2016 Volkswagen Crafter
The 2016 Volkswagen Crafter is a panel van known for its practicality and versatility. Engine options for this model year typically included various 2.0-liter TDI diesel engines with different power outputs. Common outputs are 102 HP, 140 HP, and 163 HP, with torque figures varying accordingly. The 140 HP engine, for example, produces around 340 Nm of torque. Owners often appreciate the Crafter’s spacious cargo area and relatively comfortable ride for a commercial vehicle. However, some common dislikes include potential reliability issues and higher maintenance costs compared to some competitors. Transmission options were typically a 6-speed manual or an automated manual.
Engine
2.0L TDI (All Variants)
- EGR Valve Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, rough idling, engine warning light illumination, black smoke from the exhaust.
- Solution: Replacement of the EGR valve.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
- Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
- Description/Symptoms: DPF light illumination, reduced engine performance, potential limp mode activation. Often occurs due to frequent short journeys.
- Solution: Forced regeneration of the DPF (if possible), cleaning the DPF, or replacement of the DPF.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ (depending on solution)
- Recalls: None Found
- Injector Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, reduced power, increased fuel consumption, engine knocking.
- Solution: Replacement of faulty injectors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per injector (depending on labor and diagnostics)
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
6-Speed Manual
- Clutch Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty shifting gears, unusual noises when pressing the clutch pedal.
- Solution: Clutch kit replacement (including clutch disc, pressure plate, and release bearing).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Central Locking System Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking/unlocking properly, remote key not working, intermittent failures.
- Solution: Diagnosis of the central locking system, repair or replacement of faulty actuators, wiring, or control modules.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the extent of the issue)
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Battery going flat overnight or within a short period, difficulty starting the vehicle.
- Solution: Identifying and fixing the parasitic drain (could be caused by a faulty module, aftermarket accessory, or wiring issue), replacement of the battery.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ (depending on the cause of the drain)
- Recalls: None Found
- Sensor Failures
- Description/Symptoms: Engine Management Light illumination, ABS Light illumination, fault codes relating to sensors.
- Solution: Diagnosing and replacing the failed sensors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ (depending on sensor type)
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Sliding Door Mechanism Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding door, sticking or jamming, unusual noises.
- Solution: Lubrication of the mechanism, adjustment of the door alignment, repair or replacement of faulty rollers or latches.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
- Dashboard Warning Light Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Various warning lights staying on even when the related system is functioning, intermittent illumination of warning lights.
- Solution: Diagnostic scan to identify the root cause, repair or replacement of faulty sensors or modules, addressing any wiring issues.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $80 - $500+ (depending on the fault)
- Recalls: None Found
Summary:
The 2016 Volkswagen Crafter, while appreciated for its practicality, does have some common issues. Engine problems, particularly with the EGR valve, DPF, and injectors, are among the most frequently reported and can be costly to repair. Electrical system glitches, especially those related to the central locking and battery drain, also occur. Interior issues such as the sliding door mechanism can be an inconvenience. While the Crafter offers versatility, potential owners should be aware of these potential issues and factor in higher than average maintenance costs when considering this vehicle.