of points it gets right. The first point is the fact that this van comes in numerous variations and body styles. There are 21 variations of the cargo van, and 10 more versions of the passenger van. Each one offering a different set of features, so anyone wanting to purchase one will be able to find exactly what they need. 

The Mercedes Sprinter van comes with two different engine choices. Each of these vans will come standard with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder motor that produces 188 hp, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. 

You will also have the choice to upgrade to a 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine that also generates 188 hp but will have a seven-speed automatic transmission instead. The diesel motor vans will have the AWD option to add to your purchase. 

The best towing capacity you could get with the Mercedes Benz Sprinter, according to Car and Driver, is 5,000 lbs. If you’re not looking to haul heavy equipment, this probably won’t bother you much. 

Another impressive feature of the van has is its cargo space. The Sprinter has tons of storage area to haul all the items you need for your trip. Cargo versions of the van offer 523.6 cubic feet of space.

If your van was included in the safety recall, be sure it gets fixed when the repair comes out for it. Letting it go without resolving the problem will only increase your risk of a more serious issue in the future that can’t be undone.