Volkswagen Vanagon problems

General information about Volkswagen Vanagon
Volkswagen Vanagon years list
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

The Volkswagen Type 2 (T3) was the third generation of the Volkswagen Transporter and was marketed under various nameplates worldwide – including the Transporter or Caravelle in Europe, T25 in the UK, Microbus and Kombi in South Africa/Brazil/Australia, Kampeerauto in Netherlands, Combi in France and Vanagon in North and South America.

It was larger, heavier, and more angular in its styling than its predecessor, the T2, but shared the same rear-engine, cab-over design. It was produced in a rear wheel drive version as well as a 4WD version marketed as "Syncro."

The T3 was manufactured in Hannover, Germany from 1979 until 1991. Production of the Syncro (mostly for official use, like postal service or German army) continued until 1992 at Puch in Graz, Austria, where all 4WDs were built. A limited number of 2WD models were also produced at the Graz factory after German production had come to an end. South African production of the T3 continued, for that market only, until 2002.

The T3 was the final generation of rear-engined Volkswagens.

photo of Volkswagen Vanagon car production

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Common Volkswagen Vanagon problems

Based on the complaints from Volkswagen Vanagon owners, several common problems have been identified:

Cooling System Problems: Cooling system issues are prevalent in Volkswagen Vanagons, particularly in the 1990 model year. These problems can impact the vehicle's overall performance and reliability, making it crucial for owners to address cooling system maintenance and repairs promptly.

Head Gasket Leak: Another common problem with Vanagons is head gasket leaks. This issue is complex and can be challenging to address, often requiring professional intervention. Leaks from the cylinder heads can lead to engine damage and reduced performance. Proper maintenance, including regular coolant flushing, is recommended to prevent corrosion and prolong the life of seals and gaskets.

Fuel Line and Injector Trouble: Aging and neglected fuel lines can pose a significant risk, including the potential for on-board fires in Vanagons. Ensuring the proper maintenance of fuel lines and injectors is essential to prevent safety hazards and maintain the vehicle's reliability.

Heater Not Working (1981 Model Year): Owners of 1981 Vanagon models have reported issues with the heater not working. This can be a discomforting problem, especially in colder climates, and may require troubleshooting and repairs to restore proper functionality.

These common problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance and proactive care for Volkswagen Vanagon vehicles. Addressing these issues promptly can help owners avoid costly repairs and ensure the longevity and reliability of their beloved Vanagons.

Are vanagons expensive to maintain?

Volkswagen Vanagon Repair & Maintenance Costs. The annual maintenance cost of a Volkswagen Vanagon is $628. Repair and maintenance costs vary depending on age, mileage, location and shop.

What is the Vanagon syndrome?

The theory of the vanagon syndrome is the wiper gets a vibratory resonance. This bouncing of the wiper on the resistance track causes the voltage to go all over the place making the ECU loose track of the actual fuel air ratio it needs along with the incorrect ignition map. So the car is bucking and acting weird.

How long do Vanagon engines last?

Typical engine life is about 90,000 miles. Additionally, the first stab at the 4-speed shifter system was a complete failure and was totally re-designed with the introduction of the gasoline water-cooled model in late 1983.

How many miles per gallon does a VW Vanagon get?

Based on data from 24 vehicles, 867 fuel-ups and 139,077 miles of driving, the 1985 Volkswagen Vanagon gets a combined Avg MPG of 16.04 with a 0.23 MPG margin of error.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Volkswagen Vanagon years

We have researched Volkswagen problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Volkswagen Vanagon cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Volkswagen Vanagon model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Volkswagen Vanagon model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Volkswagen Vanagon years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Volkswagen Vanagon car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Volkswagen Vanagon , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

Fuel system problems
Gasoline problems
Engine and engine cooling problems
Electrical system problems
Equipment problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Volkswagen Vanagon vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Vanagon model years

There were a total of 12 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Vanagon model years

There were a total of 2 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 56 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Volkswagen Vanagon . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Volkswagen Vanagon vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Volkswagen Vanagon 1988

