The Volkswagen Crafter is one of the most popular large vans on the market, offering excellent practicality, strong payload capacities and a wide range of body styles. Used by tradespeople, delivery companies, motorhome converters and businesses throughout the UK, the Crafter has earned a reputation as a capable and versatile workhorse.
However, not all Crafters are created equal. Different generations have their own strengths and weaknesses, and understanding the common problems can save you thousands of pounds in repair bills.
This guide covers all generations of the VW Crafter and highlights the common faults, best engines and what to look for before buying.
Before You Start
Service history is crucial when buying any large commercial vehicle.
Many Crafters spend their lives carrying heavy loads and covering high mileages.
A well-maintained high-mileage van is often a better purchase than a low-mileage example with poor maintenance records.
Always check:
• Service history
• MOT history
• Number of owners
• Signs of accident repairs
• Evidence of preventative maintenance
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First Generation Crafter (2006–2016)
The first-generation Crafter was developed alongside the Mercedes Sprinter and shares many components.
Available as:
• Panel Van
• Luton
• Chassis Cab
• Minibus
• Camper Conversion
Engine Options
2.5 TDI
Power:
• 88bhp
• 109bhp
• 136bhp
• 163bhp
Pros:
• Strong pulling power
• Proven engine
• Good reliability when maintained
Cons:
• Injector issues
• EGR problems
• Turbo failures
Common Problems
Injector Seal Failure
Symptoms:
• Diesel smell
• Poor starting
• Rough running
Turbocharger Problems
Symptoms:
• Lack of power
• Excessive smoke
• Whining noises
EGR Valve Issues
Symptoms:
• Warning lights
• Poor performance
• Rough idle
DPF Problems
Common on vehicles used for short journeys.
Symptoms:
• Reduced power
• Regeneration problems
• Increased fuel consumption
Rust
Inspect:
• Wheel arches
• Doors
• Sills
• Underbody
• Rear chassis
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Second Generation Crafter (2017–Present)
Volkswagen designed this generation independently and it shares no relation to the earlier Mercedes-based model.
Widely regarded as a significant improvement.
Features:
• Improved comfort
• Better technology
• More efficient engines
• Improved driving experience
Engine Options
2.0 TDI 102PS
Reliable and economical.
2.0 TDI 140PS
Excellent all-round choice.
2.0 TDI 177PS
Best for towing and motorway driving.
BiTurbo Variants
Offer stronger performance but are more complex.
What Engine Is Best?
For most buyers:
2.0 TDI 140PS
Offers:
• Excellent reliability
• Strong economy
• Good performance
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Gearbox Guide
Manual
Generally reliable.
Check:
• Smooth gear selection
• Clutch operation
• No gearbox noise
Automatic
Check:
• Smooth gear changes
• No hesitation
• No warning lights
• Service history
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Common VW Crafter Problems
AdBlue Issues
Common on Euro 6 models.
Symptoms:
• Dashboard warnings
• Starting restrictions
• Engine management lights
Repairs can be expensive.
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NOx Sensor Failures
A common emissions-related issue.
Symptoms:
• Warning lights
• Reduced performance
• AdBlue faults
—
DPF Problems
Particularly on vans used mainly for urban driving.
Symptoms:
• Reduced performance
• Increased fuel consumption
• Regeneration issues
—
EGR Valve Failure
Common across many diesel engines.
Symptoms:
• Rough running
• Warning lights
• Poor economy
—
Turbocharger Problems
Look for:
• Smoke
• Power loss
• Whining noises
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Sliding Door Wear
Inspect:
• Rollers
• Tracks
• Alignment
Many working vans show significant wear.
—
Electrical Issues
Check:
• Parking sensors
• Touchscreen system
• Electric windows
• Central locking
• Driver assistance systems
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Suspension & Steering
Large commercial vehicles place significant strain on suspension components.
Inspect:
• Wishbone bushes
• Ball joints
• Drop links
• Shock absorbers
Watch for:
• Knocking noises
• Uneven tyre wear
• Steering vibration
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Camper Conversion Checks
Many Crafters are converted into large campervans.
Check:
Roof Conversions
• Water leaks
• Seal condition
• Quality of workmanship
Electrical Systems
• Leisure batteries
• Solar systems
• Inverters
• Hook-up systems
Interior Build Quality
Inspect:
• Furniture security
• Water damage
• Damp
• Quality of finish
Gas Systems
Request:
• Gas safety certificates
• Installation documentation
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Service History
Look for evidence of:
• Oil changes
• Timing belt replacement
• Water pump replacement
• Brake fluid changes
• AdBlue repairs
• DPF maintenance
The more documented history available, the better.
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What Mileage Is Acceptable?
Mileage is less important than maintenance.
Many well-maintained Crafters exceed:
• 200,000 miles
• 300,000 miles
• 400,000 miles
Focus on:
• Service history
• Overall condition
• Maintenance records
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Test Drive Checklist
✓ Starts easily from cold
✓ No warning lights
✓ Pulls strongly through the rev range
✓ No excessive smoke
✓ Smooth gear changes
✓ No unusual noises
✓ Temperature remains stable
✓ Steering feels precise
✓ Brakes operate correctly
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What Is The Best Crafter To Buy?
For most buyers:
Second Generation 2.0 TDI 140PS
Offers:
• Excellent reliability
• Good fuel economy
• Strong performance
• Lower running costs
For heavy towing and motorhome conversions:
2.0 TDI 177PS
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Red Flags – Walk Away If You See These
✗ Poor service history
✗ Heavy smoke
✗ AdBlue warnings
✗ DPF issues
✗ Significant rust
✗ Poor-quality camper conversions
✗ Accident damage
✗ Seller unwilling to allow inspection
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VW Van Hub Verdict
The Volkswagen Crafter remains one of the best large vans available and is equally at home as a workhorse, delivery vehicle or camper conversion base.
Prioritise:
Full service history
Evidence of maintenance
No AdBlue or DPF issues
Quality camper conversion
Overall condition over mileage
A well-maintained Crafter can provide hundreds of thousands of miles of reliable service and remains one of the most capable vans in the Volkswagen range.
VW Van Hub Rating: ★★★★★ Large Van Champion
