2012 Mercedes Benz Sprinter 3500 3.0L Diesel Maintenance Guide: Oil & Filter Specs

AMSOIL diesel oil guide for 2012 Mercedes Benz Sprinter 3500
AMSOIL diesel oil guide for trucks, vans, SUVs and diesel engines

For the 2012 Mercedes Benz Sprinter 3500 with the 3.0L 6-cylinder Engine Code 642 898 C 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 specific options like 5W-30/5W-40 for temperatures above -25°C. AMSOIL recommends AMSOIL 0W-30 MS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil (EOTQT-EA) and a MANN-FILTERS Oil Filter (HU821X-EA).

What oil does a 2012 Mercedes Benz Sprinter 3500 take?

The 2012 Mercedes Benz Sprinter 3500 with the 3.0L diesel engine requires specific oil viscosities based on operating temperatures. The AMSOIL lookup lists several options, including 0W-30 and 0W-40 for all temperature ranges. Other approved viscosities include 5W-30/5W-40 (above -25°C), 10W-30/10W-40 (above -20°C), and 15W-40 (above -15°C).

AMSOIL product recommendations

The following AMSOIL products are recommended for your 2012 Mercedes Benz Sprinter 3500 based on the provided vehicle lookup data.

Engine Oil & Filter

Product Name Code
AMSOIL 0W-30 MS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil EOTQT-EA
Filter Type Code
MANN-FILTERS Oil Filter HU821X-EA

Air & Cooling Systems

Product Name Code
WIX Air Filter 49876-EA
AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant ANTPC1G-EA
AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant ANT1G-EA

Transmission & Brake Fluids

Product Name Code
AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic ATF ATLPK-EA
AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic ATF OTLQT-EA
AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid BFLVCN-EA

Power Steering

Product Name Code
AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid PSFCN-EA

Engine Oil Specifications

Viscosity Range Temperature Condition
0W-30, 0W-40 All Temperatures
5W-30, 5W-40 Above -25°C
10W-30, 10W-40 Above -20°C
15W-40 Above -15°C

AMSOIL lookup oil grade: SEO59

How much oil does it take with a filter change?

For the 3.0L 6-cylinder engine (Code 642 898 C), the total capacity is 13.2 quarts when performing an oil change with a new filter. It is essential to check the oil level after refilling to ensure accuracy.

Engine Oil Details

Specification Value
Oil Capacity (with filter) 13.2 quarts
Oil Drain Plug Torque 22 ft/lbs

Automatic Transmission Fluid Specifications

For vehicles equipped with the 5-speed automatic transmission (W5A380….SL057), the total fill capacity is 7.5 quarts. AMSOIL offers both Signature Series and OE Fuel-Efficient synthetic options for this application.

Diesel maintenance notes for this vehicle

  • Emissions Systems: This vehicle features Mercedes BlueTEC technology. Maintenance should prioritize the health of the BlueTEC exhaust aftertreatment components.
  • Oil Drain Plug: Ensure the drain plug is torqued to 22 ft/lbs to prevent leaks or damage.
  • Coolant Mixing: If using AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze, note that it is concentrated and requires mixing with distilled or high-quality water.
  • Brake Fluid Requirements: The lookup notes recommend using DOT 4 plus (specifically referencing 0009895605090109, 0009895605110111, or 000989080701) or products approved on MB Sheet 331.0.

Common diesel oil-related concerns and how AMSOIL products may help

Concern Why it matters AMSOIL product from this lookup How it may help Important limitation
Emissions System Health BlueTEC systems are sensitive to oil composition. EOTQT-EA Designed to provide protection without harming emissions systems. Diagnosis/repair may be required for existing issues.
Heavy Towing/Load Stress High loads increase transmission heat and wear. ATLPK-EA Withstands rigors of heavy towing and elevated temperatures. Does not repair mechanical failure.
Cold Weather Operation Thick fluids can hinder starting and shifting in winter. EOTQT-EA Provides 0W viscosity for better low-temp flow. Check specific temperature requirements.

Common maintenance concerns for this vehicle

Owners of the Mercedes Benz Sprinter 3500 typically focus on high-mileage commercial durability. Key areas for inspection include:

  • Fuel Filtration: Critical for protecting diesel injectors and maintaining engine performance.
  • Turbocharger Health: Ensuring proper lubrication to prevent turbo failure under heavy loads.
  • Cooling System Integrity: Regular checks of hoses, gaskets, and coolant levels are vital to manage thermal stress.
  • BlueTEC Aftertreatment: Monitoring the exhaust system components essential for emissions compliance.

Recall, TSB, and manufacturer communication notes

Official NHTSA recall research for the 2012 Mercedes Benz Sprinter 3500 returned no recall records at the time of this report. Additionally, no consumer complaints were found in the NHTSA database for this specific year/make/model combination. However, owners should always verify open recalls by VIN, as applicability depends on production date and specific equipment.

About this vehicle

The 2012 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. Within the Mercedes-Benz lineup, the Sprinter represents the largest model offered, positioned above mid-size options like the Vito.

This specific model is equipped with a 3.0L 6-cylinder diesel engine (Engine Code 642 898 C) falling under the Mercedes BlueTEC category. Historically, this vehicle has seen diverse branding in the United States, having been sold under names such as Dodge and Freightliner.

Because these vehicles are often used for heavy-duty commercial transport, cargo hauling, or specialized passenger conversions, they frequently operate in high-mileage environments. Maintenance focus typically centers on diesel-specific systems, including fuel filtration, turbocharger health, and BlueTEC exhaust aftertreatment components. Owners should prioritize regular inspections of cooling systems and lubrication intervals to manage the stresses associated with heavy loads.

Note: Technical specifications regarding displacement, torque, and specific BlueTEC component maintenance should be cross-referenced with an official Mercedes-Benz service manual or a dedicated diesel engine database.

Common questions about this vehicle’s diesel oil and maintenance

What is the oil capacity for my 2012 Sprinter 3500?

The total capacity is 13.2 quarts when replacing the filter. Always check the level after refilling.

Which AMSOIL oil is best for my BlueTEC engine?

AMSOIL recommends EOTQT-EA, which is designed to provide exceptional protection without harming emissions systems.

What torque should I use for the oil drain plug?

The oil drain plug should be torqued to 22 ft/lbs.

Can I use a different viscosity in winter?

Yes, the lookup lists 0W-30 and 0W-40 for all temperatures, which are excellent for cold starts.

What transmission fluid is needed for the 5-speed automatic?

The application requires a total fill of 7.5 quarts for the W5A380 transmission. AMSOIL lists ATLPK-EA and OTLQT-EA.

How do I check for recalls on my Sprinter?

While no records were found in this specific search, you should always verify open recalls by checking your unique VIN through official Mercedes-Benz channels or the NHTSA website.


Disclaimer: All technical specifications and maintenance procedures should be verified using the vehicle’s owner manual or an official service manual before performing any work.

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