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What kind of oil does a sprinter diesel take?


When it comes to maintaining your Mercedes-Benz Sprinter diesel van, choosing the right oil is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and longevity. As a trusted auto service provider with years of experience, I’m here to guide you through the specifics of selecting the correct oil for your Sprinter diesel engine.


Understanding the Importance of the Right Oil


Diesel engines, like the one in your Sprinter, operate under high pressure and temperature conditions. Using the correct oil ensures proper lubrication, reduces wear and tear, and helps maintain fuel efficiency. Additionally, the wrong oil can lead to engine damage, increased emissions, and voided warranties.


Recommended Oil Specifications for Sprinter Diesel Engines


Mercedes-Benz Sprinter diesel engines require oil that meets specific standards. Here’s what you need to know:



  • Oil Type: Sprinter diesel engines typically require fully synthetic motor oil.

  • Viscosity: The recommended viscosity grade is usually 5W-30 or 0W-30, depending on your climate and driving conditions.

  • Specification: Look for oil that meets the Mercedes-Benz MB 229.51 or MB 229.52 specification. These standards ensure the oil is low in ash and compatible with the diesel particulate filter (DPF).

  • Brand Recommendations: While there are many high-quality brands, Mobil 1 ESP Formula 5W-30 and Liqui Moly Top Tec 4200 are popular choices for Sprinter diesel engines.


Always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual to confirm the exact oil specifications for your specific model and year.


Steps to Change the Oil in Your Sprinter Diesel


If you’re planning to change the oil yourself, follow these steps to ensure a smooth process:



  • Gather the necessary tools and supplies, including the correct oil, an oil filter, a wrench, and a drain pan.

  • Warm up the engine slightly to make the oil flow more easily.

  • Place the drain pan under the oil drain plug and remove the plug to let the old oil drain out completely.

  • Replace the oil filter with a new one, ensuring it’s properly seated.

  • Reinstall the drain plug securely and refill the engine with the recommended amount of new oil.

  • Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes, then check the oil level and top off if necessary.


Changing your oil regularly, as per the manufacturer’s recommendations, is key to keeping your Sprinter diesel running smoothly.


Final Thoughts


Using the correct oil for your Mercedes-Benz Sprinter diesel is essential for maintaining its performance and reliability. If you’re unsure about the right oil or need assistance with an oil change, don’t hesitate to visit Kevin’s Autos for professional service. We’re here to help keep your vehicle in top shape!


Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best oil for a Mercedes diesel engine?


5. Mercedes-Benz Genuine Engine Oil 229.52 5W-30. The official lubricant for diesel engines meeting the MB 229.52 specification, this oil is meticulously crafted to ensure proper lubrication and minimize wear in your hardworking diesel Mercedes.



Which is better 5W30 or 5W40 for diesel?


5W30 is suitable for operating temperature between -25°C and 25°C, and 5W40 has a range of between -25°C and 35°C. In terms of oil flow, 5W30 has greater flow than 5W40. However, for providing higher pressure, 5W40 is superior. Out of the two engine oils, 5W30 is lighter, offering better fuel consumption.



What oil to use in Mercedes Sprinter diesel?


If you have a diesel Sprinter Van, the recommended oil is Full Synthetic Motor Oil 5W-30.



Is 15w40 oil good for diesel engines?


Both 15W-40 and 10W-30 oils are multi-grade oils commonly used in diesel engines. The numbers in their names refer to their viscosity at different temperatures. The “W” stands for winter, indicating the oil's performance in cold weather, while the numbers reflect its viscosity at high temperatures.



Is 5w40 better than 5W30?


For 5w40 oil:
In practice, this means that each oil is just as viscous at lower temperatures and will remain viscous at -30°C, however 5w40 oil outperforms 5w30 oils at higher temperatures, being effective up to ambient temperatures of 50°C, as opposed to 30°C.



What is the best oil for a diesel van?


Nevertheless, diesels are generally happy with 5W-30, 5W-40, or 10W-40 oils or higher viscosities. Ideally, a good diesel engine oil has to run smoothly on cold starts as well as warm/hot cruises. They should treat the DPF filters and turbochargers with good health since these can get clogged overtime.



How much oil does a Sprinter 3.0 diesel take?


13.2 quarts
Capacity: 13.2 quarts (with filter). After refill check oil level.



What kind of oil does a Mercedes 3.0 diesel take?


Diesel Engine: Full Synthetic 5W-30 Motor Oil.



How often do you change oil on Sprinter diesel?


every 10,000
Recommended Sprinter Van Oil Change Frequency
The answer may vary depending on your Petaluma driving habits, but generally, you'll want to change your Sprinter's oil every 10,000, or once annually. Your dashboard will usually alert you when it's time for an oil change.



Do all diesels use 15w40?


Both 15W-40 and 10W-30 oils are multi-grade oils commonly used in diesel engines. The numbers in their names refer to their viscosity at different temperatures. The “W” stands for winter, indicating the oil's performance in cold weather, while the numbers reflect its viscosity at high temperatures.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.