Used buying guide · Large van · large panel van conversions
The Crafter is a favourite for large panel van conversions because of its height and length options. The first generation and the 2017-on van are completely different vehicles, so check which one you are looking at.
This guide covers the VW Crafter problems owners report most often on used vans and campervans, what each one looks like on a viewing and what to ask the seller. Not every van will have them. But knowing where to look stops you paying for someone else’s repair bill.
Engines you’ll find: 2.5 TDI (2006-2011), 2.0 TDI (2011-2016), 2.0 TDI (2017 on, new design)
The 2006-2016 Crafter is built alongside the Mercedes Sprinter of the same era and shares its body, so it shares the Sprinter’s rust problems too.
Common problems on a used VW Crafter
1. Body rust on 2006-2016 vans
Like the Sprinter it is based on, the early Crafter rusts at the wheel arches, sills, door bottoms and around the windscreen. Inspect the underside and the door shuts carefully.
2. EGR cooler and DPF issues
The 2.0 TDI engines can suffer EGR cooler and DPF problems, especially on vans that did short runs. Look for coolant loss, warning lights and a history of regeneration problems.
3. Clutch and flywheel wear
Large conversions are heavy, and the clutch and dual-mass flywheel take the strain. Check for slip on a hill start and rattles at idle.
4. AdBlue faults on 2017-on vans
The 2017-on Crafter uses AdBlue. Sensor and heater faults can bring up warnings and limp mode, so check for any AdBlue messages.
5. Rear spring and suspension wear
A fully kitted Crafter often runs close to its weight limit. Look for sagging rear springs, uneven tyre wear and a van that sits low at the back.
Our tip: Ask the seller for a weighbridge ticket. Plenty of big conversions are over their legal weight once they are loaded with water and gear.
These are problems commonly reported by owners, garages and the motoring press. They are not a diagnosis of any particular van. A van with a full service history and the right repairs already done can be a very good buy.
Checking the conversion as well as the van
On a campervan or motorhome, the living area can cost as much to put right as the engine. Whichever base vehicle you choose, check these before you buy:
- Damp readings around windows, rooflights, lockers and the floor. Damp is the most expensive hidden problem in a camper.
- Gas appliances light and work, and the regulator hose is in date.
- Leisure battery, 12V system and mains hook-up all work and look professionally installed.
- Water pump, taps and tanks do not leak.
- Any added seats have proper fixings and belts, and the V5C body type matches the conversion for insurance.
- A pop-top or high-top roof does not leak, and the mechanism works.
Before you pay for a used VW Crafter
- Check the history. Run the free MOT history check online and look for mileage gaps and repeat advisories. Pay for a full history check for finance, theft and write-off markers.
- Match the paperwork. The seller’s ID, the V5C and the VIN on the van should all match. Be wary of a seller who is selling for someone else.
- See it running from cold. Ask the seller not to start it before you arrive. Many faults show up in the first few minutes.
- Never send a deposit unseen. Pay only at handover, by bank transfer, once you have the keys and the V5C.
Can’t get there to see it? We’ll check it for you
SafeBuy views campervans and motorhomes for buyers across the UK. We check the seller and paperwork against the V5C, run a history and finance check, walk you round the VW Crafter on a live video call and send you a photo report. Add our Habitation Check and we take damp readings throughout and test the gas, electrics, battery and water.
Viewing & Verify
£149 + travel
Seller and document checks, history and finance check, live video walk-round and photo report.
Viewing + Habitation Check
£299 + travel
Everything above plus damp readings and checks of the gas, electrics, battery and water.
Drive It Home
By mileage
If you buy it, we drive it to your door. Fixed quote before you commit.
A viewing is not a full mechanical inspection. We report what we can see and measure on the day, so you can decide with the facts in front of you. See the areas we cover.
Other buying guides
Looking at more than one van? Read our guides to Mercedes Sprinter common problems and Fiat Ducato common problems, or see every model we cover.
Questions about buying a VW Crafter
What are the most common problems with a used VW Crafter?
The problems reported most often are: Body rust on 2006-2016 vans; EGR cooler and DPF issues; Clutch and flywheel wear; AdBlue faults on 2017-on vans; and Rear spring and suspension wear. Not every van will have them, so check the service history and see the van running from cold.
Is a VW Crafter a good base for a campervan?
It can be. VW Crafter vans are widely used for large panel van conversions. The best buys have a full service history, a professionally fitted conversion and no damp in the living area.
Can SafeBuy check a VW Crafter before I buy it?
Yes. We view the van for you, check the seller and paperwork, walk you round it on a live video call and can test the living area with our Habitation Check. Prices start at £149 plus travel.
Found one you like? We’ll check the VW Crafter for you
Send us the advert and we’ll reply within one working day with a fixed quote to view it for you.