If you're looking for Sprinter off-road wheels or Crafter off-road wheels, you benefit from a decisive advantage: both vehicles share the same platform and thus identical wheel dimensions. The Mercedes Sprinter (W906, W907/910) and the VW Crafter (from 2017) use the 6x130 bolt pattern – which makes wheel selection easy and the range large. Whether for a campervan conversion, an expedition vehicle, or a robust utility vehicle: In this guide, you'll find out everything about suitable wheel sizes, proven wheel models, and what you need to consider regarding load capacity, wheel spacers, and registration.
1. Sprinter vs. Crafter: Shared Platform, Same Wheels
Since 2017, the VW Crafter and the Mercedes Sprinter have been built on the same platform. This means that wheels that fit the Sprinter also fit the Crafter – and vice versa. For older Sprinter models (W906, from 2006), the 6x130 bolt pattern also applies. This compatibility makes wheel searching much easier and significantly increases the available options.
Technical Basic Data
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bolt Pattern (PCD) | 6x130 |
| Hub Bore (CB) | 84.1 mm |
| Wheel Bolt Thread | M14x1.5 |
| Number of Wheel Bolts | 6 |
| Torque Setting | 200 Nm (check manufacturer's specifications) |
Important: Always refer to your vehicle registration document (field 22) and the ABE/part certificate of the respective wheel for the exact permissible wheel and tire sizes. The information in this article serves as a guide.
2. Which Wheel Sizes Fit Sprinter & Crafter?
Different wheel sizes are suitable depending on the intended use. For campervan conversions and off-road use, 16 and 17 inches are particularly popular, as they offer more tire sidewall for damping and traction. 18 inches are a good choice for on-road use with a sporty look.
Size Comparison
| Criterion | 16 Inch | 17 Inch | 18 Inch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Off-road Suitability | Excellent | Very Good | Limited |
| Typical Tire Size | 235/65 R16C | 235/60 R17, 245/65 R17 | 255/55 R18C |
| Wheel Width (typical) | 6.5–7.0 Inch | 7.0–8.0 Inch | 7.5–8.5 Inch |
| ET Range (typical) | ET 50–62 | ET 45–55 | ET 45–55 |
| Campervan Recommendation | Ideal | Very Good | Conditional |
| Tire Selection (AT/Off-road) | Large | Large | Limited |
Tip for Campervan Conversions: 16 and 17 inches are the clear recommendation. The higher tire sidewall protects the rim on poor roads and offers noticeably more comfort – a crucial factor, especially with heavy vehicle bodies.
3. The Best Wheels for Sprinter & Crafter
Not every wheel is suitable for heavy transporters and motorhome conversions. The following models have proven themselves among Sprinter and Crafter drivers and meet the high demands for load capacity and robustness. All models are available with the 6x130 bolt pattern.
DOTZ Dakar
The DOTZ Dakar is one of the most popular motorhome wheels on the market. It was specially developed for heavy transporters and motorhomes and impresses with its high load capacity. The distinctive 5-spoke design in Dark gives the Sprinter or Crafter a rugged off-road look. You can find out more about the brand in our DOTZ Wheel Guide.
Hurter Off-road Wheels
Hurter is a well-established name in the Sprinter and Crafter community. Their wheels are specifically designed for van conversions and offer high load capacities, which are essential for loaded campervans and motorhomes. Various sizes and designs are available – from subtle to aggressive.
RID Wheels
The RID Wheels offer a wide range of off-road wheels for the 6x130 bolt pattern. Models with a beadlock look are particularly popular among campervan owners. RID wheels are characterized by first-class workmanship and a large selection of colors (matte black, bronze, gunmetal).
DIRT A.T Wheels
DIRT A.T wheels are specifically designed for off-road use and offer a robust construction that works reliably even on gravel, sand, and unpaved roads. A solid choice for Sprinter and Crafter owners who regularly travel off paved roads.
4. Wheel Spacers for Sprinter & Crafter
Wheel spacers are particularly popular for the Sprinter and Crafter – and for good reason. The standard chassis is relatively narrow, which leads to noticeable body roll in curves with a high vehicle body (campervan, high roof).
Advantages of Wheel Spacers
- Increased Track Width: Significantly reduces body roll in curves – especially relevant for motorhome conversions with a high center of gravity.
- Improved Appearance: The wheels sit flush with the fender, giving the vehicle a more robust look.
- Better Handling: The wider track provides more stable driving behavior in crosswinds and on the highway.
What to Consider?
