2005 MERCEDES-BENZ SPRINTER Service Repair Manual

TRANSPONDER KEY
DESCRIPTION
The Sentry Key Immobilizer System (SKIS) which
communicates with the Sentry Key Remote Entry
Module (SKREEM), uses a transponder chip that is
integral to each key fob (Fig. 6). Ignition keys are
supplied with the vehicle when it is shipped from the
factory. The transponder chip is located within the
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) fob.
OPERATION
Each Sentry Key has a unique transponder identi-
fication code permanently programmed into it by themanufacturer. Likewise, the Sentry Key Remote
Entry Module (SKREEM) has a unique9Secret Key9
code programmed into it by the manufacturer as
well. When a Sentry Key is programmed into the
memory of the SKREEM, the SKREEM stores the
transponder identification code from the Sentry Key,
and the Sentry Key learns the9Secret Key9code from
the SKREEM. Once the Sentry Key learns the
9Secret Key9code of the SKREEM, it is also perma-
nently programmed into the transponder's memory.
The Sentry Key's transponder is within the range
of the SKREEM's transponder ring when it is
inserted into the ignition lock cylinder. When the
ignition switch is turned to the ON position, the
SKREEM communicates with the Sentry Key via a
radio frequency (RF) signal. The SKREEM deter-
mines if a valid key is present based on the informa-
tion it receives from the Sentry Key. If a valid key is
detected, that fact is communicated to the Engine
Control Module (ECM) via the Controller Area Net-
work (CAN) data bus and the vehicle is allowed to
continue running. If an invalid key is received by the
ECM or no status at all is communicated, the vehicle
will stall after two (2) seconds of running. The indi-
cator light will be flashing at this point. The Sentry
Key's transponder can not be repaired. If it is faulty
or damaged, it must be replaced.
Common communication problems:
²Two transponder keys too close together.
²Speed Pass too close to transponder key.
Solid indicator that there is a system failure.
²Loss of ECM communication.
²Failed transponder ring circuit.
Fig. 6 TRANSPONDER KEY
1 - TRANSPONDER KEY FOB
2 - RKE BUTTONS
3 - INDICATOR LIGHT
4 - KEY BLADE RELEASE BUTTON
5 - KEY BLADE
VAVEHICLE THEFT SECURITY 8Q - 5

WIPERS/WASHERS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
WIPERS/WASHERS
DESCRIPTION..........................1
OPERATION............................3
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - WIPER &
WASHER SYSTEM.....................5
CLEANING - WIPER & WASHER SYSTEM.....5
INSPECTION - WIPER & WASHER SYSTEM . . . 6
CHECK VALVE
DESCRIPTION..........................7
OPERATION............................7
REMOVAL.............................7
INSTALLATION..........................7
WASHER FLUID LEVEL SWITCH
DESCRIPTION..........................7
OPERATION............................8
WASHER HOSES/TUBES
DESCRIPTION..........................8
OPERATION............................9
WASHER NOZZLE
DESCRIPTION..........................9
OPERATION............................9
REMOVAL.............................9
INSTALLATION..........................9
WASHER PUMP/MOTOR
DESCRIPTION..........................9
OPERATION...........................10
REMOVAL.............................10
INSTALLATION.........................10
WASHER RESERVOIR
DESCRIPTION.........................11OPERATION...........................11
REMOVAL.............................11
INSTALLATION.........................12
WIPER ARM
DESCRIPTION.........................13
OPERATION...........................14
REMOVAL.............................14
INSTALLATION.........................14
WIPER BLADE
DESCRIPTION.........................15
OPERATION...........................15
REMOVAL.............................16
INSTALLATION.........................16
WIPER LINKAGE
DESCRIPTION.........................17
OPERATION...........................17
REMOVAL.............................17
INSTALLATION.........................18
WIPER MOTOR
DESCRIPTION.........................19
OPERATION...........................19
REMOVAL.............................19
INSTALLATION.........................19
WIPER RELAY
DESCRIPTION.........................20
OPERATION...........................21
REMOVAL.............................22
INSTALLATION.........................22
WIPERS/WASHERS
DESCRIPTION
An electrically operated intermittent wiper and
washer system is standard factory-installed safety
equipment on this model (Fig. 1). The wiper and
washer system includes the following major compo-
nents, which are described in further detail else-
where in this service information:
²Check Valve- The washer system check valve
is integral to the plumbing fitting located in the
washer plumbing between the cowl plenum washer
hose and the two washer nozzle hoses, and is located
beneath the cowl top panel at the base of the wind-
shield in the engine compartment.