Date Of Incident: 2023-06-26
Date Complaint: 2023-06-27
VIN: WV2ZB0252JH
Components: STRUCTURE
Summary: ******* DELETE VOQ ******* THIS COMPLAINT IS BEING MARKED FOR DELETION BECAUSE IT IS REQUESTED BY THE CONSUMER THAT THEY WISH TO HAVE IT REMOVED*DJR ******* DELETE VOQ *******

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Volkswagen Vanagon 1991

Date Of Incident: 2013-11-09
Date Complaint: 2013-11-15
VIN: WV2ZB0251JH
Components: TIRES
Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1988 VOLKSWAGEN VANAGON (N/A) EQUIPPED WITH KUMHO RADIAL 857 TIRES, SIZE: 185/75R14C. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, THE REAR PASSENGER TIRE TREAD BECAME DETACHED, CAUSING A BLOW OUT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A LOCAL TIRE SHOP WHERE THE MECHANIC ADVISED THAT THE BELT IN THE TIRE BECAME FRACTURED AND CAUSED THE TREAD TO BECOME DETACHED. THE DEALER REPLACED THE FAILED TIRE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE OF THE TIRE WAS 7,100. THE VEHICLE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,615. UPDATED 11-25-13 *BF PICTURE RECEIVED. 12/04/13

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Volkswagen Vanagon 1991

Date Of Incident: 2012-10-01
Date Complaint: 2012-10-01
VIN: WV2ZB0252JH
Components: TIRES
Summary: MY HANKOOK RA08 195R14C TIRE SIDE WALL BLEW OUT AS I WAS TRAVELING SOUTH BOUND ON I-110 AT APPROX. 65 MPH. THERE WAS NO INDICATION THAT THE EVENT WAS TO HAPPEN AS THE TIRE DID NOT SEEM DEFLATED WHEN I GET INTO THE VEHICLE IN THE MORNING. I TOOK A PICTURE OF THE BLEWOUT TIRE, AND I STILL HAVE THE TIRE, AND I SUSPECT IT WAS THE CASE OF A MANUFACTURE DEFECT BASED ON THE CLEAN TEARS ON THE SIDE WALL OF THE TIRE. *TR

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Volkswagen Vanagon 1991

Date Of Incident: 2012-07-07
Date Complaint: 2012-07-09
Components: EQUIPMENT
Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1991 VOLKSWAGEN VANAGON. THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 93V175000 (EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:AIR CONDITIONER) AND WAS REPAIRED. AFTER THE REPAIR THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH WHEN HE DROVE OVER A BUMP IN THE ROAD AND THE AIR CONDITIONING UNIT DETACHED FROM THE CEILING OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTICS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 189,000.

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Volkswagen Vanagon 1987

Date Of Incident: 2011-06-15
Date Complaint: 2012-03-15
VIN: WV2YB0252HH
Components: TIRES
Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1987 VOLKSWAGEN VANAGON, EQUIPPED WITH MASTER CRAFT GLACIER GRIP TIRES SIZE: 185/70/ R14. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 55 MPH WHEN THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE AND REAR DRIVER SIDE WHEELS BEGAN SHAKING ABNORMALLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THE CHORDS WERE DETACHED FROM THE TIRES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE TIRES WERE NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGES WERE UNKNOWN.

