2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Bulb Sizes (Headlight, Tail, Fog)

Quick reference

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter offers a variety of lighting configurations, primarily depending on trim level and optional packages. Many models come with standard halogen headlights, while higher trims or optional lighting packages feature advanced integrated LED systems for low beam, high beam, and even fog lights. If your Sprinter has LED headlamps from the factory, these are typically not user-serviceable bulbs but rather integrated units that would require replacing the entire headlamp assembly if a component fails. This reference primarily focuses on models equipped with traditional halogen bulbs where applicable.

LED vs Halogen Upgrade Considerations

Upgrading your 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter from halogen to LED bulbs can significantly enhance visibility and modernize its appearance. However, it's crucial to be aware of potential issues unique to European vehicles like the Sprinter:

• CANBUS Errors: The Sprinter's sophisticated CANBUS (Controller Area Network Bus) system monitors bulb current draw. Halogen bulbs draw more power than most LED equivalents. Installing LEDs without proper CANBUS decoders (also known as "error cancelers" or "load resistors") can trigger dashboard warning lights (e.g., "bulb out" warnings) and potentially cause flickering or premature LED failure. Always opt for high-quality, CANBUS-compatible LED bulbs specifically designed for European vehicles.
• Adapters Needed: Some LED conversion kits may require specific adapter rings or bulb holders to properly seat the LED bulb in the headlight housing, particularly for H7 low and high beams. Ensure any kit you purchase includes these or that you acquire them separately.
• Beam Pattern: Not all LED bulbs are created equal. Poorly designed LED bulbs can create an unfocused light pattern, blinding oncoming traffic and reducing your effective visibility. Choose LED bulbs that mimic the filament placement of the original halogen bulb to ensure a proper beam pattern in your Sprinter's reflectors or projector housings.
• Heat Dissipation: LEDs generate heat, and effective heat dissipation is vital for their longevity. Ensure ample space behind the headlight housing for cooling fans or heat sinks on aftermarket LED bulbs.
• DRL Compatibility: If your Sprinter uses a halogen bulb for its DRL function, some LED upgrades might not function correctly as a DRL without additional wiring or coding due to voltage differences.

How to Replace Each Bulb

• Low Beam/High Beam (Halogen): Access the rear of the headlight assembly, unclip the wiring harness, twist and remove the bulb retaining clip or cover, and pull out the old bulb. Be careful not to touch the glass of the new halogen bulb.
• Fog Light: Depending on access, you might turn the steering wheel for tire clearance or remove a few fasteners from the fender liner to reach the back of the fog light housing. Twist the bulb holder to remove.
• Daytime Running Light (DRL): Often integrated into the headlight assembly. Access from the rear, similar to low/high beams. Twist the bulb holder.
• Front Turn Signal: Access from the rear of the headlight assembly. Twist the bulb holder counter-clockwise to remove.
• Rear Turn Signal/Brake/Tail/Reverse Light: Typically accessed by opening the rear cargo doors and removing fasteners from the tail light assembly. Once the assembly is loose, you can usually twist and remove the individual bulb holders.
• License Plate Light: Usually requires a small flat-head screwdriver or trim tool to carefully pry off the clear lens cover. The bulb is then accessible.
• Side Marker (Front/Rear): Often accessible by gently prying out the lens assembly using a plastic trim tool.
• Cargo/Dome Light: Carefully pry off the lens cover using a plastic trim tool. Festoon bulbs typically just pull straight out of their spring clips. W5W bulbs twist out.
• Map Light: Similar to the dome light, carefully pry off the plastic lens to access the bulb.

Always ensure the vehicle's ignition is off and the lights are cool before attempting any bulb replacement. Consult your owner's manual for specific instructions and diagrams for your Sprinter model.

Common Lighting Issues for this Generation

Owners of the 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter may occasionally encounter a few lighting-related issues:

• "Bulb Out" Warnings: As mentioned, if you've upgraded to LEDs without proper CANBUS decoders, this is a common occurrence. Even with factory halogen bulbs, a flickering or intermittent warning can sometimes indicate a loose connection or a bulb nearing the end of its life.
• Condensation in Headlights/Tail Lights: While less common in newer models, condensation can occasionally build up inside the sealed headlight or tail light assemblies. This can be due to a failed seal or a small crack, allowing moisture in. Often, replacing the entire assembly is the only long-term fix.
• DRL Malfunctions: If equipped with LED DRLs, individual LED segments can fail, leading to reduced brightness or an incomplete "light bar" appearance. This usually necessitates replacement of the DRL module or the entire headlight assembly.
• Flickering Interior Lights: While less frequent in the 2020 model, intermittent flickering of interior lights can sometimes point to voltage fluctuations or a failing ground connection. This should be investigated by a qualified technician.
• Corroded Bulb Sockets: Especially in areas with high humidity or road salt exposure, bulb sockets can corrode, leading to intermittent light operation. Cleaning the contacts or replacing the socket can resolve this.

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