2021 Volkswagen Crafter Van

The 2021 Volkswagen Crafter is a popular choice for businesses and individuals needing a versatile and spacious van. It’s known for its comfortable ride, practical design, and range of configurations. Engine options typically include a 2.0-liter TDI diesel engine, available in various power outputs, and paired with either a manual or automatic transmission. A common engine variant produces around 177 horsepower and 302 lb-ft of torque. Owners often praise the Crafter’s driving experience and interior space, while some criticisms include the van’s size making it challenging to maneuver in tight spaces and potential reliability concerns with certain components.

Engine

2.0L TDI Diesel

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption, requiring frequent top-ups between scheduled services. The cause can be worn piston rings or valve stem seals.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn components (piston rings, valve stem seals). A compression test can help diagnose the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve can become clogged with carbon deposits, leading to rough idling, poor performance, and the engine management light illuminating.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacing the EGR valve. In some cases, the EGR cooler may also need to be inspected.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported instances of harsh or jerky shifting, particularly between certain gears.
  • Solution: A software update to the transmission control module (TCM) can sometimes resolve the issue. In other cases, valve body replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (software update) - $1,500+ (valve body replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Malfunctioning Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of various sensors (e.g., ABS sensors, parking sensors) can occur, leading to warning lights on the dashboard and potentially affecting vehicle functionality.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty sensor. Diagnosis with an OBD2 scanner is usually required to pinpoint the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ (per sensor, depending on location and type)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can experience occasional glitches, such as freezing, crashing, or unresponsive touch screen.
  • Solution: Software updates can sometimes resolve these issues. In more severe cases, replacement of the infotainment unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,000+ (unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulties with the sliding door opening or closing smoothly. This can be due to misalignment, worn rollers, or damaged tracks.
  • Solution: Adjusting the door alignment, lubricating or replacing the rollers, or repairing the tracks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling or Squeaking Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing rattling or squeaking noises emanating from the dashboard, door panels, or cargo area.
  • Solution: Identifying the source of the noise and tightening loose fasteners, applying felt padding, or replacing worn clips.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ (depending on the complexity of the issue)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Volkswagen Crafter, while generally reliable, has a few common issues reported by owners. The engine can experience excessive oil consumption and EGR valve problems. The automatic transmission may exhibit harsh shifting. Electrical issues like sensor malfunctions and infotainment system glitches can occur. Exterior sliding door functionality can also be problematic, and interior noises might develop over time. The severity and cost of repairs vary, but engine and transmission work can be the most expensive. Addressing these issues promptly is important to maintain the Crafter’s performance and reliability.