Useful information
This Operator's Manual describes all models
as well as standard and optional equipment
of your vehicle that were available at the time
of going to print. Country-specific variations
are possible. Note that your vehicle may not
be equipped with all of the described
functions. This also applies to systems and
functions relevant to safety.
Read the information on qualified specialist
workshops (Y page 26). Loading guidelines
Important safety notes
G
WARNING
As a result of improperly placed or unevenly
distributed loads, the center of gravity of the
load being transported may be too high or too
far back. This can significantly impair handling
as well as steering and braking
characteristics. There is a risk of an accident.
Always make sure that the center of gravity of
the load is:
R between the axles
and
R as low as possible, near the rear axle. G
WARNING
When objects are unsecured or inadequately
secured, they can slip, turn over or be thrown
about, striking vehicle occupants .This also
applies to:
R luggage or loads
R a rear bench seat which has been removed
and is being transported in the vehicle in an
exceptional case.
There is a risk of injury, particularly in the
event of braking maneuvers or abrupt
changes in direction.
Always stow objects in such a way that they
cannot be tossed about. Before traveling,
secure objects, luggage or loads to prevent them slipping or tipping over. If you remove a
rear bench seat, it is advisable to store it
outside the vehicle. G
WARNING
When the permissible wheel loads, axle loads
and/or the maximum permissible gross
vehicle weight are exceeded, driving safety is
compromised. The handling as well as
steering and braking characteristics may be
significantly impaired. Overloaded tires may
overheat, causing them to burst. There is a
risk of an accident.
When transporting a load, always observe the
permissible wheel loads, axle loads and the
maximum permissible gross vehicle weight
for the vehicle (including occupants). G
WARNING
When you load the roof, the center of gravity
of the vehicle rises and the driving
characteristics change. If you exceed the
maximum roof load, the driving
characteristics, as well as steering and
braking, will be greatly impaired. There is a
risk of an accident.
Never exceed the maximum roof load and
adjust your driving style.
! If you are using a roof carrier, observe the
maximum roof load and maximum roof
carrier load.
You will find information about the maximum
roof load in the "Technical data" section
(Y page 327) and information about roof
carriers in the "Carrier systems" section
(Y page 236).
R Do not stack luggage or loads higher than
the backrests.
R Objects to be transported should
preferably be stowed in the cargo
compartment. 232
Loading guidelinesTransporting loads
!
Observe the information on the maximum
loading capacity of the individual cargo tie-
down points.
If you use several cargo tie-down points to
secure a load, you must always take the
maximum loading capacity of the weakest
cargo tie-down point into account.
If you brake hard, for example, the forces
acting could be up to several times the
weight force of the load. Always use
multiple cargo tie-down points in order to
distribute the force absorption. Load the
anchorages evenly.
Spread the load evenly between the cargo tie-
down points or tie-down rings.
Please also refer to the notes aboutq ualified
specialist workshops (Y page 26).
Always observe the operating instructions or
the notes of the lashing strap manufacturer
for the operation of th elashing strap.
Information about the maximum loading
capacity of the cargo tie-down points can be
found in the "Technical data" section
(Y page 327).
As the driver, you are responsible for ensuring
that:
R The applicable requirements and
guidelines relating to load-securing
practices must be met.
If this is no tthe case, this may constitute a
punishable offense, depending on local
legislation and any ensuing consequences.
You should therefore observe the
respective legal requirements for the
relevant country.
Make sure that the load is secure before every
journey and at regular intervals during a long
journey. Correct an incorrectly or
inadequately secured load if necessary.
You can obtain information about securing
the load correctly from the manufacturer of
the load securing aids or tie down for securing
the load.
X Fill spaces between the load and the cargo
compartmentw alls or wheel housings (form-locking). Use rigid load securing aids,
such as wedges, woode
nfixings or
padding.
X Attach secured and stabilized loads in all
directions. Use the carg otie-down points
or cargo tie-down rings and the loading rails
in the cargo compartmen toronthe loading
area.
Only use tie downs, such as lashing rods or
lashing nets and lashing straps, that have
been tested in accordance with current
standards (e.g. DIN EN).
Always use the cargo tie-down rings closest
to the load to secure it and pad sharp edges
for protection.
Loads, and heavy loads in particular, should
preferably be secured using the cargo tie-
down rings.
i Tie downs tested in accordance with
current standards (e.g. DIN EN) are
available at any qualified specialist
workshop. Cargo tie-down points (example: Passenger Van)
0005
Cargo tie-down rings Securing loads
235Transporting loads Z
X
Secure the vehicle to prevent it from rolling
away.
