I have two, both t5, a work van and a camper both are just under 200k miles. Neither has ever left me stranded by the side of the road. I'd avoid the chipped ones searching for extra bhp. The 1.9 104bhp is a workhorse and is swift enough for a van.
I've got two T4s. 2.5 tdi Velle with intercooler. Had it for 14 years 64k on the clock now has 145k it's been immense. Converted into a campervan. Been everywhere in it. Also a 1.9 panel van for work. 8 years in 184k. Been amazing as well. Maintenance is key. You look after it and it will look after you. 🤙🏻🤙🏻
@eddt430 I agree with the maintenance. My t4 has only 126k so its still on the low end of the scale. But if you want any vehicle to keep running you have to help it along with a bit of care.
Hi Russell, we're glad you are finding our videos helpful, let us know if we can help in your search for a VW camper. You may also find this video helpful: ua-cam.com/video/8RgXWP_CiZ4/v-deo.html
Thanks..very clear and concise..easy to understand..thanks..had a T4 and T5..very few problems if you get oil and filter changed regularly..good reliable in my experience
I bought my VW camper in 1973 I've done about 400,,00 miles and still working fine and it is not wrapped in cotton wool, with on rust one of the only vans that go up in price happy bunny , 50th birthday very early next year.
Regarding cambelts, vw have now said it recommends changing a belt after 140k and that the year aspect doesn't apply anymore, several dealers I've spoken to say it's to bring the UK in line with the rest of Europe. Mines coming up to 5 years now with 40k on and they've all said leave it🤔
Really helpful looking at buying my first van in the next few months and this totally changed my mindset as my budget is top end 30k and this video has given me confidence to buy around the 100k mark
100,000 miles is nothing for one of these. Mine is on 220,000 and isn’t showing any signs of tiredness 😅 By 100,000 miles if it’s been regularly serviced it’s just run in, in comparison to other vans in the same size class like a vivaro or similar which are on their knees by the 120,000 mile mark (speaking from experience) Buy based on condition and feel as apposed to what the odometer reads.
Sorry, but I have to question your latter comments, re mileage on transporter vans. I own a 36k 2015 VW california, and it has the same 140 bhp 2lt Tdi engine, as fitted to my last two VW cars. They are no different to them and just as suseptable to the problems, and there are many, that these engine are likely to throw up. Being in a van foes not make them, somehow more reliable, in fact I would argue that they are under more stress, therefore more likely to throw up problems. I've never understood this reasoning that because they are in a van they are more likely to run to higher mileages, yes some do, but I'm a believer that this is more associated with the fact that this due to the more constant running of a van over a car, thereby keeping the engine ' cleaner ' than the equivalent car Tdii in a car.
I have a 2004 t5 1.9tdi so one of the early ones. It’s on 220,000 miles currently and in daily use. Its brilliant. We’ve traveled the length and breadth of Wales in it twice in one year. One trip we managed 1100 miles in 4 days 😅 and it didn’t skip a beat. I’m my ownership I’ve replaced the driveshafts which are a common failure on these vans. Not to say that they fail every 50,000 miles or anything like that but they’re known to be a weak point. Everything else has just been modifications for personal choice. It has a diesel night heater, fridge, interior lighting, charging points for phones, sound system upgrades, fully insulated and carpeted etc and sliding side windows. If you’re looking at one of these vans I wouldn’t let mileage like 200,000+ put you off. By that point it’s likely to be a bit of a triggers broom and most major things would have been done already. If the van has a good solid service history and has obviously been looked after it’ll do you proud for another 200,000 miles. Especially if it’s a weekend toy!
So I can’t afford any camper under 60,000 miles… bought an early T5 with no rust, that’s DVLA registered as a camper with 195,000 miles on the clock, good service history, rebuilt gearbox, new fly wheel and cam belt done a few years earlier. I’ve just had to put a new turbo in, sticking vanes going into limp mode up hills, one of the more expensive jobs but I’d hope it’ll do another 100K before any other big things go. As you say, a real work horse of an engine.
100% agree with this, my current camper has 164k on it and we get it serviced every 10k its just come back from a 2000 mile road trip across Europe and literally had no issues with it at all. I have the 84bhp remapped to 130 and runs super smooth. We have contemplated getting a lower mileage van but truly seeing less point.
Very usesful video just purchased a transporter combi t28 2013 with 71k on it immaculate with fsh and looking forward to many years with this as my 2nd mtb weekend vehicle. Very reassuring to hear your advice. Well presented I normally get bored on youtube videos a few minutes in. Great thank you so much
I suppose there are always exceptions to the rules but you said to avoid builders vans. I have a 2018 transporter as a self employed joiner. Owned it for 4 years and it doesnt have any dents or scratches on the paintwork. I only do around 5k miles a year. Its basically as new condition and its a ‘builders van’.
I'd love a transporter but the prices are crazy at the moment I've been keeping a close eye on them for over a year. Am praying the new market will pick up helping with the 2nd hand market.
What's your thoughts on having a camper as your only vehicle, so long term ownership, and how e're heading with diesel engined vehicles? Would you be buying into an expensive camper that you'll get taxed off the road?
@@HighlifeCampersUK If the deepstate globalist net-zero green mafia plans go ahead for Wales it will be the end of van life in Wales as the Welsh landmass is to be one giant wind and solar farm. A map of the planned decimation/destruction of most of the land mass of Wales. www.brecon-and-radnor-cprw.wales/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/WG-NDF-PAs-v1.0-20190820.pdf
archoil added to a tankfull of diesel every 5000 miles.cleans everything out a treat.my 98 van still going great.i dont mind spending on it every now and again.better than spending mega thousands on a modern loaded van.it also has a nice patina to it.
that is really helpful, one question, where's the best to look for a fully converted camper van budget being 30 to 35k, the cheaper the better? understanding that cheaper is not the best course to follow, thanks
The principal reason why most vehicles get scrapped is because they reach the “death zone”, when they are worth very little. Once a vehicle is worth only a few hundred pounds, they are often no longer serviced properly or maintained. VW transporters never reach this stage, unless badly damaged and hence are looked after even at 15 years and 200K miles. I had a Hyundai Trajet, which had never gone wrong in 10 years….. same alternator, battery exhaust and no rust. When informed that it was only worth £150, I scrapped it over something very modest that was required and got more broken up than could auction for.
