The 2017 Spartan Metro Star is a specialized vehicle, primarily known as a chassis for emergency and transit applications. Introduced by Spartan Motors, it has served as a robust platform for custom-built fire apparatus and transit buses. While specific trims vary greatly depending on the end-use, the Metro Star platform itself is recognized for its heavy-duty construction and reliability. Pricing is highly variable due to its custom nature, ranging from substantial sums for fully equipped emergency vehicles to more moderate figures for chassis-only configurations. Its popularity stems from its customizable nature and proven durability in demanding environments.
The Good
The 2017 Spartan Metro Star excels in robust performance and unwavering reliability, crucial for its demanding applications. Its sturdy design inspires confidence, while a focus on operational efficiency and value makes it a practical choice for fleet managers. The inherent security and dependability offer emotional peace of mind.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses for the 2017 Spartan Metro Star primarily revolve around its specialized nature. Maintenance can be complex and costly due to bespoke components. Availability of certain parts might be limited, and its less-than-ideal fuel efficiency is a common consideration for chassis-based vehicles.
2017 Spartan Metro Star: Quick Overview
The 2017 Spartan Metro Star, as a chassis platform, offers a range of specifications that are highly configurable depending on its final application (e.g., fire apparatus, transit bus).
Engine Options:
- The Metro Star typically utilizes powerful diesel engines from reputable manufacturers such as Cummins or Detroit Diesel.
- Common engine series include the Cummins ISB, ISC, ISL, or ISM, and Detroit Diesel DD series engines.
- Specific engine displacements and configurations vary significantly based on customer requirements and the intended Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).
Horsepower:
- Horsepower ratings are highly dependent on the chosen engine and application.
- For fire apparatus, engines often range from approximately 300 hp to over 500 hp to handle heavy loads and emergency response demands.
- Transit bus configurations might have slightly lower, but still robust, horsepower figures, focused on consistent power delivery.
Fuel Economy:
- Specific fuel economy figures are rarely published or standardized for such a customizable chassis.
- Due to the heavy-duty nature of the engines and the weight of the vehicles it supports, fuel economy is generally lower than typical commercial vehicles, often in the range of 6-10 miles per gallon (MPG), depending heavily on load and operating conditions.
0-60 Times:
- 0-60 mph acceleration is not a primary design consideration for the Metro Star chassis.
- Performance is focused on torque, hauling capacity, and sustained operation rather than rapid acceleration.
- As such, 0-60 times would be significantly longer than passenger vehicles, potentially exceeding 20-30 seconds, and highly variable.
Towing Capacity (if applicable):
- The Metro Star chassis itself is not typically equipped for conventional towing in the same manner as a pickup truck.
- Its design is centered around carrying significant onboard equipment or passenger loads.
- If towing is a requirement for an upfitted vehicle, the chassis would be engineered to accommodate the specific towing hitch and load, but it's not a standard feature.
Trim-Level Features:
- Spartan Motors does not offer traditional "trim levels" in the consumer vehicle sense. Instead, features are highly customized.
- Chassis Variants: Available in various configurations such as Pumper, Rescue, Aerial, and Transit chassis.
- Suspension Systems: Options for different suspension types to optimize ride quality, load handling, and maneuverability.
- Braking Systems: Heavy-duty braking systems, often with ABS, designed for extreme conditions.
- Electrical Systems: Robust electrical systems to power extensive emergency lighting, communication equipment, and hydraulic systems.
- Cab Designs: Options for different cab configurations, including standard, crew cabs, or specialized apparatus cabs, with varying levels of seating and ergonomic considerations for operators.
- Body Mounting Capabilities: Designed for seamless integration with custom bodywork by specialized upfitters.
2017 Spartan Metro Star Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2017 |
| Make | Spartan |
| Model | Metro Star |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Commercial Vehicle |
| Category | Heavy Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | CHARLOTTE |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 33001 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 8.3L I6 |
| Engine Size | 8.3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 2017 Spartan Metro Star Have?
As a heavy-duty chassis platform for specialized vehicles like fire trucks and buses, the 2017 Spartan Metro Star, like any complex equipment, can encounter issues. Direct reports of specific model-year problems for the 2017 Metro Star are less common in public forums compared to consumer vehicles, due to its niche market and the fact that many of its components are sourced from major suppliers (like engines from Cummins or Detroit Diesel, and transmissions from Allison).
