2020 Mercedes Sprinter

Sudden complete engine failures occurred in my Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van during highway operation while transporting freight, creating a serious safety hazard due to immediate and total loss of engine power in active traffic conditions. The first engine failure occurred at approximately 303,000 miles. The second failure occurred at approximately 140,000 miles after engine replacement. In both cases, there were no prior warning signs, diagnostic alerts, abnormal noises, or performance issues before sudden and catastrophic engine shutdown. Both incidents occurred while I was operating the vehicle at highway speeds during commercial freight delivery. The engine failed without warning, resulting in immediate loss of propulsion while in traffic. On both occasions, I was forced to rapidly maneuver the disabled vehicle to the shoulder under reduced control and arrange emergency towing to safely remove the vehicle from the roadway and prevent a potential collision or injury. These failures created a significant highway safety risk due to the abrupt loss of power while merging, traveling in traffic flow, and operating at speed. A sudden engine shutdown in these conditions could result in a rear-end collision, loss of control, or multi-vehicle accident, particularly in high-speed or heavy traffic environments. The repeated nature of catastrophic engine failure following engine replacement raises concern about a potential underlying defect in the engine system, components, or related assemblies, or possible unresolved mechanical or installation-related issues. The recurrence of identical failure conditions under similar operating circumstances increases concern that this may not be an isolated incident. Vehicle Information: Mercedes-Benz Sprinter used for commercial freight delivery First engine failure: ~303,000 miles Second engine failure: ~140,000 miles (replacement engine) Failure type: Sudden, complete engine shutdown with no warning at highway speed

Reported

May 2026

Incident date

Apr 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

On November 28, 2025, I experienced a vehicle fire in my Mercedes 2020 Sprinter 2500 4WD van. The van engine was on and idling while heating up with the van heater blower on level 6 (out of 7). After about 45 minutes, I saw a haze first and then smelled smoke. Unsure of the source, I turned the vehicle off and exited with my dog. I opened the hood to look for smoke in the engine bay. No smoke under the hood. I contact Mercedes Roadside and open the driver side door where I see flames under the seat. I grabbed the fire extinguisher I installed and put the fire out within 20-25 seconds of seeing it. I believe the root cause of the fire was running the van blower at a high setting for a sustained 45 minutes. My dog and I were inside and definitely in danger. It scares me to think of a scenario where the van was idling with only my dog inside and something like this occurring. The incident is currently under investigation with MB USA and my insurance company, Progressive. No warning signs or dashboard messages. In general, the electrical wiring for my vehicle has been spotty and was completely rewired by the dealer service center in 2021. Currently, there is an issue blacking out the dashboard screen so there is no screen function including gps, entertainment, or vehicle info.

Reported

Dec 2025

Incident date

Nov 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Fire

I had 5 recalls completed at the MB Sprinter dealership in Pleasanton CA on 11/06/2025. Had hardly driven it 100 miles or 5 times since then when I noticed it was not always going into park. One recall had to do with not going in park when you push park button while foot on brake. I was not having that problem until the MB Sprinter dealership did the recall work. Now every 5th time or so it does not go in park when I push park button while foot on brake. Dealership insists I must pay to have this fixed even though their recall work caused it. This is a severe safety hazard that could result in death!

Reported

Dec 2025

Incident date

Nov 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I’ve had two issues with my sprinter van that were transmission shift module that left me stranded with no way to shift the car into neutral. I was blocking a fuel pump and couldn’t get the car into gear. The first time I was stuck in a parking lot with the same issue. I can’t believe no one else had this issue. The screen message said “Service required do not shift gears” I purchased the van new in 2020. It only has 17000 miles on it. The dealerships Mercedes Benz in Sioux Falls and Mercedes Benz in Rochester Minnesota repaired the van.

Reported

Sep 2025

Incident date

Jun 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500. The contact stated that while in reverse, the rearview camera failed to display a rearview image. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who was unable to provide a cause for the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V411000 (Electrical System, Back Over Prevention); but the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 51,000.