Sorry to hear that Richard, luckily not all VW vans are the same, the vast majority are very reliable and last a long time, there are many variables that come into it just like anything mechanical.
Great insight. Thank you. Just subscribed having just bought a 2015 Leisuredrive with 35k on the clock. Cam belt and water pump changed by dealer as it looks from the very excellent service record it has never been done. You place a lot more emphasis in the video on mileage for cam belt change but as a long term motorcaravaner my annual mileage is about 5k and I tend to keep my vans for a long time. So the replacement of the cam belt is more time related. Do you think the belief that after 4 to five years, with only about 20k added to the mileage it should still be changed.
I have just bought a Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 TDI T28 BlueMotion Tech Highline camper with 16400 miles. It is on a 67 plate (18 ) how will I know if the cam belt and water pump need changing. Thanks Jack
Don't forget, 174bhp 5 pot engine has a timing chain and not belt, so timing belt change isn't an issue. My Sportline has done 155k since I bought it new 15 years ago and it's still going strong and has a good residual being a genuine, one owner Sportline Kombi.
I'm considering a 2019 VW Crafter Box Truck with AWD at the moment, but it has 192,500 miles on it (310,000 km). But it has been perfectly serviced and has only done one long 300 mile trip (500 km) each day, going back and fourth between two cities. Only one previous owner. So it's in very good condition. It also has a heated and insulated cargo space, rear lift and side door. How many % of the original value would you say that it's worth? He's asking 36% of the original price for it. Thanks!
So theoretically it's better buying one when it's done about 80k because all the work that needs doing should of been done! My van had 125k on the miles but has fsh and all the cambelt dua mass flywheel waterpump clutch. I've had it 5 years with trouble free motoring! Well worth it. And 250k vws still get good prices😊
Not correct about the reliability of vw’s. They are always down the list, it’s always Honda, Toyota and Lexus that are up the top. High mileage vw’s are like Triggers Broom 😂
I would argue VW are the top. Toyota Hi-Ace are very very very reliable and resistant to rust. I have two LWB versions. Best vans I have had and I have had VW.s, Fords, Mercs etc, Trouble is they are not common vans, so finding them is a struggle.
Australian here. Toyota Hiace especially the petrol models are some of the most reliable vans on the road. I have a 2017 LWB petrol campervan but with only 35,000klms on the clock. A friend who's a mechanic, bought a cheap 1998 Hiace petrol with 725,000klms on the clock, with the motor still going strong. He's converting into a campervan and the motor is the very last thing he'll look at. He recently restored an old T2 Kombi for his son. He loves air cooled VWs but wouldn't touch a VW Transporter with a barge pole. In Australia, Toyota Hiaces are the biggest selling vans. Trades people love them because of their reliability and easy to get parts. Not as refined as the Europeans but tough as nails.
Motorway milage is not the same as say town driving where we stop and start so milage can be a grey area also depends alot on the individual also has it been serviced regularly
Hey Jules, thanks for your question, yes they are both VW Transporter base vans, it's just one is a VW factory fitted camper and the others are Transporter conversions, so the same applies.
personally best advice is keep it standard, start messing about with suspension ,big wheels and getting chipped you going to mess it up, oh and also drive it like a van and not like a car
Not so sure about the T5 being one of the most reliable vans on the road....I hear horror stories every day about these vehicles old and new from porous head issues to engine control problems on the most up to date. I love mine but they are not a great as people say they are
Hi David. The Crafter has two specs of the same engine and they are different to the Transporter. However, reliability is very good on both vans as you can't go far wrong with a VW engine if they are looked after, hope that helps.
I need help , I'm trying to source a VW T5 , very hard to find one that is within my budget. Newer ones are way beyond my price range. The older models are what I want. The milage is a stumbling block for me though. I spotted a 2005 VW T5 one with a new Doe, fully serviced , very clean but 220,000 miles, is that too much? I want to do a conversion on it too??
Hi buddy just came across your comment, I have a 2010 t5 with 170,000 on that I’d be willing to sell. It’s been converted by me but could easily be taken out and changed layout etc if you were still looking
Sorry to hear that, I suppose like all mechanical things, some go wrong for all sorts of reasons, no vehicle is perfect, but VW are very reliable in general.
Mileage is rarely a good indicator of condition you might as well have an indicator telling you how many times the drivers door has been opened ! I always buy any vehicle judged by how it looks and how it drives, service history is a useful thing to have but useless if a vehicle is abused and neglected between services. Our T5 has only 135,000 miles and should with sympathetic use and good servicing do at least that again. The thing mileage affects most is (perceived) value.
Great chanel mate, but quick question heard you mention a few times now about self conversion or paying a company to do it. But I thought you can't register a van as a motorhome through the dvla? So isn't it just a waste of time and money because if your unfortunate enough to bend it, you got to mend it because the insurance won't cover it.
Hi Jamie, glad you like the channel, it's a new channel but trying to add value where I can. Good question about the DVLA, you don't have to register a converted camper as a leisure vehicle, it has no real benefit unless the specific insurance company you want to use won't insure a converted van due to not registered as a leisure vehicle, but there are many insurance companies that do, so it's never been a problem for me or our customers, as long as you tell the insurance company about the whole conversion it will be fine, I can recommend a couple of insurance companies that specialise in camper insurance if you're interested?
