How much oil does a Sprinter 4 cylinder diesel take?
Typically around 6 liters of engine oil, with variation by engine code and model year. This article explains the common figures and how to confirm the exact capacity for your Sprinter.
What affects oil capacity
Oil capacity is shaped by engine design, turbo and oil cooler plumbing, and whether you count the oil in the filter and various lines. Dealers and manuals publish capacity figures both with and without the filter, and exact numbers can differ by market and model year.
Common 4-cylinder Sprinter engines
Below are the typical oil capacities for the main 4‑cylinder Sprinter engines. The figures assume a full oil change with a new filter and the vehicle at an appropriate temperature.
- OM646/OM647 2.2-liter four-cylinder diesel (used in mid-2000s to early-2010s Sprinters): about 6.0 liters (roughly 6.3 quarts) with the oil filter installed; approximately 5.5 liters without counting the filter.
- OM654 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel (modern Sprinters, around 2019+): about 6.0 to 6.5 liters with the filter; roughly 5.5 to 6.0 liters without the filter.
These ranges are approximate. Exact capacity can vary by market, engine calibration, and the size of the oil filter. Always check the owner’s manual or the engine bay label for the precise specification.
How to verify and fill
Use the following steps to confirm the correct oil capacity and perform a fill safely.
- Park on level ground and allow the engine to cool for a few minutes after operation, or wait until it’s at ambient temperature if checking a cold start specification.
- Consult the owner's manual or the engine code tag to confirm the exact capacity for your vehicle.
- Drain old oil (if performing a change) and replace the oil filter with a new one of the correct type.
- Fill gradually with the recommended oil grade (typically synthetic 5W-40 or 0W-40 that meets MB specifications such as 229.51/229.31, as applicable to your engine).
- Start the engine, let it run briefly, then shut off and recheck the level with the dipstick or electronic gauge. Add oil in small increments until the level sits between the MIN and MAX marks.
After filling, check for leaks and verify the level again after the engine has settled. Using the correct oil and not exceeding the maximum capacity helps protect the engine’s longevity.
Where to find accurate data
For the most precise figure, refer to the Sprinter’s official manual, the engine code plaque, or the MB service portal. The oil capacity can differ by model year, market, and whether the filter is a standard or larger aftermarket unit. If you’re unsure, contact a Mercedes-Benz service center or a qualified technician with your van’s VIN handy.
Summary
In most Sprinter 4‑cylinder diesels, the total oil capacity is around 6.0 liters with the filter installed, with an approximate range of 5.5–6.5 liters depending on the exact engine and filter size. Always confirm the precise figure in your vehicle’s manual or by checking the engine code and bay label, and use the recommended MB synthetic oil that meets the appropriate specification.
What oil is recommended for 3.0 EcoDiesel?
The correct oil for a 3.0L EcoDiesel engine is 5W-40 full synthetic diesel engine oil that meets specific Chrysler MS-12991 (for 2020+) or MS-10902 (for 2014-2019) specifications. For 2014-2016 model years, the original 5W-30 specification was retroactively changed to 5W-40 via service bulletin.
For 2014–2019 models:
- Viscosity: 5W-40
- Type: Full synthetic diesel engine oil
- Specifications: API CJ-4 and Chrysler MS-10902
- Note: A service bulletin changed the recommendation from 5W-30 to 5W-40 for these years.
For 2020 and newer models:
- Viscosity: 5W-40
- Type: Full synthetic engine oil
- Specifications: API SN or SN+ and Chrysler MS-12991
Important considerations:
- Always use the correct Chrysler-approved specification, as the oil requirements have changed over the years.
- Some recommended oils include Shell Rotella T6 5W40 or Pennzoil Ultra Euro 5w40.
How much oil does a 2018 Mercedes Sprinter 3.0 v6 diesel engine take?
The oil capacity for a 2018 Mercedes Sprinter with a 3.0L V6 diesel engine is 13.2 quarts (12.512.512.5 liters) with a new filter. When changing the oil, it is recommended to add most of the oil, then start the engine briefly, and check the dipstick before adding more to reach the full mark.
Oil capacity and specifications
- Engine Oil Capacity: 13.213.213.2 US quarts (12.512.512.5 liters) with a new filter.
- Oil Specification: Use oil that meets Mercedes-Benz specifications such as MB 229.52, MB 229.51, MB 229.31, or MB 228.51.
- Recommended Viscosity: SAE 0W-30, 5W-30, or 5W-40.
Changing the oil
- Add oil: After draining the old oil and replacing the filter, add about 131313 quarts of new oil.
- Check the level: Start the engine and let it run for about 30 seconds to circulate the new oil.
- Top off: Turn the engine off and check the oil level on the dipstick. Add small amounts of oil as needed to bring the level to the "full" mark, being careful not to overfill.
- Drain plug: Remember to replace the drain plug seal and tighten the plug to a torque of 222222 ft-lbs.
How much oil does a Mercedes Sprinter 4 cylinder diesel take?
13 quarts
Refer to the following details for the oil capacities specific to each available Sprinter Van engine: 5 Cylinder Diesel: 10 quarts. 4 Cylinder Diesel: 13 quarts. 6 Cylinder Diesel: 14 quarts.
How much oil does a Mercedes 2.0 diesel take?
Engine Oil
Capacity: 11.1 quarts (with filter).