Reported

Aug 2025

Incident date

Aug 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

repeated EGR clogging and malfunction: bucking or stumbling behavior, inability to accelerate properly, disabled shifting affecting ability to slow or stop without excessive use of brakes, Limp Home Mode suddenly without warning including inability to maintain a safe speed on highway and speed minimums that the vehicle cannot keep up (20 mph max while climbing moderately), unable to downshift when going downhill - relying solely on braking to keep speed below safe limit or speed limits. EGR failed again after cleaning, in as little as 3 months. No repair seems possible, only repeated cleanings. Since this happened so much, we have been in several unsafe situations due to the sudden and unheralded degradation of performance and safe use of the vehicle. Once repaired, the condition can come back immediately due to the computer still guessing that it is still in failure (limp home mode returned suddenly without warning as we merged onto an interstate with no exit for 7 miles uphill… and only made 20mph). Check Engine light could come on, and did, but never during the actual degradation of performance - and went often after a few run cycles. Mercedes dealers have confirmed and performed all services on the EGR and related issues (malfunction once caused the aircleaner element to be sucked in and that caused a MAF to be destroyed by contaminants): 1) first signs of issue before 43,000 miles (when check engine light and/or LHM happened -repaired 18sep2023, 51,871 miles, MB service code: LI14.20-N-073867); 2) 26 DEC 2023 - EGR failure diagnosed and replaced by MB dealer. Cleaning had not fixed the issue or failure was final as found by driving by technician and not by codes! 3) 09/jul/2024 - MAF replaced, EGR codes noted - but functioning, fix by MB/Canada 4) 07/24/2024 - 70,547 miles - EGR Clean by MB Missoula MT - failed upon highway same day 5) 07/25/2025 - 70,600 miles - MB Missoula MT cleared computer 6) 88,340 MB cleaned EGR - runs ok again

Reported

Jul 2025

Incident date

Jul 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

See attached document for complaint.

Reported

Apr 2025

Incident date

Apr 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

While driving the vehicle, 4x4 and low range would engage on its own. It would cause the transfer case to grind, clunk, and lock up. This happened while the vehicle was in motion and could have easily sent the vehicle out of control. Some warning lights appeared on the dash. I took it into the dealership, they diagnosed it as a glitch in the transfer case actuator software. They updated the software and declined my warranty claim since the powertrain warranty did not cover software updates. I had to pay out of pocket for this fix. The issue is common to this model.

Reported

Apr 2025

Incident date

Mar 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Since date of purchase, May 2022, the electrical components have not worked properly. The solar panels have never worked, the second alternator used to only charge while driving intermittently now it doesn't work at all, and plugging into shore power sometimes melts the cord. The chassis battery frequently drains requiring constant starting or a jump. It has been replaced four times. The cabin lights continue to flicker when turned on. I sought help from the dealer just weeks after purchasing the van. Due to parts and labor shortages, it wouldn't be for 5 months that they could work on the vehicle. Which they did on and off for five months before sending me from Oregon to Alabama to have the manufacturer work on it. They sent me 2300 miles to fix a brand new vehicle that they sold me. After having been to over 15 Mercedes dealers, towed to many, and to the Tiffin manufacturer (and when it turned out not to be fixed. I took it right back but then when it still wasn't fixed. I sought help from Mercedes.), the van is still not fixed and I am often without power.

Reported

Dec 2024

Incident date

May 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The vehicle experiences complete loss of power (dead peddle) in 2 situation. both of which happen completely randomly. 1. From the start at zero miles per hour. In this situation you will start to move and then there is no power no matter how hard you press the peddle. This is very dangerous when turning into traffic. The vehicle has completely stopped running the risk of T bone collision. 2. There is also "dead peddle" while driving on the highway. The problem happens quite often. There have been situations where I have slowed from 60mph down to 20mph forcing me to pull off the road before the vehicle has regained power again.

Reported

Nov 2024

Incident date

Nov 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

We were driving on Rt. 32 north of Canaan Valley State Park in West Virginia. Suddenly the dashboard display began flickering on and off, displaying numerous multiple warning errors and alarms, and the windshield wipers began working and would not shut off. Turn signals would not function. Warning messages included instructions not to shift gears, lane keeping assist and automatic braking disabled, "Steering Malfunction", and many other errors. We have a partial video showing part on the incident. Dealer found evidence of corrosion on the Electronic Ignition System module, and sticking ignition on/off switch, which was indicated as the cause of the problem.

