I'm shopping for a used van with standing height and since the Ford Transits are not yet in my price range I'm looking at Sprinters.

This is for local use only. Doesn't need to cost a lot of money because I have my truck and trailer for long distance and in case of breakdowns.

Want to hear from people who have owned or worked on these vehicles and know what common/expensive problems I should look for.

Seen a couple used ones (2006-2008) online I'd like to go check out.

 

We have a bunch at work. Generally regarded as junk.

We have had transmissions at 60K.

Some years have an intake tube that splits, causing a surge as it's after the air metering.

We currently have some turbo issue that has it's roots deeper in the oiling system. Not sure of the particulars.

The doors, especially the rear doors, are flimsy.

I've driven a couple and liked them. They are plenty zippy for what they are, and if you aren't large as a barge, they aren't bad space wise.

I would stay away from the Dodge--only buy a MB branded one. Dodge (Ram) doesn't want anything to do with them anymore, and MB doesn't either.

 

Another huge detracting fact about Sprinter's is the horrible, horrible bodies that rust out quickly---I've always linked that directly to MB's association over here with the Chrysler brand.

Honestly though I've seen 3-4 year old vans showing huge amounts of rust that has begun under the paint---a sure sign its much more severe than what's showing.