2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Oil Capacity & Filter

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2.1L OM651 diesel engine takes 13.0 liters (13.7 quarts) of oil, and the 3.0L OM642 diesel engine takes 12.5 liters (13.2 quarts) of oil.

Quick Answer

For 2.1L OM651 Diesel Engine:

• Oil Capacity: 13.0 Liters (13.7 Quarts)
• Recommended Oil Weight: 5W-30
• Oil Spec: MB 229.51 or MB 229.52 (Low-ash Synthetic)
• OEM Oil Filter Part Number: A 651 180 01 09
• Aftermarket Oil Filter Cross-References:
  • Fram: CH11244
  • Wix: WL10058
  • Mobil 1: M1C-153

For 3.0L OM642 Diesel Engine:

• Oil Capacity: 12.5 Liters (13.2 Quarts)
• Recommended Oil Weight: 5W-30
• Oil Spec: MB 229.51 or MB 229.52 (Low-ash Synthetic)
• OEM Oil Filter Part Number: A 642 180 00 09
• Aftermarket Oil Filter Cross-References:
  • Fram: CH10705
  • Wix: WL10010
  • Mobil 1: M1C-151A

Capacity by Engine Option

Oil Change Interval

Mercedes-Benz recommends different oil change intervals based on driving conditions:

• Normal Duty: Every 20,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty: If your Sprinter is used for frequent short trips, sustained heavy loads, towing, or in dusty/extreme conditions, it is advisable to shorten the oil change interval to every 10,000 miles or 6 months. Consistent severe duty operation warrants more frequent maintenance to ensure the longevity of the engine, particularly with diesel particulate filters (DPFs).

Drain Plug Torque

• 2.1L OM651 Diesel Engine: 30 Nm (22 lb-ft)
• 3.0L OM642 Diesel Engine: 30 Nm (22 lb-ft)

Always use a new crush washer with the drain plug to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks. The crush washer is typically a single-use item designed to deform and create a tight seal when torqued.

How to Change the Oil (General Steps)

1. Warm Up Engine: Run the engine for a few minutes to bring the oil to operating temperature, allowing it to drain more easily.
2. Lift and Secure Vehicle: Safely lift the front of the Sprinter using a jack and secure it with jack stands. Ensure the vehicle is stable.
3. Locate Drain Plug: Place a suitable drain pan beneath the oil pan. Remove the engine under-tray if present to access the drain plug.
4. Drain Oil: Carefully remove the drain plug (with a new crush washer ready for reinstallation) and allow all the old oil to drain completely. This can take 10-15 minutes.
5. Replace Drain Plug: Once drained, reinstall the drain plug with a new crush washer and tighten to the specified torque.
6. Locate and Replace Oil Filter: The oil filter housing on both diesel engines is typically located at the top or side of the engine. Use an appropriate wrench to unscrew the housing cap. Remove the old filter element and O-rings. Lubricate the new O-rings with fresh oil and install them on the new filter element and housing cap. Insert the new filter element into the housing and reattach the cap, tightening to the specified torque (consult filter packaging or service manual for exact torque).
7. Refill Oil: Remove the oil filler cap and carefully add the recommended amount of new, specified engine oil. Start with a liter or two less than the total capacity to avoid overfilling.
8. Check Level: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to circulate the new oil. Then, shut it off, wait a few minutes for the oil to settle, and check the oil level using the dipstick. Add more oil gradually until the level is within the proper range.
9. Reset Service Light: Consult your owner