Reported

Nov 2024

Incident date

Oct 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Vehicle loses power and is unable to move. Pressing the accelerator to the floor, the engine develops no power. This happens randomly at higher altitudes. We have had several instances of power loss while merging into traffic. Total loss of power left us sitting in busy intersections. This is a common issue with these vehicles with no known fix available. Mercedes should be repairing thus problem before someone is seriously injured.

Reported

Aug 2024

Incident date

Aug 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes Benz Sprinter 4500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V695000 (Structure, Equipment) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect. VIN tool was unable to retrieve recall information.

Reported

Jul 2024

Incident date

Jul 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Mercedes Benz 3500 XL Sprinter motorhome, 2020 chassis. May 2023 MB did several recalls & software updates which MB USA headquarters said those changes could've affected the Cruise Control & Adaptive Cruise Control because these systems worked excellently until May '23, in my local MB Sprinter service. These systems have not worked more than 2% of the time. MB keeps changing items with no improvement. I told them to test on I-95 or The turnpike, as that's when we use it safely. Service tech said they're not allowed to test it there; we told them that's when it won't work, when we need it. Dozens of trips keep proving MB needs a permanent fix for the safety features we paid & need. I KEEP TRYING TO ADD MY 10 SECOND VIDEO CLIP BELOW BUT YOUR SITE WON'T TAKE IT. IT SHOWS the Cruise Control 3 blinking BLANK cursors on dash monitor where the mph Cruise miles #s setting should display. I showed this to my local MB service who sent video to MB USA HEADQUARTERS. Under my active Warranty they need to CHANGE the WHOLE CRUISE CONTROL SYSTEM. THESE bandaids are exhausting time & resources for all of us. Now their engineers say it could be the seat sensor. I've hamstring pain & need a seat cushion while driving. This EXCUSE is FAULTY like their FAULT CODES, as randomly I don't use my seat cushion & Cruise Control & thus Adaptive Cruise Control won't work. Thank you for your help! [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported

Apr 2024

Incident date

May 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V875000 (Structure). The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to multiple local dealers in the area to repair the vehicle under the recall; however, the parts to complete the recall repair were not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Reported

Apr 2024

Incident date

Apr 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

It is very difficult to start the engine, and when it starts the RPM never goes above 750. I had the van towed to a Specialist and diagnosed. Their diagnosis is that the Engine wiring harness is damaged and causing electrical malfunction which causes a number of saftey systems to prevent the vehicle from operating properly. Mercedes Benz customer service representative indicated that the diagnosis has to be done by one of their dealers and they would decide then if they want to assist. Unfortunately, the local dealer has twice failed to address an issue thatcshould have been addressed under warranty and so I have list confidence in their ability or willingness to assist. I have received an estimate of nearly $6,400.00 to replace the faulty wiring harness on a vehicle with less than 11,000 miles.

Reported

Mar 2024

Incident date

Mar 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The engine stalled when running at 60mph on the interstate. Mechanically jammed.

Reported

Feb 2024

Incident date

Jun 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The wiring harness under my front passenger swivel seat became pinched and severed the wires. The air bag warning light came on. I took the vehicle to the dealer and got it fixed at my own expense. I noticed the recall #21V410000 which is for the same thing, however my van was not included. Can my van be included so I can be reimbursed by the mfg? Thanks, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported

Jan 2024

Incident date

Jan 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Mercedes has a design and installation flaw for the EIS Connector. Its location under the wheel by the metal wall allows for condensation to directly be absorbed into the connector causing corrosion. Once corrosion happens, the van becomes inoperable as the driver cannot shift gears and the van must be towed to the nearest Mercedes dealership. This happens often to vans built after 2019 due to a change in design. Corrosion will happen over time after a change in temperature with condensation build up on the windshield. Mercedes has a solution for this, a boot cover over the EIS, however, it is not widely shared over a safety recall causing Sprinter owners to have an inoperable vehicle when such corrosion happens. This issue can be prevented with a safety recall by installing the cover allowing for a safe and reliable vehicle for civilians on the road.

