Mercedes-Benz Arocs: construction truck, cabs, engines and what to check
Mercedes-Benz Arocs (from 2013) — Mercedes-Benz construction and heavy-duty truck. We look at what sets it apart from the Actros, which cab and axle configurations are available, and what to check when buying used.
Arocs in brief
Arocs — Mercedes-Benz truck line designed for construction, quarries, and heavy-duty work. Technically, it's close to the Actros but features a reinforced frame, higher suspension, and solutions ready for body mounting.
The Arocs is most often used as a dump truck, concrete mixer, crane, or container hauler. It's a machine built for heavy-duty work, so its condition heavily depends on previous usage.
Versions and cabs
The Arocs is offered with various cab sizes — from short day cabs to longer sleeper cabs, but for construction work, more compact options are usually chosen. Check the exact cab names and dimensions by year and specific truck.
Axle configurations range from 4x2 to 6x4, 8x4, and full-drive 8x8 (depending on the purpose). For heavy-duty work, 6x4 and 8x4 versions with a dump body or heavy-duty chassis are often selected.
Engines and transmissions
The Arocs uses Mercedes-Benz six-cylinder diesel engines — from smaller displacements up to 12.8 litres (OM 471) and the largest up to 15.6 litres (OM 473), designed for very heavy transport. Euro VI standards require an SCR (AdBlue) system.
The gearbox is usually an automated Mercedes PowerShift. For heavy-duty work, you might find manual gearboxes, and special-purpose versions come with additional hydraulic systems to control the cab.
What to check when buying a used Arocs
Inspect the chassis of the construction truck for cracks, deformations, or signs of welding—especially around the cab mounting and axles. Check the lift cylinders, hydraulic hoses, and seals.
Check the gearbox, clutch, and differentials: heavy work wears them out quickly. Start the cold engine yourself and check for any leaks of smoke, oil, or coolant.
In Euro VI trucks, pay attention to the condition of AdBlue, SCR, and particulate filters. Verify mileage data through service records and tachograph entries—the truck’s mileage doesn’t always reflect true wear, as work can be done while stationary (hydraulics, hours).
Versions
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list generally described versions, but check the exact specifications in the documents of the specific truck.
Savivartis (4x2 / 6x4 / 8x4)
from 2013The Arocs is most often used for construction and quarry work.
- Reinforced chassis
- Day cab
- Often a 6x4 or 8x4 axle configuration
Betono maišyklė
various yearsSpecialized cab with sleeper.
- Hydraulic sleeper cab
- Short base
- Large mechanical load
Kranas ar konteinerinis
various yearsTruck with crane or winch
- Additional hydraulics
- Special bodies
- Check the condition of additional equipment
Sunkiųjų krovinių versijos
various yearsMore powerful trucks for heavy trailers
- Larger engine displacement
- Reinforced drivetrain
- Often — higher price for used models
Comparing versions
| Savivartis | Betono maišyklė | Kranas | Sunkiųjų krovinių | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For construction and quarry work | For transporting concrete | For loading and assembly | For very heavy loads |
| Axles | 4x2, 6x4, 8x4 | Often 8x4 | 6x4, 8x4 | Often 6x4 or more |
| Typical wear and tear | Chassis, hydraulics | Manual transmission | Crane, hydraulics | Cab, transmission |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€ | €€ | €€€ | €€€€ |
When buying a used Arocs, the cab, chassis and hydraulics are key. Choose a truck with a clear service history, not just based on years and mileage.
Pros
- Designed for construction and heavy-duty work
- Robust chassis and high payload capacity
- Wide range of axle configurations and cab options
- Cutting-edge Mercedes-Benz technology
Cons
- Used in heavy-duty conditions — wear and tear can be significant
- Expensive maintenance and parts
- Euro VI systems (SCR, DPF) can be costly
Frequently asked questions
How does the Arocs differ from the Actros?
The Arocs is tailored for construction and heavy-duty work — it features a reinforced chassis, higher ground clearance and cab solutions. The Actros is geared towards long-haul journeys.
What does the Arocs designation mean, e.g., 1845?
The first numbers indicate the permissible weight in tonnes (18 t), the last two denote the power (approximately 450 hp). Check the exact specifications in the documents.
Is it worth buying an Arocs with high mileage?
It is, if there's a clear service history, well-maintained chassis and transmission. What matters most isn't the mileage, but how the truck has been used.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically





























