2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Coolant Capacity & Type

Quick Answer

A 2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter typically holds around 10.5 to 11.6 quarts (9.9 to 11.0 liters) of coolant in its cooling system.

• Total Cooling System Capacity: 10.5 - 11.6 quarts (9.9 - 11.0 liters)
• OEM Coolant Spec: Mercedes-Benz Antifreeze/Coolant, MB 325.0, MB 325.5, or MB 326.0 (typically blue or pink/purple, OAT/HOAT hybrid depending on exact formulation and part number)
• Mix Ratio: 50/50 Pre-mix or 50/50 concentrate with distilled water

Capacity by Engine Option

The exact coolant capacity can vary slightly depending on the engine installed in your 2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. Here are the approximate capacities:

Flush Interval

Mercedes-Benz generally recommends the following flush intervals for the 2017 Sprinter, but it's always best to consult your owner's manual for the most accurate information.

• Normal Duty: Typically every 5 years or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty: If your Sprinter is used for heavy towing, frequent short trips, or in extreme temperatures, a more frequent flush interval (e.g., every 3-4 years or 75,000-100,000 miles) may be beneficial.

How to Refill & Bleed

Properly refilling and bleeding the cooling system in a 2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is crucial to prevent air pockets, which can lead to overheating. Always perform this procedure on a cool engine.

1. Drain the old coolant: Locate the drain plug on the bottom of the radiator and open it. Some models may also have engine block drain plugs. Ensure you have a large drain pan to catch all the coolant.
2. Close drain plugs and fill with distilled water (optional flush): If you're flushing the system, close the drain plugs, fill the system with distilled water, run the engine with the heater on until it reaches operating temperature, then cool and drain. Repeat until the water runs clear.
3. Fill with new coolant: Close all drain plugs. Slowly add the new 50/50 pre-mixed Mercedes-Benz approved coolant to the expansion tank up to the "MAX" line. Pouring slowly helps prevent air from getting trapped.
4. Bleed the system:
   • Start the engine with the heater on full blast and the fan speed low. Leave the expansion tank cap off.
   • Allow the engine to reach operating temperature. As the thermostat opens, the coolant level in the expansion tank may drop. Add more coolant as needed to maintain the "MAX" line.
   • Gently squeeze the upper and lower radiator hoses to help dislodge any trapped air bubbles.
   • Monitor the temperature gauge. Look for consistent heat from the heater vents.
   • Sprinter-specific note: Some Sprinter models may have a small bleed screw on a hose near the top of the engine or on the thermostat housing. Loosening this slightly until a steady stream of coolant emerges (not just air) can aid in bleeding. Consult your service manual for its exact location if present.
   • After running for about 15-20 minutes, turn off the engine and let it cool completely. Check the coolant level in the expansion tank and top it off if necessary. Repeat the bleed process if needed.
5. Final Check: Once cooled, recheck the coolant level and ensure all clamps and hoses are secure.

Common Cooling System Issues for this Generation

While the 2017 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is generally reliable, some cooling system issues can occur with aging or high mileage:

• Water Pump Failure: The water pump is a common wear item. Symptoms include coolant leaks, a whining noise from the front of the engine, or engine overheating.
• Thermostat Issues: A faulty thermostat can cause the engine to overheat (stuck closed) or run too cool (stuck open), leading to reduced efficiency and potential engine damage.
• Coolant Leaks: Leaks can develop from hoses, the radiator, the expansion tank, or the EGR cooler (especially in diesel models). Stains or puddles under the vehicle are clear indicators.
• EGR Cooler Leaks (Diesel Models): The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) cooler in diesel Sprinters can be a source of internal or external coolant leaks, sometimes leading to coolant loss without apparent external drips or even coolant entering the combustion chamber.
• Radiator Fan Issues: Problems with the electric radiator fan or its control module can lead to insufficient airflow over the radiator and overheating, particularly in stop-and-go traffic or at low speeds.
• Clogged Radiator: Over time, debris or corrosion can clog the radiator fins or internal passages, reducing its cooling efficiency.

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