VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER (2006)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 166 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£2,045
£170/month
MOT Pass Rate
80%
Good
Road Tax
£395
Based on CC/year
Insurance
Grp 25-38
2459cc Diesel
Solid Option
80% pass rate, £2045/year to run. Close to the national average.
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Annual Running Costs
~40 mpg
Based on 2459cc
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT data. Insurance not included.
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Reliability Verdict
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the VOLKSWAGEN brand average of 85%.
At 20 years old, 80% of VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTERs from 2006 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 166 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 129,976 miles.
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How Does It Compare?
Mileage Analysis
129,976
Average miles
148,000
Expected for age
The average 2006 VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER has 129,976 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 148,000 miles for a 20-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
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Best Year to Buy?
The most reliable year is the 2021 model with a 92% MOT pass rate, while the 2010 model has the lowest at 73%. The 2006 sits between the two at 80%.
VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 92% | 415 | 33,169 mi | |
| 2020 | 87% | 350 | 46,294 mi | |
| 2019 | 87% | 852 | 62,455 mi | |
| 2018 | 86% | 756 | 85,975 mi | |
| 2017 | 84% | 573 | 90,892 mi | |
| 2016 | 82% | 822 | 102,881 mi | |
| 2015 | 81% | 1,296 | 115,096 mi | |
| 2014 | 78% | 1,446 | 121,458 mi | |
| 2013 | 75% | 1,165 | 123,031 mi | |
| 2012 | 76% | 1,220 | 134,023 mi | |
| 2011 | 78% | 648 | 143,159 mi | |
| 2010 | 73% | 913 | 148,530 mi | |
| 2009 | 76% | 564 | 144,687 mi | |
| 2008 | 73% | 1,001 | 159,722 mi | |
| 2007 | 75% | 1,008 | 150,998 mi | |
| 2006 | 80% | 166 | 129,976 mi |
Similar Cars to Consider
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About the 2006 VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER
The 2006 VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER is a large car with a 2459cc diesel engine. 166 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2026, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 2006, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 129,976 miles at 20 years old, VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2006 VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER Fuel Costs
The 2459cc 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 CRAFTER?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,045 (£170/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £395 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 80% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER Reliability Trend
Newer VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTERs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 9 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2006 VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER
At 20 years old, the VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER 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 2021 model has the highest pass rate at 92%.
Common Issues to Watch For
Based on the 2006 VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER's fuel type, age, and engine size, these are the most likely problem areas to check.
DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter)
Watch outShort journeys clog the DPF. Replacement costs £1,000-£2,500. Check the DPF warning light and ask about driving patterns.
Turbo Wear
Watch outDiesel turbos work harder and wear faster. Listen for whining noises and check for oil leaks around the turbo housing.
EGR Valve
Watch outExhaust Gas Recirculation valves clog with carbon deposits, causing rough running and poor economy. Cleaning costs £150-£300, replacement £300-£600.
Dual Mass Flywheel
Watch outLarger diesel engines put extra strain on the dual mass flywheel. Listen for rattling at idle. Replacement with clutch is £800-£1,500.
Rust and Corrosion
Watch outAt 10+ years, check wheel arches, sills, subframe, and brake lines for rust. Structural corrosion is an MOT failure. Prevention is far cheaper than repair.
Suspension Bushings
Watch outRubber suspension bushes harden and crack with age, causing knocking noises and vague handling. A full refresh costs £300-£800 depending on the car.
Clutch Wear
Watch outWith an average of 130k miles, clutch replacement may be due (typical lifespan 60,000-100,000 miles). Budget £400-£800 for a new clutch kit.
Brake Discs and Pads
Medium riskHigh-mileage cars often need brake disc replacement, not just pads. A full set of discs and pads costs £200-£500 per axle.
Engine Mounts
Medium riskWorn engine mounts cause excessive vibration and movement. Replacement costs £150-£400 per mount. Check for vibration at idle with the bonnet open.
Service History
Low riskAlways request a full service history. Regular servicing is the single best indicator of how well a car has been maintained, regardless of mileage.
Running Costs Compared
How the 2006 VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER stacks up against similar cars for annual running costs, insurance, and tax.
| Car | Pass Rate | Fuel/yr | Tax/yr | Insurance | Total/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER(2006) | 80% | £1245 | £395 | Grp 25-38 | £2045 |
| BMW 3 SERIES(2008) | 80% | £1245 | £250 | Grp 30-42 | £1900-£145 |
| HONDA CIVIC(2007) | 72% | £1245 | £250 | Grp 25-38 | £2050+£5 |
| AUDI A4(2008) | 78% | £1037 | £135 | Grp 18-32 | £1727-£318 |
| VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER(2007) | 75% | £1245 | £250 | Grp 25-38 | £2050+£5 |
Estimates based on 7,400 miles/year, current fuel prices, and MOT data. Insurance groups are indicative. Actual costs vary by driver, location, and usage.
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