²Multi-Function Switch- The multi-function
switch is secured to the top of the steering column,just below the steering wheel. Only the left (lighting),
right (wiper) control stalks and the hazard warning
switch button for the multi-function switch are visi-
ble, the remainder of the switch is concealed beneath
the steering column shrouds. The multi-function
switch contains all of the switches for both the wiper
and washer systems.(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
LAMPS/LIGHTING - EXTERIOR/MULTI-FUNC-
TION SWITCH - DESCRIPTION)
²Washer Fluid Level Switch- The optional
washer fluid level switch is integral to a unique ver-
sion of the washer pump/motor unit, which is located
in a dedicated hole on the top of the sump area near
the back of the windshield washer reservoir on the
right front fender wheel house in the engine com-
partment.
²Washer Nozzle- A single washer nozzle with
three separate orifices is secured with integral snap
VAWIPERS/WASHERS 8R - 1

features to each wiper arm. The hoses for the washer
nozzles are concealed beneath a molded plastic guide
on the underside of each wiper arm and routed to the
engine compartment through unique molded plastic
elbow fittings located near each wiper pivot at the
base of the windshield.
²Washer Pump/Motor- Two different washer
pump/motor units are available for this model. One
version has an integral washer fluid level switch that
provides a hard wired input to the instrument cluster
for control of the optional washer fluid indicator. The
washer pump/motor unit is located in a dedicated
hole on the top of the sump area near the back of the
windshield washer reservoir on the right front fender
wheel house in the engine compartment.²Washer Reservoir- The washer reservoir is
located on the right front fender wheel house in the
engine compartment. The washer reservoir filler is
accessed from the right front corner of the engine
compartment.
²Wiper Arm- The two unequal length wiper
arms are secured to the two wiper pivots, which
extend through the cowl panel near the base of the
windshield. The longer arm is installed on the left
(driver) side of the windshield.
²Wiper Blade- The two unequal length wiper
blades are secured to the two wiper arms, and are
parked on the glass near the bottom of the wind-
shield when the wiper system is not in operation.
Fig. 1 Wiper & Washer System
1 - WASHER RESERVOIR, PUMP/MOTOR, FLUID LEVEL SWITCH 3 - WIPER RELAY
2 - WIPER MOTOR, LINKAGE & PIVOTS MODULE 4 - MULTI-FUNCTION (WIPER, WASHER, & LIGHTING) SWITCH
8R - 2 WIPERS/WASHERSVA
WIPERS/WASHERS (Continued)

The longer blade is installed on the left (driver) side
of the windshield.
²Wiper Linkage- The wiper pivots are the only
visible components of the wiper linkage. The remain-
der of the linkage is concealed within the engine
compartment just behind the hood opening. The
wiper linkage module includes the two wiper drive
links, the wiper motor crank arm, the two wiper piv-
ots, and the linkage and motor mounting bracket.
²Wiper Motor- The wiper motor is secured to
the wiper linkage module bracket on the underside of
the cowl panel within the engine compartment. The
wiper motor output shaft and crank arm extend
through a clearance hole in the mounting bracket,
where they are connected to a crank arm that drives
the wiper linkage.
²Wiper Relay- The wiper relay is located in a
dedicated receptacle on the lower left surface of the
fuse block underneath the steering column behind
the fuse access panel and the steering column open-
ing panel.
²Wiper, Turn Signals, Engine Start Control
Module- The wiper, turn signals and engine start
control module is integral to the fuse block located
underneath the steering column. The fuse block is
concealed behind the fuse access panel and the steer-
ing column opening panel, where it is secured with
screws to the steering column. The wiper, turn sig-
nals and engine start control module contains the
intermittent wipe logic circuitry, which includes
active electronic elements that allow it to provide the
intermittent wipe delay and the wipe-after-wash fea-
tures of the intermittent wipe system based upon
numerous hard wired inputs, then provides the
proper programmed hard wired control output to
operate the wiper motor through the wiper relay.
Hard wired circuitry connects the wiper and
washer system components to the electrical system of
the vehicle. These hard wired circuits are integral to
several wire harnesses, which are routed throughout
the vehicle and retained by many different methods.
These circuits may be connected to each other, to the
vehicle electrical system and to the wiper and washer
system components through the use of a combination
of soldered splices, splice block connectors, and many
different types of wire harness terminal connectors
and insulators. Refer to the appropriate wiring infor-
mation. The wiring information includes wiring dia-
grams, proper wire and connector repair procedures,
further details on wire harness routing and reten-
tion, as well as pin-out and location views for the
various wire harness connectors, splices and grounds.OPERATING MODES
The components of the wiper and washer system
are designed to provide the following operating
modes:
²Continuous Wipe Mode- The two-speed wiper
motor, the internal circuitry of the multi-function
switch, and the wiper relay work in concert to pro-
vide two continuous wipe cycles, low speed or high
speed.