Reported

Nov 2023

Incident date

Nov 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the crosswind assist activated, applying the brake, and briefly taking control of the steering, prompting the contact to pull to the shoulder of the roadway. After restarting the vehicle, the vehicle returned to normal functionality however, the failure became a regular occurrence. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who was unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 126,000.

Reported

Oct 2023

Incident date

Oct 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Drivers seat belt buckle steel cables that secure it broken, one completely in half. SRS light activates intermittently. I am 160lb male and have in no way contributed to this failure. This vehicle has under 12,000 miles on it and has barely used. This is clearly a safety violation

Reported

Oct 2023

Incident date

Oct 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The windshield wipers are malfunctioning. They randomly turn on after using the blinkers. I cannot get them to turn off unless I turn off the vehicle. I'm afraid they will begin to fail completely and eventually not turn on. This will be a safety issue when it rains. I took the vehicle to the Mercedes-Benz dealership and they were able to reproduce the problem. They said the windshield wiper module in the steering wheel needs to be replaced. It is available for inspection upon request. There were no warnings, messages, or symptoms of the problem prior to the failure. They first appeared 9/18/2023. I also called several third-party Mercedes mechanics and they said this is a common problem with Mercedes.

Reported

Oct 2023

Incident date

Sep 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

After starting engine and putting transmission into drive, vehicle does not respond to throttle and will not move forward. If I put the transmission into neutral or park, the engine will respond to throttle input. Vehicle may respond to throttle when in reverse. This is an intermittent problem that seems to occur at higher altitudes than our home base of near sea level. The issue has occurred at 4,000 to 12,000 feet elevations. Sometimes the check engine light has come on during these events, but the check engine light clears by the time returning home. When taking the vehicle to Mercedes Van Service to have it checked, no diagnostics data can be found and they cannot reproduce the issue. This issue has occurred numerous times has has been to the Mercedes Van Service Center 4 or 5 times already for the issue. The last event occurred on 10/10/2023. The vehicle eventually behaves normally after several start attempts but makes it very difficult and potentially hazardous when attempting to leave remote campsites. When issue occurs, you don’t know when it will decide to behave normally or if you’ll need to call for emergency assistance via our Garmin satellite handheld unit because of being in a no cellphone service area.

Reported

Oct 2023

Incident date

Oct 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

on 08-03=23, I as driving MB sprinter van on highway Route 84 east toward Connecticut, when I was near Southington exit smoke was coming out of AC vent, I took exit to route 10 and stopped van right after exit on the road, and opened hood, there was active fire near lower left side engine, with help of drivers who stopped behind me, I extinguished fire with fire extinguisher and called MB road service system, police arrived first and towing vehicle from MB arrived and towed van to MB dealer called New Country Mercedes Benz, where van was inspected by technician on 08-15-23. I was told problem was overloaded alternator and serpentine belt failure. Cost to repair is around 9500 I told them I have solar Panel on roof and connected to my portable power bank battery and engine battery was never connected or used for my to power use for camping accessories. Driver for towing told MB had this problem and some vehicles were recalled, mine was not recalled.

Reported

Aug 2023

Incident date

Aug 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Fire

The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the instrument cluster lost functionality and the screen went blank. The contact stated no warning was illuminated. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer or independent mechanic. The vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle had experienced cold start failures. The contact stated that occasionally several attempts were needed to start the vehicle. The contact stated that the failures were intermittent. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The contact researched online and related the instrument cluster failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V204000 (Electrical System). The failure mileage was approximately 11,000.

Reported

Aug 2023

Incident date

Jul 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The adaptive cruise control, auto emergency breaking and collision warning stopped working on the vehicle on a clear day as I was entering the freeway for a long drive. It said sensors were dirty. I stopped, shut off vehicle, cleaned all sensor locations, and restarted vehicle. Sensors worked for 5min and then stopped again and have yet to start functioning after 4 days and extensive driving. It appears that this is a common issue for other 2019+ Sprinter owners. This definitely reduces the safety of the vehicle for the driver, passengers and other vehicles. Shut-off without warning, reduces speed unexpectedly in traffic is a risk. The distractions of looking down for solutions to see what's going on and trying to reset system.

