Cost of Sprinter Engine Replacement

John Liotine • February 12, 2025

Replacing the engine in your Mercedes Sprinter isn’t anyone’s idea of fun, but if you’re her asking "How much does a Sprinter engine replacement really cost?," you might be staring that reality in the face. Whether you're running deliveries every day, living full-time in your van, or just trying to keep your work fleet on the road, a blown engine is a big deal. And yes, it can be a big price tag too.

So… what’s the damage?

Let’s get to the part everyone wants to know. On average, a full engine replacement for a Sprinter can run anywhere from $10,000 to $20,000. That’s a wide range, but there’s a reason for it.

It depends on:

The year and model of your Sprinter
Whether you go with a brand-new engine, a remanufactured one, or a used swap
Labor costs, which vary depending on where you take it
How much additional work is needed once the engine’s out

For example, if the turbo is cooked or you’ve got other damage tied to the failure, that could bump up your costs.

Why labor costs are a big factor

Sprinters aren’t like your typical pickup or sedan. Everything’s packed in tight under the hood, and getting to the engine takes time. There’s also a whole lot of sensors, electronics, and van-specific parts to reconnect after the new engine is in. It’s a time-consuming job that really needs a tech who knows these vans.

New vs. remanufactured vs. used Sprinter engines

A brand-new engine from Mercedes is the most expensive route, and not always necessary. Many folks opt for a remanufactured engine, which has been rebuilt with new internal components and tested. It's usually more affordable and still super reliable when sourced right. Some go the*used engine route, but it’s riskier unless you really know the history.

Should you replace or repair?

Not every engine issue means full replacement. If the bottom end’s still solid and you’ve just got a cracked head or blown gasket, repairs could be more cost-effective. But if your Sprinter’s racked up a ton of miles and it’s one thing after another, a full swap might actually save money long-term.

Trust a Sprinter expert, not just any mechanic

We’ve said it before, and it definitely applies here: not every shop is set up to handle Sprinters the right way. You need someone who understands these vans inside and out. At Colorado Fleetworks, we work on Sprinters every single day, including work vans, camper builds, delivery vehicles, you name it. We’ve done our fair share of engine replacements, and we’re honest about what makes sense and what doesn’t.

If you’re facing a possible engine replacement, we can walk you through the options, take a real look at what’s going on, and help you make the call that’s right for your van and your budget.