Torque Converter Failure
In years past, automatic transmissions gave worse gas mileage than manual transmissions. Old-style torque converters allowed operation without a clutch but slipped at all speeds, causing inefficiency. Modern torque converters returned the use of the clutch, which is automatically activated to lock up at cruising speeds. Modern automatics rival manuals for fuel efficiency, leading to the coming demise of manuals.
As do all mechanical contrivances, the torque converter on Sprinter vans wears out. Symptoms of a worn-out transmission include slipping under acceleration, a burning smell, and erratic shifting.
To remedy your transmission ills, we will remove the transmission, rebuild the transmission with longer-lasting aftermarket parts, and install and reprogram it. This procedure will give you many years of driving pleasure.
You can do a few things to head off torque converter failure in your Sprinter van. Have the fluid replaced every 30,000 miles. The owner’s manual suggests longer service intervals, but experience tells us more frequent drain and flush service is warranted.
Transmission fluid carries a heavy burden. It must withstand high heat; if you load your Sprinter to the max or tow, the heat buildup will quickly wear out the fluid.
The transmission’s internal parts shed particles due to wear. The transmission fluid filter is supposed to remove the larger particles, but the smaller ones are like sand in your shoes after a walk on the beach. Over time they cause a problem. Transmission fluid holds this contamination until you drain it.
Considering the rebuild cost, frequent transmission fluid service is just good economics.
To forestall transmission failure, you can also have us install a quality transmission fluid cooler. Yes, the Sprinter van already has one, but additional cooling is warranted with the many torque converter failures we see. If you tow or carry large loads, additional cooling is mandatory.
Worn-out Glow Plugs
Failed glow plugs are another problem we see frequently. Glow plugs in diesel engines are like spark plugs in a gas-powered engine, but they only operate during starting. Mercedes recommends glow plug replacement every 100,000 miles. New glow plugs are the standard fix if your diesel engine is more difficult to start than usual. Cold starts in low outside temperatures will make worn-out glow plugs very noticeable. Another good reason for replacing flow plugs on schedule is that they can seize in the cylinder head. Fixing a seized glow plug problem may require replacing the entire cylinder head.
Our technicians have many years of experience with diesel engine vehicles. We will return your Mercedes Sprinter diesel to you, running better than ever, at an affordable price. Visit our website or call us at 510-793-6067 for an appointment.
Newark, CA – Mercedes Sprinter Diesel Engine Issues | Auto Repair Shop News
SYNOPSIS: This article discusses some common issues with Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Diesel Engines. Some of the issues include torque converter failure, worn-out glow plugs, & more. Call us today.
Mercedes Sprinter Diesel Engine Problems
BY: Eduardo Porta, Fremont Foreign Auto
Torque Converter Failure
In years past, automatic transmissions gave worse gas mileage than manual transmissions. Old-style torque converters allowed operation without a clutch but slipped at all speeds, causing inefficiency. Modern torque converters returned the use of the clutch, which is automatically activated to lock up at cruising speeds. Modern automatics rival manuals for fuel efficiency, leading to the coming demise of manuals.
As do all mechanical contrivances, the torque converter on Sprinter vans wears out. Symptoms of a worn-out transmission include slipping under acceleration, a burning smell, and erratic shifting.
To remedy your transmission ills, we will remove the transmission, rebuild the transmission with longer-lasting aftermarket parts, and install and reprogram it. This procedure will give you many years of driving pleasure.
You can do a few things to head off torque converter failure in your Sprinter van. Have the fluid replaced every 30,000 miles. The owner’s manual suggests longer service intervals, but experience tells us more frequent drain and flush service is warranted.
Transmission fluid carries a heavy burden. It must withstand high heat; if you load your Sprinter to the max or tow, the heat buildup will quickly wear out the fluid.
The transmission’s internal parts shed particles due to wear. The transmission fluid filter is supposed to remove the larger particles, but the smaller ones are like sand in your shoes after a walk on the beach. Over time they cause a problem. Transmission fluid holds this contamination until you drain it.
Considering the rebuild cost, frequent transmission fluid service is just good economics.
To forestall transmission failure, you can also have us install a quality transmission fluid cooler. Yes, the Sprinter van already has one, but additional cooling is warranted with the many torque converter failures we see. If you tow or carry large loads, additional cooling is mandatory.
Worn-out Glow Plugs
Failed glow plugs are another problem we see frequently. Glow plugs in diesel engines are like spark plugs in a gas-powered engine, but they only operate during starting. Mercedes recommends glow plug replacement every 100,000 miles. New glow plugs are the standard fix if your diesel engine is more difficult to start than usual. Cold starts in low outside temperatures will make worn-out glow plugs very noticeable. Another good reason for replacing flow plugs on schedule is that they can seize in the cylinder head. Fixing a seized glow plug problem may require replacing the entire cylinder head.
Our technicians have many years of experience with diesel engine vehicles. We will return your Mercedes Sprinter diesel to you, running better than ever, at an affordable price. Visit our website or call us at 510-793-6067 for an appointment.