²Intermittent Wipe Mode- The internal cir-
cuitry of the multi-function switch, the intermittent
wipe circuitry of the wiper, turn signals and engine
start control module in the fuse block, and the wiper
relay work in concert to provide an intermittent wipe
mode with a single, fixed delay interval.
²Pulse Wipe Mode- The internal circuitry of
the multi-function switch and the wiper relay work
in concert to provide a pulse wipe mode that will
allow the wiper motor to be operated for a single,
complete wipe cycle.
²Washer Mode- When the washer system is
activated with the multi-function switch while the
wiper system is operating, washer fluid will be dis-
pensed onto the windshield glass through the washer
nozzles for as long as the washer pump/motor is
energized.
²Wipe-After-Wash Mode- The intermittent
wipe circuitry of the wiper, turn signals and engine
start control module in the fuse block, and the wiper
relay provide a wipe-after-wash feature. If the wipers
are turned Off, this feature will operate the washer
pump/motor and the wipers for as long as the washer
system is activated, then provide several additional
wipe cycles after the washer system is deactivated
before parking the wiper blades near the base of the
windshield.
OPERATION
The wiper and washer system is designed to pro-
vide the vehicle operator with a convenient, safe, and
reliable means of maintaining visibility through the
windshield glass. The various components of this sys-
tem are designed to convert electrical energy pro-
duced by the vehicle electrical system into the
mechanical action of the wiper blades to wipe the
outside surface of the glass, as well as into the
hydraulic action of the washer system to apply
washer fluid stored in an on-board reservoir to the
area of the glass to be wiped. When combined, these
components provide the means to effectively main-
tain clear visibility for the vehicle operator by remov-
ing excess accumulations of rain, snow, bugs, mud, or
other minor debris from the outside windshield glass
surface that might be encountered while driving the
vehicle under numerous types of inclement operating
conditions.
VAWIPERS/WASHERS 8R - 3
WIPERS/WASHERS (Continued)

The vehicle operator initiates all wiper and washer
system functions with the multi-function switch
wiper control stalk that extends from the right side
of the steering column, just below the steering wheel.
Depressing, raising, or pulling the right control stalk
of the multi-function switch selects the desired wiper
system operating mode (Fig. 2). The wiper system
allows the vehicle operator to select from two contin-
uous wiper speeds, Hi or Lo, a fixed interval inter-
mittent wipe mode, and a pulse wipe mode. Pushing
the knob on the end of the control stalk towards the
steering column activates the washer pump/motor,
which dispenses washer fluid onto the windshield
glass through the washer nozzles.
When the ignition switch is in the On position, bat-
tery current from a fuse in the fuse block underneath
the steering column is provided through a fused igni-
tion switch output circuit to the wiper motor park
switch, the intermittent wipe logic circuitry of the
wiper, turn signals and engine start control module
within the fuse block, the wiper relay, and the multi-
function switch. The internal circuitry of the multi-
function switch provides a direct hard wired battery
current output to the low speed or high speed
brushes of the wiper motor when the Lo, Hi, or Pulse
position is selected, which causes the wipers to cycle
at the selected speed for as long as that switch posi-
tion remains selected.
In order to provide the intermittent wipe and wipe-
after-wash features, the intermittent wipe logic cir-
cuitry within the fuse block monitors inputs from the
intermittent wipe and washer switch circuitry of the
multi-function switch and the park switch in the
wiper motor. When the intermittent wipe position isselected with the multi-function switch control stalk,
the intermittent wipe logic circuitry within the fuse
block responds by energizing the wiper relay and cal-
culating the correct delay interval. The energized
wiper relay directs battery current through the inter-
mittent wipe position circuitry of the multi-function
switch to the low speed brush of the wiper motor.
The intermittent wipe logic circuit monitors the
wiper motor operation through the wiper park switch
sense circuit, which allows it to determine the proper
timing to begin the next wiper blade sweep. The nor-
mal delay interval is about five seconds.
When the Off position of the multi-function switch
wiper control stalk is selected, one of two events is
possible. The event that will occur depends upon the
position of the wiper blades on the windshield at the
moment that the Off position is selected. If the wiper
blades are in the down position on the windshield
when the Off position is selected, the park switch
that is integral to the wiper motor is closed to
ground, the intermittent wipe logic circuit de-ener-
gizes the wiper relay, and the wiper motor ceases to
operate.
