2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Safety Report
2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter: Active safety system malfunctions, particularly Crosswind Assist, raise significant safety concerns despite no official recalls or crash ratings.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
Reliability Score
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crosswind Assist Over-Engagement System over-engages, causing dangerous vehicle skewing, sudden braking, and near-collisions, even in non-windy conditions. Cannot be turned off or desensitized. |
High | Common | new-unknown miles |
| Adaptive Brake Assist Unintended Activation Brakes deploy without warning at highway speeds or while crossing railroad tracks, bringing the vehicle to a complete stop. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Vehicle Shifts Into Neutral During Start Sequence Electronic 'Wiper' stalk shifter is easily shifted into NEUTRAL during normal start sequence, posing a rollover risk. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Hood Unlatches And Flies Open Hood came unlatched and flew up, smashing the windshield while driving. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Instrument Cluster Malfunction Instrument cluster remains non-functional upon vehicle start-up, similar to a known recall for other model years. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Windshield Wipers Malfunction Wipers turn on when using turn signals and do not turn off, causing distraction. |
Medium | Rare | unknown miles |
| Lack Of Acceleration/Dead Pedal Periodic lack of acceleration or 'dead pedal' when trying to advance from a stopped position, lasting 15-45 seconds. |
Medium | Rare | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter:
Issues related to brake deployment, pulsing, and sensor failures, including unintended activation of adaptive brake assist.
Problems with the Crosswind Assist system causing dangerous vehicle behavior and unintended activation of adaptive brake assist.
Malfunctions including instrument cluster issues, wiper problems, and general electrical system failures.
Reports of lack of acceleration ('dead pedal') and O2 sensor issues leading to failed smog tests.
General suspension issues, though specific details are not provided in the sample complaints.
Issues including the vehicle shifting into neutral during startup and general power train concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
Is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter safe?
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter has several concerning safety issues, particularly with its active safety systems like Crosswind Assist and Adaptive Brake Assist, which have led to 3 reported crashes and 1 injury. While there are no official NHTSA crash test ratings, the nature of these malfunctions suggests potential risks to driver control and overall safety.
What are common problems with the 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter?
The most reported issues for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter include problems with the 'SERVICE BRAKES' (5 complaints), 'FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE' systems (6 complaints, including Crosswind Assist and Adaptive Brake Assist), 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' (3 complaints), and 'ENGINE' (3 complaints). The Crosswind Assist system is a frequently cited concern, with multiple reports of dangerous over-engagement.
Are there any recalls for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter?
NHTSA data indicates 0 official recalls specifically for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. However, some consumer complaints reference issues (e.g., instrument cluster software, fuel pump) that align with known recalls for other Sprinter model years, suggesting potential overlap or unaddressed problems.
How does the Crosswind Assist system perform in the 2021 Sprinter?
The Crosswind Assist system in the 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is a significant concern, with 5 complaints describing it as over-engaging, causing the vehicle to dangerously skew, brake suddenly, and nearly collide with other vehicles, even in non-windy conditions. Drivers report it is too aggressive and cannot be turned off or desensitized, leading to hazardous driving experiences.
What should I look out for when buying a used 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter?
When considering a used 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, pay close attention to the functionality of the Crosswind Assist and Adaptive Brake Assist systems. Inquire about any software updates or service bulletins related to these systems. Also, check for any signs of electrical issues, instrument cluster malfunctions, or unusual braking behavior during a test drive. Review the vehicle's service history for any repairs related to these common complaints.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the concerning active safety system malfunctions, particularly with Crosswind Assist, thoroughly test drive the vehicle and inquire about all software updates and service history related to these systems before purchasing.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. The data includes 59 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 0 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 3 reported crashes, 1 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.