Common Areas of Concern (General to Heavy-Duty Chassis):
Recalls:
Specific recalls for the 2017 Spartan Metro Star chassis would be issued by Spartan Motors and would typically be related to safety defects affecting the chassis's core functions or components. These recalls would be formally communicated to the owners of affected vehicles. For the most accurate and up-to-date recall information, consulting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database using the vehicle's VIN is recommended, though chassis-only information can be less detailed than for complete vehicles.
Long-Term Reliability:
The long-term reliability of a 2017 Spartan Metro Star is heavily contingent on the quality of the upfitter who converted the chassis into its final form (fire truck, bus, etc.) and the ongoing maintenance regimen. Spartan chassis are generally built with durability in mind, but the extreme duty cycles they often endure mean that component wear is inevitable. Proactive maintenance, using high-quality parts, and addressing minor issues before they become major problems are key to maximizing the lifespan and reliability of these vehicles.
Common Areas of Concern (General to Heavy-Duty Chassis):
- Engine and Transmission Issues: While not unique to the Spartan chassis, problems with the Cummins or Detroit Diesel engines (e.g., fuel system issues, turbocharger problems, EGR system faults) or Allison transmissions (e.g., shifting problems, overheating) can arise over time, particularly with high mileage and intensive use. Regular and proper maintenance is paramount to mitigate these.
- Electrical System Gremlins: The extensive electrical systems required for emergency vehicles (lights, sirens, communication equipment, auxiliary power) can be complex. Faulty wiring, sensor failures, or issues with control modules can occur, often exacerbated by harsh operating conditions and vibration.
- Suspension and Drivetrain Wear: Due to the heavy loads and demanding operational environments (e.g., off-road use for some fire apparatus, constant stop-and-go for buses), components like leaf springs, shock absorbers, U-joints, and differentials can experience accelerated wear.
- Corrosion: In regions with harsh weather or road salt, frame and body corrosion can become a concern over the long term, especially for vehicles operating in coastal or northern climates. Regular washing and undercoating can help prevent this.
- Hydraulic System Issues: For apparatus with hydraulic functions (e.g., aerial ladders, stabilizers), leaks, pump failures, or control valve malfunctions can occur.
Recalls:
Specific recalls for the 2017 Spartan Metro Star chassis would be issued by Spartan Motors and would typically be related to safety defects affecting the chassis's core functions or components. These recalls would be formally communicated to the owners of affected vehicles. For the most accurate and up-to-date recall information, consulting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database using the vehicle's VIN is recommended, though chassis-only information can be less detailed than for complete vehicles.
Long-Term Reliability:
The long-term reliability of a 2017 Spartan Metro Star is heavily contingent on the quality of the upfitter who converted the chassis into its final form (fire truck, bus, etc.) and the ongoing maintenance regimen. Spartan chassis are generally built with durability in mind, but the extreme duty cycles they often endure mean that component wear is inevitable. Proactive maintenance, using high-quality parts, and addressing minor issues before they become major problems are key to maximizing the lifespan and reliability of these vehicles.
How long will the 2017 Spartan Metro Star last?
Estimating average mileage or years of service for a 2017 Spartan Metro Star is challenging due to its diverse applications. Fire apparatus, for instance, might accumulate 5,000 to 15,000 miles annually, often spending significant time idling or operating under high stress, leading to a shorter effective lifespan based on hours of operation rather than miles. Transit buses could see much higher mileage, potentially 30,000 to 60,000 miles per year, experiencing continuous use. With rigorous, manufacturer-recommended maintenance and addressing issues promptly, these chassis can be expected to serve reliably for 15 to 25 years, or even longer, accumulating hundreds of thousands of miles or tens of thousands of operating hours. Long-term durability is a strong suit, provided that the powertrain and chassis components are well-maintained. Weaknesses over time often manifest as wear and tear on heavy-duty components, potential for corrosion in harsh environments, and the increasing complexity of specialized upfitted equipment.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2017 Spartan Metro Star chassis is designed for specialized commercial and emergency applications, not for consumer-grade technology, entertainment, or advanced driver-assistance features found in typical passenger vehicles. Its focus is on functionality, durability, and operational safety.
