The 2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is a highly versatile full-size commercial van, part of its second generation (NCV3, 2006-2018). Available as a Cargo Van, Passenger Van, or Chassis Cab, it offers various wheelbases and roof heights. With new prices ranging roughly from $36,000 to $55,000+, it stands out for its exceptional cargo capacity, fuel-efficient turbodiesel engine, and the premium perception of the Mercedes-Benz brand, making it a favorite for business fleets and RV conversions alike.
The Good
The 2012 Sprinter offers impressive cargo volume and excellent fuel economy for its class, thanks to its turbodiesel engine. Its comfortable, car-like driving experience appeals to practical and emotional buyers, as does the professional image of the Mercedes-Benz badge. High versatility and strong resale value also contribute to its practical appeal.
The Bad
Known weaknesses for the 2012 Sprinter include higher maintenance and repair costs due to specialized parts and labor. Owners should watch out for issues with the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) systems, glow plug failures, oil cooler leaks, and body rust, especially in older models.
2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The primary engine for the U.S. market in 2012 was the 3.0L V6 BlueTEC Turbodiesel (OM642).
- Horsepower: This 3.0L V6 diesel engine produced 188 horsepower.
- Torque: A robust 325 lb-ft of torque, ideal for hauling and commercial applications.
- Fuel Economy: Official EPA ratings were not typically provided for these commercial vans, but owners commonly report averages between 18-22 MPG combined, which is excellent for its size.
- 0-60 MPH Times: As a large commercial vehicle, acceleration is not its forte. Estimates generally place 0-60 MPH times in the 10-12 second range, depending on load.
- Towing Capacity: The 2012 Sprinter boasts a respectable towing capacity of up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped, making it capable for many light-to-medium duty towing needs.
- Payload Capacity: Depending on the specific configuration (2500 or 3500 series), payload capacity can range significantly, typically from around 3,000 lbs to over 5,000 lbs.
- Trim-Level Features & Configurations:
- Body Styles: Available as a Cargo Van, Passenger Van, and Chassis Cab.
- Wheelbases: Common options included 144-inch and 170-inch wheelbases, with an extended 170-inch wheelbase variant for the Cargo Van.
- Roof Heights: Offered in a Standard Roof (approximately 64 inches of interior standing height) and a High Roof (approximately 77 inches of interior standing height), crucial for many applications.
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): Available in 8,550 lbs (2500 series) and 11,030 lbs (3500 series).
- Standard Features: Basic amenities like air conditioning, power windows and locks, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, AM/FM stereo, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) were standard.
- Optional Features: Buyers could opt for features such as a navigation system, heated seats, bi-xenon headlights, a rearview camera, parking sensors (Parktronic), heavy-duty suspension, auxiliary battery systems, various interior cargo management options (wood load floor, bulkheads, shelving), and upgraded sound systems. Passenger vans typically offered 12-passenger seating.
2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2012 |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sprinter |
| Trim | - |
| Style | High Roof |
| Type | Truck |
| Category | Cargo Van |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Germany |
| Manufacturing City | DUSSELDORF |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 14000 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | MG5+MH1 |
| Engine Size | 3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | Standard |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Have?
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, while generally robust, is known for several frequently reported problems, primarily stemming from its sophisticated diesel emissions system. A significant concern is the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system. These components are prone to clogging, especially with frequent short trips or city driving, leading to reduced performance and expensive repairs. Failures of associated sensors are also common. Glow plug failures are another recurring issue, often indicated by difficult cold starts.
The 3.0L V6 OM642 engine is also susceptible to oil cooler leaks, which can be costly to fix due to labor intensity. The plastic turbocharger resonator can crack, causing boost leaks and reduced engine power. While less common, some owners report transmission issues, occasionally linked to valve body problems.
Rust is a notable long-term concern, particularly on body panels, hinges, and the undercarriage, especially in areas exposed to road salt. Electrical issues, such as faulty sensors, wiring harness problems, or issues with the Signal Acquisition Module (SAM), can also arise with age.
