2015 Volkswagen Crafter Van
The 2015 Volkswagen Crafter is a popular van known for its practicality and versatility, commonly used for commercial purposes. Engine options include a range of 2.0-liter TDI diesel engines, with various power outputs. The most popular engine is the 2.0-liter TDI producing around 136 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. The Crafter offers a good balance of cargo space, fuel efficiency, and maneuverability. Common likes include its spacious interior and relatively car-like driving experience for a van. Dislikes often center around the running costs and some reliability concerns. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic.
Engine
2.0-Liter TDI Diesel
- EGR Valve Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve can become clogged with carbon deposits, leading to rough idling, reduced engine power, increased emissions, and the engine management light illuminating.
- Solution: Replacement of the EGR valve is typically required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
- Recalls: None Found
- Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The DPF can become blocked, especially with frequent short journeys. Symptoms include reduced engine power, the DPF warning light illuminating, and potentially the engine entering limp mode.
- Solution: Forced regeneration of the DPF (performed by a mechanic), cleaning the DPF, or complete replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Turbocharger Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Whining noises from the engine, loss of power, excessive smoke from the exhaust, and the engine management light illuminating.
- Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2500+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
6-Speed Manual
- Clutch Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty engaging gears, a high clutch pedal, or unusual noises when pressing the clutch pedal.
- Solution: Replacement of the clutch disc, pressure plate, and potentially the flywheel.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1800+
- Recalls: None Found
6-Speed Automatic
- Rough Shifting/Delayed Engagement
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky gear changes, delays when shifting between gears (especially when cold), and potential slipping.
- Solution: Often starts with a transmission fluid flush and filter change. If the problem persists, valve body repair or replacement might be necessary, or in severe cases, a full transmission rebuild or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $4000+ (transmission replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Worn Suspension Bushings
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, particularly when driving over bumps. Reduced handling precision and uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replacement of the worn suspension bushings (e.g., control arm bushings, sway bar bushings).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (depending on the number of bushings needing replacement and labor costs)
- Recalls: None Found
- Broken Coil Springs
- Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting unevenly, noticeable sagging on one side, and clunking noises from the suspension.
- Solution: Replacement of the broken coil spring, often recommended to replace in pairs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Central Locking System Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Doors failing to lock or unlock remotely, intermittent locking issues, or the alarm system malfunctioning.
- Solution: Diagnose the issue (often related to a faulty door lock actuator, wiring problems, or the central locking control module) and replace the affected component.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Glow Plug Failure (Diesel Models)
- Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, particularly in cold weather, rough idling, and the glow plug warning light illuminating.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty glow plugs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Sliding Door Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding door, sticking, binding, or unusual noises.
- Solution: Adjustment of the door alignment, lubrication of the rollers and tracks, or replacement of worn rollers or latches.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Dashboard Warning Lights Illumination (Various)
- Description/Symptoms: Various warning lights illuminating on the dashboard for seemingly no reason.
- Solution: Diagnose the cause of the warning lights using a diagnostic scan tool and address the underlying issue. This could range from a sensor malfunction to a more serious problem.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on the issue)
- Recalls: None Found
- HVAC Fan Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Blower motor only works on some speeds, only works on high, or does not work at all
- Solution: Replacement of the HVAC blower motor
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2015 Volkswagen Crafter can present owners with a range of issues, from minor electrical glitches to more significant engine and transmission problems. EGR and DPF issues are relatively common on the diesel engines. Suspension components can wear out, and the central locking system and sliding doors may experience malfunctions. The severity and cost of these issues vary widely, but addressing them promptly is crucial for maintaining the van’s reliability and longevity. Some repairs can be relatively inexpensive, while others, such as turbocharger or transmission replacements, can be costly.