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Volkswagen Vanagon 1987

Date Of Incident: 2006-08-09
Date Complaint: 2006-08-17
VIN: WV2ZB0250HH
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Summary: I BELIEVE AN AGENT OF VOLKSWAGEN FALSIFIED DOCUMENTS PERTAINING TO THE RECALL CLOSING AND REPAIR OF MY FATHER'S VW VAN VIN [XXX] . RECALL CAMPAIGN NHTSA #88V-038 AND POSSIBLY 87V-052. THESE ARE PRESENTLY BEING FIXED BY SOUTHTOWNE VW IN SOUTH JORDAN UTAH TO THE TUNE OF ALMOST 3000.00 AT OUR EXPENSE. VOLKSWAGON NEVER SENT MY FATHER, THE ONLY OWNER OF THE VEHICLE ANY RECALL LETTERS, AND IT IS OBVIOUS TO ME THEY ARE NOW FIXING THE RECALLS BUT CHARGING US. THEY SAY THE RECALLS ARE CLOSED AND CANNOT PROVE TO ME THEY WERE FIXED (BECAUSE THEY NEVER WERE) I AND MY FATHER WERE LIED TO ABOUT THIS RIGHT ABOUT THE TIME OF THE RECALLS, BY VOLKSWAGEN INTERMOUNTAIN, THE DEALER HE PURCHASED THE VEHICLE FROM. WE WERE TOLD NOT TO WORRY ABOUT THE LEAKING GAS, THAT IT WASN'T DANGEROUS, WHEN WE ASKED THEM ABOUT LEAKING GAS. THEY ALSO TOLD MY FATHER NOT TO GO ABOVE 30 RPM'S WHICH IS VERY STRANGE. I WANT AN INVESTIGATION DONE. I WANT EITHER PROOF OF THE VEHICLE BEING REPAIRED (WHICH I KNOW IT WASN'T) FOR FREE BY THE DEALER, OR OUR MONEY BACK FOR THE REPAIRS CURRENTLY BEING DONE. THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP. I WOULD ALSO LIKE TO KNOW IF THERE HAVE BEEN ANY MORE COMPLAINTS FILED ABOUT THIS. *NM UPDATED 07/12/2012 *JS INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

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Volkswagen Vanagon 1984

Date Of Incident: 2004-03-15
Date Complaint: 2006-03-08
VIN: WV2YB0259EH
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Summary: UPON COMPLETION OF FILLING GAS TANK, ONE OR TWO GALLONS OF GAS LEAKED ONTO THE GROUND. THE HOSE THAT CONNECTED THE TWO TOP PARTS OF THE GAS TANK SHRUNK OVER TIME AND BROKE ONE OF THE PLASTIC FITTINGS THAT ATTACHED IT TO THE GAS TANK. *JB

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Volkswagen Vanagon 1987

Date Of Incident: 2003-08-17
Date Complaint: 2003-10-24
VIN: WV2ZB0252HH
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Summary: FUEL TANK LEAKS OUT OF THE FILLER NECK. *AK WHEN THE ENGINE WAS UNDER HIGH LOAD AND HOT, IT STALLED. (FUEL STARVATION DUE TO RESTRICTION) THE FUEL KEPT DROPPING UNTIL THE 3/6 LEVEL RUBBER GROMMETS WERE CHANGED. THE WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS RUNNING UNDER A HEAVY LOAD AND CLIMBING ON A HOT DAY, IT STARVED FOR FUEL AND LOST POWER. *SCC THE CONSUMER STATED WHEN THE TANK WAS FILLED, THERE WAS SEEPAGE FROM THE FILLER PIPE. *JB

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Volkswagen Vanagon 1986

Date Of Incident: 2003-05-23
Date Complaint: 2003-07-11
VIN: WV2YB0257GH
Components: EQUIPMENT
Summary: THE CONSUMERS VEHICLE EXPERIENCED SYMPTOMS OF RECALL #93-V-175-000 WHICH WAS RELATED TO THE PLASTIC MATERIAL OF THE CENTER AIR FLOW DUCT WHICH COULD CRACK AND EVENTUALLY BREAK. . *NLM *TS. THE RECALL WORK WAS PERFORMED BY THE DEALER. WHILE MAJOR SERVICE WAS BEING PERFORMED ON THE VEHICLE, THE CONSUMER WAS INFORMED BY AN INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP THE DUCT PLASTIC ABOVE THE ADDED REINFORCEMENT BRACKETS HAD DETERIORATED TO THE POINT WHERE THE ENTIRE AIR DUCT HOUSING WAS IN DANGER OF BREAKING AWAY AND CRASHING DOWN ON THE CENTER OF THE REAR SEATS, THE PRIOR RECALL WORK THAT WAS PERFORMED SEEMED TO BE ONLY A TEMPORARY FIX. *JB

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Volkswagen Vanagon 1990

Date Of Incident: 2002-11-29
Date Complaint: 2002-12-20
VIN: PLEASE PROV
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Summary: CONSUMER STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AND WITHOUT WARNING ANTI FREEZE WILL LEAK FROM THE ENGINE CAUSE AND DISTRACTION TO THE CONSUMER. DEALER NOTIFIED. TS