Regarding recalls, the 2012 Sprinter has had several. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database indicates recalls concerning potential issues such as improper air bag deployment, wiring harness chafing, brake line corrosion, and power steering hose leaks. Potential buyers should always check the VIN for any outstanding recall services. Long-term reliability is largely dependent on meticulous maintenance, using correct fluids and parts, and adherence to service schedules. Neglecting these can lead to accelerated wear and costly breakdowns.
The 3.0L V6 OM642 engine is also susceptible to oil cooler leaks, which can be costly to fix due to labor intensity. The plastic turbocharger resonator can crack, causing boost leaks and reduced engine power. While less common, some owners report transmission issues, occasionally linked to valve body problems.
Rust is a notable long-term concern, particularly on body panels, hinges, and the undercarriage, especially in areas exposed to road salt. Electrical issues, such as faulty sensors, wiring harness problems, or issues with the Signal Acquisition Module (SAM), can also arise with age.
Regarding recalls, the 2012 Sprinter has had several. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database indicates recalls concerning potential issues such as improper air bag deployment, wiring harness chafing, brake line corrosion, and power steering hose leaks. Potential buyers should always check the VIN for any outstanding recall services. Long-term reliability is largely dependent on meticulous maintenance, using correct fluids and parts, and adherence to service schedules. Neglecting these can lead to accelerated wear and costly breakdowns.
How long will the 2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter last?
With diligent maintenance, a 2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter can easily achieve 200,000 to 300,000 miles, and many commercial users report reaching 400,000 miles or more. This translates to 10-15+ years of reliable service. The core engine and transmission are generally very durable, provided regular oil changes with the correct specification oil and timely fluid flushes are performed.
However, long-term durability is significantly impacted by the longevity of its emissions systems (DPF, EGR), which are prone to expensive failures, especially with heavy city driving. Rust can become a substantial issue over time, affecting body panels and structural integrity. Suspension components, brakes, and electrical systems will require regular attention as mileage accrues. While the mechanical foundations are strong, the associated systems are often the Achilles' heel, leading to higher ownership costs as the vehicle ages.
However, long-term durability is significantly impacted by the longevity of its emissions systems (DPF, EGR), which are prone to expensive failures, especially with heavy city driving. Rust can become a substantial issue over time, affecting body panels and structural integrity. Suspension components, brakes, and electrical systems will require regular attention as mileage accrues. While the mechanical foundations are strong, the associated systems are often the Achilles' heel, leading to higher ownership costs as the vehicle ages.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, designed as a commercial workhorse, features a utilitarian but functional array of built-in technology and safety features, with some advanced options for its time.
Built-in Tech & Entertainment: Standard entertainment typically included an AM/FM stereo with an auxiliary input for portable devices. Optional upgrades offered a CD player, an integrated navigation system, and Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling. While not luxurious, the cabin was designed for driver comfort during long hours.
Driver-Assistance Features: Driver-assistance technology was not as comprehensive as in modern passenger vehicles. Standard features included cruise control. Optional driver aids focused on maneuverability and awareness, such as Parktronic parking sensors and a rearview camera, which are highly valuable in a large van for tight urban spaces or parking.
Safety Features: The Sprinter was equipped with a robust set of standard safety features. These included an Adaptive Electronic Stability Program (ESP), which could adjust its parameters based on the vehicle's load, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control, and Brake Assist. Dual front airbags for the driver and passenger were standard. For enhanced occupant protection, optional safety features included thorax side airbags and window airbags, providing additional crash protection.
Crash-Test Ratings: It is important to note that full-size commercial vans like the 2012 Sprinter are generally not subjected to the same standardized crash tests by organizations such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) as passenger cars or light-duty trucks. Therefore, specific crash-test ratings are typically not available. Mercedes-Benz designs the Sprinter to meet rigorous internal and commercial safety standards appropriate for its class and intended use, focusing on structural integrity and occupant protection in commercial scenarios.
Built-in Tech & Entertainment: Standard entertainment typically included an AM/FM stereo with an auxiliary input for portable devices. Optional upgrades offered a CD player, an integrated navigation system, and Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling. While not luxurious, the cabin was designed for driver comfort during long hours.