If the wiper blades are not in the down position on
the windshield at the moment the Off position is
selected, the park switch is closed to battery current
through a fused ignition switch output circuit. The
intermittent wipe logic circuit energizes the wiper
relay and the park switch sense circuit directs bat-
tery current to the low speed brush of the wiper
motor through the normally open contact of the
wiper relay, then through the internal Off position
circuitry of the multi-function switch. This causes the
wiper motor to continue running until the wiper
blades are in the down position on the windshield
and the park switch is again closed to ground.
When the Wash position of the control knob on the
right control stalk of the multi-function switch is
selected, the Wash position circuitry within the
switch directs a battery current signal input to the
washer pump motor, and to the intermittent wipe
logic circuitry. When the washer switch is closed with
the wiper system turned Off, the intermittent wipe
logic circuitry operates the wiper motor in the same
manner as it does to provide the intermittent wipe
mode operation. After the state of the washer switch
changes to open, the intermittent wipe logic circuitry
monitors the wiper motor through the wiper park
switch sense circuit, which allows it to monitor the
number of wiper blade sweeps. After the appropriate
number of wiper sweeps, the intermittent wipe logic
circuitry de-energizes the wiper relay once the wiper
motor returns the wipers to their park position.
The hard wired inputs to and outputs from the
wiper and washer system components may be diag-
nosed and tested using conventional diagnostic tools
Fig. 2 Windshield Wiper/Washer Switch
1 - INTERMITTENT WIPE MODE
2 - CONTINUOUS LOW SPEED WIPE MODE
3 - CONTINUOUS HIGH SPEED WIPE MODE
4 - WASHER MODE
5 - PULSE WIPE MODE
8R - 4 WIPERS/WASHERSVA
WIPERS/WASHERS (Continued)

and methods. Proper testing of the intermittent wipe
logic circuitry within the fuse block requires the use
of a DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the appropriate diag-
nostic information. Refer to the owner's manual in
the vehicle glove box for more information on the fea-
tures and operation of the wiper and washer system.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - WIPER &
WASHER SYSTEM
If the wiper motor operates, but the wipers do not
move on the windshield, replace the faulty wiper
linkage module. If the washer pump/motor operates,
but no washer fluid is dispensed on the glass; or, if
the wipers operate, but chatter, lift, or do not clear
the glass, clean and inspect the wiper and washer
system components as required. (Refer to 8 - ELEC-
TRICAL/WIPERS/WASHERS - CLEANING) and
(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/WIPERS/WASHERS -
INSPECTION). For diagnosis and testing of the
multi-function switch (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
LAMPS/LIGHTING - EXTERIOR/MULTI-FUNC-
TION SWITCH - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).
Refer to the appropriate wiring information. The wir-
ing information includes wiring diagrams, proper
wire and connector repair procedures, details of wire
harness routing and retention, connector pin-out
information and location views for the various wire
harness connectors, splices and grounds.
The hard wired circuits and components of the
wiper and washer system may be diagnosed and
tested using conventional diagnostic tools and proce-
dures. However, conventional diagnostic methods
may not prove conclusive in the diagnosis of the
intermittent wipe logic circuitry contained within the
fuse block underneath the steering column. The most
reliable, efficient, and accurate means to diagnose
the intermittent wipe logic circuitry requires the use
of a DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the appropriate diag-
nostic information.
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
SYSTEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, DRIVER AIRBAG,
PASSENGER AIRBAG, SEAT BELT TENSIONER, OR
INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BAT-
TERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT
TWO MINUTES FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO
DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE
WAY TO DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL
RESTRAINT SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE
PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCI-
DENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE
PERSONAL INJURY.
CLEANING - WIPER & WASHER SYSTEM
WIPER SYSTEM
The squeegees of wiper blades exposed to the ele-
ments for a long time tend to lose their wiping effec-
tiveness. Periodic cleaning of the squeegees is
suggested to remove any deposits of salt or road film.
The wiper blades, arms, and windshield glass should
only be cleaned using a sponge or soft cloth and
windshield washer fluid, a mild detergent, or a non-
abrasive cleaner. If the wiper blades continue to
leave streaks, smears, hazing, or beading on the
glass after thorough cleaning of the squeegees and
the glass, the entire wiper blade assembly must be
replaced.
CAUTION: Protect the rubber squeegees of the
wiper blades from any petroleum-based cleaners,
solvents, or contaminants. These products can rap-
idly deteriorate the rubber squeegees.