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Volkswagen Vanagon 1991

Date Of Incident: 2002-08-02
Date Complaint: 2002-08-09
Components: EQUIPMENT
Summary: SAME AS MENTIONED IN MANUFACTURER'S RECALL 6836 AFFECTING AIR CONDITIONER:HOSE:DUCT:AIR. *AK

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Volkswagen Vanagon 1981

Date Of Incident: 2002-06-29
Date Complaint: 2002-07-30
Fire: 1
VIN: WV2YA0256BH
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT WHILE APPROACHING A STOP SIGN, A BIG CLOUD OF SMOKE WAS COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE, WHEN LIFTING THE COVER TO THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT, CONSUMER COULD SEE IT BURNING WITH A BRIGHT WHITE FLAME, CONSUMER STATES THE CAUSE OF THE FIRE WAS DUE TO A FAULTY FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM WHICH STARTS THE FIRE AND IGNITES THE COOLING FAN HOUSING WHICH IS OF MAGNESIUM ALLOY. *SLC

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Volkswagen Vanagon 1986

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
Date Complaint: 2002-02-12
Components: EQUIPMENT
Summary: WHILE TRAVELING AND WITHOUT ANY INDICATION AIR CONDITIONER VENT FAILED ON DRIVER'S HEAD. DEALER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK

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Volkswagen Vanagon 1987

Date Of Incident: 2001-07-19
Date Complaint: 2001-10-29
VIN: WV2YB0251HH
Components: EQUIPMENT
Summary: RECALL 93 V 175 000/AIR CONDITION:HOSE:DUCT:AIR: DEALER;EGC VOLKSWAGEN; NEW HYDE PARK,NY, PHONE# 516/488-2420REFUSED TO HONOR RECALL. FEEL FREE TO PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK

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Volkswagen Vanagon 1986

Date Of Incident: 2001-05-01
Date Complaint: 2001-05-21
VIN: WV2YB0255GH
Components: SEAT BELTS
Summary: SHOULDER BELT BUCKLE ATTACHMENTS IN LAST ROW OF SEATS FAIL TO RELEASE BELT, WHICH DOES NOT ALLOW CONSUMER TO EXIT VEHICLE FREELY. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION/ATTACHMENTS.*AK

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Latest 5 recalls Volkswagen Vanagon

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 22 recalls for different components of the Volkswagen Vanagon.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

Model: Volkswagen Vanagon 1990
Report Received Date: 1993-10-29
Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
Components: EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
Summary: THE PLASTIC MATERIAL OF THE CENTER AIR FLOW DUCT, WHICH IS FASTENED BY TWO MOUNTING SCREWS TO THE CEILING OF THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT, CAN CRACK AND EVENTUALLY BREAK.
Consequence: IF THE PLASTIC BREAKS WHERE IT IS HELD AT THE TWOMOUNTING SCREWS, THE CENTER AIR FLOW DUCT CAN SEPARATE FROM ITS SUPPORTS ANDCAUSE INJURY TO THE PASSENGERS SITTING IN THE CENTER SEAT OF THE VEHICLE.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A REINFORCEMENT PLATE AT THE CONNECTIONS OF BOTH THE CENTER AND REAR AIR FLOW DUCTS.

Model: Volkswagen Vanagon 1987
Report Received Date: 1993-10-29
Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
Components: EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
Summary: THE PLASTIC MATERIAL OF THE CENTER AIR FLOW DUCT, WHICH IS FASTENED BY TWO MOUNTING SCREWS TO THE CEILING OF THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT, CAN CRACK AND EVENTUALLY BREAK.
Consequence: IF THE PLASTIC BREAKS WHERE IT IS HELD AT THE TWOMOUNTING SCREWS, THE CENTER AIR FLOW DUCT CAN SEPARATE FROM ITS SUPPORTS ANDCAUSE INJURY TO THE PASSENGERS SITTING IN THE CENTER SEAT OF THE VEHICLE.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A REINFORCEMENT PLATE AT THE CONNECTIONS OF BOTH THE CENTER AND REAR AIR FLOW DUCTS.