Built-in Tech & Entertainment:
Driver-Assistance Features:
Safety Features:
Crash-Test Ratings:
Due to its nature as a chassis and the vast customization of the bodies that sit atop it, the 2017 Spartan Metro Star chassis itself does not have standardized consumer crash-test ratings (like NHTSA or IIHS ratings). The safety performance of the complete vehicle (e.g., a specific fire truck model or bus model) is assessed based on its intended application and the specific design and engineering by the upfitter. Manufacturers of emergency vehicles and buses often conduct their own rigorous testing and adhere to stringent industry standards (e.g., NFPA standards for fire apparatus) rather than relying on generic consumer crash tests.
Built-in Tech & Entertainment:
- Basic Instrumentation: The dashboard will feature essential gauges and warning lights for engine status, speed, air pressure (for air brakes), fuel level, and critical system alerts.
- Communication Systems: Provision for mounting and wiring of radios, dispatch systems, and other communication devices is standard, but the equipment itself is typically supplied and installed by the end-user or upfitter.
- Limited Entertainment: Entertainment systems are generally absent unless specifically requested and installed as an aftermarket or custom option by the upfitter, which would be rare for emergency vehicles and less of a priority for transit buses compared to driver comfort and utility.
Driver-Assistance Features:
- ABS (Anti-lock Braking System): Standard on most heavy-duty vehicles, providing crucial control during emergency braking.
- Backup Cameras: Often an optional or standard feature, especially for larger fire apparatus or buses, to aid in maneuvering in tight spaces.
- Limited Electronic Aids: Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, or automatic emergency braking are not typically integrated into the base Metro Star chassis. The operational environment and the skill of the trained operator are the primary safety mechanisms.
Safety Features:
- Robust Chassis Construction: The primary safety feature is the inherently strong and durable chassis frame designed to withstand significant loads and impacts.
- Heavy-Duty Braking: Advanced braking systems designed for the weight and operational demands.
- Seat Belts: Standard for all occupants in the cab.
- Emergency Lighting and Siren Integration: The chassis is wired and designed to accommodate extensive emergency lighting and siren systems, crucial for visibility and alerting other road users.
- Roll Stability Systems (Optional/Application Dependent): For certain heavy-duty applications, especially with high centers of gravity (like aerial ladder trucks), electronic stability control or roll stability systems might be available as an option.
Crash-Test Ratings:
Due to its nature as a chassis and the vast customization of the bodies that sit atop it, the 2017 Spartan Metro Star chassis itself does not have standardized consumer crash-test ratings (like NHTSA or IIHS ratings). The safety performance of the complete vehicle (e.g., a specific fire truck model or bus model) is assessed based on its intended application and the specific design and engineering by the upfitter. Manufacturers of emergency vehicles and buses often conduct their own rigorous testing and adhere to stringent industry standards (e.g., NFPA standards for fire apparatus) rather than relying on generic consumer crash tests.
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.
2017 Spartan Metro Star Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2017 Spartan Metro Star chassis prices were highly variable, typically starting in the low to mid-$100,000s for a basic chassis and quickly escalating to $300,000 to $700,000 or even over $1 million once fully outfitted as a specialized fire apparatus or transit bus. These figures reflect the heavy-duty engineering and custom manufacturing. On the used market, a 2017 Metro Star chassis in good condition might range from $50,000 to $200,000, again heavily dependent on its previous configuration, maintenance history, and remaining service life. Depreciation is significant from the peak new price, especially for upfitted vehicles, as the cost of specialized equipment is not fully recouped. Factors affecting resale value include the condition of the engine and drivetrain, the remaining life of critical components, the type and condition of the upfitting (e.g., fire pump, aerial ladder, seating), and the overall demand for that specific type of specialized vehicle.
2017 Spartan Metro Star Cost of Ownership
Ownership of a 2017 Spartan Metro Star is generally costly, not economical. Insurance premiums will be substantial, reflecting the high replacement cost and specialized use. Fuel costs are high due to the powerful diesel engines and heavy vehicles they support, with MPG often in the single digits. Maintenance and repair are significant expenses, requiring specialized technicians and parts, especially for integrated emergency equipment. Routine servicing, fluid changes, and potential major component repairs (engine, transmission, hydraulics) contribute to high long-term ownership costs. While durable, these vehicles are investments with considerable ongoing expenditure, primarily suited for organizations with the budget to support them.
