DETROIT — U.S. auto safety regulators are investigating speed sensor problems with Mercedes-Benz Sprinter full-size vans that could cause unwanted acceleration.

The probe by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration covers about 160,000 Sprinter 2500 and 3500 vans from the 2011 through 2018 model years.

The agency says it has 44 complaints of rear wheel speed sensor problems that caused large fluctuations in speed and erratic transmission shifting. Owners also reported the vans went into limp-home mode, and dashboard warning lights were activated. There were no reports of crashes or injuries in documents posted today on the agency’s website.

The majority of the complaints were about vans converted to recreational vehicles, which account for about one-third of the Sprinter population. The agency says 11 owners reported multiple sensor replacements. It says the problems might be caused by moisture getting into the sensors.

A message was left seeking comment from Mercedes.

NHTSA says it will investigate how often the problem happens and the safety consequences. The probe could lead to a recall.