Model: Volkswagen Vanagon 1988
Report Received Date: 1993-10-29
Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
Components: EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
Summary: THE PLASTIC MATERIAL OF THE CENTER AIR FLOW DUCT, WHICH IS FASTENED BY TWO MOUNTING SCREWS TO THE CEILING OF THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT, CAN CRACK AND EVENTUALLY BREAK.
Consequence: IF THE PLASTIC BREAKS WHERE IT IS HELD AT THE TWOMOUNTING SCREWS, THE CENTER AIR FLOW DUCT CAN SEPARATE FROM ITS SUPPORTS ANDCAUSE INJURY TO THE PASSENGERS SITTING IN THE CENTER SEAT OF THE VEHICLE.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A REINFORCEMENT PLATE AT THE CONNECTIONS OF BOTH THE CENTER AND REAR AIR FLOW DUCTS.

Model: Volkswagen Vanagon 1991
Report Received Date: 1993-10-29
Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
Components: EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
Summary: THE PLASTIC MATERIAL OF THE CENTER AIR FLOW DUCT, WHICH IS FASTENED BY TWO MOUNTING SCREWS TO THE CEILING OF THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT, CAN CRACK AND EVENTUALLY BREAK.
Consequence: IF THE PLASTIC BREAKS WHERE IT IS HELD AT THE TWOMOUNTING SCREWS, THE CENTER AIR FLOW DUCT CAN SEPARATE FROM ITS SUPPORTS ANDCAUSE INJURY TO THE PASSENGERS SITTING IN THE CENTER SEAT OF THE VEHICLE.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A REINFORCEMENT PLATE AT THE CONNECTIONS OF BOTH THE CENTER AND REAR AIR FLOW DUCTS.

Model: Volkswagen Vanagon 1986
Report Received Date: 1993-10-29
Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
Components: EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
Summary: THE PLASTIC MATERIAL OF THE CENTER AIR FLOW DUCT, WHICH IS FASTENED BY TWO MOUNTING SCREWS TO THE CEILING OF THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT, CAN CRACK AND EVENTUALLY BREAK.
Consequence: IF THE PLASTIC BREAKS WHERE IT IS HELD AT THE TWOMOUNTING SCREWS, THE CENTER AIR FLOW DUCT CAN SEPARATE FROM ITS SUPPORTS ANDCAUSE INJURY TO THE PASSENGERS SITTING IN THE CENTER SEAT OF THE VEHICLE.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A REINFORCEMENT PLATE AT THE CONNECTIONS OF BOTH THE CENTER AND REAR AIR FLOW DUCTS.

Latest negative Volkswagen Vanagon car reviews

Frankie Dare 2024-10-02

Vehicle year: 1991

Your 1990 Volkswagen Vanagon is still running and it's a lot of fun to drive, as long as you're not in a hurry.
Skylar Mitchell 2024-09-05

Vehicle year: 1990

Your 1990 Volkswagen Vanagon is still running and it's a lot of fun to drive, as long as you're not in a hurry.

Latest positive Volkswagen Vanagon car reviews

Richie Kihn 2024-06-23

Vehicle year: 1991

Hello! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my beloved Vanagon. It's been almost 20 years since I bought it, and I never thought I'd be writing a review about it. But with almost 200,000 miles on the original drive train, it has become a part of my family's history. I've used it for numerous Boy Scout campouts, hauling firewood, stuffed bears, cages of chickens and exotic birds. It's extremely durable and reliable, and I can even do most of my own repairs. Despite the lack of aerodynamics, the fuel economy is fair. It's truly a vehicle that you can own your entire life. Thank you for letting me share my story with you!
Dominic Bode 2024-06-05

Vehicle year: 1991

This is the third VW Vanagon you can own! It's big inside, well-built, and comfortable. Although the camper (Westfalia) and 4-wheel drive (Syncro) models are expensive, the non-camper style has reasonable prices. All models are sought after and hold their value. The engine is slightly underpowered, especially with the automatic 3-speed transmission, but many owners switch to Subaru engines for increased power. It's a fun vehicle to drive and, if well-maintained, it's very reliable. You'll love it so much that you'll keep yours until the doors fall off!
Dillon Mante 2024-03-08

Vehicle year: 1990

I loved it! It was so old yet comfortable, very homely.
Antone Nikolaus 2024-01-10

Vehicle year: 1991

I loved it! It was so old yet comfortable, very homely.