Reported

Aug 2023

Incident date

Aug 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Driving at speed (70-75 mph) in the HOV lane of the I-5 Freeway south of Los Angeles, a warning signal would occasionally light up and sound when the van passed under HOV signage indicating HOV exits. Then, with a completely clear lane ahead – no vehicles, no obstacles – the van's braking system activated just before the van reached one of these overhead signs. The brakes fully locked, the van skidded briefly before the brakes released. The driver of the car following behind slammed on his/her brakes to avoid rear-ending the van. A very dangerous situation and major accident was only avoided because the traffic was relatively light in that particular section of the freeway at that time of day.

Reported

Jul 2023

Incident date

Jul 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

crosswind assist randomly kicking in, acting in a dangerous manner. Vehicle swirl, almost fish tailing. Other times it randomly slams on the brakes, slows down by 10mph, almost got rear ended.

Reported

Jul 2023

Incident date

Jul 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2022 Winnebago View built on a 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V695000 (Structure, Equipment) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Reported

Jul 2023

Incident date

Sep 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500. The contact stated that the message “Brake Assist Inoperable - See Owner’s Manual” message was displayed. The warning light remained illuminated for several miles before turning off. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer on three occasions, where it was diagnosed that there was a low sensor, approximately 1.5 centimeters, and the sensor was adjusted. The fault code displayed was C174AFB on two diagnostic tests. The vehicle was repaired but the failure recurred. Additionally, the mechanic informed the contact to keep the front of the vehicle clean. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 6,000.

Reported

Jun 2023

Incident date

Mar 2021

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V796000 (Power Train) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Reported

Jun 2023

Incident date

Jun 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The automatic awning fully extended while I was moving at approximately 50 MPH. I was alone in the vehicle. Vehicles in the lane to my right had to change lanes and break to avoid colliding with awning. I contacted Carefree of Colorado, the manufacturer of the awning (model name: Freestyle Evolution). The technicians could not diagnose the problem and suggested that I take it in for service. There was no warning lamps or beeps before or during the spontaneous deployment. I was aware of the problem after hearing a loud noise, flapping and was able to visually confirm that the awning was extended. there is only one switch used to extend and retract the awning and it is out of reach of the drivers seat. Upon inspection, I found the switch in the "in" position, which means that it is retracted.

Reported

Jun 2023

Incident date

Jun 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The rear camera has gone out on numerous occasions. When I place the vehicle in reverse, my infotainment displays a black area with a camera with a line through it, indicating the rear camera is not working. I’m not sure if it’s the same issue as issue “21V411” that affected other 19-21 Mercedes Sprinter vans but it seems like it from what was described.

Reported

May 2023

Incident date

Jul 2021

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

None responsive throttle, driving on highway and engine loses power and loses all throttle response causing rapid slowing to traffic behind the vehicle. No warning lamps and CEL’s. Problem occurs at random times with no CEL or warning.

Reported

May 2023

Incident date

Apr 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Cross wind assist kick on for random reason, not able to disable this feature. It slams on the brake dropping my speed by 10MPH with vehicle almost rear ending me. At times it steers the vehicle in such a way that it almost fish tail.

Reported

Apr 2023

Incident date

Apr 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle was jerking. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, no cause of the failure was found. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number 22V796000 (Power Train). The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 32,000.

Reported

Mar 2023

Incident date

Mar 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

On many occasions the Sprinter vans on the new models have what's called crosswind assist.. Not exactly sure what it's doing I believe it's engaging the brakes to try to stabilize the van when wins hit it from the side. On at least 10 occasions in the last year and a half 2 years when sidewinds or headwinds hit the vehicle or when passing a semi it activates and it's almost thrown me off the road. This is a serious safety concern this is my second van that has the same issue right in the row. At bare minimum this option should be able to be disabled by the driver in certain conditions cuz it is extremely unsafe

Reported

Dec 2022

Incident date

Nov 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

On 10-27-22 the van was parked in my home driveway where it had been parked overnight. The engine was running for approximately 10 minutes while loading things into the vehicle. The vehicle was in park and the hand parking brake was not engaged. Prior to leaving I noticed the dash icon showing the rear door was not fully shut and went back to close it. Once I closed the rear door it then appeared that the transmission shifted itself into neutral and the van rolled back into the garage while I was standing outside of it. I have home surveillance camera footage showing the incident as it happened. I have tried to convey this information to Mercedes Benz but interactions with them have been less than helpful.

