Volkswagen Westphalia problems
The Volkswagen Westfalia Camper was a conversion of the Volkswagen Type 2, and then, the Volkswagen Type 2 (T3), sold from the early 1950s to 2003. Volkswagen subcontracted the modifications to the company Westfalia-Werke in Rheda-Wiedenbrück.
Types
Early Volkswagen split-windshield Kombis were built between 1950 and 1967. Production of Volkswagen camper variants continued to 2003, and was based on the Kombi, then the Vanagon, then the LT Mk 1, then the Transporter. Other coachbuilders, including Dormobile, EZ Camper, ASI/Riviera, Holdsworth, Danbury Motorcaravans, and VW Sun-Dial, also built campers based on the Transporter.
Models
Between 1951 and August 1958, approximately 1,000 Camper Box conversions were made by Westfalia, official builder of Volkswagen camper conversions. In August 1958, the SO (German: Sonderausführung, German for "special model") models were introduced.
Westfalia special models included the SO-23, -33 -34, -35, -42, -44, and -45.
Westfalia Campers were available from Volkswagen dealers worldwide and were also delivered via the Tourist Delivery Program — whereby a customer would pick up their new van in Germany, drive it in Europe, then VW would ship it to the customer's home. Many Volkswagen Campers were purchased by American servicemen and sent home in the 1950s and 1960s.
From 1979 until 1992 Westfalia Vanagon were built, also called VW Campmobile.
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Volkswagen Westphalia model years
Common Volkswagen Westphalia problems
Based on the information from the sources provided, here are common problems with Volkswagen Westfalia cars based on complaints from owners:
- Fuel Injection Problems: Owners have reported issues with the fuel injection system in Westfalia vans. Symptoms include white smoke that smells strongly of gasoline, rough running, misfiring, and excessive fuel consumption. These problems can stem from issues with the mass airflow sensor or the engine control unit (ECU). Proper diagnosis and potentially rebuilding the fuel injection system may be necessary to address these issues.
- Engine Compression and Valve Train Alignment: Another common problem involves engine compression and valve train alignment. The Type IV engine in Westfalia vans can experience issues with push rods getting out of alignment with the valve train, leading to performance issues. Regular maintenance, including spark plug checks and compression tests, is essential to identify and address these problems.
- General Mechanical Maintenance: Owners have highlighted the need for preventative maintenance with Westfalia vans. Due to the age of these vehicles, they require regular upkeep and attention to prevent common issues. This includes checking for rust in critical areas like fuel lines, performing valve adjustments, and ensuring proper engine cooling to avoid overheating and other related problems.
These common problems with Volkswagen Westfalia vans underscore the importance of regular maintenance, thorough inspections, and prompt attention to any emerging issues to keep these iconic vehicles running smoothly.
What is the best year for the VW camper van?
Typically, it is wise to stick to the 1986-1991 models only. Every once in a great while you come across a 1983-1985 model that is worthy of upgrading to the newer 1986-1991 systems so it becomes, essentially, as good as the later models. The Vanagon was available in a full camper, and also a simpler "Weekender" model.
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.
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.
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.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Volkswagen Westphalia years
We have researched Volkswagen problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Volkswagen Westphalia cars and compiled the top 1 most problematic Volkswagen Westphalia model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Volkswagen Westphalia model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Volkswagen Westphalia years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Volkswagen Westphalia car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Volkswagen Westphalia , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Volkswagen Westphalia vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Volkswagen Westphalia . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Volkswagen Westphalia vehicles.
List of Volkswagen Westphalia complaints
Volkswagen Westphalia 1981
- Date Of Incident: 1994-12-30
- Date Complaint: 1995-01-06
- VIN: WV2ZA0251BH
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: PURCHASE VAN USED DEALER SAY ODOMETER READ 29,000 BUT ITS 100,000 MILES. TT
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