2018 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 Has A Check Engine Light

Check Engine Light Issues in 2018 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500: Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2018 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2018 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2018 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2018 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500, it's essential to start with some straightforward diagnostic steps that can help you identify the problem. Begin by checking the gas cap; a loose or improperly sealed cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the warning light. Next, take a moment to inspect your dashboard gauges for any additional warning lights or unusual readings, as these can provide further insights into the vehicle's condition. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step in this process; by connecting it to the vehicle's diagnostic port, you can retrieve specific error codes that indicate the nature of the issue. Additionally, ensure that all essential fluid levels—such as oil, coolant, and transmission fluid—are adequate, as low levels can also activate the check engine light. Finally, conduct a visual inspection of the wiring and connections in the engine bay, looking for any signs of damage or corrosion that could be affecting performance. By systematically following these steps, you can gather valuable information to help diagnose the cause of the check engine light and potentially resolve the issue on your own.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to activate in a 2018 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500?

When the check engine light activates in a 2018 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500, it signals that the vehicle's onboard diagnostics system has detected a problem that requires attention. One of the most frequent culprits is a faulty oxygen sensor, which can lead to reduced fuel efficiency and increased emissions. Another common issue is a loose gas cap; if the cap is not secured properly, it can cause fuel vapors to escape, triggering the warning light. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter, such as clogs or failures, can also activate the check engine light, as can worn-out spark plugs that affect engine performance. A malfunctioning mass airflow sensor may disrupt the air-fuel mixture, leading to performance issues and the warning light's illumination. Lastly, a failing ignition coil can result in engine misfires and rough idling, further contributing to the check engine light being lit. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial for maintaining the vehicle's performance and preventing more significant damage, making it essential for DIYers to be aware of these common problems.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2018 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2018 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500, it is crucial to act swiftly, as this warning can signify a range of issues from minor to severe. Ignoring this alert not only risks exacerbating the problem but can also lead to significant damage that may result in costly repairs. Moreover, some underlying issues could compromise the vehicle's safety and drivability, making immediate attention essential. Fortunately, modern vehicles are equipped with advanced onboard diagnostics that can help identify the specific cause of the warning light, enabling you to take informed steps toward resolution. For those inclined to tackle repairs themselves, understanding the urgency of the situation is vital; addressing the check engine light promptly can enhance your vehicle's reliability and performance while ensuring your safety on the road.

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2018 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 Check Engine Light Guide