2018 Volkswagen Crafter Van
2018 Volkswagen Crafter Van
Overview
The 2018 Volkswagen Crafter is a robust and versatile large van designed for commercial use, known for its practicality and load-carrying capacity. As a relatively modern vehicle, its reliability is generally considered good, with most reported issues being isolated incidents rather than widespread systemic failures. Owners and fleet managers can expect a dependable workhorse, though like any commercial vehicle, specific components may require attention over time. This analysis focuses on documented technical issues beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential areas of concern for the various engine and transmission configurations available for the 2018 model year.
Engine
2.0L TDI Diesel (102 HP)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
2.0L TDI Diesel (140 HP)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
2.0L BiTDI Diesel (177 HP)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Transmission
6-Speed Manual
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
8-Speed Automatic (Tiptronic)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Electrical
General Electrical System
Intermittent warning lights
- Symptoms: Dashboard warning lights may illuminate without apparent cause, or systems may temporarily malfunction.
- Solution: Diagnostic scan to identify fault codes, potential software updates or sensor replacement.
- Cost: $150 - $500
Infotainment system glitches
- Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsiveness, or connectivity issues with Bluetooth/Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
- Solution: Software reset, firmware update, or potential head unit replacement.
- Cost: $200 - $800
Exterior
Body Panels and Doors
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Lighting Systems
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Interior
Seating and Upholstery
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Climate Control System
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Summary Verdict
The 2018 Volkswagen Crafter generally exhibits good technical reliability, with its powertrain options (2.0L TDI engines and 6-speed manual/8-speed automatic transmissions) showing no significant widespread issues. The chassis and exterior components are also robust. The primary areas where minor concerns have been noted are within the electrical system, specifically intermittent warning lights and occasional infotainment system glitches, which are often resolvable with software updates or minor component replacements. Overall, the Crafter is a dependable commercial vehicle, and proactive maintenance, along with addressing minor electrical quirks promptly, will ensure its continued serviceability.