Faults:
Virtually no serious issues. Since I've owned it, it's had the proper maintenance that any normal vehicle needs.
If I have to emphasize certain details, I would say:
1) Hard starting and stalling (often due to faulty injectors, fuel system issues, or sensor problems).
Injectors are prone to failure, with some parts prone to failure.
2) Leaky injector seals can allow fuel to drain back into the tank, causing starting difficulties.
3) Clutch slipping: A leaking input shaft seal can cause clutch plate oil contamination, leading to a slipping clutch. For this reason I had to replace the clutch after 50,000 kilometers.
No more major problems, after more than 13 years of use and several kilometers, I would say it is a van with few relevant faults.
General Comments:
The van is relatively comfortable, handles really well on short trips, and is very economical. It's a perfect vehicle for city work; it's easy to drive and very maneuverable.
Driving impressions of the Caddy are very positive. After what I read before buying the van, I expected it to be a real slug, but no, nothing of the sort, it was perfectly fine. I will admit though, that it probably wouldn't be the ideal choice for anyone who spends a lot of time on the motorway or dual carriageways as 110 kph equals a rather busy 3200rpm; even so, I must say that, at least in my experience, it drives quite calmly and normally on the highway, at a cruising speed of 120-130 km/h, and with a contained fuel consumption.
Safety equipment is OK and as standard it features ABS brakes, traction control and engine braking control.
There's also a driver's airbag, while passenger and side airbags were optional.
Disc brakes are fitted to all wheels and there's an electronic brake force distribution system to ensure optimum braking performance irrespective of load.
The SDI engine is the last naturally aspirated diesel engine made, it has 68 hp and provides leisurely performance, it's not fast (logical since it doesn't have a turbo), it's a bit noisy, but it's super reliable. Once you get used to its handling, you'll find it pleasant and familiar; it's a work engine, but it's well-suited for normal, everyday use.
11th Sep 2025, 14:03
Interesting review.
I'll add that I had one almost the same year (mine was 2006), which I sold a few years ago. It's exactly as you describe, the only difference being that mine had the TDI engine, which in my opinion is better than the SDI in fuel consumption, agility, and versatility, even though it's somewhat less reliable.
It's a very good small van for city use.