2017 Spartan Metro Star Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Diesel
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2017 Spartan Metro Star Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
2017 Spartan Metro Star Insurance
Insurance for a 2017 Spartan Metro Star is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Commercial Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2017 Spartan Metro Star Compare to Other Commercial Vehicle?
The 2017 Spartan Metro Star competes in a specialized segment of the heavy-duty chassis market, primarily against other chassis manufacturers catering to emergency vehicle and bus upfitters. Its direct rivals include brands like:
1. Pierce Manufacturing (Velocity, Enforcer chassis):
2. Ferrara Fire Apparatus (Igniter, HD-8000 chassis):
3. Freightliner Custom Chassis (S2, M2 series for buses/specialty):
4. International (e.g., 4300/4400 series for buses/specialty):
Recommendations:
1. Pierce Manufacturing (Velocity, Enforcer chassis):
- Performance: Comparable heavy-duty diesel engines and transmissions providing robust power for demanding roles.
- Features: Pierce offers highly integrated chassis designs with a strong focus on firefighter safety and operational efficiency, often with proprietary systems.
- Reliability: Known for robust construction and reliability in the fire service.
- Price: Similar to Spartan, Pierce chassis are premium products with high price points, especially when fully outfitted.
2. Ferrara Fire Apparatus (Igniter, HD-8000 chassis):
- Performance: Offers powerful engine options and durable drivetrains suitable for extreme conditions.
- Features: Ferrara emphasizes safety and customizability, with various cab configurations and features tailored to specific department needs.
- Reliability: Generally regarded as reliable and well-built for emergency services.
- Price: Positioned in a similar high-cost bracket.
3. Freightliner Custom Chassis (S2, M2 series for buses/specialty):
- Performance: While Freightliner offers a wide range of chassis, their heavy-duty models provide competitive performance for bus and some specialty applications.
- Features: More standardized features compared to bespoke fire chassis, but with extensive options for vocational use.
- Reliability: Strong reputation for reliability and widespread dealer support.
- Price: Can sometimes be more cost-effective than highly specialized fire chassis, depending on the configuration, offering good value.
4. International (e.g., 4300/4400 series for buses/specialty):
- Performance: Capable engines and chassis designed for commercial and vocational use, suitable for bus and some heavier duty applications.
- Features: Focuses on practicality and durability for commercial fleets.
- Reliability: Good reliability, with extensive aftermarket support.
- Price: Often competitive, providing a solid value proposition for fleet operators.
Recommendations:
- Similar Alternatives: For fire apparatus chassis, Pierce and Ferrara are direct competitors offering comparable performance and reliability, with the choice often coming down to specific design preferences, dealer support, and local reputation.
- Better Alternatives (for certain applications): If the primary need is a robust, reliable chassis for transit buses or less extreme vocational uses where extensive specialized firefighting equipment is not required, then Freightliner Custom Chassis or International chassis might offer better value. They often have broader dealer networks and potentially lower maintenance costs.
- Spartan Metro Star Standout: The Spartan Metro Star is known for its robust engineering and customizability, making it a strong contender for departments prioritizing specific performance metrics or unique apparatus configurations. However, the competition is fierce, and all these manufacturers build high-quality, durable chassis for demanding jobs. The decision often hinges on the specific upfitter's expertise and the end-user's detailed requirements and budget.
Final Verdict: Is the 2017 Spartan Metro Star a Good Commercial Vehicle?
The 2017 Spartan Metro Star chassis is ideal for fire departments, municipalities, and commercial entities requiring a highly robust and customizable platform for specialized vehicles, primarily fire apparatus and transit buses. It is worth buying for organizations that need its specific heavy-duty capabilities and can leverage its customizable nature for critical operations. Buying new is a significant investment reserved for those with substantial budgets and long-term fleet planning. A used 2017 Metro Star can be a valuable acquisition, provided it has been meticulously maintained, its critical components (engine, transmission, upfitted equipment) are in excellent condition, and its specific configuration meets the buyer's operational needs. Thorough inspection by a qualified technician is essential before purchasing used. It is not suited for individual buyers or typical commercial fleets seeking general transportation.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.