@@HighlifeCampersUK So really aslong as you can get covered, the logbook I guess is not to much of issue. mines only carpeted with a full size double bed, so not to fused about insuring it as a camper to be fair, it more out of curiosity... but thanks for offer 👍
Hey Jamie I can answer that one, you have an agreed value with specialist insurance company, that way you get the value of the “camper” not just them van, I am 50 no points with licence for 33 years, living in Lincolnshire, my van is assured value at £35k cost £350 ish with legal cover and fully comp. year for 3000 miles a year. Just bare in mind you can’t use your no claims from your own car, you have to start again on that front. Hope this helps.
Hi you state in your piece that the cam belt should be changed every 4-5 years or 60,000 miles, yet you say to Kevin below that VW recommend changing cam belts every 120000 miles? I have a 2018 transporter with 27000 on the clock do I need to get the cam belt changed? Thanks in advance Peter
Hi Peter. Thanks for your question. VW do recommend 120,000 miles but I always recommend changing it a bit earlier as preventative maintenance. All vans are different, it depend largely on how the van is driven and whether it is looked after or not. I doubt you will need the cambelt changing at 27,000, just get them to check it at the next service.
The belt needs changing every 60000 mile or 5 years which ever comes first. As the belts are mostly made of rubber they degrade over time. If the belt fails the repair bill can be very large. Done meds about just get it changed for peace of mind.
Not sure if all that advice is that accurate. Yes timing belt should be replaced at 60k or 4/5 years. But that’s every 60k so it will need another belt at 120k Usually from my experience he clutch and duel mass flywheel will need replacing at around 120k miles this is a £1000 job so factor that into purchasing. Head gaskets can fail on the 1.9 tdi as they can on most vehicles so don’t imagine a van with 150000 miles will never need money spending on it. You pay your money and you take your chance.
Was able to answer my own question (or at least, get an answer from ChatGPT). I'll post it here in case it's useful to others. The VW Campervan and the VW Transporter are closely related as the Campervan is built on the chassis of the Transporter. In fact, the Campervan is a modified version of the Transporter, specifically designed for camping and recreational purposes. While the Transporter is primarily a commercial van used for transporting goods or people, the Campervan has been converted into a compact mobile living space, often equipped with beds, a kitchenette, and other amenities for camping or traveling. So, while they share a common foundation, the Campervan is a specialized variant of the Transporter.
I just got a gates timing belt kit for a t6 including water pump £130 quid delivered from autodoc in Germany. No way is it 900 quid to change and changing the water pump will not cost you anymore than the part as it's a couple of extra bolts nothing more. Allways change the water pump at sane time for the 20 quid extra you would be foolish not to. If you pay anymore than 200 quid to a garage to do the 3 hrs it takes to do in the Manuel your getting ripped off. So 350 or less is about right.
High mileage on a VW T4 = no problem - high mileage on a T5 or T6 = big £ problem. High mileage on T1,2 or 3 newer seen it odo only go to 99999 for a reason
Hi David. VW advise changing the cambelt at 120,000 miles, some people do it a bit earlier than that as preventive maintenance, but it certainly won’t need changing at 35,000 miles.
@@HighlifeCampersUK Many thanks for your prompt reply. I couldn't believe it myself.If you believe some UA-camrs you wouldn't buy a Transporter !. Flywheel problems are mentioned quite a lot ! I will follow the motto " FOLLOW THE MONEY " !
Hi Amanda, the Ford Customs are nice vans and they also make nice campers, however we focus purely on VW vans as their is a much bigger demand for them and they hold their value much better.
Hi there, im looking for a vw camper and have seen a 2007 caravelle thats been partially converted with mileage around 110k. It has the 2.5 tdi 174bhp engine so a chain rather than a cambelt. Are these engines as reliable as the older 1.9s ? Thanks Dave
I've got the 2.5 AXE 174bhp with 206k. Never had a problem. But... It has always had the genuine spec oil which is critical! Nearly every retailer lists VW 507.01 but this engine MUST have 506.01. This has been debated on many forums but was confirmed by VW UK. It's also mentally quick and upsets a lot of boy racers LOL
Vw's are trash! They have massive issues with oil usage and by usage I mean head gasket failing! Vw know it's a common fault on their newer engines in the transporter and the crafter. Also the front wheel drive crafter commonly has driveshaft failure at 40,000 miles. I've driven these vans in all of their guises and they all go! Trust me I became very friendly with the vw dealership mechanics and they openly admitted they were well documented common faults!! So be warned. Get a sprinter, it's almost identical but they really do go on forever.
Hi David. For that kind of budget you will be looking at a T5 with high miles, so it depends if a specific van is worth the investment to make into a camper, I would say probably not. A 20k van would be the minimum from our perspective
Huge amount of toffee being spouted here! VW fans genuine believe anything they are told, like some kind of blind religious following! Agreed that the 1.9 pd engine is a beauty, but they are getting long in the tooth now, and everything since is not a patch on the 1.9 for balance of quality and ease of repair/complication. Most of the T5s you see done up to the enth degree at shows have had so much spent on them over the lifespan, that ANY brand could of been just as good after all those miles!!( literally triggers broom !)
Ha ha, “mileage is not an issue” say the 150k mile plus van owners. Mileage is the biggest issue when buying. Particularly with perfect service history. Always buy the lowest mileage you can afford, with a perfect service record.
We didn’t say mileage wasn’t an issue. And all our campers are low miles as we only buy newish vans, no 150k vans here. Of course buying a vehicle with no or low miles is the ideal situation if you can afford it. The point of the video was to explain that VW vans are reliable and will last a long time if looked after, and it shouldn’t put people off buying one.
