2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter: Fluid Types and Specifications

As a versatile platform, the 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter was offered with multiple engine and drivetrain configurations, each with its own specific fluid requirements. Using the correct fluid is critical for the longevity and reliability of your van. This guide covers the factory-specified fluids for all versions of the 2020 Sprinter.

Quick Reference: Fluid Specifications

Fluid	Type/Specification	Capacity
Engine Oil (Gasoline)	Mercedes-Benz Spec 229.5 or 229.6	~9.5 quarts (9.0 L)
Engine Oil (Diesel)	Mercedes-Benz Spec 229.52	~12.2 quarts (11.5 L)
Engine Coolant	Mercedes-Benz Spec 325.0, 325.6 (G48, G40)	11.1 - 12.7 quarts (10.5 - 12.0 L)
Transmission Fluid	Mercedes-Benz Spec 236.17 (9G-TRONIC)	~10.1 quarts (9.6 L)
Transfer Case Fluid	Mercedes-Benz Spec 236.13	~1.5 quarts (1.4 L)
Front Differential Fluid	Mercedes-Benz Spec 235.7 / 235.74 (SAE 75W-85)	~0.7 quarts (0.65 L)
Rear Differential Fluid	Mercedes-Benz Spec 235.8 (SAE 75W-90)	1.9 - 2.3 quarts (1.8 - 2.2 L)
Brake Fluid	DOT 4+	~1.0 quart (1.0 L)
Power Steering Fluid	Mercedes-Benz Spec 236.3	~1.5 quarts (1.4 L)
Washer Fluid	MB SummerFit / WinterFit	~7.4 quarts (7.0 L)
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)	ISO 22241 / API Certified	~4.7 gallons (18 L)

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Engine Oil

Gasoline Engine (M274 2.0L I4 Turbo):

• Specification: Use a full synthetic motor oil meeting Mercedes-Benz Approval 229.5 or 229.6. These are stringent European specifications that ensure the oil can handle the long drain intervals and stress of a turbocharged, direct-injection engine.
• Viscosity: Common grades meeting these specs are SAE 0W-30, 5W-30, 0W-40, and 5W-40.
• Notes: Do not use a conventional or synthetic-blend oil. Using an oil without the proper MB approval can lead to premature wear and sludge formation. Capacities can vary slightly, so always verify the level with the dipstick after filling.

Diesel Engine (OM651 2.1L I4 or OM642 3.0L V6):

• Specification: Use a synthetic diesel oil meeting Mercedes-Benz Approval 229.52. This spec is specifically designed for modern Mercedes diesel engines equipped with a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF).
• Viscosity: SAE 5W-30 is the most common viscosity for oils meeting this standard.
• Notes: Using a non-229.52 oil (such as a typical API CK-4 heavy-duty oil) can clog the DPF, leading to expensive and complex repairs. This is a common and costly mistake. The V6 diesel takes slightly more oil than the I4, but always refer to the dipstick for a final reading.

Engine Coolant (Antifreeze)

• Specification: The 2020 Sprinter requires a Si-OAT (Silicated Organic Acid Technology) coolant meeting Mercedes-Benz Specification 325.0 or 325.6. These are often referred to as G48 (Blue/Green) or G40 (Pink/Violet) formulas, respectively. MB 325.0 is the older, blue-colored fluid, while 325.6 is the newer pink/violet fluid. While they are compatible, it is best practice to service the system with the fluid type it already contains.
• Notes: Crucially, do not mix with standard OAT (like Dex-Cool) or IAT (conventional green) coolants. Mixing coolant chemistries can cause gelling, corrosion, and blockages in the radiator and heater core. Always use distilled water when mixing with concentrate.

Automatic Transmission Fluid

• Specification: The 9-speed automatic transmission (9G-TRONIC) used in the 2020 Sprinter requires a specific fluid meeting Mercedes-Benz Approval 236.17.
• Notes: This is a low-viscosity, blue-colored fluid. Do not use "universal" ATF, Dexron, Mercon, or any other type of fluid. Use of incorrect fluid will cause severe shifting problems and can lead to catastrophic transmission failure. This is a service best left to professionals, as the filling procedure is complex and requires specific tools to verify the correct level at a precise temperature.

Transfer Case & Differential Fluid

• Transfer Case (4x4 Models): The transfer case requires a fluid meeting Mercedes-Benz Spec 236.13. This is an ATF-type fluid, but not the same as the one used in the main transmission.
• Front Differential (4x4 Models): The front axle requires a gear oil meeting MB Spec 235.7 or 235.74, which corresponds to an SAE 75W-85 viscosity.
• Rear Differential: Most models require a synthetic gear oil meeting MB Spec 235.8, which is a common SAE 75W-90.
• Notes: There are no limited-slip additives required for the factory differentials. Always clean the fill and drain plugs before removal to prevent dirt from entering the housings. Capacities are small, so it's easy to over or under-fill if you aren't careful.

Brake Fluid

• Specification: Mercedes-Benz requires a brake fluid meeting DOT 4+ specifications. This fluid has a higher boiling point than standard DOT 4, which is critical for the performance of the Sprinter's traction and stability control systems (ESP).
• Notes: The system should be flushed every 2 years, regardless of mileage. Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs water from the air, which lowers its boiling point and can cause corrosion in the ABS module and brake calipers.

Power Steering Fluid

• Specification: The hydraulic power steering system uses a fluid meeting Mercedes-Benz Approval 236.3.
• Notes: This is not a typical "power steering fluid." It is a specific hydraulic fluid. Using generic power steering fluid can damage seals and the pump, leading to leaks and steering failure.

Washer Fluid & DEF

• Windshield Washer Fluid: While any quality washer fluid will work, Mercedes-Benz offers MB SummerFit and MB WinterFit concentrated formulas. The system has a large 7-liter capacity.
• Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF): For diesel models, you must use a DEF that is API Certified and meets ISO 22241 standards. This is sold under many brand names, including AdBlue®. Low-quality or contaminated DEF can destroy the expensive SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) system. Never put anything other than fresh, pure DEF into the DEF tank.

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This guide is for informational purposes only. Fluid specifications and capacities can vary based on the specific sub-model and equipment. Always verify requirements in your owner's manual or with OEM service information before performing any maintenance.

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