Driver-Assistance Features: Driver-assistance technology was not as comprehensive as in modern passenger vehicles. Standard features included cruise control. Optional driver aids focused on maneuverability and awareness, such as Parktronic parking sensors and a rearview camera, which are highly valuable in a large van for tight urban spaces or parking.
Safety Features: The Sprinter was equipped with a robust set of standard safety features. These included an Adaptive Electronic Stability Program (ESP), which could adjust its parameters based on the vehicle's load, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control, and Brake Assist. Dual front airbags for the driver and passenger were standard. For enhanced occupant protection, optional safety features included thorax side airbags and window airbags, providing additional crash protection.
Crash-Test Ratings: It is important to note that full-size commercial vans like the 2012 Sprinter are generally not subjected to the same standardized crash tests by organizations such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) as passenger cars or light-duty trucks. Therefore, specific crash-test ratings are typically not available. Mercedes-Benz designs the Sprinter to meet rigorous internal and commercial safety standards appropriate for its class and intended use, focusing on structural integrity and occupant protection in commercial scenarios.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Prices and Market Value
When new in 2012, a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cargo Van started around $36,000, while Passenger Vans began closer to $40,000, with highly optioned models exceeding $55,000-$60,000. In today's used market (2024), prices vary dramatically, ranging from $10,000 for high-mileage, well-used examples to over $30,000 for low-mileage, well-maintained, or already converted units.
The Sprinter exhibits relatively low depreciation for a commercial vehicle, largely due to high demand, especially for camper van conversions and businesses. Factors significantly affecting resale value include overall condition, mileage, complete maintenance records, presence of rust, and specific configurations (high-roof cargo vans are premium). Quality professional upfits can also substantially increase its market value, reflecting its enduring popularity and utility.
The Sprinter exhibits relatively low depreciation for a commercial vehicle, largely due to high demand, especially for camper van conversions and businesses. Factors significantly affecting resale value include overall condition, mileage, complete maintenance records, presence of rust, and specific configurations (high-roof cargo vans are premium). Quality professional upfits can also substantially increase its market value, reflecting its enduring popularity and utility.
2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cost of Ownership
Long-term ownership of a 2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is generally considered costly. Insurance premiums can be higher than domestic vans, particularly for commercial or RV-converted policies. While its diesel engine offers excellent fuel economy for its size, diesel fuel itself can be more expensive, and Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) adds an ongoing cost.
Maintenance and repairs are significantly pricier than domestic alternatives, due to the need for Mercedes-Benz specific parts and specialized labor often requiring proprietary diagnostic tools. Common issues like DPF/EGR system failures or oil cooler leaks can lead to several thousand dollars in repairs. Therefore, despite its fuel efficiency, the 2012 Sprinter is a relatively expensive vehicle to own and maintain in the long run.
Maintenance and repairs are significantly pricier than domestic alternatives, due to the need for Mercedes-Benz specific parts and specialized labor often requiring proprietary diagnostic tools. Common issues like DPF/EGR system failures or oil cooler leaks can lead to several thousand dollars in repairs. Therefore, despite its fuel efficiency, the 2012 Sprinter is a relatively expensive vehicle to own and maintain in the long run.
2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Diesel
Fuel Capacity
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City Mileage
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Highway Mileage
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2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Safety Rating
NHTSA
2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Insurance
Insurance for a 2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Truck with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Compare to Other Truck?
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter competes against established rivals like the Ford E-Series (Econoline), Chevrolet Express/GMC Savana, and newer entrants such as the Nissan NV (which debuted in 2012).
Performance: The Sprinter's 3.0L V6 turbodiesel offers superior fuel economy and excellent low-end torque compared to the V8 gasoline engines typically found in the E-Series and Express. However, the domestic vans often boasted higher horsepower and, in some configurations, greater towing and payload capacities. The Nissan NV offered V6 and V8 gasoline options, providing a balance of power.
Features: The Sprinter generally offered a more refined, car-like driving experience with a more ergonomic and modern interior for its time. Its tall roof options were also a significant advantage for cargo and conversions. The E-Series and Express, while robust, featured much older designs and more utilitarian interiors. The Nissan NV presented a fresher design with decent features.