A lot of nonsense on this video . You are giving advice that fits your stock profile and availability . High mileage is a BAD idea - all the components have done the miles not just the engine . Why spend all that money converting something that has been to The Moon and back ?
I never mentioned buying a van that has been to the moon and back. And what is our ‘stock profile’ exactly? Most of our vans are quite new and have low mileage because that’s what our customers want. My point was that if you don’t have a 50k+ budget having a van with 50k-100k miles isn’t a big problem providing it’s been regularly serviced and well looked after, all sound advice and no BS from me, that’s not how I operate. Thanks for your input.
@@HighlifeCampersUK Used VW buses as taxis, 2.5 is bombproof, 2.0 lots of clutches and flywheels. Overall best vans out. like anything if you acre for it it will serve you well.
@@simonbarnes9600the 2.5 is the worst engine vw ever put in a van full stop . Nothing but trouble, injector bore wear , camshafts to say the least . Thankfully vw stopped making them back in 2010 .
It’s depends what been replaced. I’m getting one with 200k miles but replacing whole suspension, callipers, discs, every bit. Also the engine will have all the new sealants new injectors etc. it really depends on what’s been done on the van
The timing belt on my 2.0tdi changes at 120.k 140.k miles or 190-210k. km or 10 years. Who the hell would change a belt at the low mileage you mention. It's a waste of money.
@@HighlifeCampersUK Not what i think ? facts. Most reliable van ,Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. Most reliable vehicle ,Lexus. I agree its their prerogative, but the facts speak for themselves regardless of what you think.
Hi! I’m a newbie to your channel etc and defo want one in the next year or 2. Love the channel and guide you sent, so will defo come to you first when I start looking properly. You’re fairly local as well with me being in the York area. Well done with the channel and very useful info as I’ve learnt so much in just an hour 👏👌
Thanks for your comment and positive feedback Martin, we really appreciate it. Glad you are finding our channel helpful. We're here to help whenever you're ready..
I’m sorry but your wrong as i work for Vw and the cam belt plus water pump need to changed five years our hundred thousand you can get Cam belt kit from ups genuine
My 08 plate with solid service history 240,000 miles , caravelle had AC leak and no windows in rear to open, 4 garages and even VW van dealership couldnt find the leak - 28 deg heat inside was unbearable with no ac, so would seriously get that checked out before buying- looking at other makes currently
I have two, both t5, a work van and a camper both are just under 200k miles. Neither has ever left me stranded by the side of the road. I'd avoid the chipped ones searching for extra bhp. The 1.9 104bhp is a workhorse and is swift enough for a van.
100% agree. I’ve a 104bhp LWB and it goes as much as i need it too.
Out here with my 200k t5.1 chugging along no issues too
Go team!
Yeah no need for big hp. If you want to go fast don't drive a van.
I've got two T4s. 2.5 tdi Velle with intercooler. Had it for 14 years 64k on the clock now has 145k it's been immense. Converted into a campervan. Been everywhere in it. Also a 1.9 panel van for work. 8 years in 184k. Been amazing as well. Maintenance is key. You look after it and it will look after you. 🤙🏻🤙🏻
@eddt430 I agree with the maintenance. My t4 has only 126k so its still on the low end of the scale. But if you want any vehicle to keep running you have to help it along with a bit of care.
My 2005 T5 1.9td is on 285000 miles and drives perfectly, Converted by ourselves in 2018
Thanks for your comment Michael, that's great to hear, if they are looked after they will go on forever, so you must take good care of yours!
Mine is on 279000 miles and chugs along quite happily!! (2006 1.9)
Scrap heap shortly
I have one with the same milage
Good van.
I thought Carl Froch had started giving campervan advice at first haha. Brilliant video though. Very helpful and informative. Thanks
You wouldn’t be the first person to say that, I had guys coming up to me in Dublin recently saying the same! Glad the video was helpful!
@@HighlifeCampersUK haha brilliant. Dead ringer for the Cobra mate! Cheers
I was thinking the same 😂
Well said mate just bought one with 100000 miles done all the things you said so let’s hope it’s goes well 😊
So glad I found your videos. Looking at buying my first camper conversion soon and I was so hung up on low mileage
Hi Russell, we're glad you are finding our videos helpful, let us know if we can help in your search for a VW camper. You may also find this video helpful: ua-cam.com/video/8RgXWP_CiZ4/v-deo.html
Not sure the Euro 6 vans are as rock-solid. Lots of EGR, DPF and AdBlue issues being reported on vans with as little as 20k miles 😒
For the transporter it's around £128 for timing belt, pulley and water pump. If you know how to do it, the price isn't too prohibitive.
Thanks..very clear and concise..easy to understand..thanks..had a T4 and T5..very few problems if you get oil and filter changed regularly..good reliable in my experience
I bought my VW camper in 1973 I've done about 400,,00 miles and still working fine and it is not wrapped in cotton wool, with on rust one of the only vans that go up in price happy bunny , 50th birthday very early next year.
Amazing! we love hearing stories like this! thanks for sharing
Regarding cambelts, vw have now said it recommends changing a belt after 140k and that the year aspect doesn't apply anymore, several dealers I've spoken to say it's to bring the UK in line with the rest of Europe. Mines coming up to 5 years now with 40k on and they've all said leave it🤔
Really helpful looking at buying my first van in the next few months and this totally changed my mindset as my budget is top end 30k and this video has given me confidence to buy around the 100k mark
100,000 miles is nothing for one of these. Mine is on 220,000 and isn’t showing any signs of tiredness 😅
By 100,000 miles if it’s been regularly serviced it’s just run in, in comparison to other vans in the same size class like a vivaro or similar which are on their knees by the 120,000 mile mark (speaking from experience)
Buy based on condition and feel as apposed to what the odometer reads.
