Colorado Fleetworks Blog

As vanlife continues to gain popularity, choosing a reliable camper van is more important than ever. Whether you're planning weekend getaways or long-term travels, a dependable vehicle can make all the difference. At Colorado Fleetworks, we work on dozens of vans every single week, and have seen firsthand which models stand the test of time. Today, we're comparing three of the most reliable vans for vanlife: the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, the RAM ProMaster, and the Ford Transit. 1. Mercedes-Benz Sprinter As you know, we really love working on Sprinters . The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter has a solid reputation for reliability, making it a favorite among vanlifers. Known for its robust engine options and superior build quality, the Sprinter is designed to handle anything the road can throw at it, and take you anywhere. Key Features: Durability: Built to last, the Sprinter's high-quality materials and engineering make it a reliable choice for those who want a van that can go the distance. Variety of Roof Heights and Wheelbases: The Sprinter offers multiple configurations with various roof heights and wheelbase lengths, providing ample space for custom camper conversions. 4x4 Option: For those planning to explore off-road destinations, the Sprinter's 4x4 option provides enhanced traction and stability on rough terrain. While the Sprinter is reliable, it's not without its quirks. Transmission issues can arise, especially in older models. Regular maintenance and addressing minor issues early can prevent costly repairs down the line. 2. RAM ProMaster The RAM ProMaster is another popular option for vanlife enthusiasts, known for its practicality and cost-effectiveness. Its front-wheel-drive system and unique design make it a versatile choice. Key Features: Front-Wheel Drive: The ProMaster’s front-wheel-drive setup provides better traction and a lower load floor, making it easier to load and unload gear. Interior Space: The ProMaster boasts a wider rear cargo area than its competitors, which can be a significant advantage when designing your camper layout. Affordability: Generally more affordable than the Sprinter, the ProMaster offers a great balance of cost and functionality. To keep your ProMaster running smoothly, regular check-ups are essential. Pay attention to the transmission and ensure that the drivetrain is in good condition. Routine inspections can help catch issues before they become major problems. 3. Ford Transit The Ford Transit is celebrated for its versatility and ease of customization. It's a reliable option that offers a range of features suited for vanlife. We regularly work on them and you can check out our Ford Transit repair services here . Key Features: Engine Variety: The Transit comes with multiple engine options, including a turbocharged EcoBoost engine, which provides excellent power and fuel efficiency. Drivability: Known for its smooth handling and comfortable ride, the Transit is ideal for both city driving and long highway trips. Customization Potential: With numerous configurations available, including different roof heights and lengths, the Transit can be tailored to meet your specific needs. Like any vehicle, the Transit can have issues, particularly with its turbocharged engines. Regular maintenance, especially oil changes and monitoring the turbo system, can help maintain reliability. Choosing the right van for vanlife depends on your specific needs and budget. The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter offers durability and a range of engine options, making it a great long-term investment. The RAM ProMaster provides practicality and affordability, ideal for budget-conscious adventurers. The Ford Transit stands out for its versatility and customization potential, perfect for those looking to tailor their van to their exact specifications. No matter which van you choose, regular maintenance is key to ensuring its reliability. At Colorado Fleetworks, we're here to help with all your van repair and maintenance needs.

Imagine this: You’re driving along on a beautiful Colorado day, maybe heading up into the mountains or just cruising through town, when you start to notice a whining noise coming from your Sprinter van. It’s subtle at first, but it doesn’t go away. You turn down the radio, trying to pinpoint where the noise is coming from, and you realize - it might be the transmission, maybe it’s the gearbox, or maybe it’s the driveshaft. If you’re hearing a suspicious noise or experiencing other issues, here are some signs to look for that your transmission might need some work, and the types of problems we can help you fix. Here at Colorado Fleetworks, we’ve helped countless Sprinter van owners in this exact situation. We specialize in diagnosing issues that other shops might miss, and our extensive experience repairing Sprinter vans means we can tackle your transmission problem with a proper diagnosis right from the start, to get you back on the road quickly. 1. Unusual Whining Noises One of the first signs that your Sprinter transmission might need attention is unusual noises. If you’re hearing whining, clunking, or humming, it’s time to pay attention. Each type of noise can be a sign of a different issue: Whining could be due to low transmission fluid levels or bad transmission solenoids, or a problem with the transmission pump. Clunking could be a sign of a worn-out transmission mount, or a problem with the drive shaft. Humming might indicate worn-out gears or bearings. If you hear any of these noises, it’s a good idea to get your van checked out sooner rather than later. If you’re in the Denver area, give our shop a call to get your problem diagnosed quickly. 2. Strange Shifting Behavior Another common sign of transmission trouble is difficulty shifting gears. You might notice a delay when going into drive or reverse, jumpy or rough transitions as you drive, or the transmission slipping out of gear while you’re driving. 3. Transmission Fluid Leaks If you notice transmission fluid under your van, that’s a sign there is a leak to fix or repair needed. Transmission fluid is typically reddish in color. Which means if you see red fluid pooling under your van, it’s likely a transmission leak. Leaking fluid can lead to significant transmission damage if it causes you to drive with low fluid. 4. Burning Smells When Driving A burning smell coming from your trusty adventure or work van is never a good sign. If you can smell a burning odor, it could mean your transmission is overheating or the transmission fluid is burning. This can be due to low fluid levels, a clogged filter, or more serious internal damage. If you notice this smell, it’s time to have your van checked to prevent further issues. 5. Poor Performance or Random Surging Transmission problems can also cause sluggish driving performance. You might notice your van is less responsive, has decreased power, or struggles to accelerate. Or, your van might seem to surge randomly. These symptoms can be caused by transmission wear and tear, and ignoring them can lead to more extensive damage. If your van is having any of these symptoms, getting them addressed early can save you a lot of time, money, and hassle in the long run. Taking good care of your Sprinter transmission will prevent major repairs and extend the life of your Sprinter van. At Colorado Fleetworks, we’re dedicated to helping you keep your Sprinter in top shape. Our expertise in diagnosing and repairing Sprinter van transmissions means you can trust us to get the job done right. If you’re experiencing any of these issues, give us a call or stop by our Denver shop . We’re here to help you get back on the road with confidence.