Used Volkswagen Crafter

What to know before buying: Volkswagen Crafter

From 3 forum threads and 3 press tests · updated 12/10/2026

What the reviews say

• The 2018 Crafter recorded 148.8 defects per 100 inspections, 20.8% above the average for same-year vehicles. The data covers 6,031 vans and 13,331 inspections.[6]one source
• For the 2018 model, steering defects were 48% below average, while wheel, axle and suspension defects were 33.2% below average.[6]one source
• Owners say the 2007 2.5 TDI drives very well; opinions on engine noise differ, while one reported year-round average is 10–11 km/l.[4]one source
• Owner experience indicates a maintained 2007 2.5 TDI can cover another 60,000 km without trouble, but a commercial van's displayed mileage needs careful verification.[2]one source

Typical faults

• One 2010 2.5 TDI 163 hp at 197,000 km had heavy crankcase breathing, oil leaking down the block and consumption of 1–1.5 litres per 500 km, plus a loud click when hot.[5]one source

  197 000–197 000 km · 2010–2010 · 2.5 TDI 163 hp

• A 2.5 TDI BJK owner reported heavy oil consumption, turbo failure after rebuilding, and underboost with restricted engine speed after another turbo was installed.[1]one source

  2.5 TDI BJK

• In 2018 Crafter inspections, visibility defects were 148.9% above average, including glass, wiper and washer faults. Lighting and electrical defects were 172.2% above average.[6]one source

  2018–2018

• The 2018 model's body and structural defects were 354.9% above average; reported items included exhaust leaks, damaged driveshaft boots and deformed load-bearing components.[6]one source

  2018–2018

• One forum contributor described the Crafter/Sprinter body as rust-prone; another source advises checking and sealing the seams above the rear lights to prevent corrosion.[2][3]

Which engine and version to take

• The 2.5 TDI can be a sound choice with verifiable maintenance: owners praise how it drives and report high mileages without abnormal repairs. Check oil consumption and the turbo before buying.[2][4]

What to avoid

• Avoid 2.5 TDI examples with heavy oil consumption, excessive crankcase breathing, oil on the engine, axial turbo play, underboost or restricted power.[1][2][5]

What to check at the inspection

• Check a 2.5 TDI both cold and fully warm for crankcase breathing, oil leaks, exhaust smoke and an intermittent clicking noise from the engine's right side.[5]one source
• Check the turbo shaft: slight radial play is described as acceptable, but axial movement should not be perceptible; it may indicate thrust-bearing wear and oil consumption.[2]one source
• Cross-check the odometer against service records. One 2007 Crafter displayed 190,000 km even though dealer history had previously recorded 320,000 km.[2]one source
• Ask for proof that the timing belt, rollers and water pump were replaced. Forum owners changed them at roughly 190,000–200,000 km, although cited intervals vary.[2]one source
• On a 2018 van, carefully inspect tyre tread and damage, pads and discs, driveshaft boots, glass, wipers, washers and all exterior lights.[6]one source
• Inspect the whole body for corrosion, especially the seams above the rear lights, where a forum contributor mentioned preventive sealing and touch-up paint.[2][3]

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]audi-club.ru — vw crafter 2.5 tdi и неудачный отпуск · forum
2. [2]vwbus.club — Купил Крафтер. Вопросы от новичка. · forum
3. [3]truck-forum.cz — Volkswagen Crafter · forum
4. [4]vagcars.dk — VW Crafter · press
5. [5]vagcars.dk — VW Crafter problemer · press
6. [6]begagnadebilar.se — Vanliga fel på Volkswagen CRAFTER, 2018 · press

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