1987 Volkswagen Vanagon problems
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.
Social links
Common 1987 Volkswagen Vanagon problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 1987 Volkswagen Vanagon, several common problems have been identified:
- Idle Issues and Black Smoke: Owners have reported problems with idling, including loping at an idle, hesitation during driving, and black smoke emissions. These issues can be indicative of various underlying problems such as fuel system issues, sensor malfunctions, or engine misfires.
- Fuel Line and Injector Troubles: Aging and neglected fuel lines in the Vanagon have been highlighted as a significant concern, with the potential to cause on-board fires. Regular inspection and maintenance of the fuel system, including fuel lines and injectors, are crucial to prevent safety hazards.
- Head Gasket Leak: A common and complex issue reported by Vanagon owners is the head gasket leak. This problem can be challenging to address, often requiring professional intervention due to the intricate nature of the repair process. Regular maintenance, including coolant flushing, is recommended to prevent corrosion and prolong the life of seals and gaskets.
- Electrical Problems: Issues related to bad grounds, blown fuses, missing fuses, wrong fuses, and split wiring have been identified as common electrical problems in the Vanagon. These issues can lead to various electrical malfunctions, affecting the vehicle's overall performance and safety.
- Transmission Issues: Some owners have reported automatic transmission problems with the 1987 Vanagon. Transmission issues can manifest in various ways, such as slipping gears, rough shifting, or complete transmission failure. Proper diagnosis and timely repairs are essential to ensure the longevity of the transmission system.
Addressing these common problems in the 1987 Volkswagen Vanagon requires a thorough understanding of the vehicle's mechanics and regular maintenance to prevent potential issues. By staying proactive and addressing these concerns promptly, owners can enhance the reliability and longevity of their Vanagon.
Are Volkswagen Vanagons reliable?
Volkswagen Vanagon Reliability Problems
Vanagon owners have made 1 complaint over 1 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 7th in overall reliability out of 25 VW models , with plenty of cooling system concerns.
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.
What year is the best Vanagon?
Generally speaking, the 1986-1991 Vanagons are the most highly evolved of all. The 83.5-85 1.9 wasserboxers are really good vans too though and they are considerably cheaper than the later models. The 80-83 air-cooled models are the only ones I would really steer clear of.
What size engine is in a 1987 Vanagon?
2.1-liter
The 1987 Volkswagen Vanagon was essentially the same vehicle as the previous year's model, with no significant upgrades. It came with a 2.1-liter water-cooled four-cylinder engine that generated 95 horsepower. The engine used a fuel-injection system called the Digifant.
Are Volkswagen Vanagons reliable?
Volkswagen Vanagon Reliability Problems
Vanagon owners have made 1 complaint over 1 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 7th in overall reliability out of 25 VW models , with plenty of cooling system concerns.
What year is the best Vanagon?
Generally speaking, the 1986-1991 Vanagons are the most highly evolved of all. The 83.5-85 1.9 wasserboxers are really good vans too though and they are considerably cheaper than the later models. The 80-83 air-cooled models are the only ones I would really steer clear of.
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.
What size engine is in a 1987 Vanagon?
2.1-liter
The 1987 Volkswagen Vanagon was essentially the same vehicle as the previous year's model, with no significant upgrades. It came with a 2.1-liter water-cooled four-cylinder engine that generated 95 horsepower. The engine used a fuel-injection system called the Digifant.
1987 Volkswagen Vanagon car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volkswagen Vanagon problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Tires problems
- Equipment problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1987 Volkswagen Vanagon vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1987 Volkswagen Vanagon complaints
The NHTSA has received 13 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1987 Volkswagen Vanagon.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-06-15
- 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.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-08-09
- 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)
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-08-17
- 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
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-07-19
- 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
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: WV2YB0256HH
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING CONSUMER WAS THROWN OUT OF DRIVER'S SEAT, EVEN THOUGH HE WAS THROWN BACKWARDS CAUSING MINOR INJURIES, CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO HOLD ON TO THE STEERING WHEEL AND MANAGED TO GET VEHICLE BACK UNDER CONTROL, THIS HAS ALSO HAPPENED WITH PASSENGER SEAT AS WELL. *JB
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-08-23
- VIN: WV2YB025XHG
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: PUMP CORROSION DUE TO STEEL/ALUMINUM INTERATION. STEEL BRACKET CLAMPING ALUMINUM FUEL PUMP CAUSED PUMP CORROSION TO THE EXTENT THAT FUEL LEAKED FROM PUMP CASE
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-12-08
- Fire: 1
- VIN: WV2YB0258HG
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: FOR NO APPARENT REASON WHILE DRIVING, CONSUMER NOTICED A CHANGE IN THE VEHICLE AFTER PULLING OVER ON THE SHOULDER. VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. FIRE WAS PUT OUT BY THE FIRE DEPARTMENT. VEHICLE TOTALLED. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK *YC
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WV2YBO250HG
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: OWNER STATES THAT THE THROTTLE STICKS,AND THAT WHEN THIS HAPPENS THE VEHICLE ACCELERATES. DRIVER MUST USE CLUTCH TO SLOW VEHICLE DOWN. THIS IS AN INTERMITTENT PROBLEM. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-10-04
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: DUE TO THE DESIGN OF THE HEAD GASKET , THE GASKET IS LEAKING, CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO OVERHEAT. THE CONSUMER ALSO NEEDS TO REPLACE THE WATER PUMP, CONSUMER CONTINUED TO TAKE THE VEHICLE TO DEALER AND PROBLEM STILL OCCURRED. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-10-22
- VIN: WV2ZB0258HH
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: DEFECTIVE FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM, CAUSING LOSS OF POWER AT HIGHWAY SPEED.