Sorry, but I have to question your latter comments, re mileage on transporter vans. I own a 36k 2015 VW california, and
it has the same 140 bhp 2lt Tdi engine, as fitted to my last two VW cars. They are no different to them and just as suseptable to the problems, and there are many, that these engine are likely to throw up. Being in a van foes not make them, somehow more reliable, in fact I would argue that they are under more stress, therefore more likely to throw up problems. I've never understood this reasoning that because they are in a van they are more likely to run to higher mileages, yes some do, but I'm a believer that this is more associated with the fact that this due to the more constant running of a van over a car, thereby keeping the engine ' cleaner ' than the equivalent car Tdii in a car.
I have a 2004 t5 1.9tdi so one of the early ones. It’s on 220,000 miles currently and in daily use. Its brilliant. We’ve traveled the length and breadth of Wales in it twice in one year. One trip we managed 1100 miles in 4 days 😅 and it didn’t skip a beat.
I’m my ownership I’ve replaced the driveshafts which are a common failure on these vans. Not to say that they fail every 50,000 miles or anything like that but they’re known to be a weak point.
Everything else has just been modifications for personal choice. It has a diesel night heater, fridge, interior lighting, charging points for phones, sound system upgrades, fully insulated and carpeted etc and sliding side windows.
If you’re looking at one of these vans I wouldn’t let mileage like 200,000+ put you off. By that point it’s likely to be a bit of a triggers broom and most major things would have been done already. If the van has a good solid service history and has obviously been looked after it’ll do you proud for another 200,000 miles. Especially if it’s a weekend toy!
So I can’t afford any camper under 60,000 miles… bought an early T5 with no rust, that’s DVLA registered as a camper with 195,000 miles on the clock, good service history, rebuilt gearbox, new fly wheel and cam belt done a few years earlier. I’ve just had to put a new turbo in, sticking vanes going into limp mode up hills, one of the more expensive jobs but I’d hope it’ll do another 100K before any other big things go. As you say, a real work horse of an engine.
Thanks for your comment Ian, they are certainly robust IF they are looked after and regularly services etc
100% agree with this, my current camper has 164k on it and we get it serviced every 10k its just come back from a 2000 mile road trip across Europe and literally had no issues with it at all. I have the 84bhp remapped to 130 and runs super smooth. We have contemplated getting a lower mileage van but truly seeing less point.
84bhp remapped to 130 ?
@@Tenebrius1963 The T5 84bhp variant is a detuned 102 for fleet use. So 84 to 130bhp isn't as wild a claim as it would seem.
I have a t4 on 413k never let me down- & a t5.1 on 125k breaks down every month - now looking for its 3rd gearbox ,started to go wrong @60k
Very usesful video just purchased a transporter combi t28 2013 with 71k on it immaculate with fsh and looking forward to many years with this as my 2nd mtb weekend vehicle. Very reassuring to hear your advice. Well presented I normally get bored on youtube videos a few minutes in. Great thank you so much
Thanks for the feedback, we really appreciate your support and glad it helped to reassure you!
Same T30 LWB 2015 71'000 cambelt and pump was done. Now in for conversion with coast2coast campers. Good info in the video.
I suppose there are always exceptions to the rules but you said to avoid builders vans. I have a 2018 transporter as a self employed joiner. Owned it for 4 years and it doesnt have any dents or scratches on the paintwork. I only do around 5k miles a year. Its basically as new condition and its a ‘builders van’.
I'd love a transporter but the prices are crazy at the moment I've been keeping a close eye on them for over a year. Am praying the new market will pick up helping with the 2nd hand market.
Prices are higher than usual at the moment due to a lack of new vans coming through, but we're hoping things will start to improve soon.
What's your thoughts on having a camper as your only vehicle, so long term ownership, and how e're heading with diesel engined vehicles? Would you be buying into an expensive camper that you'll get taxed off the road?
Great advice, clear, concise and factual, thankyou.
Thanks for your comment and feedback Nick, much appreciated
@@HighlifeCampersUK If the deepstate globalist net-zero green mafia plans go ahead for Wales it will be the end of van life in Wales as the Welsh landmass is to be one giant wind and solar farm.
A map of the planned decimation/destruction of most of the land mass of Wales.
www.brecon-and-radnor-cprw.wales/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/WG-NDF-PAs-v1.0-20190820.pdf
I have had a vw t5 2.5 2006 plate got me to 250k then camshaft went recently put a restored engine in hope it lasts near as long
Cracking advice, well presented and makes perfect sense - thanks!
Thanks Guy, I'm glad you are finding our channel helpful
archoil added to a tankfull of diesel every 5000 miles.cleans everything out a treat.my 98 van still going great.i dont mind spending on it every now and again.better than spending mega thousands on a modern loaded van.it also has a nice patina to it.
that is really helpful, one question, where's the best to look for a fully converted camper van budget being 30 to 35k, the cheaper the better? understanding that cheaper is not the best course to follow,
thanks
great video!
Bit random but you look a lot like Carl Froch the professional boxer,.
You’re not the first person to say that!
The principal reason why most vehicles get scrapped is because they reach the “death zone”, when they are worth very little. Once a vehicle is worth only a few hundred pounds, they are often no longer serviced properly or maintained. VW transporters never reach this stage, unless badly damaged and hence are looked after even at 15 years and 200K miles. I had a Hyundai Trajet, which had never gone wrong in 10 years….. same alternator, battery exhaust and no rust. When informed that it was only worth £150, I scrapped it over something very modest that was required and got more broken up than could auction for.
I had a t4 biggest load of rubbish ever.always some thing wrong. Went to Toyota Hiace fantastic reliable.
Sorry to hear that Richard, luckily not all VW vans are the same, the vast majority are very reliable and last a long time, there are many variables that come into it just like anything mechanical.