Reliability: The E-Series and Express are renowned for their simple, durable gasoline powertrains, often easier and cheaper to repair. The Sprinter's reliability is strong for its core engine and transmission, but it's often hampered by complex and expensive-to-repair diesel emissions systems (DPF, EGR). Nissan NV, being a newer platform, had its own initial reliability quirks.
Price: New, the Sprinter was significantly more expensive than its domestic counterparts. On the used market, it holds its value remarkably well due to demand, but its higher maintenance and repair costs can offset the perceived value retention. Domestic vans are generally cheaper to purchase and operate.
Alternatives: For buyers prioritizing lower initial cost and simpler, cheaper maintenance, a used Ford E-Series or Chevy Express remains a solid choice, albeit with poorer fuel economy. If a large, efficient cargo van is essential but complex diesel systems are a concern, a newer Ford Transit (introduced 2015) or Ram ProMaster (introduced 2014) could be better alternatives, offering modern designs with gasoline engine options and potentially lower overall maintenance burdens. For a similar form factor, the Nissan NV is also a viable alternative.
Performance: The Sprinter's 3.0L V6 turbodiesel offers superior fuel economy and excellent low-end torque compared to the V8 gasoline engines typically found in the E-Series and Express. However, the domestic vans often boasted higher horsepower and, in some configurations, greater towing and payload capacities. The Nissan NV offered V6 and V8 gasoline options, providing a balance of power.
Features: The Sprinter generally offered a more refined, car-like driving experience with a more ergonomic and modern interior for its time. Its tall roof options were also a significant advantage for cargo and conversions. The E-Series and Express, while robust, featured much older designs and more utilitarian interiors. The Nissan NV presented a fresher design with decent features.
Reliability: The E-Series and Express are renowned for their simple, durable gasoline powertrains, often easier and cheaper to repair. The Sprinter's reliability is strong for its core engine and transmission, but it's often hampered by complex and expensive-to-repair diesel emissions systems (DPF, EGR). Nissan NV, being a newer platform, had its own initial reliability quirks.
Price: New, the Sprinter was significantly more expensive than its domestic counterparts. On the used market, it holds its value remarkably well due to demand, but its higher maintenance and repair costs can offset the perceived value retention. Domestic vans are generally cheaper to purchase and operate.
Alternatives: For buyers prioritizing lower initial cost and simpler, cheaper maintenance, a used Ford E-Series or Chevy Express remains a solid choice, albeit with poorer fuel economy. If a large, efficient cargo van is essential but complex diesel systems are a concern, a newer Ford Transit (introduced 2015) or Ram ProMaster (introduced 2014) could be better alternatives, offering modern designs with gasoline engine options and potentially lower overall maintenance burdens. For a similar form factor, the Nissan NV is also a viable alternative.
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter a Good Truck?
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is ideal for businesses requiring massive, efficient cargo capacity and a professional brand image, or for individuals seeking a versatile platform for RV/camper conversions due to its generous interior height and decent fuel economy. It is worth buying, but with significant caveats.
Given its age, it's almost exclusively a used market purchase. A Sprinter is a smart choice only if you are prepared for higher, specialized maintenance and repair costs, or possess strong mechanical aptitude for diesel engines. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a Sprinter specialist is absolutely crucial. These vans thrive on long-haul highway driving, which helps mitigate DPF/EGR issues. High-roof cargo van trims offer the most versatility. Ultimately, it's a highly capable and desirable van, but its premium badge comes with premium ownership expenses. It's a worthwhile investment for those who truly need its specific attributes and are fully prepared for the ongoing commitment to its meticulous upkeep.
Given its age, it's almost exclusively a used market purchase. A Sprinter is a smart choice only if you are prepared for higher, specialized maintenance and repair costs, or possess strong mechanical aptitude for diesel engines. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a Sprinter specialist is absolutely crucial. These vans thrive on long-haul highway driving, which helps mitigate DPF/EGR issues. High-roof cargo van trims offer the most versatility. Ultimately, it's a highly capable and desirable van, but its premium badge comes with premium ownership expenses. It's a worthwhile investment for those who truly need its specific attributes and are fully prepared for the ongoing commitment to its meticulous upkeep.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.