Reported

Dec 2022

Incident date

Oct 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Crash

The above are wouldn't allow me to place a check mark in the appropriate boxes. In the Standard Vehicle Components and ADAS sections, I was unable to check the boxes, but our vehicle contains ALL of the items in the first and second sections. The vehicle was dropped off at Lazy Days, Tampa on October 21, 2022 and so far they have been unable to provide an estimate or advise when we may receive our repaired motorhome. This dealer has a reputation for very poor follow-up. If you provide an email, I can send you the items to be checked. Despite going through two highway barriers at about 40 to 50 mph, the air bag system failed to deploy. The vehicle stopped as we ran into a fence at an angle of ten to fifteen percent. We luckily dodged five opportunities to be killed. My wife jumped out of the vehicle when it stopped and screamed so loud I could not believe it was her. I've been married 28 years and was shocked at her condition. I had to hold her to quiet her. The first hint of a problem was the brakes failed and the cruise control seemed to increase speed, but I'm not absolutely sure of this, but it felt like it. There are two Tiffin reps at Lazy Days, which I wrote about this, twice, and called leaving a message and they have not sought to get in touch with me. The supervisor, [XXX], of the intake service advisor, [XXX] said she would be in touch. I told her there was so much wrong, we understand if it took longer than her usual case. When it was about a month in, I called and discovered he no longer works there. They failed to assign someone to let us know of any progress. I called and left messages for [XXX] (Lazy Days employee) and wrote two emails and he also failed to get in touch, but he assigned [XXX] who called us asking what was wrong with our coach. I was beside myself. [XXX] failed to even read the invoice! I told her to read the invoice and call us back. Ran out of room. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).

Reported

Dec 2022

Incident date

Oct 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Crash

Adaptive Cruise Control as well as Forward Collison warning fail to work properly when in use. Both unexpectedly malfunction for no apparent reason and vehicle will not cruise control will not function at all. The vehicle was taken back to the dealership where it was supposedly addressed and fixed, however, the issue has not been fixed. The vehicle presents the same issues as prior to the inspection and "repair" from the dealership. While driving with Adaptive Cruise Control/Forward Collison Warning, the system will malfunction. A light on the dash will indicate that it has been disabled, simultaneously, the vehicle will lose cruise control, foward collision warning immediately. Vehicle will not regain any form of cruise control or forward collison warning for an unspecified amount of time. Could be minutes, hours, or even days. Dash warnings also include cleaning sensors and cameras. Doing so does not correct the problem.

Reported

Nov 2022

Incident date

Oct 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The 2019+ Mercedes Sprinter EIS (Electronic Ignition System) module is bolted under the driver side dash board to the base of the A pillar where it meets with the firewall. The electrical connector of the module is pointing straight up - this is an issue because any liquids that might spill on the dash (dash cupholder) or any humidity from windshield interior condensation will drip right down the wiring and into the EIS module causing it to short out. _ If the EIS module shorts out, the vehicle will be inoperable until a new unit is fitted. _ The EIS module retails at $1800+ from Mercedes _ Had Mercedes installed the EIS module with the connector facing DOWNWARD - this moisture related issue would not exist. _ There is no drip loop provisions in the wiring. _ Mercedes is aware of the issue as they have created a plastic bag with part number A 638 546 00 35 and they are charging $20 for it. As of right now, Mercedes refuses to fix this issue preventatively. They will only repair it AFTER the EIS module has shorted out. They are refusing to treat this as a warranty claim even though it is clearly a manufacturer defect. Please help? Thank you

Reported

Nov 2022

Incident date

Nov 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The vehicle was delisted on Turo due to a recall. We contacted the dealer right away and they said there is no service required at the moment and we can continue to drive vehicle. We were advised to I understand, in that case you need to call or file a complaint with NHTSA directly.