X Pull release handle 0005on the hood.
The hood is released. X
Reach into the gap and push grip 0006on the
hood catch upwards. X
Swing the hood upwards unti lsuppor tstrut
0026 engages and the hood is supported.
Closing the hood G
WARNING
If the hood is unlatched, it could tip forward
during rapid deceleratio nofthe vehicle and
hit persons or objects within its path. There is
a risk of an accident and injury.
Therefore, always make sure that the hood is
closed and locked completely before driving
off. If the hood is not locked and you are already
driving at walking pace:
R
the yellow 0004indicator lamp in the
instrumentc luster goes on for vehicles
without steering-wheel buttons.
R the 0004 Hood open display appears for
vehicles with steering-wheel buttons.
! When you press the support strut back,
make sure that you do not press it against
the detent position and cause it to bend.
! Do not use your hands to push the hood
down. You could damage it otherwise.
X Lift the hood slightly.
X Press support strut 0026towards the back.
X Lower the hood and allow it to fall with
momentum fro maheight of approximately
1 ft (30 cm).
The hood locks audibly.
X Check that the hood is correctly locked.
If the hood can be raised slightly, it is not
properly engaged.
i If the hood is not correctly engaged, open
the hood again. Let the hood fall with a little
more momentum. Overview of the engine compartment
0005
Coolant expansion tank cap
(Ypage 244)
0006 Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) filler neck
cap 3
(Y page 143)
0026 Engine oil filler neck cap (Y page 242)
3 Only on Cargo Vans/Passenger Vans. Engine compartment
241Maintenance and care Z
0025
Brake fluid expansion tank cap
(Ypage 245)
0023 Washe rfluid reservoir cap (Y page 246)
Regularly chec kthe fluid level and the
assembly for leaks. If you detect fluid loss,
e.g. oil flecks on the vehicle parking space,
consult a qualified specialist workshop
immediately. Engine oil
General notes !
Engine oil gets dirty in the course of
operation and its quality and volume are
gradually diminished. Regularly check the
oil level, and top up or have it replaced as
needed.
Observe the information on engine oils and oil
consumption in the "Technical data" section
(Y page 321).
You can check the oil level in the engine:
R on the display of the on-board computer
R with the oil dipstick
Checking the oil level shown in the
display If at extremely low temperatures no engine oil
level is displayed after
5minutes, repeat the
engine oil level chec kafter another
5 minutes.
If an oil level reading is still not displayed,
check the engine oil level with the dipstick.
Have the oil level display checked at a
qualified specialist workshop.
Only check the oil leve lwhen the engine is at
normal operating temperature.
X Park the vehicle on a level surface.
X Switch off the engine.
X Wait for five minutes.
X Turn the key to position 2in the ignition
lock.
The display is activated. X
Vehicles without steering wheel
buttons: press the 0004menu button on the
instrument cluster (Y page 33) repeatedly
until the display shows the 0015symbol.
The --:-- display message appears in the
display while the engine oil level
measurement is running.
X Vehicles with steering wheel buttons:
press the 0012service button on the
instrument cluster (Y page 33).
The 001DEngine oil level Measuring
in progress display message appears in
the display while the engine oil level
measurement is in progress.
Display message for vehiclesw ithout
steering-wheel buttons: the display may
show the following messages afte rthe engine
oil level measurement. 0015
Action
OK X
Do not add oil. – 1.0 qts X
Add the amount of oil
shown (Y page 244).
X Check the engine oil level
again after a few minutes. – 1.5 qts
– 2.0 qts
HI The oil level is too high.
X
Have excess oil removed. Measurement units in the display:
R
qts USA only
R ltr Canada only
Display message for vehiclesw ith
steering-wheel buttons: the display may
show the following messages afte rthe engine
oil level measurement. 0015
Action
Engine
oil level
OK X
Do not add oil. 242
Engine compartmentMaintenance and care
Vehicle interior
Air filter for the rear-compartment air
conditioning
! Regularly check the ai rfilters for visible
dirt .Clean or replace a dirty filter mat .The
dirt may otherwise lead to damage to the
air-conditioning system. Filter magazine, located on the roof in the rear
compartment
An increased amount of sand or dust may
collect in the air filter of the rear-
compartmenta
ir conditioning when you drive
on dusty or sandy roads.
X To remove the filter mat: carefully pry
cover 0005out of recesses 0006and remove.
X Remove the filter mat from cover 0005.
X To clean the filter mat: wash the dirty
filter mat with clear water.
