2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter: Transmission & Axle Ratios

Transmission Gear Ratios

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter was available with two excellent transmission options, both produced by Mercedes-Benz.

NAG1 / W5A580 5-Speed Automatic

This was the standard transmission paired with the 2.1L OM651 turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine. It is a robust, electronically controlled 5-speed unit known for its reliability.

7G-TRONIC PLUS / W7C700 7-Speed Automatic

This more advanced 7-speed automatic was exclusively paired with the optional 3.0L OM642 turbo-diesel V6 engine, providing smoother shifts and better fuel efficiency thanks to its wider ratio spread and two additional gears.

Available Axle Ratios

Mercedes-Benz offered a range of final drive axle ratios to tailor the Sprinter's performance to specific tasks, whether for maximum fuel economy on the highway or maximum pulling power for heavy loads.

How to Identify Your Axle Ratio

Unlike many domestic vans, Mercedes-Benz does not use a simple door-jamb sticker or a tag on the differential cover for easy identification. The most reliable methods for a 2016 Sprinter are:

1. VIN Decoder: The most accurate way is to use a Mercedes-Benz specific VIN decoder. Entering your 17-digit VIN into a decoder service will provide the vehicle's original build sheet, including the specific axle ratio it was equipped with from the factory. The axle code (e.g., AR2, AR3) will be listed in the equipment section.
2. Build Sheet/Data Card: If you have the original window sticker or vehicle data card, look for the "Optional Equipment" or "Technical Specifications" section. The axle ratio will be listed there, often with its corresponding internal code.
3. Visual Inspection (Advanced): A driveline shop can determine the ratio by lifting the vehicle, marking the driveshaft and wheel, and counting the number of driveshaft rotations it takes for the wheel to make one full turn. For example, just under four full driveshaft rotations indicates a 3.923:1 ratio. This is the most labor-intensive but a guaranteed method if digital records are unavailable.

Towing vs. MPG Impact

The relationship between the axle ratio and performance is a classic trade-off between power and efficiency. The number represents how many times the driveshaft must turn to rotate the rear wheels one full revolution.

• Numerically Lower Ratios (e.g., 3.727:1): These are considered "taller" gears. The engine turns at a lower RPM at highway speeds. This is best for fuel economy during long-distance, unloaded driving. However, it reduces the vehicle's mechanical advantage, resulting in less off-the-line pulling power and lower towing capacity.

• Numerically Higher Ratios (e.g., 4.181:1, 4.727:1): These "shorter" gears are ideal for towing and heavy-duty use. They provide a significant mechanical advantage for getting heavy loads moving, especially on inclines. The trade-off is that the engine must run at a higher RPM on the highway, which leads to increased fuel consumption.

Choosing the 4.181:1 ratio over the standard 3.923:1 on a V6 Sprinter 2500, for instance, boosts the maximum towing capacity from 5,000 lbs to 7,500 lbs, but at the cost of a few miles per gallon on the highway.

Common Issues

The driveline in the 2016 Sprinter is generally robust, but like any commercial vehicle, it is subject to wear under heavy use. Some reported issues include:

• Driveshaft Carrier Bearing Failure: The driveshaft is a multi-piece unit with a central carrier bearing supporting it. This bearing can wear out over time, leading to a noticeable vibration or a "rumbling" noise from underneath the vehicle, especially during acceleration.
• Pinion Seal Leaks: The seal where the driveshaft yoke enters the front of the differential can sometimes develop leaks. This is often identified by drips of gear oil on the ground or a wet appearance on the differential housing.
• Differential Whine: While not exceedingly common, wear on the ring and pinion gears can produce a whining noise that changes pitch with vehicle speed. This often points to a need for differential inspection or rebuilding.

If you notice any unusual vibrations, noises, or leaks from your Sprinter's driveline, it’s crucial to have it inspected promptly. Find a driveline shop on Repairius.