Sprinters are one of the most sought-after multi-utility vans, known for their performance and reliability. However, like other vans, they also face their fair share of issues. A common problem among them is aluminum fuse failure, which can sometimes lead to a complete breakdown of the van while driving. The aluminum fuse in your Sprinter is responsible for protecting the crucial electrical circuits, and a blown fuse indicates underlying electrical problems. In this article, we will discuss the reasons behind the frequency of this issue in Sprinter vans specifically.
Bad Sensors
Nowadays, all vehicles, including your Sprinter, are equipped with a host of sensors that help monitor their function. These sensors rely on a proper current supply for efficient functioning, and whenever any of these components malfunction, it may result in your aluminum fuse blowing. Often, issues with the oxygen sensors, wheel speed sensors, or intake air temperature sensors can adversely affect the aluminum fuse, as they draw more current than required.
Since they’re designed to operate with minimal power consumption, any internal issues can lead to a massive flow of charges. As the aluminum fuse is responsible for protecting the electrical circuits, it can blow. Generally, if you are driving your van with faulty sensors, you may encounter flashing warning lights on the dashboard, accompanied by a sudden drop in your van’s performance. Under these circumstances, if the aluminum fuse blows, your sensors need to be inspected immediately to prevent further damage.
Short-Circuited Wiring Harness
Among the various factors that can lead to a blown fuse, a short circuit is one of the most common reasons found in the majority of Sprinter vans. Often, insulation wear is a common problem with the wiring harness. As the exposed wires come into contact with the ground, a significant current flow occurs that the aluminum fuse is unable to handle, resulting in a blown fuse.
Additionally, certain weather conditions, such as high humidity and exposure to salt, can cause the wiring harness to corrode, potentially leading to short circuits in your van. Moreover, the most important thing is to diagnose the source of the short circuit, as it is pretty challenging. Rather than tackling this issue on your own, contact our certified auto repair shop to help identify the source of the electrical fault and initiate remedial measures to repair your Sprinter.
Malfunctioning Electrical Modules
Sprinters are heavily dependent on various control modules for their smooth running and better performance. The control modules, such as the ECU, BCM, and TCM, play a crucial role in controlling the flow of power to the various components in your vehicle. If any of these modules fail, it can draw a massive amount of current, causing the aluminum fuse to overheat and blow. No doubt, replacing a malfunctioning module is costly, and your Sprinter needs to be thoroughly inspected to determine if the module is the cause of the blown fuse problem before replacement steps are initiated.
Battery or Alternator Failure
Now, you might be taken by surprise to learn that issues with the battery or alternator can also lead to aluminum fuse failure in your Sprinter. Due to the highly advanced electronic systems in your Sprinter, the battery and alternator can be subjected to voltage fluctuations, which can lead to a blown fuse. Please note that if your alternator consistently supplies more than 14.7 volts, then the chances of aluminum fuse failure increase tremendously. Conducting periodic testing of the battery and alternator is an effective method to tackle the problem and prevent the fuse from blowing entirely.
Leading Aluminum Fuse Repairs Near Gwinnett County
At Sprinter Gurus, located 
in Norcross, GA, we are proud to be your go-to auto service center for Sprinter repair for residents of this neighborhood and nearby areas. Our state-of-the-art garage is equipped with the latest tools and equipment to help diagnose any aluminum fuse issues in your van. Call or contact us online to schedule an appointment, and our team of ASE-certified mechanics will ensure your Sprinter is back on the road without any issues.