Hiace is the choice of couriers in NZ and Australia. Fantastically reliable.
My 2002 T4 has done 550,000 km. Trouble free. It’s the 2.5litre diesel model.
Great insight. Thank you. Just subscribed having just bought a 2015 Leisuredrive with 35k on the clock. Cam belt and water pump changed by dealer as it looks from the very excellent service record it has never been done. You place a lot more emphasis in the video on mileage for cam belt change but as a long term motorcaravaner my annual mileage is about 5k and I tend to keep my vans for a long time. So the replacement of the cam belt is more time related. Do you think the belief that after 4 to five years, with only about 20k added to the mileage it should still be changed.
Very helpful and informative video thank you ☺️
I have just bought a Volkswagen Transporter
2.0 TDI T28 BlueMotion Tech Highline camper with 16400 miles. It is on a 67 plate (18 ) how will I know if the cam belt and water pump need changing. Thanks Jack
Don't forget, 174bhp 5 pot engine has a timing chain and not belt, so timing belt change isn't an issue. My Sportline has done 155k since I bought it new 15 years ago and it's still going strong and has a good residual being a genuine, one owner Sportline Kombi.
Btdi engine?
I'm considering a 2019 VW Crafter Box Truck with AWD at the moment, but it has 192,500 miles on it (310,000 km). But it has been perfectly serviced and has only done one long 300 mile trip (500 km) each day, going back and fourth between two cities. Only one previous owner. So it's in very good condition. It also has a heated and insulated cargo space, rear lift and side door. How many % of the original value would you say that it's worth? He's asking 36% of the original price for it. Thanks!
I have a T3 Autohomes , bought it 40 years ago £12,500 I could still get £7,500 it done 250,000 miles nad always got me home , it been all over Europe
Very helpful. Thank you.
I bought my t6 transporter with 140 miles on it yes 140 miles on it for 41k that was converted by camper king.
Clocked before you bought due to not needing mot for first 3 years😮.
So theoretically it's better buying one when it's done about 80k because all the work that needs doing should of been done! My van had 125k on the miles but has fsh and all the cambelt dua mass flywheel waterpump clutch. I've had it 5 years with trouble free motoring! Well worth it. And 250k vws still get good prices😊
Not correct about the reliability of vw’s. They are always down the list, it’s always Honda, Toyota and Lexus that are up the top.
High mileage vw’s are like Triggers Broom 😂
Thank you
I would argue VW are the top. Toyota Hi-Ace are very very very reliable and resistant to rust. I have two LWB versions. Best vans I have had and I have had VW.s, Fords, Mercs etc, Trouble is they are not common vans, so finding them is a struggle.
Australian here. Toyota Hiace especially the petrol models are some of the most reliable vans on the road. I have a 2017 LWB petrol campervan but with only 35,000klms on the clock. A friend who's a mechanic, bought a cheap 1998 Hiace petrol with 725,000klms on the clock, with the motor still going strong. He's converting into a campervan and the motor is the very last thing he'll look at. He recently restored an old T2 Kombi for his son. He loves air cooled VWs but wouldn't touch a VW Transporter with a barge pole.
In Australia, Toyota Hiaces are the biggest selling vans. Trades people love them because of their reliability and easy to get parts. Not as refined as the Europeans but tough as nails.
I had a brand new hiace got my money back after 6 months biggest load of crap ever and i know a few other people who think the same
@@russellsmith6476 hiace or proace?
Great informative video , i so wish i could afford one of these
I’ve been offered a 2012 2 litre t30 made into camper but 59.000 miles on the clock should I or shouldn’t I buy it for £10.000
Motorway milage is not the same as say town driving where we stop and start so milage can be a grey area also depends alot on the individual also has it been serviced regularly
Would this apply for a crafter too?
Hi, awesome info. Would you apply your logic to VW California’s
Hey Jules, thanks for your question, yes they are both VW Transporter base vans, it's just one is a VW factory fitted camper and the others are Transporter conversions, so the same applies.
personally best advice is keep it standard, start messing about with suspension ,big wheels and getting chipped you going to mess it up, oh and also drive it like a van and not like a car
VW say it doesnt need to be done now ?
Not so sure about the T5 being one of the most reliable vans on the road....I hear horror stories every day about these vehicles old and new from porous head issues to engine control problems on the most up to date. I love mine but they are not a great as people say they are
Does the Crafter have the same engines and reliability ? I notice that they are used in conversions.
Hi David. The Crafter has two specs of the same engine and they are different to the Transporter. However, reliability is very good on both vans as you can't go far wrong with a VW engine if they are looked after, hope that helps.
WHAT MPG did you get ?
Lied this video very much I will. Follow
I still recoil at the thought of paying someone £30k for their high mileage van
Yep seems extortionate.
I need help , I'm trying to source a VW T5 , very hard to find one that is within my budget. Newer ones are way beyond my price range.
The older models are what I want. The milage is a stumbling block for me though.
I spotted a 2005 VW T5 one with a new Doe, fully serviced , very clean but 220,000 miles, is that too much? I want to do a conversion on it too??
Hi buddy just came across your comment, I have a 2010 t5 with 170,000 on that I’d be willing to sell. It’s been converted by me but could easily be taken out and changed layout etc if you were still looking
Don’t agree about reliability, mine let me down many many times
Sorry to hear that, I suppose like all mechanical things, some go wrong for all sorts of reasons, no vehicle is perfect, but VW are very reliable in general.
The T6 dual mass flywheel is a massive weak spot.
451,000 km .. and only just getting a full rebuild done.
Mileage is rarely a good indicator of condition you might as well have an indicator telling you how many times the drivers door has been opened ! I always buy any vehicle judged by how it looks and how it drives, service history is a useful thing to have but useless if a vehicle is abused and neglected between services. Our T5 has only 135,000 miles and should with sympathetic use and good servicing do at least that again. The thing mileage affects most is (perceived) value.
