Limp Mode or Power Loss? Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Turbo Hose Update for 2007 to 2010, 2500 and 3500 Models

The 2007 to roughly 2010 Sprinters with 3.0 engine have a lower turbo hose that can fail with time. The driver’s side hose can fail at the hose end adapter. Sometimes they will fail at the bends as well. When they do fail they can be difficult to diagnose.

They also seem to fail while under high boost. You could experience a failure while climbing a steep hill, especially on the heavy class C model RV’s. If your vehicle goes into limp mode, or you lose power under these conditions, you may have a blown turbo hose. Often you will get a check engine light with a low turbo boost code.

The good news is that Mercedes-Benz has a replacement hose that appears to be redesigned. You can purchased this hose at any MB or Freightliner dealer. These are usually not a warranty item. You will need to purchase one, but be thankful it will probably not happen again for a long time. All MB dealers should only stock the updated design by now. If you lay the two hoses side by side, the updated hose will have much longer bends and will be noticeably different from the shorter older hose.

There is an aftermarket repair kit that replaces the hose adapter end. You will still have an old hose and it may now be shorter since the repair kit requires trimming and you could experience failure again as things flex and boost. The repair kit is a handy emergency repair, but do yourself a favor and replace the hose with the newer designed hose.

It is fairly safe to keep driving with a blown hose. It will not cause additional damage to the turbo. You will have a severe loss in power, most likely be in limp mode, and probably experience a check engine light. As long as you don’t mind a line of traffic behind you as you travel 40 MPH, you can drive it to the next shop or safe place to stop for repair without damaging your vehicle .

Good luck and happy traveling. We hope to see you on the road.