FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you sell Ready-Made Camper Vans?
Smart Upfit specializes in converting Mercedes Metris vans into camper vans. We occasionally have a gently used camper van for sale. The majority of the time we transform vans already owned by the customer. We work with Mercedes of Madison to assist with the process of ordering your new Metris van.
Is the Metris being discontinued?
Mercedes Benz will stop bringing the Metris to the U.S in late 2023. Mercedes will continue to supply parts and service and honor the warranty for seven years (2030). The USPS recently purchased about 30,000 of these vehicles, and these will eventually need attention. In Europe, the Metris is known as the Vito- this van is wildly popular and uses the same parts. Mercedes Benz has a legal obligation to provide service, as well as its reputation and image to uphold. Difficulty in service and parts is not anticipated, but these vehicles may become hard to find.
How long will it take to create my camper van?
We know no one likes to wait, but right now our time frame to complete a camper van is about 4 months after we receive your van. We are generally booked about 6 months in advance. Ten months from contract to van delivery IS a long time, but please keep in mind that each van is a custom project. Additionally, we have found that pandemic shipping and staffing challenges continue to impact our small shop.
How can I order a Smart Upfit camper van?
Once you decide a Metris camper van is for you, we will work with you to help you select options. When the contract is signed, we ask for 25% of the conversion cost. Upon delivery of the van to our shop, we ask an additional 25%. The balance of the package is due upon completion of the project.
Where’s the Shower?
Although the Metris is the largest garage-able van, there is not enough space for a shower. There are terrific options for portable showers to use outdoors; these offer pressurized hot water for a quick rinse. The CityVan and Trio models each have a sink with fresh water.
Do you warranty your work?
We warranty our work for 2 years or 20,000 miles.
What are my options for heating and cooling my camper van?
Each camper van we build is insulated for temperature control and noise reduction. We love the Webasto heater for keeping us warm. Webasto heaters are operable when the engine is not running, and use a tiny amount of fuel from the gas tank to operate. These units are very efficient and will keep the interior toasty, even with the pop top elevated. We haven’t discovered a great option for cooling while camping- we suggest our optional screens for the side windows.
How Many Passengers Can I fit in My Converted Mercedes Metris Van?
There are seats for 2 passengers in the front, and the bench seat will carry 3 additional people. There are Isofix attachments for 2 infant/ child seats on the bench seat.