Hey mate! Which T6 engine would you say are the most reliable? Cheers!
Hi Chris. I would say they are all pretty reliable, we only buy the T6.1 Transporters which all have a 2L TDI engine.
Great chanel mate, but quick question heard you mention a few times now about self conversion or paying a company to do it. But I thought you can't register a van as a motorhome through the dvla? So isn't it just a waste of time and money because if your unfortunate enough to bend it, you got to mend it because the insurance won't cover it.
Hi Jamie, glad you like the channel, it's a new channel but trying to add value where I can. Good question about the DVLA, you don't have to register a converted camper as a leisure vehicle, it has no real benefit unless the specific insurance company you want to use won't insure a converted van due to not registered as a leisure vehicle, but there are many insurance companies that do, so it's never been a problem for me or our customers, as long as you tell the insurance company about the whole conversion it will be fine, I can recommend a couple of insurance companies that specialise in camper insurance if you're interested?
@@HighlifeCampersUK So really aslong as you can get covered, the logbook I guess is not to much of issue. mines only carpeted with a full size double bed, so not to fused about insuring it as a camper to be fair, it more out of curiosity... but thanks for offer 👍
No worries @@Sickofit774 , let us know if you have any other questions...
@@HighlifeCampersUK every come across and white rear barn doors give me a shout 👌
Hey Jamie I can answer that one, you have an agreed value with specialist insurance company, that way you get the value of the “camper” not just them van, I am 50 no points with licence for 33 years, living in Lincolnshire, my van is assured value at £35k cost £350 ish with legal cover and fully comp. year for 3000 miles a year. Just bare in mind you can’t use your no claims from your own car, you have to start again on that front. Hope this helps.
How much would you pay for a 1.9tdi combi with 200k?
Personally I wouldn't buy it, too many miles
Hi you state in your piece that the cam belt should be changed every 4-5 years or 60,000 miles, yet you say to Kevin below that VW recommend changing cam belts every 120000 miles? I have a 2018 transporter with 27000 on the clock do I need to get the cam belt changed? Thanks in advance Peter
Hi Peter. Thanks for your question. VW do recommend 120,000 miles but I always recommend changing it a bit earlier as preventative maintenance. All vans are different, it depend largely on how the van is driven and whether it is looked after or not. I doubt you will need the cambelt changing at 27,000, just get them to check it at the next service.
The belt needs changing every 60000 mile or 5 years which ever comes first. As the belts are mostly made of rubber they degrade over time.
If the belt fails the repair bill can be very large. Done meds about just get it changed for peace of mind.
Not sure if all that advice is that accurate.
Yes timing belt should be replaced at 60k or 4/5 years. But that’s every 60k so it will need another belt at 120k
Usually from my experience he clutch and duel mass flywheel will need replacing at around 120k miles this is a £1000 job so factor that into purchasing.
Head gaskets can fail on the 1.9 tdi as they can on most vehicles so don’t imagine a van with 150000 miles will never need money spending on it.
You pay your money and you take your chance.
All vehicles need work doing at some point, we didn’t suggest otherwise.
How much of this applies to the VW California range?
Was able to answer my own question (or at least, get an answer from ChatGPT). I'll post it here in case it's useful to others.
The VW Campervan and the VW Transporter are closely related as the Campervan is built on the chassis of the Transporter. In fact, the Campervan is a modified version of the Transporter, specifically designed for camping and recreational purposes. While the Transporter is primarily a commercial van used for transporting goods or people, the Campervan has been converted into a compact mobile living space, often equipped with beds, a kitchenette, and other amenities for camping or traveling. So, while they share a common foundation, the Campervan is a specialized variant of the Transporter.
some garages will not do your cambelt without doing the water pump also....average price for this is 900. gbp
If you are paying £900 for a cambelt and water pump you are being ripped off.
@@HighlifeCampersUK 1200 at VW...the kit cost 350....give me a real quote and i will check it out...no back yard DIY'ers please
@@shavedmonkey9821 it literally costs £500-600 from VW, you only need to call some VW dealerships.
@@Ben-ef4gf 600 for the timing belt only from VW
I just got a gates timing belt kit for a t6 including water pump £130 quid delivered from autodoc in Germany. No way is it 900 quid to change and changing the water pump will not cost you anymore than the part as it's a couple of extra bolts nothing more. Allways change the water pump at sane time for the 20 quid extra you would be foolish not to. If you pay anymore than 200 quid to a garage to do the 3 hrs it takes to do in the Manuel your getting ripped off. So 350 or less is about right.
I very much doubt they are in the top 5 most reliable cars.
High mileage on a VW T4 = no problem - high mileage on a T5 or T6 = big £ problem. High mileage on T1,2 or 3 newer seen it odo only go to 99999 for a reason
I was informed that the cambelt on a transporter should be changed at around 35000 mules. Is that correct ?
Hi David. VW advise changing the cambelt at 120,000 miles, some people do it a bit earlier than that as preventive maintenance, but it certainly won’t need changing at 35,000 miles.
@@HighlifeCampersUK Many thanks for your prompt reply. I couldn't believe it myself.If you believe some UA-camrs you wouldn't buy a Transporter !. Flywheel problems are mentioned quite a lot ! I will follow the motto " FOLLOW THE MONEY " !
should be every 40.000 horses
What do yah think about the Ford Transit Vans?
Hi Amanda, the Ford Customs are nice vans and they also make nice campers, however we focus purely on VW vans as their is a much bigger demand for them and they hold their value much better.
