tommueller2

Sprinter diesel engine issues resolved

My 2017 Mercedes Sprinter diesel is acting up. It has 171222 km on it. The engine power is reduced, and there's a warning light on the speedometer. It starts poorly, the lights are weak and flicker, and the error memory has something stored. I'm guessing it's the generator that's defective? Could a bad serpentine belt or low battery cause this? I'm worried about the charging system and starter motor. I don't want an engine misfire on top of all this. I'm thinking it will cost around 960€ to fix.

A 2017 Mercedes Sprinter diesel with 171,222 km was experiencing reduced engine power, poor starting, flickering lights, and a warning light on the speedometer. The suspected cause was a defective generator, potentially exacerbated by a bad serpentine belt or low battery. The conversation suggested checking the voltage regulator, a component of the generator, as it could lead to undercharging or overcharging issues. After taking the vehicle to a workshop, the generator was confirmed to be defective and was replaced, resolving the issues.

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4 comment(s)

Wow, that sounds like a cascade of issues! I had something similar happen with my Sprinter. Reduced power and flickering lights are classic signs of a failing generator, which then puts a huge strain on the battery. The low battery can definitely cause starting problems and even trigger seemingly unrelated errors. Is it struggling to turn over, or is it just a slow start? A faulty charging system will absolutely wreak havoc. Did you check the voltage regulator?

Struggling to turn over is exactly how I'd describe the start. What is the voltage regulator?

Okay, 'struggling to turn over' definitely points towards the battery not getting enough juice, which circles back to the generator. The voltage regulator is a component of the generator itself; it maintains a constant voltage output. If it fails, it can either overcharge or undercharge the battery, leading to a host of problems. With all those symptoms, a defective generator is highly probable. Get it checked at a workshop to be sure, but be prepared for them to confirm your suspicions.

Thanks a lot for the insight! I took it to the workshop, and you were right. The generator was indeed defective. Got it replaced, and everything is back to normal. I appreciate the help!

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MERCEDES

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SPRINTER