Volkswagen Camper problems
The Volkswagen Type 2 is a forward control light commercial vehicle introduced in 1950 by the German automaker Volkswagen as its second car model. Known officially (depending on body type) as the Transporter, Kombi or Microbus, or, informally, as the Volkswagen Station Wagon (US), Bus (also US), Camper (UK) or Bulli (Germany), it was given the factory designation Type 2 as it followed – and was initially derived from – Volkswagen's first model, the Type 1 (Beetle).
As one of the forerunners of the modern cargo and passenger vans, the Type 2 gave rise to forward control competitors in the United States in the 1960s, including the Ford Econoline, the Dodge A100, and the Chevrolet Corvair 95 Corvan, the latter adapting the rear-engine configuration of the Corvair car in the same manner in which the VW Type 2 adapted the Type 1 layout.
European competition included the 1947–1981 Citroën H Van, the 1959–1980 Renault Estafette (both FF layout), the 1952–1969 semi forward-control Bedford CA and the 1953–1965 FR layout Ford Transit. Japanese manufacturers also introduced similar vehicles, such as the Nissan Caravan, Toyota LiteAce and Subaru Sambar. Like the Beetle, the van has received numerous nicknames worldwide, including the "microbus", "minibus", and, because of its popularity during the counterculture movement of the 1960s, "Hippie van/bus".
Brazil contained the last factory in the world that produced the T2 series of Type 2, which ceased production on 31 December 2013, due to the introduction of more stringent safety regulations in the country. This (after the 2002 termination of its T3 successor in South Africa) marked the end of the era of rear-engine Volkswagens, which originated in 1935 with their Type 1 prototypes.
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Volkswagen Camper model years
Common Volkswagen Camper problems
The Volkswagen Camper Van, also known as the Type 2, is a popular vehicle for travelers due to its practicality and durability. However, like any other vehicle, it has its common problems.
One common issue with the Type 2 Camper Van is starting problems. This can be caused by a low battery or issues with the fuel pump. To address this, it is recommended to check the battery connections and fluid levels, as well as the connection between the fuel pump and fuel pipe to ensure there is no fuel leaking. Spraying WD40 onto the HT leads where they connect to the coil can also help if dampness has gathered in that area.
Another problem is the engine running poorly, which could be due to the vehicle not firing on all four cylinders. In this case, checking the spark plugs, HT leads, and distributor caps for secure placement is the first step. If the problem persists, finding and replacing the faulty part will be necessary.
The accelerator and clutch cables are also known to snap, which would either leave the vehicle without power or unable to change gear. Carrying spare cables and learning how to fit them is recommended as a solution.
Bulb failures, particularly on the indicators and rear lights, are common in these vehicles. Carrying spare bulbs is the best way to rectify this problem.
Poor maintenance of the brakes can lead to failure, especially in the brake callipers and handbrake shoes. Regular cleaning and inspection of the brake pads and rear brake drums can help optimize performance and extend the life of the braking parts.
For the VW California, a specific model of the Type 2 Camper Van, common problems include issues with the rear sliding cupboard "tambour" doors, slide out rear table with broken or damaged parts, sliding rear seat and bed that sticks and jams in the floor rails, gas bottle lid stuck and jammed on regulator, rear bed section parcel shelf plastic trim loose or broken, folding chairs loose and unstable, electric control panel issues, 230v socket needs changing to a UK plate, roof bed cover blind sticks, broken or jammed, rear flexi lights not working or broken, fridge lid catch no longer locks, roof canvas damaged in roof hinges, cab seat plastic trims loose or broken, drawer underneath bed jammed closed, release handle on table in sliding door jams open, unable to open tailgate, and elevating pop top roof opens unevenly.
Regular habitation checks, conducted by qualified technicians, can help ensure the safety of the Volkswagen California campervan. These checks thoroughly inspect the living area of the vehicle, including fire risk, ventilation and gas systems, water systems, electrical systems, and the undercarriage. Upon completion, a comprehensive safety report is provided, and any identified issues are promptly addressed to give peace of mind while on the road.
For VW T2 camper vans, common problems include issues with the engine, such as the vehicle not starting or running poorly, as well as problems away from the engine, such as fires. Pre-checks, spare parts, and tools can help prevent problems and resolve typical disasters. Regular maintenance and inspection of the brakes, electrical components, and other parts of the vehicle can also help prevent issues.
In summary, the Volkswagen Camper Van, including the Type 2 and VW California models, has several common problems. These include starting issues, engine running poorly, snapped accelerator and clutch cables, bulb failures, and brake maintenance. Regular checks, maintenance, and carrying spare parts can help prevent and address these issues. For VW T2 camper vans, additional common problems include fires and issues with the engine, electrical components, and other parts of the vehicle.
How reliable are VW campervans?
If you own a VW T5, you'll know they're a reliable camper van with plenty of appeal. Unfortunately, some common problems can arise with VW T5 Transporters. Understanding what they are and how to solve them could avoid a costly fix further down the road.
What are the common problems with a VW Transporter?
Common VW Transporter faults, problems and solution
- Transmission problems. ...
- EGR valve problems. ...
- Drive shaft problems. ...
- Security alarm malfunction. ...
- Engine-related problems. ...
- Window faults. ...
- Defective steering column. ...
- Power steering problems.
Which VW Transporter to avoid?
The least reliable VW Transporter engine is widely considered to be the 1.9-liter diesel engine, which was used in some of the earlier T4 models. The 1.9-liter diesel engine had a reputation for being underpowered and prone to a range of problems, including issues with the head gasket, injectors, and fuel pump.
Is a VW camper van a good investment?
If kept in good condition and maintained regularly, a VW camper will be worth even more - although, in the same way as cars, some models will hold value more than others. Many models become collectors' items and will always sell regardless of age and condition.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Volkswagen Camper years
We have researched Volkswagen problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Volkswagen Camper cars and compiled the top 2 most problematic Volkswagen Camper model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Volkswagen Camper model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Volkswagen Camper years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Volkswagen Camper car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Volkswagen Camper , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Tires problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Volkswagen Camper vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Camper model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Volkswagen Camper . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Volkswagen Camper vehicles.
List of Volkswagen Camper complaints
Volkswagen Camper 1969
- Date Of Incident: 2000-11-13
- Date Complaint: 2001-01-16
- Fire: 1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: POSSIBLE ENGINE FAILURE RESULTED IN ENGINE FIRE (OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT). *MJS
Volkswagen Camper 1985
- Date Of Incident: 1997-08-01
- Date Complaint: 1998-05-27
- VIN: WV2ZB0255FH
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: CONTINENTAL CONTRANS 185R14 C 8PR N RADIAL TUBELESS LS22 TIRE BLEW OUT CAUSING VEHICLE ROLL OVER.
Recalls Volkswagen Camper
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the Volkswagen Camper.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Volkswagen Camper 1985
- Report Received Date: 1985-11-19
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
- Summary: THE LATCH OF THE PASSENGER SIDE SLIDING DOOR MAY BECOME DAMAGED IF EXCESSIVE FORCE IS USED TO CLOSE THE DOOR. THE DAMAGED DOOR LOCK MECHANISM WILL NOT PROPERLY ENGAGE AND THE DOOR COULD OPEN IF VEHICLE IS DRIVEN OVER BUMPY ROADS. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: IF THIS OCCURS THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT A PASSENGER COULD FALL OUT CAUSING INJURY OR DEATH.
- Remedy: MODIFY THE SLIDING DOOR LOCK ASSEMBLY SO DOOR WILL PROPERLY ENGAGE.
Are you having problems with your Volkswagen Camper?
