VW Nutzfahrzeuge Caddy III 1.9 TDI, 105 PS, 5-speed manual (2003–2010)

Research for this car

• Generation guide VW Caddy 3 (2003-2015): known problems and buying guide

  A practical van with good ADAC breakdown figures. Check the clutch, suspension, brakes and rust before you buy.

• Engine guide VW pump-injector TDI (1.4, 1.9, 2.0 PD and 2.5 R5): problems, costs and what to check

  Oil pump drive, rod bearing, head crack and cam faults are reported. Buy only with oil records and proof of the pump and head work.

Known issues for this car

Before you buy this car

From the generation guide

1. Drive the van from cold and under load. A slipping clutch, judder or a heavy pedal means a new clutch. ADAC puts a new clutch at 910-1,130 EUR (Germany, 2017).
2. Check the sills, wheel arches, tailgate and the area above the rear axle for rust. Bubbling paint or soft metal means bodywork.
3. Push down on each corner and listen over bumps. Knocking, a bouncy ride or uneven tyre wear points to worn springs, dampers or wishbone bushes.
4. Look at the brake discs through the wheels. Deep lips, cracks or heavy rust mean new discs and pads. ADAC puts a front brake job at 440-470 EUR (Germany, 2017).
5. Park over a clean sheet and check the engine and gearbox for oil. Fresh drips or a low level mean seal work.
6. Switch on every light and check the rear clusters and number-plate lamp. Dark bulbs or flicker mean contact or wiring work.
7. Ask a VW dealer to check the VIN for open recalls, in particular the 23R7 software update on a 1.6 or 2.0 TDI common-rail diesel. Bad result: an open campaign.

Running costs

ADAC figures for 15,000 km a year over 60 months

ADAC versions