Reported

Nov 2022

Incident date

Oct 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Upon starting the engine to leave camp spot in middle of nowhere, the awning motor started extending outward on it's own very loudly and extended all the way. It would not go back in. Had to manually crank the awning in and noticed a bolt and nut not attached to anything in the railing where the awning is attached. Since the awning was not secured to drive on the freeway, used zipties to secure. Very unsafe as I was driving through high winds. I hopped on the forum for Winnebago Revels and immediately found several other instances of the same scenario happening with their Carefree awning. Never had any issues prior.

Reported

Nov 2022

Incident date

Oct 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The cruise control system and related systems (distance control and automatic braking) repeatedly malfunction. Specifically the systems go off and on without warning. For example, when driving at highway speed the systems will suddenly shut off causing the vehicle to slow down (presumably without brake lights to alert the driver behind). Also presumably the automatic braking ceases to work when this happens This problem began shortly after I purchased the vehicle in May 2021 and I have brought it in for three unsuccessful repair attempts. Internet research reveals that this is apparently a common problem.

Reported

Oct 2022

Incident date

Jun 2021

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500. The contact stated while driving 60 MPH, the passenger’s sideview mirror started rattling, making it difficult to see out the mirror. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the housing of the mirror was pushed back into place; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was not contacted or notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 700.

Reported

Oct 2022

Incident date

Aug 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The vehicle was put into parked and somehow disengage itself from parked and rolled into a house.

Reported

Oct 2022

Incident date

Mar 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Crash

The adaptive cruise control system and forward collision system since the vehicle was new has frequently not worked or stops working. The cruise control system that is tied to the forward collision systems would stop working causing the vehicle to decelerate as no throttle input was present and cause the need to use the foot throttle. The vehicle is available for inspection. As this has happened while driving at freeway speeds with traffic around I consider this a hazard. This problem has been present since the vehicle was new and continues to the present time even after dealership fixes. The dealership is aware of this problem and initially tried to “ recalibrate the sensors “ with no success, and finally found that the wire connectors were not connected properly. Since this fix was performed the cruise control has continued to turn off primarily if minimal forward traffic is sensed, but proceeds to reset either later the same day or the following day. As the vehicle his under warranty and has not been involved in an accident the only people who have seen it are the dealership. The vehicle will give two warnings at the time of the system failing 1.”Active Distance Assist Inoperative “, and 2. “Active Brake Assist Functions Limited See Owners Manual”. For the dates and mileage listed below this issue has been present with the vehicle since new to current as an intermittent issue so the dates and mileage do not represent the actual events. Having looked at van blogs on this issue this is an common problem with owners of vans and other Mercedes vehicles with the radar adaptive cruise control referred to as “Distronic “

Reported

Oct 2022

Incident date

Oct 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500. The contact stated that after inclement weather, the cruise control, Forward Collision Avoidance, and Automatic Emergency braking feature failed to operate as needed. The contact restarted the vehicle however, the vehicle would intermittently return to normal operation. The contact had taken the vehicle to various different dealers where the camera, unknown sensors, and other unknown parts were replaced; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 10,000.

Reported

Sep 2022

Incident date

Sep 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Serpentine belt shredded, cooling fan separated from clutch, pulley screws missing and pulley completely freed from mount and loss of power steering. This seems very similar to previous recall which my vehicle was supposedly not impacted by. Losing power steering in a large vehicle like this is extremely dangerous. Loose components in engine bay has potential to cause more problems. Fan and pulley completely free to come off and fly around bay. This problem has been seen by 10+ Revel owners in the last few weeks. This topic is being openly discussed on public forums and social media. It is currently sitting at MB of Littleton in Littleton, CO and has yet to be inspected. There were no warnings.

Reported

Sep 2022

Incident date

Sep 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2021 Tiffin Wayfarer built on a 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V610000 (Trailer Hitches) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted and the contact was informed that parts were not yet available. The RV was then towed to an independent mechanic but was not repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue but provided no assistance. The contact had not experienced a failure.

Reported

Sep 2022

Incident date

Sep 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported