1989 Volkswagen Vanagon Wolfsburg GL review from North America

The previous owner had problems with over-heating and eventually had to replace the engine.

We have replaced the cooling fan mechanism because the low-speed fan quit (there are two speeds, the high speed only necessary when it's really hot). Installed a used mechanism for about $300 including parts, labor, and flushing. The engine is in the back and the cooling fan in the front, so there's a lot of coolant to flush.

We have had front-end work done once a year, to the tune of about $300 every visit.

Seals on gas tank failed and needed to be replaced (about $400).

Water pump failed, but was replaced before engine damage occurred.

The vanagon is simply one of the best cars ever made, in terms of comfort and versatility and reliability. It's important to note here that we have a Wolfsburg edition. The seating configuration has the passengers facing each other--two seats directly behind the front that face a bench seat in the back. That means that seven people can travel very comfortably together, with lots of leg room for everyone. Wolfsburg editions of the new Eurovans also offer this configuration.

As with the VW bus, you ride fairly high and there are big windows for a great view. We have a fold-out table that no longer folds out (gotta fix that), and a fluorescent light that keeps the van illuminated without distressing the driver.

We have a family of five, and there is simply no other vehicle which comfortably fits us for long trips. The back seat folds down into a bed and the van itself holds a huge amount of cargo, which always amazes people at Home Depot. You can slip drywall sheets easily through the back and they are kept out of the rain. Try that in a pick up.

We get about 21 miles-per-gallon on the highway, but we aren't going to try to tow anything.

If you have more than two children, you either need a over-sized SUV or a Volkswagen van (bus to Eurovan). The Volkswagen vans all ride high and have no trouble off road (we have a cabin in Montana). You don't need to think before you pack for a trip because there is so much room.

The van has never left us stranded, and we are having a lot of trouble choosing a second car because nothing will compare in terms of comfort and space.

If you drive a Volkswagen bus, all the other bus drivers will wave at you. The vanagon is finally achieving this status in comraderie. Unlike the bus, the air-cooled vans are actually warm in the winter. If you need comfort and space, but not power, it's a great choice.