For the 2018 Mercedes Benz Sprinter 3500 with the 3.0L 6-cylinder Engine Code 642.896 I Diesel Turbo, the engine oil capacity is 13.2 quarts (including filter replacement). Recommended viscosities include 0W-30 or 0W-40 for all temperatures, with other options like 5W-30/5W-40 available for temperatures above -25°C. AMSOIL recommends AMSOIL 0W-30 MS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil (EOTQT-EA) for this application.
What oil does a 2018 Mercedes Benz Sprinter 3500 take?
The 2018 Mercedes Benz Sprinter 3500 with the 642.896 diesel engine requires specific viscosities to ensure proper lubrication and emissions system compatibility. The AMSOIL lookup lists several viscosity options depending on your operating temperature environment.
AMSOIL product recommendations
Based on the AMSOIL lookup data, here are the recommended products for your Mercedes Benz Sprinter 3500 diesel engine and related systems.
| Component | Product Name | Part Code |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Oil | AMSOIL 0W-30 MS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil | EOTQT-EA |
| Air Filter | WIX Air Filter [1] | 49876-EA |
| Antifreeze/Coolant | AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant | ANTPC1G-EA |
| Antifreeze/Coolant | AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant | ANT1G-EA |
| Automatic Transmission | AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic ATF | ATLPK-EA |
| Automatic Transmission | AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic ATF | OTLQT-EA |
| Transfer Case | AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic ATF | ATLPK-EA |
| Transfer Case | AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic ATF | OTLQT-EA |
Engine Oil Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| AMSOIL Lookup Oil Grade | SEO59 |
| OEM Specification | Not confirmed from source data |
Engine Oil Viscosity Options
| Viscosity | Temperature Range/Condition |
|---|---|
| 0W-30, 0W-40 | All TEMPS |
| 10W-30, 10W-40 | Above -20°C |
| 15W-40 | Above -15°C |
| 5W-30, 5W-40 | Above -25°C |
How much oil does it take with a filter change?
For the 3.0L 6-cylinder diesel engine, the total capacity is 13.2 quarts when performing an oil and filter service. It is essential to check the oil level after refilling to ensure accuracy.
Oil Capacity & Torque Specs
| Description | Value |
|---|---|
| Capacity (with filter) | 13.2 quarts |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22 ft/lbs |
Note: Always replace the drain plug seal when performing an oil change.
Automatic Transmission & Transfer Case Fluids
The Sprinter 3500 uses specific fluids for its transmission and transfer case systems. For the automatic transmission (W5A380), a total fill of 7.5 quarts is required.
Transmission Specifications
| Component | Capacity |
|---|---|
| 5-speed W5A380 Total Fill | 7.5 quarts |
Transfer Case Lubricant
The transfer case requirements vary by code:
- With Code ZG2: 2.1 pints capacity
- With Code ZG3: 2.1 pints capacity
- With Code ZG4: 2.1 pints capacity
For these applications, the AMSOIL lookup lists ATLPK-EA and OTLQT-EA.
Coolant Specifications
The cooling system requires 10.6 quarts of coolant. AMSOIL offers both pre-mix and concentrated options for this vehicle.
| Product | Type/Formulation |
|---|---|
| AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze | Ethylene glycol 50/50 pre-mix |
| AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze | Concentrated (requires mixing) |
Common diesel oil-related concerns and how AMSOIL products may help
Diesel engines like the Mercedes BlueTEC 642.896 face unique operational stresses. Proper lubrication is vital for longevity.
| Concern | Why it matters | AMSOIL Product | How it may help | Limitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emissions System Health | BlueTEC systems are sensitive to oil additives. | EOTQT-EA | Designed for exceptional protection without harming emissions systems. | Requires proper maintenance intervals. |
| Heavy Towing/Load | High heat and stress on transmission fluids. | ATLPK-EA | Withstands rigors of heavy towing and elevated temperatures. | Diagnosis required for mechanical failure. |
| Cold Weather Starts | Fluid thickness can affect component wear during startup. | EOTQT-EA | Provides 0W viscosity for better flow in low temps. | Does not replace engine warm-up protocols. |
Diesel maintenance notes for this vehicle
- Emissions Focus: The ‘BlueTEC’ designation indicates advanced emissions control technology; maintaining oil integrity is critical for these systems.
- Turbocharger Care: Owners should prioritize regular inspections of turbocharger components to ensure long-term reliability under load.
- Engine Verification: Note that the 642 diesel engine has different requirements than gasoline M272 engines; always use dedicated diesel service data.
Common maintenance concerns for this vehicle
Based on typical commercial usage of the Sprinter 3500, owners should consider the following:
- Fuel System Integrity: Given its role in logistics, fuel system health is a priority.
- Cooling System Reliability: Regular checks of hoses and gaskets are recommended to prevent overheating under heavy loads.
- Emissions System Health: Monitoring Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) systems common in BlueTEC models.
Recall, TSB, and manufacturer communication notes
Official NHTSA recall research for the 2018 Mercedes Benz Sprinter 3500 returned no recall records at this time. Additionally, no consumer complaint records were found in the NHTSA database for this specific model year. However, owners should always verify open recalls by VIN, as applicability can depend on production date and specific equipment.
About this vehicle
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500 is a heavy-duty light commercial vehicle designed for high-capacity utility. It is available in various configurations including large vans, chassis cabs, and minibuses, positioning it as a premier offering in the Mercedes-Benz van lineup.
This specific model features the 3.0L 6-cylinder diesel engine (Engine Code 642 896). The ‘BlueTEC’ designation signifies the inclusion of advanced emissions control technology, which is a critical consideration for maintenance schedules. Because these vehicles are frequently used for heavy-duty hauling, commercial logistics, or specialized conversions like camper vans and shuttles, maintenance often focuses on high-mileage durability and fuel system integrity.
Owners should be aware that while the Sprinter lineage has historically been associated with names like Dodge or Freightliner in certain markets, this model is a core component of Mercedes-Benz’s commercial strategy. Proper care of the turbocharger and cooling systems is essential for maintaining reliability during demanding commercial operations.
Common questions about this vehicle’s diesel oil and maintenance
What is the engine oil capacity for my 2018 Sprinter 3500?
The capacity is 13.2 quarts when including a new filter. Always check the level after refilling.
Which AMSOIL oil is best for the 642 diesel engine?
AMSOIL recommends EOTQT-EA, which is designed for the unique demands of European diesel vehicles.
What torque should I use for the oil drain plug?
The oil drain plug requires 22 ft/lbs of torque. Remember to replace the seal.
Does this vehicle require special transmission fluid?
Yes, for the 5-speed W5A380, a total fill of 7.5 quarts is required. AMSOIL offers ATLPK-EA for this application.
How often should I change the air filter?
While specific intervals depend on usage, using a premium media filter like the WIX 49876-EA can help reduce engine wear and maintain OEM service intervals.
Can I use any antifreeze in my Sprinter?
It is best to use a compatible formula. AMSOIL lists ANTPC1G-EA, which is compatible with all other antifreeze and coolant colors.
Disclaimer: This information is derived from provided source data. Always consult your vehicle’s owner manual or a certified professional to confirm specific maintenance requirements for your VIN.