X Leave the filter mat to dry.
i The filter mat must not be cleaned or dried
in a machine.
X To install the filter mat: insert the filter
mat in cover 0005.
X Replace and engage cover 0005.Maintenance
General notes
H
Environmental note
Observe measures to protect the
environment when working on the vehicle. You must observe the legal requirements
when disposing of service products, e.g.
engine oil. This also includes all components,
e.g. filters, which have come into contac twith
service products. Any qualified specialist
workshop can provide information about this.
Dispose of empty containers, cleaning cloths
and care products in an environmentally
responsible manner. Comply with the
instructions for use of the care products.
Do not run the engine for longer than
necessary when the vehicle is stationary.
Before having maintenance and repairs
performed, it is essential to read the materials
related to the maintenance and repairs:
R the applicable sections of the technical
documentation, e.g. the Operator's Manual
and workshop information.
R regulations such as industrial safety
regulations and accident prevention
regulations.
While working under the vehicle, you must
secure the vehicle on jackstands with
sufficient load capacity.
Never use the jac kasas ubstitute .the
vehicle's jack is intended only to raise the
vehicle for a short time when changing a
wheel. It is not suited for performing
maintenance work under the vehicle.
Please also refer to the notes about qualified
specialist workshops (Y page 26).
The scope and regularity of the inspection
and maintenance work primarily depend on
the often diverse operating conditions.
Specialist knowledge beyond the scope of
this Operator's Manual is required when
carrying out testing and maintenance work.
This work should only be carried out by
trained staff.
The vehicle's Maintenance Booklet describes
the extenta nd frequency of the maintenance
work and contains additional informatio non
the New Vehicle Limited Warranty and on the
service products. 248
MaintenanceMaintenance and care
i
Maintenance services must be carried out
in accordance with the provisions and
recommendations in the Maintenance
Booklet.
Not doing so could void the warranty claim
and lead to refusal of goodwill gestures
after the manufacturer has submitted a
damage report.
i Observe the information on Sprinter
original parts in the "Technical data"
section (Y page 314). Service interval display
General notes As
ervice that is due is displayed in the service
interval display about 1monthi nadvance. A
message is then displayed while the vehicle
is in motion or when the ignition is switched
on.
i The service interval display does not
provide information about the oil level. The
service interval display should therefore
not be confused with the 001Cengine oil
level display.
The service due date is displayed in days or
miles (kilometers), depending on the total
distance driven.
The symbols or letters on the service display
show the type of service that is due.
0002 orA for a minor service
0003 orB for a major service
Service due date display Vehicles with steering wheel buttons:
the
following messages may be displayed.
R 0002 Service A due in ... days R
0002 Service A due in ... mi (km )
R 0002 Service A Carry out now Vehicles without steering wheel buttons:
the following messages may be displayed.
R
0002 for service A
R 0003 for Service B
Additionally, you will see the remaining
distance in miles ( mi ) or kilometers (km ) or the
remaining time in days ( d ).
Service due date has been exceeded Vehicles with steering wheel buttons:
if
you have missed the service due date, one of
the following messages appears in the display
and warning tone also sounds.
R 0002 Service A overdue by ... days R
0002 Service A overdue by ... mi (km )
Vehicles without steering wheel buttons:
if you have missed the service due date, the
0002 or0003 symbol for the service flashes
for 10 seconds after the ignition is switched
on. A minus sign also appears in front of the
service due date.
Calling up the service due date X
Turn the key to position 2in the ignition
lock.
The display is activated.
Vehicles without steering wheel buttons
X Press the 0004menu button on the
instrument cluster repeatedly until the
0002 or0003 symbol for the service
appears in the display.
Additionally, you will see the remaining
distance in miles ( mi ) or kilometers (
km ) or
the remaining time in days (d ).
Vehicles with steering wheel buttons
X Press the 0010or0007 button on the
steering wheel until the standard display
(Y page 182) appears in the display.
X Press the 0001or0009 button on the
steering wheel repeatedly until the service Maintenance
249Maintenance and care Z
X
Recharge the removed battery. Observe
the notes in the operating instructions for
your battery charger.
X Install the battery. Observe the notes on
reconnecting the battery.
i If batteries are no tbeing used, you should
charge them once a month.
It is also possible to charge the starter
battery using the jump-starting connection
point in the engine compartment
(Y page 267). Care
! Dirty battery clamps and battery surfaces
cause leak currents which lead to the
batteries discharging.
! Do not use cleaning agents containing
fuel. Cleaning agents containing fuel
corrode the battery housing.
