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Volkswagen California Estate (2005-2015) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 2.5 out of 52.5

Written by Graham King Updated: 31 December 2024

Miles per pound (mpp)

Reliable fuel consumption data for comparison purposes is not available for this model.
What is miles per pound?

Fuel economy

A more stringent standard for fuel economy (WLTP) was introduced from September 2017, and this model was not required to undergo that test. Its fuel economy measured under the previous test system was 29 - 40 mpg. However these figures are less likely to be achievable in real world driving and so should never be compared to another car's mpg which was measured under the newer, more realistic WLTP system.
View mpg & specs for any version
  • Capable of 30mpg-plus
  • Legions of VW specialists for servicing
  • Very strong reliability record

What are the running costs?

The official figures show that the T5 Volkswagen California can return average fuel economy of 29 to 39mpg, depending on which powertrain is fitted. As that was tested on the old NEDC cycle, those numbers should be taken with a fairly large pinch of salt. However, we expect any California to average 25 to 30mpg in mixed driving. That translates to a range of over 500 miles, which helps take the sting out of the £100-plus cost of filling the 80-litre tank with diesel.

Vehicle excise duty for campervans is charged at a flat rate of £345 per year. Insurance costs should be pretty low if you have another, primary vehicle, and take out a mileage-limited policy.

You can find the fuel economy and CO2 emissions figures for every T5 California on the specs pages.

Image of Volkswagen California T5.1, in blue, static on beach, from rear right corner
Despite its size, the California can average over 30mpg.

Servicing and warranty

T5 Californias are now long past their initial manufacturer warranty, however you may be able to get an aftermarket warranty if your vehicle meets the provider’s criteria. Volkswagen main dealers may be willing to service a T5, but you’re probably better off using one of the many Volkswagen specialist garages – there’s usually at least one in most towns. There are even some dedicated T5 specialists. Such garages know the vehicles inside-out and usually charge lower labour rates than a dealer.

Reliability

  • The T5 is much more durable than rivals
  • Well-proven engines
  • Some known issues to be wary of

The Volkswagen T5 generally has a great reputation for reliability and longevity. All its contemporary rivals – Renault Trafic, Ford Transit, Fiat Ducato – survive in relatively small numbers, but there are still a lot of T5s around.

The diesel engines are quite complex with high-pressure fuel injection systems. Regular, rigorous servicing is a necessity, otherwise various bits of the system can get clogged up and fail. Regular, long-ish drives help keep everything in order, as well. You can find a full breakdown of things to watch out for in the buying guide on the first page of this review.

A number of recalls were issued for the VW T5 generally, which may have affected some Californias. If that’s the case, rectification work should have long since been carried out – if not, outstanding recalls are listed on the vehicle’s MOT certificate. You can find more information on the Government’s vehicle recall check website.

Image of Volkswagen California T5 alongside classic 1950s VW camper
The T5 California is known to be a very reliable, durable vehicle.

Ongoing running costs

Road tax £335 - £735
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