2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Oil Capacity & Filter Specs

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter takes between 12.9 to 13.1 quarts (12.2 to 12.4 liters) of oil, depending on the engine. This guide covers everything you need to know about oil capacity, recommended oil types, filter part numbers, and maintenance tips for your 2020 Sprinter.

Quick Answer

• Oil Capacity:
  • 2.0L M274 I4 Gasoline: 7.4 quarts (7.0 liters)
  • 3.0L OM642 V6 Diesel: 13.1 quarts (12.4 liters)
  • 2.0L OM651 I4 Diesel: 12.9 quarts (12.2 liters)
• Recommended Oil Weight:
  • Gasoline: 5W-30 or 5W-40 (Consult your owner's manual for specific regional recommendations)
  • Diesel: 5W-30 or 5W-40 (Consult your owner's manual for specific regional recommendations)
• Oil Spec:
  • Gasoline (M274): Mercedes-Benz Approval 229.5 (or 229.51/229.52 for older models)
  • Diesel (OM642 & OM651): Mercedes-Benz Approval 229.51 or 229.52
• Oil Filter Part Numbers:
  • 2.0L M274 I4 Gasoline:
    • OEM: Mercedes-Benz A2741800009
    • Mobil 1: M1C-251
    • Wix: WL10010
  • 3.0L OM642 V6 Diesel:
    • OEM: Mercedes-Benz A6421800009
    • Mobil 1: M1C-251
    • Wix: WL10010
  • 2.0L OM651 I4 Diesel:
    • OEM: Mercedes-Benz A6511800109
    • Mobil 1: M1C-258
    • Wix: WL10079

Capacity by Engine Option

Oil Change Interval

Mercedes-Benz recommends different oil change intervals for normal and severe duty conditions to ensure optimal engine longevity.

• Normal Duty: Typically every 20,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first.
• Severe Duty: If your Sprinter is used for heavy towing, frequent short trips, extensive idling, or in dusty conditions, it is recommended to change the oil every 10,000 miles or 6 months. Always consult your vehicle's maintenance minder system as it will provide the most accurate interval based on your driving conditions.

Drain Plug Torque

Properly torquing the drain plug is crucial to prevent leaks and damage to the oil pan.

• Drain Plug Torque: 22 ft-lbs (30 Nm) for most models. Always verify this in your owner's manual or a service manual specific to your Sprinter configuration.
• Crush Washer: It is highly recommended to replace the crush washer (also known as a sealing ring) every time you change the oil. This ensures a proper seal and prevents leaks.

How to Change the Oil

1. Warm Up Engine: Drive the vehicle for a few minutes to bring the oil to operating temperature, making it flow more easily.
2. Lift and Secure: Safely lift the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
3. Locate Drain Plug: Place a suitable oil drain pan beneath the oil pan. Remove the drain plug with the correct size wrench. Allow all the old oil to drain completely.
4. Replace Drain Plug: Install a new crush washer on the drain plug and re-install it, torquing to the specified value.
5. Replace Oil Filter: Locate the oil filter housing (its location varies by engine; consult your manual). Use an appropriate oil filter wrench to remove it. Install the new oil filter, ensuring the O-rings are properly seated and lubricated with a little fresh oil. Tighten to specification (usually marked on the filter housing or filter box).
6. Refill Oil: Carefully add the recommended amount and type of new oil through the filler cap.
7. Check Level: Start the engine and let it run for a minute, then shut it off. Wait a few minutes for the oil to settle, then check the oil level using the dipstick (if equipped) or the electronic oil level indicator. Add more oil if necessary.
8. Reset Service Reminder: Reset the oil change service reminder in your Sprinter's onboard computer system.

Common Issues / Tips for this Generation Sprinter

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) & DEF: For diesel models, using the correct Mercedes-Benz approved oil (229.51 or 229.52) is critical for the longevity of the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and the overall emissions system. Using non-approved oils can lead to premature DPF clogging and costly repairs.
• Electronic Oil Level Sensor: Many modern Sprinters, especially the VS30 generation, rely on an electronic oil level sensor rather than a traditional dipstick. Familiarize yourself with how to check the oil level through the infotainment system.
• Oil Cooler Leaks (OM642 V6 Diesel): The OM642 engine is known for potential oil cooler leaks. While not directly related to an oil change, using the correct oil spec and maintaining proper oil levels can help prevent further strain on components. If you notice oil leaks, have them addressed promptly.
• Service A/B: Mercedes-Benz uses "Service A" and "Service B" intervals. An oil change is typically part of both these services. Your vehicle's Flexible Service System (FSS) will indicate when these services are due.

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