Hi there, im looking for a vw camper and have seen a 2007 caravelle thats been partially converted with mileage around 110k. It has the 2.5 tdi 174bhp engine so a chain rather than a cambelt. Are these engines as reliable as the older 1.9s ? Thanks Dave
not a chain gear driven and gates drive do do your home work could be important 5 pots are very strong
I've got the 2.5 AXE 174bhp with 206k. Never had a problem. But... It has always had the genuine spec oil which is critical! Nearly every retailer lists VW 507.01 but this engine MUST have 506.01. This has been debated on many forums but was confirmed by VW UK. It's also mentally quick and upsets a lot of boy racers LOL
Vw's are trash! They have massive issues with oil usage and by usage I mean head gasket failing! Vw know it's a common fault on their newer engines in the transporter and the crafter. Also the front wheel drive crafter commonly has driveshaft failure at 40,000 miles. I've driven these vans in all of their guises and they all go! Trust me I became very friendly with the vw dealership mechanics and they openly admitted they were well documented common faults!! So be warned. Get a sprinter, it's almost identical but they really do go on forever.
Thanks for your input Shaun, much appreciated
VW Virtually Worthless
Bollax most reliable
Is it worth paying £5k to £10k for a VW van or I’m I just throwing my money away?
Hi David. For that kind of budget you will be looking at a T5 with high miles, so it depends if a specific van is worth the investment to make into a camper, I would say probably not. A 20k van would be the minimum from our perspective
Huge amount of toffee being spouted here! VW fans genuine believe anything they are told, like some kind of blind religious following! Agreed that the 1.9 pd engine is a beauty, but they are getting long in the tooth now, and everything since is not a patch on the 1.9 for balance of quality and ease of repair/complication. Most of the T5s you see done up to the enth degree at shows have had so much spent on them over the lifespan, that ANY brand could of been just as good after all those miles!!( literally triggers broom !)
Thanks for your valuable input…
Cut cut cut cut and so on
So there is a lot of content in a short time (cut).
Are you talking to your rear view mirror? 🤣
Ha ha, “mileage is not an issue” say the 150k mile plus van owners.
Mileage is the biggest issue when buying. Particularly with perfect service history. Always buy the lowest mileage you can afford, with a perfect service record.
We didn’t say mileage wasn’t an issue. And all our campers are low miles as we only buy newish vans, no 150k vans here. Of course buying a vehicle with no or low miles is the ideal situation if you can afford it. The point of the video was to explain that VW vans are reliable and will last a long time if looked after, and it shouldn’t put people off buying one.
"A car with a 100k miles is coming to the end of its life" ??? 😂😂😂
Cant take this joker serious.. sleezy salesman of the year ladies and gents
🤣🤣
VW live on their reputation from twenty years ago.Gone steadily down hill,and not the only example. Applies to all the German brands.
Or you could not be a sheep and buy a Transit instead!😂
A lot of nonsense on this video . You are giving advice that fits your stock profile and availability . High mileage is a BAD idea - all the components have done the miles not just the engine . Why spend all that money converting something that has been to The Moon and back ?
I never mentioned buying a van that has been to the moon and back. And what is our ‘stock profile’ exactly? Most of our vans are quite new and have low mileage because that’s what our customers want. My point was that if you don’t have a 50k+ budget having a van with 50k-100k miles isn’t a big problem providing it’s been regularly serviced and well looked after, all sound advice and no BS from me, that’s not how I operate. Thanks for your input.
@@HighlifeCampersUK Used VW buses as taxis, 2.5 is bombproof, 2.0 lots of clutches and flywheels. Overall best vans out. like anything if you acre for it it will serve you well.
@@simonbarnes9600the 2.5 is the worst engine vw ever put in a van full stop . Nothing but trouble, injector bore wear , camshafts to say the least . Thankfully vw stopped making them back in 2010 .
It’s depends what been replaced. I’m getting one with 200k miles but replacing whole suspension, callipers, discs, every bit. Also the engine will have all the new sealants new injectors etc. it really depends on what’s been done on the van
too much talk
The timing belt on my 2.0tdi changes at 120.k 140.k miles or 190-210k. km or 10 years. Who the hell would change a belt at the low mileage you mention. It's a waste of money.
Too expensive
RIP.OFF
OVER PRICED
Number 6 , remember your paying all that EXTRA money just for a badge 😂😂🤣🤣😂😂
People want the badge and the quality that comes with it, I suppose that’s their prerogative, regardless of what you think.
@@HighlifeCampersUK Not what i think ? facts. Most reliable van ,Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. Most reliable vehicle ,Lexus. I agree its their prerogative, but the facts speak for themselves regardless of what you think.
Badge means nothing today, past maybe, Toyota/Lexus if you want Quality Dependability and Reliability (Toyota's slogan)
Hi! I’m a newbie to your channel etc and defo want one in the next year or 2. Love the channel and guide you sent, so will defo come to you first when I start looking properly. You’re fairly local as well with me being in the York area. Well done with the channel and very useful info as I’ve learnt so much in just an hour 👏👌
Thanks for your comment and positive feedback Martin, we really appreciate it. Glad you are finding our channel helpful. We're here to help whenever you're ready..
I’m sorry but your wrong as i work for Vw and the cam belt plus water pump need to changed five years our hundred thousand you can get Cam belt kit from ups genuine
Thanks for your input Phil, I did say all vans are different and at 60k-70k it would be a preventative measure
Nice to come to a channel and get good advice. Thank you
Thanks for your kind feedback Gerald, much appreciated..
My 08 plate with solid service history 240,000 miles , caravelle had AC leak and no windows in rear to open, 4 garages and even VW van dealership couldnt find the leak - 28 deg heat inside was unbearable with no ac, so would seriously get that checked out before buying- looking at other makes currently
Just fit opening Windows in rear for a few hundred quid, seriously no other van comes close to a transporter,
Absolutely fantastic advice. Many thanks! X
Under 100k aint mileage. Can I buy with 150k ?