Can You Bump Start A Diesel MERCEDES-BENZ Sprinter Classic 4,6-t Van (W909) (01.2017 - ...)

For Mercedes Sprinter 316 CDI (2017) in cold weather, key points:
* Battery – must be in good condition (check charge and electrolyte density).

* Fuel (diesel) – winter diesel (not below the seasonal norm), otherwise paraffinisation and clogged filters.

* Glow plugs – if worn, the engine will start poorly (check them and the relay).

* Fuel filter – must be clean (preferably heated).

* Oil – use winter oil (5W-30 or 0W-30).

Before starting, turn on the ignition for 5–10 seconds (to warm up the spark plugs), and if it is very cold, warm up the fuel filter (with a hair dryer or special heater). If problems persist, check the compression and the fuel injection pump.

Jump starting (bump starting) a 2017 Mercedes Sprinter 316 CDI, especially in cold weather, is generally not recommended and often not feasible due to the vehicle’s diesel engine, electronic controls, and safety systems.

Why Bump Starting Is Difficult or Unsafe
- The Sprinter’s OM651 diesel engine relies on glow plugs and electronic fuel injection that require battery power to operate properly.
- Modern diesels like the Sprinter have complex engine management and immobilizer systems that prevent starting without sufficient electrical power.
- Without battery power, the fuel injection and glow plug systems won’t activate, so the engine won’t start even if pushed or towed.
- Cold weather compounds this because diesel fuel can gel, glow plugs need preheating, and the battery’s capacity is reduced.

Key Cold Weather Issues to Watch For
- Battery health: Cold temperatures reduce battery efficiency; a weak or partially discharged battery may not provide enough power to start the engine. Battery blankets or warmers can help maintain battery temperature.
- Fuel gelling: Diesel fuel can gel or crystallize at low temperatures (DEF freezes at around -11°C), causing fuel starvation. Using winter-grade diesel and additives helps prevent this.
- Glow plugs: Proper preheating of glow plugs is essential; turn the ignition to the “on” position and wait for the glow plug light to go off before cranking.
- Block heaters: Using an engine block heater or auxiliary heater to warm the engine and fuel system before starting in very cold weather is highly recommended.
- DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) freezing: DEF can freeze in cold weather, so heating or insulating the DEF tank and lines is important.

Best Practices for Cold Starts
- Turn the ignition to the “on” position and allow the glow plug light to cycle a few times to preheat the cylinders before starting.
- Use a block heater or auxiliary heater to warm the engine and fuel system if temperatures are very low.
- Ensure the battery is in good condition and fully charged; consider a battery warmer in extreme cold.
- Use winter diesel fuel and appropriate additives to prevent fuel gelling.
- Avoid bump starting; instead, ensure the battery and fuel system are properly maintained for reliable starts.

1. Bump starting a 2017 Mercedes Sprinter 316 CDI in cold weather is generally not possible due to electronic controls and diesel engine requirements.
2. Focus on maintaining battery health, using glow plugs correctly, employing block heaters, and preventing fuel gelling to ensure reliable cold starts.
3. If the vehicle won’t start, check battery voltage (should be above 13V), glow plug function, and fuel condition rather than attempting a bump start.

Following these tips will help you tackle cold weather starting issues safely and effectively with your Sprinter.