Sprinter Oil Fill Capacities: A Guide to Avoid Overfilling

What is the Correct Sprinter Oil Fill Capacity?

The correct Sprinter oil fill capacity varies depending on the model and engine type of your van. The oil capacity can range from 9.9 to 12.5 liters. It's crucial to check your owner's manual or consult a licensed Sprinter mechanic at Sprinter Service & Repair (San Diego or Vista CA) to determine the correct oil fill capacity for your specific van.

​

Why is Overfilling Engine Oil a Problem?

Overfilling engine oil can cause significant problems for your Sprinter van's engine. Excess oil expands and makes its way into the engine's crankcase ventilation, breather hose, and PCV valve system. This excess oil smog adulterates the air consumed by the engine and can cause premature oil sludge and buildup on the top side of the intake and exhaust valves. Over time, regular overfilling can also cause issues with the catalytic converters, EGR valves, oxygen sensors, EGT sensors, and diesel particulate filter.

​

How to Avoid Overfilling Engine Oil in Your Sprinter Van?

To avoid overfilling engine oil in your Sprinter van, it's essential to follow the correct procedure for checking and filling the engine oil.

1. Add 0.5 liters less oil than the called-for Sprinter oil capacity.

2. Start the engine and run it until the operating temperature is achieved (approximately 140°F).

3. Wait a minute or two once the engine is shut off and then check the dipstick.

4. Fill to the full mark.

By following these steps, you'll allow the engine oil to fully expand and the oil filter to fill up, preventing overfilling. It's also essential to make sure your engine is warm before draining, as this allows for a more thorough draining.

​

How to Check the Engine Oil Level in Your Sprinter Van

To check the engine oil level in your Sprinter van, you need to follow the correct procedure, which is as follows:

1. Wait until the engine is warm.

2. Park the van on level ground.

3. Turn off the engine and wait a minute or two.

4. Check the dipstick and fill to the full mark.

By checking the engine oil level when the engine is warm, you'll avoid overfilling, as the oil will be at its full expansion.

​

Why is it Important to Use the Correct Engine Oil in Your Sprinter Van?

Using the correct engine oil in your Sprinter van is crucial for the proper functioning of the engine. The correct engine oil provides lubrication to the engine parts and helps to reduce friction and wear. Additionally, the correct engine oil has a higher viscosity index, which ensures proper lubrication in both hot and cold temperatures. Using the wrong engine oil can cause significant problems for your engine and lead to costly repairs.