1989 Volkswagen Vanagon GL Westfalia review from North America
"I absolutely love this van and will keep it for many more miles"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Replaced worn CV joints at 136,200 miles.
Replaced a cracked coolant stack at 137,017 miles.
Replaced speedometer cable at 137,017 miles.
Replace rear brake shoes at 137,017 miles.
Replaced water pump at 148,371 miles.
Replaced rear heater core at 151,607 miles.
Replaced front brake pads at 151,601 miles.
Replaced spark plugs, distributor cap, rotor, spark plug wires and fuel filter at 153,324 miles.
Replaced propane tank for stove and fridge at 155,147 miles.
Replaced pop top tent with a more water and UV resistant acrylic material at 155,147 miles.
Air conditioner serviced at 155,147 miles.
Refrigerator service at 155,147 miles.
General comments?
This is my first VW Vanagon. It is a Westfalia full camper and would recommend this vehicle for someone looking for a very versatile and reliable daily driver.
It is very economical to operate. I get 19 mpg city and 22 mpg highway. That is US gallons.
I repair and replace parts as needed by a local shop very knowledgeable with VWs, especially vanagons. As with any vehicle, it is very important to address any problems and correct them ASAP.
The last year of production was 1991, but parts are still readily available from VW dealers, internet stores and individuals. There is a huge following for these vans.
I just love my van! I look for excuses to go anywhere just to drive it. There is no other vehicle like it on the planet.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1989 |
| Year of manufacture | 1989 |
| First year of ownership | 2005 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.1 Digifant Manual |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 10 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 136000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 160000 miles |
| Previous car | Jeep Cherokee |
| Date of Entry | 25th July, 2007 |