WASHER SYSTEM
If the washer system is contaminated with foreign
material, drain the washer reservoir by removing the
washer pump/motor from the reservoir. Clean foreign
material from the inside of the washer pump/motor
inlet nipple and the washer reservoir using clean
washer fluid, a mild detergent, or a non-abrasive
cleaner. Flush foreign material from the washer sys-
tem plumbing by first disconnecting the washer
hoses from the washer nozzles, then running the
washer pump/motor to run clean washer fluid or
water through the system. Plugged or restricted
washer nozzles should be carefully back-flushed
using compressed air. If the washer nozzle obstruc-
tion cannot be cleared, replace the washer nozzle.
CAUTION: Never introduce petroleum-based clean-
ers, solvents, or contaminants into the washer sys-
tem. These products can rapidly deteriorate the
rubber seals and hoses of the washer system, as
well as the rubber squeegees of the wiper blades.
CAUTION: Never use compressed air to flush the
washer system plumbing. Compressed air pres-
sures are too great for the washer system plumbing
components and will result in further system dam-
age. Never use sharp instruments to clear a
plugged washer nozzle or damage to the nozzle ori-
fice and improper nozzle spray patterns will result.
VAWIPERS/WASHERS 8R - 5
WIPERS/WASHERS (Continued)

INSPECTION - WIPER & WASHER SYSTEM
WIPER SYSTEM
The wiper blades and wiper arms should be
inspected periodically, not just when wiper perfor-
mance problems are experienced. This inspection
should include the following points:
(1) Inspect the wiper arms for any indications of
damage, or contamination. If the wiper arms are con-
taminated with any foreign material, clean them as
required. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/WIPERS/
WASHERS - CLEANING). If a wiper arm is damaged
or corrosion is evident, replace the wiper arm with a
new unit. Do not attempt to repair a wiper arm that
is damaged or corroded.
(2) Carefully lift the wiper blade off of the glass.
Note the action of the wiper arm hinge. The wiper
arm should pivot freely at the hinge, but with no lat-
eral looseness evident. If there is any binding evident
in the wiper arm hinge, or there is evident lateral
play in the wiper arm hinge, replace the wiper arm.
CAUTION: Do not allow the wiper arm to spring
back against the glass without the wiper blade in
place or the glass may be damaged.
(3) Once proper hinge action of the wiper arm is
confirmed, check the hinge for proper spring tension.
Remove the wiper blade from the wiper arm. Either
place a small postal scale between the blade end of
the wiper arm and the glass, or carefully lift the
blade end of the arm away from the glass using a
small fish scale. Compare the scale readings between
the right and left wiper arms. Replace a wiper arm if
it has comparatively lower spring tension, as evi-
denced by a lower scale reading.
(4) Inspect the wiper blades and squeegees for any
indications of damage, contamination, or rubber dete-
rioration (Fig. 3). If the wiper blades or squeegees
are contaminated with any foreign material, clean
them and the glass as required. (Refer to 8 - ELEC-
TRICAL/WIPERS/WASHERS - CLEANING). After
cleaning the wiper blade and the glass, if the wiper
blade still fails to clear the glass without smearing,
streaking, chattering, hazing, or beading, replace the
wiper blade. Also, if a wiper blade is damaged or the
squeegee rubber is damaged or deteriorated, replace
the wiper blade with a new unit. Do not attempt to
repair a wiper blade that is damaged.
WASHER SYSTEM
The washer system components should be
inspected periodically, not just when washer perfor-
mance problems are experienced. This inspection
should include the following points:(1) Check for ice or other foreign material in the
washer reservoir. If contaminated, clean and flush
the washer system. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/WIP-
ERS/WASHERS - CLEANING).
(2) Inspect the washer plumbing for pinched, leak-
ing, deteriorated, or incorrectly routed hoses and
damaged or disconnected hose fittings. Replace dam-
aged or deteriorated hoses and hose fittings. Leaking
washer hoses can sometimes be repaired by cutting
the hose at the leak and splicing it back together
using an in-line connector fitting. Similarly, sections
of deteriorated hose can be cut out and replaced by
splicing in new sections of hose using in-line connec-
tor fittings. Whenever routing a washer hose or a
wire harness containing a washer hose, it must be
routed away from hot, sharp, or moving parts. Also,
sharp bends that might pinch the washer hose must
be avoided.
Fig. 3 Wiper Blade Inspection
1 - WORN OR UNEVEN EDGES
2 - ROAD FILM OR FOREIGN MATERIAL DEPOSITS
3 - HARD, BRITTLE, OR CRACKED
4 - DEFORMED OR FATIGUED
5 - SPLIT
6 - DAMAGED SUPPORT COMPONENTS
8R - 6 WIPERS/WASHERSVA
WIPERS/WASHERS (Continued)