Used buying guide · Mid-size van · campervan conversions
The T4 is now a classic campervan base, with prices to match on good examples. Age is the biggest issue, and rust is the main thing to check.
This guide covers the VW T4 problems buyers most often run into 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: 1.9 TD, 2.4 D, 2.5 TDI, petrol options
The T4 is a generation of the VW Transporter. See the Transporter guide for newer vans.
What goes wrong on a used VW T4
1. Rust everywhere
T4s rust on the sills, wheel arches, front panel, around the windscreen and the battery tray, and along the chassis rails. Bring a torch and look underneath.
2. Timing belt history
The 2.5 TDI and other diesels need regular timing belt changes. Ask for the receipt, because a failure wrecks the engine.
3. Cooling system
Old radiators, hoses and coolant tanks can fail. Check the coolant level and look for leaks and overheating.
4. Ageing suspension and brakes
Bushes, shock absorbers and brake pipes all wear with age. Listen for knocks and check the MOT advisories.
5. Old conversion electrics
Many T4 conversions are 20 years old or more. Check the leisure electrics and any gas installation have been updated and tested.
Our tip: Budget for rust repairs on almost any T4. A van that looks perfect underneath has usually had money spent on it.
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 T4
- 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 T4 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 VW T5 common problems and Mazda Bongo common problems, or see every model we cover.
Questions about buying a VW T4
What are the most common problems with a used VW T4?
The problems reported most often are: Rust everywhere; Timing belt history; Cooling system; Ageing suspension and brakes; and Old conversion electrics. Not every van will have them, so check the service history and see the van running from cold.
Is a VW T4 a good base for a campervan?
It can be. VW T4 vans are widely used for campervan 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 T4 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.
Seen one for sale? We’ll check the VW T4 for you
Send us the advert and we’ll reply within one working day with a fixed quote to view it for you.