VOLKSWAGEN CALIFORNIA (2007)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 96 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
83%
Total Tests (2024)
96
Avg Mileage
115,434 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,900
Is the 2007 VOLKSWAGEN CALIFORNIA reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 17 years old, 83% of VOLKSWAGEN CALIFORNIAs from 2007 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 96 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 115,434 miles.
How does the 2007 VOLKSWAGEN CALIFORNIA compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2007 VOLKSWAGEN CALIFORNIA has 115,434 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 125,800 miles for a 17-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
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 2007 sits between the two at 83%.
How much does a 2007 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 2007 VOLKSWAGEN CALIFORNIA
The 2007 VOLKSWAGEN CALIFORNIA is a large car with a 2460cc diesel engine. 96 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 23% of all 2007 cars for reliability.
With an average of 115,434 miles at 17 years old, VOLKSWAGEN CALIFORNIA owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2007 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 2007 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 83% 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 2007 VOLKSWAGEN CALIFORNIA
At 17 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 96 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2007 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 (-3%) from 48,705 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2007) 72% pass rate (-11%) from 45,025 tests
- AUDI A4 (2008) 78% pass rate (-5%) from 31,415 tests
- FORD MONDEO (2009) 74% pass rate (-9%) from 29,480 tests