Wheel spacers must have a part certificate (Teilegutachten) or an ABE (General Operating Permit) and must be registered with an officially recognized inspection body. Ensure that the wheel spacers are designed for the total weight of your vehicle – for a converted motorhome, the permissible gross vehicle weight can be significantly higher than for an empty transporter. Common widths for Sprinter and Crafter are 20 to 40 mm per side.
5. Load Capacity: Critical Factor for Transporters and Motorhomes
The load capacity of the wheel is an absolutely crucial factor for the Sprinter and Crafter – and is often underestimated. Unlike with a passenger car, the wheels here must carry significant loads.
Why Load Capacity Is So Important
A converted motorhome Sprinter can reach a permissible gross vehicle weight of 3,500 to 5,000 kg. Distributed over four wheels, this means up to 1,250 kg per wheel – even more with uneven load distribution on the rear axle. Standard passenger car wheels are not designed for such loads and can break.
Minimum Requirements
- Sprinter/Crafter up to 3.5 t: Wheels with at least 1,000 kg load capacity per wheel recommended.
- Sprinter/Crafter over 3.5 t: Wheels with at least 1,250 kg load capacity per wheel required.
- Always check: The load capacity is stated in the part certificate or ABE of the wheel. It must match the maximum permissible axle load of your vehicle.
Attention: Many visually appealing alloy wheels do not meet the load capacity requirements for transporters. When purchasing, always pay attention to the maximum wheel load – it is the most important criterion when choosing wheels for Sprinter and Crafter.
6. Registration for Motorhome Conversion
Anyone converting their Sprinter or Crafter into a motorhome and changing the wheels must observe some special features. The registration of wheels is carried out by an officially recognized inspection body and is mandatory in Germany unless an ABE with explicit approval for your vehicle is available.
ABE or Part Certificate?
Wheels with an ABE (General Operating Permit), in which your Sprinter or Crafter is specifically listed, do not require registration – the ABE documents merely need to be carried in the vehicle. For a part certificate, the wheel must be presented to an inspection body after mounting and entered in the vehicle registration document.
Special Features for Motorhomes
- Changed Gross Vehicle Weight: The conversion often changes the permissible gross vehicle weight. The wheels must be approved for the new weight.
- Vehicle Class N1 vs. M1: When reclassifying from a transporter (N1) to a motorhome (M1, "special purpose vehicle motorhome"), the requirements for wheels and tires can change.
- Axle Load Distribution: The conversion often shifts the load distribution. The inspection body will also check the axle loads during registration.
- Summer and Winter Wheels: Both sets of wheels must be registered or covered by an ABE.
Tip: The easiest way is to use wheels with an ABE that explicitly lists the Sprinter/Crafter. This saves a trip to the inspection body and avoids unnecessary costs.
7. FAQ: Frequent Questions about Sprinter & Crafter Wheels
What Bolt Pattern Do Sprinter and Crafter Have?
Both the Mercedes Sprinter (W906, W907/910) and the VW Crafter (from 2017) use the 6x130 bolt pattern. This means six wheel bolts on a circle with a 130 mm diameter. Wheels that fit one therefore also fit the other.
Do Sprinter Wheels Fit the VW Crafter?
Yes. Since 2017, Sprinter and Crafter share the same platform with identical bolt pattern (6x130), same hub bore (84.1 mm), and same wheel bolt thread (M14x1.5). Wheels are fully interchangeable between both models, provided the load capacity and offset are correct.
What Load Capacity Do Wheels Need for My Campervan?
This depends on the permissible gross vehicle weight of your vehicle. For a Sprinter or Crafter with a 3.5 t gross vehicle weight, we recommend wheels with at least 1,000 kg load capacity per wheel. For vehicles over 3.5 t, it should be at least 1,250 kg. You can find the load capacity in the part certificate or ABE of the wheel.
Do I Need Wheel Spacers for My Sprinter/Crafter?
Wheel spacers are not strictly necessary, but they are highly recommended, especially for motorhome conversions with a high roof. They significantly reduce body roll in curves and noticeably improve driving behavior in crosswinds. Common sizes are 20–40 mm per side. Wheel spacers must be registered with an inspection body.
Can I Mount Normal Passenger Car Wheels on the Sprinter?
No. Even if the bolt pattern would fit, conventional passenger car wheels generally do not meet the load capacity requirements of a transporter or motorhome. Using wheels with insufficient load capacity is dangerous and will invalidate the operating license.
Sprinter & Crafter Wheels in the ZR Shop
In our shop, you'll find a hand-picked selection of wheels for Mercedes Sprinter and VW Crafter – all with the 6x130 bolt pattern, sufficient load capacity for transporters and motorhomes, and ABE or part certificate for uncomplicated registration. From the robust DOTZ Dakar to classic RID Off-road Wheels and suitable wheel spacers.