! If dirt gets into the battery cell, battery
self-discharge will increase and the battery
may be damaged.
The following points on battery care must be
observed:
X Regularly chec kthe battery terminals and
the fastening of the negative cable to the
chassis to ensure that they are firmly
seated.
X Always keep the battery terminals and
battery surfaces clean and dry.
X Lightly grease the undersides of the battery
terminals with acid-resistant grease.
X Only clean the batteries when the caps are
screwed on.
Otherwise, dirt could get into the battery
cells.
X Unscrew the caps and clean blocked
breathers with a suitable tool such as a
piece of wire.
If you do not unscrew the caps for cleaning,
there is a risk of short circuit. The breathers in the caps and the cell
ventilation tubes must be open. Otherwise,
gas cannot escape.
X Only clean the battery casing with a
commercially available cleaning product. Care
Notes on care
G
WARNING
If you use openings in the bodywork or
detachable parts as steps, you could:
R slip and/or fall
R damage the vehicle and cause yourself to
fall.
There is a risk of injury.
Always use secure climbing aids, e.g. a
suitable ladder.
! For cleaning your vehicle, do not use any
of the following:
R dry, rough or hard cloths
R abrasive cleaning agents
R solvents
R cleaning agents containing solvents
Do not scrub.
Do not touch the surfaces or protective
films with hard objects, e.g. a ring or ice
scraper. You could otherwise scratch or
damage the surfaces and protective film.
! Do not park the vehicle for an extended
period straight after cleaning it, particularly
after having cleaned the wheels with wheel
cleaner. Wheel cleaners could cause
increased corrosion of the brake discs and
brake pads/linings. For this reason, you
should drive for a few minutes after
cleaning. Braking heats the brake discs and
the brake pads/linings, thus drying them.
The vehicle can then be parked. Care
255Maintenance and care Z
!
Do not fold the windshield wipers away
from the windshield unless the hood is
closed. Otherwise, you could damage the
hood.
! Hold the wiper arm securely when folding
back. The windshield could be damaged if
the wiper arm smacks against it suddenly.
! Do not use dry cloths, abrasive products,
solvents or cleaning agents containing
solvents to clean the inside of the windows.
Do not touch the insides of the windows
with hard objects, e.g. an ice scraper or
ring. There is otherwise a risk of damaging
the windows.
Before cleaning the windshield
X Turn the key to position 0in the ignition
lock or remove it.
X Fold the windshield wiper arms away from
the windshield until you feel them engage.
Before switching the ignition on again, fold
the windshield wipers back into position.
Cleaning the windows
X Cleant he inside and outside of the
windows with a damp cloth and a cleaning
agent that is recommended and approved
for Sprinter vehicles. Exterior
Cleaning the wheels !
Do not use any acidic or alkaline cleaning
agents. They can cause corrosion on the
wheel bolts (wheel nuts) or the retainer
springs for the wheel-balancing weights.
! Do not park the vehicle for an extended
period straight after cleaning it, particularly
after having cleaned the wheels with wheel
cleaner. Wheel cleaners could cause
increased corrosion of the brake discs and
brake pads/linings. For this reason, you
should drive for a few minutes after
cleaning. Braking heats the brake discs and the brake pads/linings, thus drying them.
The vehicle can then be parked.
If you clean the wheels with a power washer,
observe the safety notes for the power
washer (Y page 257). You could otherwise
damage the tires.
Cleaning the wiper blades G
WARNING
You could become trapped by the windshield
wipers if they start moving while cleaning the
windshield or wiper blades. There is a risk of
injury.
Always switch off the windshield wipers and
the ignition before cleaning the windshield or
wiper blades.
! Do not fold the windshield wipers away
from the windshield unless the hood is
closed. Otherwise, you could damage the
hood.
! Do not pull the wiper blade. Otherwise,
the wiper blade could be damaged.
! Do not clean wiper blades too often and
do not rub them too hard. Otherwise, the
graphite coating could be damaged. This
could cause wiper noise.
! Hold the wiper arm securely when folding
back. The windshield could be damaged if
the wiper arm smacks against it suddenly.
X Turn the key to position 0in the ignition
lock or remove it.
X Fold the windshield wiper arms away from
the windshield until you feel them engage.
X Carefully clean the wiper blades with a
damp cloth.
X Fold back the wiper arms before switching
on the ignition.
Cleaning the exterior lighting !
Only use cleaning agents or cleaning
cloths which are suitable for plastic light
lenses. Unsuitable cleaning agents or 258
CareMaintenance and care