2018 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter – Fuse Box Diagram & Amperage

Quick Answer

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter has multiple fuse box locations: in the engine compartment, under the dashboard on the driver's side, and in the rear cargo area.

Engine Compartment Fuse Box

This fuse box, typically located on the driver's side near the battery, houses fuses for critical engine and vehicle systems. Always verify the printed legend on your fuse box lid, as configurations can vary slightly by trim and options.

Driver's Side Dashboard Fuse Box

Located behind a panel on the driver's side, commonly in the kick panel area, this fuse box handles many interior and accessory circuits. Check your vehicle's specific diagram as fuse numbering and functions can vary.

Rear Cargo Area Fuse Box

Depending on your Sprinter's configuration and options, a fuse box may be located in the rear cargo area, often behind a trim panel on the driver's or passenger's side. This box typically covers rear accessories, lighting, and additional modules.

How to Test a Fuse

Testing a fuse is a straightforward process that can help diagnose electrical issues. The most common method involves a multimeter or a dedicated fuse tester:

1. Locate the fuse: Identify the suspicious fuse using the fuse box diagram.
2. Turn off the vehicle and ignition: Always ensure the vehicle is off and the ignition is disconnected to prevent electrical shocks or damage.
3. Visually inspect: Many fuses have a visible wire inside. If this wire is broken or melted, the fuse is blown. However, sometimes the break isn't visible.
4. Use a fuse tester/multimeter:
   • Fuse Tester: Insert the tester's probes into the two small test points on the top of the fuse. If the light on the tester illuminates, the fuse is good.
   • Multimeter: Set your multimeter to continuity mode (or ohms). Remove the fuse from its slot. Touch one probe to each metal blade of the fuse. A "continuity" reading (a beep or a very low resistance reading) indicates a good fuse. If there's no continuity, the fuse is blown.
5. Replace (if necessary): If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new fuse of the exact same amperage rating and type. Using a fuse with a higher amperage can lead to serious electrical damage or fire.

Common Blown Fuses on This Vehicle

While specific failures can vary, some fuses tend to blow more frequently due to the nature of their circuits or common accessories used. On a 2018 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, look out for:

• Cigar Lighter / 12V Power Outlets: Often overloaded by high-draw accessories like phone chargers, portable refrigerators, or air compressors. If your 12V outlets stop working, check these fuses first.
• Blower Motor: A failing blower motor or an obstruction in the HVAC system can draw excessive current, causing its fuse to blow. If your fan isn't working, this is a prime suspect.
• Exterior Lighting (Headlights, Brake Lights): While less common with modern LED systems, a short circuit in wiring or a faulty bulb (if incandescent) can still blow a fuse. If a section of your lights goes out, check the relevant fuse.
• Trailer Brake/Lighting: If you frequently tow, issues with trailer wiring or an electrical short on the trailer itself can often lead to a blown fuse in the Sprinter's trailer circuit. Always inspect trailer wiring if your trailer lights or brakes aren't working.

If you replace a fuse and it blows again immediately, this usually indicates a short circuit somewhere in the protected system. In such cases, further diagnosis by a qualified technician is recommended to prevent damage to the vehicle's electrical system.

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