VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER (2017)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 573 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£1,637
£136/month
MOT Pass Rate
84%
Good
Road Tax
£195
Flat rate/year
Insurance
Grp 18-32
1968cc Diesel
Solid Option
84% pass rate, £1637/year to run. Close to the national average.
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Annual Running Costs
~48 mpg
Flat rate (post-2017)
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%.
At 9 years old, 84% of VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTERs from 2017 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 573 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 90,892 miles.
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How Does It Compare?
Mileage Analysis
90,892
Average miles
66,600
Expected for age
The average 2017 VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER has 90,892 miles on the clock, which is above the expected 66,600 miles for a 9-year-old car. Higher-mileage cars often have more motorway miles, which is generally less harmful than stop-start urban driving.
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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 2017 sits between the two at 84%.
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 2017 VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER
The 2017 VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER is a family car with a 1968cc diesel engine. 573 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2026, making it a less common model in the UK market. It sits in the bottom 79% of 2017 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 90,892 miles at 9 years old, VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER owners cover more miles than the average driver.
2017 VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER Fuel Costs
The 1968cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 48 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,037 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 2017 VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,637 (£136/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £195 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 84% 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 2017 VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER
At 9 years old, this is a solid used buy if you find one with good service history. Depreciation has levelled off, so you won't lose much more value. Focus on condition over mileage. If you're flexible on year, the 2021 model has the highest pass rate at 92%.
Common Issues to Watch For
Based on the 2017 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.
AdBlue System
Medium riskPost-2015 diesels use AdBlue for emissions. Sensor failures and tank heater issues are common. Budget £200-£500 for repairs.
EGR Valve
Watch outExhaust Gas Recirculation valves clog with carbon deposits, causing rough running and poor economy. Cleaning costs £150-£300, replacement £300-£600.
Suspension Wear
Medium riskShock absorbers, springs, and anti-roll bar links typically need attention around this age. Listen for clunks over bumps and check for uneven tyre wear.
Clutch Wear
Medium riskWith an average of 91k 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.
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 2017 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(2017) | 84% | £1037 | £195 | Grp 18-32 | £1637 |
| VOLKSWAGEN GOLF(2017) | 91% | £905 | £190 | Grp 12-25 | £1350-£287 |
| FORD FOCUS(2019) | 89% | £905 | £190 | Grp 12-25 | £1500-£137 |
| AUDI A3(2015) | 88% | £905 | £135 | Grp 12-25 | £1445-£192 |
| FORD TRANSIT(2017) | 81% | £1037 | £190 | Grp 18-32 | £1632-£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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