MERCEDES SPRINTER (2002)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 1,618 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
73%
Total Tests (2024)
1,618
Avg Mileage
137,516 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,050
Is the 2002 MERCEDES SPRINTER reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 9 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the MERCEDES brand average of 87%.
At 22 years old, 73% of MERCEDES SPRINTERs from 2002 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 1,618 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 137,516 miles.
How does the 2002 MERCEDES SPRINTER compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2002 MERCEDES SPRINTER has 137,516 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 162,800 miles for a 22-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a MERCEDES SPRINTER?
The most reliable year is the 2022 model with a 92% MOT pass rate, while the 1996 model has the lowest at 68%. The 2002 sits between the two at 73%.
How much does a 2002 MERCEDES SPRINTER cost to run?
Higher than average due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
MERCEDES SPRINTER by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 92% | 156 | 64,875 mi |
| 2021 | 85% | 757 | 50,032 mi |
| 2020 | 89% | 1,701 | 60,989 mi |
| 2019 | 88% | 2,195 | 90,467 mi |
| 2018 | 87% | 2,215 | 98,916 mi |
| 2017 | 88% | 2,626 | 108,282 mi |
| 2016 | 83% | 2,447 | 120,235 mi |
| 2015 | 83% | 3,151 | 137,553 mi |
| 2014 | 80% | 3,008 | 140,703 mi |
| 2013 | 79% | 2,484 | 146,792 mi |
| 2012 | 75% | 2,351 | 138,262 mi |
| 2011 | 79% | 2,140 | 150,457 mi |
| 2010 | 78% | 2,065 | 144,887 mi |
| 2009 | 79% | 1,741 | 143,543 mi |
| 2008 | 77% | 2,264 | 141,659 mi |
| 2007 | 76% | 2,122 | 148,349 mi |
| 2006 | 74% | 1,788 | 142,955 mi |
| 2005 | 73% | 1,716 | 132,628 mi |
| 2004 | 74% | 1,821 | 132,046 mi |
| 2003 | 75% | 1,675 | 143,352 mi |
| 2002 | 73% | 1,618 | 137,516 mi |
| 2001 | 75% | 1,138 | 146,632 mi |
| 2000 | 73% | 702 | 143,745 mi |
| 1999 | 72% | 606 | 149,141 mi |
| 1998 | 72% | 749 | 147,305 mi |
| 1997 | 74% | 466 | 142,617 mi |
| 1996 | 68% | 200 | 148,195 mi |
Checking a specific MERCEDES SPRINTER?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2002 MERCEDES SPRINTER
The 2002 MERCEDES SPRINTER is a family car with a 2151cc diesel engine. 1,618 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2002, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 137,516 miles at 22 years old, MERCEDES SPRINTER owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2002 MERCEDES SPRINTER Fuel Costs
The 2151cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 40 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,245 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2002 MERCEDES SPRINTER?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,050 (£171/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 73% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
MERCEDES SPRINTER Reliability Trend
Newer MERCEDES SPRINTERs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 10 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2002 MERCEDES SPRINTER
At 22 years old, the MERCEDES SPRINTER is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2022 model has the highest pass rate at 92%.
Alternatives to the 2002 MERCEDES SPRINTER
The MERCEDES SPRINTER is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel family cars from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2003) 73% pass rate (same) from 31,803 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2004) 72% pass rate (-1%) from 20,938 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER (2004) 73% pass rate (same) from 19,211 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2003) 72% pass rate (-1%) from 13,965 tests