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-01-12
- Fire: 1
- VIN: WV2YB0252HH
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: FIRE OCCURED AS A RESULT FROM A GASOLINE LEAK IN THE FUEL DELIVERY SYSTEM.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-08-31
- VIN: WV22B0256HH
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL FILLER TUBE FAILED. *SD
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1992-01-26
- VIN: WV2YB0254HH
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: ALTERED ODOMETER. *SKD
1987 Volkswagen Vanagon recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 7 recalls for different components of the 1987 Volkswagen Vanagon.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHEN USING THE CRUISE CONTROL THE ACCELERATOR CABLE TENSION MAY ALLOW THE CABLE TO SAG AND BECOME ENTANGLED WITH THE WATER PIPE BRACKET IMPEDING ITS RETURN TO IDLE POSITION.
- Consequence: FAILURE TO RETURN TO IDLE POSITION COULD LEAD TO ANACCIDENT.
- Remedy: THE PRESENT ACCELERATOR CABLE BRACKET WILL BE REPLACED.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: DUE TO IMPROPER MOUNTING PROCESS, SEMPERIT TIRES 20570R14 MOUNTED ON ALLOY WHEEL SIZE 6J X 14 COULD EXPERIENCE TINY CRACKS IN THE BEAD AREA.
- Consequence: TIRES COULD LOSE AIR, CREATING POTENTIAL FOR LOSS OFVEHICLE CONTROL.
- Remedy: REPLACE TIRES AS NECESSARY.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: IN LINE FUEL FILTER LOCATED BETWEEN THE FUEL TANK AND FUEL PUMP COULD SEEP FUEL AT THE SEAM OF THE PLASTIC CASING.
- Consequence: SHOULD SEEPAGE OCCUR, LEAKING FUEL CAN CAUSE A RISK OFFIRE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE.
- Remedy: THE IN LINE FUEL FILTER WILL BE REPLACED WITH A STRAIGHT FUEL HOSE.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
- Summary: PIN IN SHIFT LOCKING PAWL MAY NOT BE PROPERLY WELDED TO THE PAWL.
- Consequence: IF PIN SEPARATES FROM PAWL, DRIVER WOULD BE ABLE TO MOVETHE SHIFT LEVER DURING DRIVING INTO ANY POSITION WITHOUT PRESSING SAFETYRELEASE BUTTON.
- Remedy: REPLACE SHIFT LOCKING PAWL.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: SEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLY
- Summary: SEAT BRACKETS WHICH ANCHOR REARWARD PASSENGER SEATS MAY NOT ENGAGE PROPERLY.
- Consequence: SEAT COULD BREAK LOOSE DURING ACCELERATION AND CAUSEINJURY TO THE SEAT OCCUPANT.
- Remedy: ASSURE THAT SEAT BRACKETS ARE PROPERLY ENGAGED.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
- Summary: USAGE OF FUEL WITH REID PRESSURE UP TO 14 PSI COULD, UNDER HIGH ENGINE LOAD AND HIGH AMBIENT TEMPERATURES, LEAD TO STALLING.
- Consequence: FUEL FLOW COULD BECOME RESTRICTED AND CAUSE THE ENGINETO STALL.
- Remedy: INSTALL A NEW FUEL TANK, CONTAINING A REDESIGNED FUEL FILTER, AS WELL AS MODIFIED CONTROL UNITS.
Other years of Volkswagen Vanagon
Are you having problems with your 1987 Volkswagen Vanagon?
Leave your review of 1987 Volkswagen Vanagon