Surf’s Up! Make the Most of it With a VW Vanagon

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The VW T25 (Vanagon in the U.S.) was built between 1980 and 1991 and has a square eighties shape. You can find good examples for less than you’d pay for an older model - and you get more space. If you want your first camper and you’re budget is small, the VW T25 is a good model to go for.
You do need to look at a number of VW 25 campers before buying. Treat it as research. It’s an opportunity to become more knowledgeable and you can walk away from a big mistake.
Ask about the camper’s history and what it has been used for. Beware if it’s been off the road or it is an amateur conversion.
Take some time to really have a good look around. Look at the gutters and pop-top mechanism using your ladder. You will learn far more if you see it working.
Filler can hide serious damage as well as minor repairs, so check carefully and use your magnet. Rust can spread from the seams between the Vanagon’s body panels.
Rear wheel arches, front steps and battery tray should be checked carefully. Look at the top of the fuel tank as this is where they rust!
Look at the tires. Are they all the same? What condition is the spare in? Ensure the tires are not car tires, they must be van tires. Watch for low profile tires - they are likely to be car tires.
How easily does the engine sound, does it run smoothly. You don’t want smoke from the exhaust and oil over the engine. Take a deep sniff - a smell of petrol or diesel may mean the tank is rusty? Look under the bonnet and check out what engine it has, and when it was fitted.
How does the starter motor sound - is it easily turning over the engine, or groaning? They often stop working without notice. There were a large number of engine variants fitted. Air-cooled engines were replaced in 1982. You’ll get an easy to repair engine which are cheap to replace but they are thirsty and can be slow. Later engines are water-cooled diesel and petrol.
Overall, the Vanagon is a reliable camper if you’re on a tight budget, with potential for restoration to your own designs. If you’re looking for cheap camping, this can be a great buy. The VW T25 dates from 1980 so some are nearly thirty years old, check them over in detail and be prepared to do some serious maintenance.