VOLKSWAGEN CALIFORNIA (2006)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 62 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
82%
Total Tests (2024)
62
Avg Mileage
95,967 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,900
Is the 2006 VOLKSWAGEN CALIFORNIA reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 18 years old, 82% of VOLKSWAGEN CALIFORNIAs from 2006 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 62 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 95,967 miles.
How does the 2006 VOLKSWAGEN CALIFORNIA compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2006 VOLKSWAGEN CALIFORNIA has 95,967 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 133,200 miles for a 18-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a VOLKSWAGEN CALIFORNIA?
The most reliable year is the 2019 model with a 90% MOT pass rate, while the 2011 model has the lowest at 80%. The 2006 sits between the two at 82%.
How much does a 2006 VOLKSWAGEN CALIFORNIA cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
VOLKSWAGEN CALIFORNIA by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 82% | 34 | 24,384 mi |
| 2020 | 89% | 163 | 25,656 mi |
| 2019 | 90% | 1,834 | 32,886 mi |
| 2018 | 89% | 1,916 | 40,337 mi |
| 2017 | 89% | 2,069 | 48,374 mi |
| 2016 | 86% | 1,492 | 54,415 mi |
| 2015 | 85% | 1,538 | 59,638 mi |
| 2014 | 84% | 1,293 | 65,769 mi |
| 2013 | 85% | 1,019 | 73,000 mi |
| 2012 | 81% | 1,034 | 73,586 mi |
| 2011 | 80% | 667 | 77,345 mi |
| 2010 | 81% | 589 | 80,341 mi |
| 2009 | 84% | 99 | 86,953 mi |
| 2008 | 82% | 119 | 92,350 mi |
| 2007 | 83% | 96 | 115,434 mi |
| 2006 | 82% | 62 | 95,967 mi |
| 2005 | 65% | 31 | 130,050 mi |
| 1991 | 68% | 31 | 181,733 mi |
Checking a specific VOLKSWAGEN CALIFORNIA?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2006 VOLKSWAGEN CALIFORNIA
The 2006 VOLKSWAGEN CALIFORNIA is a large car with a 2460cc diesel engine. 62 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 22% of all 2006 cars for reliability.
With an average of 95,967 miles at 18 years old, VOLKSWAGEN CALIFORNIA owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2006 VOLKSWAGEN CALIFORNIA Fuel Costs
The 2460cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 40 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,245 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2006 VOLKSWAGEN CALIFORNIA?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,900 (£158/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 82% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
VOLKSWAGEN CALIFORNIA Reliability Trend
Newer VOLKSWAGEN CALIFORNIAs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 5 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2006 VOLKSWAGEN CALIFORNIA
At 18 years old, the VOLKSWAGEN CALIFORNIA is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2019 model has the highest pass rate at 90%. Note: with only 62 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2006 VOLKSWAGEN CALIFORNIA
The VOLKSWAGEN CALIFORNIA is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel large cars from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- BMW 3 SERIES (2008) 80% pass rate (-2%) from 48,705 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2007) 72% pass rate (-10%) from 45,025 tests
- AUDI A4 (2008) 78% pass rate (-4%) from 31,415 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER (2007) 75% pass rate (-7%) from 27,476 tests