MERCEDES SPRINTER (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 2,351 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
75%
Total Tests (2024)
2,351
Avg Mileage
138,262 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,490
Is the 2012 MERCEDES SPRINTER reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 7 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the MERCEDES brand average of 87%.
At 12 years old, 75% of MERCEDES SPRINTERs from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 2,351 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 138,262 miles.
How does the 2012 MERCEDES SPRINTER compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 MERCEDES SPRINTER has 138,262 miles on the clock, which is well above the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-year-old car. Check service history carefully, as high-mileage cars need consistent maintenance to stay reliable.
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 2012 sits between the two at 75%.
How much does a 2012 MERCEDES SPRINTER cost to run?
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 2012 MERCEDES SPRINTER
The 2012 MERCEDES SPRINTER is a city car with a 0cc diesel engine. 2,351 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. It sits in the bottom 80% of 2012 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 138,262 miles at 12 years old, MERCEDES SPRINTER owners cover more miles than the average driver. High-mileage examples should be checked carefully for wear on suspension, brakes, and drivetrain components.
2012 MERCEDES SPRINTER Fuel Costs
The modest 0cc diesel engine keeps fuel costs low, which is a real advantage for a city car. Expect around 55 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £905 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 2012 MERCEDES SPRINTER?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,490 (£124/month), broken down as £905 fuel, £30 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 75% 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 2012 MERCEDES SPRINTER
At 12 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 2012 MERCEDES SPRINTER
If reliability is your priority, there are 2 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- FORD KUGA (2011) 78% pass rate (+3%) from 17,950 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN TOURAN (2010) 74% pass rate (-1%) from 9,184 tests
- PEUGEOT BIPPER (2012) 73% pass rate (-2%) from 2,997 tests
- MINI COOPER D (2011) 79% pass rate (+4%) from 1,461 tests