Sprinter Van Oil Cooler Seal Leak: What You Need to Know

Affected Vehicles V6 3.0L

All models that were equipped with the 3.0L V6 diesel engine, including the “CDI” and “BlueTEC” models, can be affected by this problem. The following is a full list of affected vehicles:

• 2006-2018 Mercedes Sprinter V6

• 2007-2014 Mercedes E320 & E350 BlueTEC

• 2007-2012 Mercedes R Class 320 CDI & 350 BlueTEC

• 2007-2016 Mercedes GL 320 CDI & GL 350 BlueTEC

• 2007-2014 Mercedes ML 320 CDI & ML 350 BlueTEC

• 2007-2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee CRD

In 2010, Mercedes upgraded the seal material to Viton, which has increased its lifespan. While leaks do occur in 2010+ vehicles, they are less common than in pre-2010 vehicles.

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Symptoms of an Oil Cooler Gasket Leak

• "Check oil level" or "Oil level low" message on the instrument cluster

• Decreasing oil level measurements on the oil level dipstick

• Oil stains or puddles when parked

• Engine oil level decreases

• Engine warning light comes on

• Engine oil

•  leaks near the front of the engine

• Engine runs hot or overheats

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If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to take your Sprinter Van to a mechanic as soon as possible.

Initially, you may only see a small collection of oil at the bottom of the transmission bell housing. If you notice any wetness in this area, monitor your vehicle closely for increased oil loss. Once the seals start to leak slowly, the rate of the leak will increase rapidly. Mercedes vehicles come with a large undercarriage cover that can collect a significant amount of oil before it leaks over, so you may not initially see oil stains when parked.

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What Causes an Oil Cooler Gasket Leak?

An oil cooler gasket leak can occur due to a number of reasons, including age, overheating, and excessive pressure. Over time, the gasket may deteriorate, leading to cracks and leaks. High temperatures can also cause the gasket to become brittle and eventually fail. Additionally, high engine oil pressure can put extra stress on the gasket, leading to leaks.

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Repairing the Leak

The repair process involves replacing the two seals on the oil cooler. The oil cooler itself does not need to be replaced and can be reinstalled. When purchasing oil cooler seals, always get the factory purple color seals made of Viton. The older or aftermarket orange seals will leak much sooner.

Unfortunately, the oil cooler is located at the bottom of the engine "V" design, underneath intake manifolds, EGR equipment, coolant lines, and the turbocharger. All these items must be removed before the oil cooler can be removed and the seals can be replaced.

Considering the amount of work required to reach the oil cooler, repair times can vary widely, but it is generally accepted that 10 to 15 hours is a good starting point. The oil cooler seals themselves are not very expensive (about $5 each), but there is about $120 worth of other seals for the other items that must be replaced as well. We recommend getting a full oil cooler seal kit to do the job right.

Depending on the year, Sprinter oil cooler seal replacement can range from $1999 to $2,500.

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Solutions for Oil Cooler Gasket Leak

The solution for an oil cooler gasket leak will depend on the severity of the issue. In some cases, a simple gasket replacement may be all that is needed. However, if the issue has caused damage to other parts of the engine, more extensive repairs may be required.

If you suspect an oil cooler gasket leak, it is important to take your Sprinter Van to a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. They will be able to diagnose the issue and provide a solution to keep your engine running smoothly.

In conclusion, oil cooler gasket leaks are a common problem for Sprinter Vans with V6 3.0L engines. By paying attention to the symptoms and taking prompt action, you can prevent damage to your engine and keep your Sprinter Van running smoothly for years to come. Visit Sprinter Service & Repair for a FREE inspection.