Hello

[Bloomers]

Hi we’ve owned a T25 for the last 6 years but are now upgrading to a larger van with all the facilities and looking to purchase a 2008 California SE 2.5. Has anyone got this model and are they reliable? It has low mileage and is in good condition so hoping our purchase goes through and all is well.

 

[ThomasHJ]

Sounds like an exciting time for you! Hope you find a nice van!

As you can read on these forums (I'll post a few links, but make sure you use the search, as there is a lot more useful info to be found), it all depends on the car's history, mainly on whether known issues have been resolved in the past.

That said, some models have a few more (or bigger/more expensive) known problems. Be aware, I'm no expert by eany means! But we did a lot of reading before we bought a second hand T5 and decided that although a T5 GP / T5.1 (basically one build from 2009 or later) was a bit more expensive, it was the safest bet, especially if you yourself (like me) are not someone who is technical enough to check what state the van is in. Also, having it checked by a professional before buying is never a waste of money if you ask me. Good luck, hope you find one and make sure you read up on what is written about this subject on the forums, because it will help in making the decission!

T5 2.5 California reliability?

Hi all I'm hoping to trade in our T4 camper and replace it with a Cali next year. Budget is going to be approximately £25k so looking at a T5. Question is, are the older 2.5's reliable enough or should I dig deeper and go for a 2.0l T5.1? Thanks

vwcaliforniaclub.com

Early 180bhp engine problems - is this still 'a thing' in 2020?

Hi folks - looking to buy our first California and budget will stretch to an early 5.1 model. I am aware of the engine issues on the 180bhp cars, thanks to this forum, but there seems to be many more 180 than 140bhp vehicles around of this vintage. Also a more powerful engine would be preferable...

vwcaliforniaclub.com

Engine advice t5.1 (140 vs 180 Bitdi)

Hello! I´m on the lookout for a Cali Beach 2010-2014. This forum is great, I´ve gotten lots of questions answered. I drive an old 2009 t5 174hp. Its due to be replaced. I like the grunt of the 174 engine, it has great power for passing and heavy loads. With the newer 4 cylinder 2,0 diesels...

vwcaliforniaclub.com

Increased Oil Consumption Problem (2010 T5 Cali 180 bhp)

Hello All, I recently purchased a 2010 California from VW. It has covered 60,000 miles and is fitted with the 2.0 bi turbo 180 bhp engine. We have just returned from our first proper trip, we took in Italy and Germany on a 2,500 mile round trip. The van ran faultless apart from consuming...

vwcaliforniaclub.com

VW California - The Common Faults Poll

This poll has been requested by people for a while so here it is! If you can please choose which of these faults you have had on your Cali (either current or in the past ) You can select all eleven if you need to :crazy Later on in the year we will be conducting a full survey on faults via...

vwcaliforniaclub.com

Which T5 model is Best?

Hi, I am looking a round to purchase a California. Which is the best model to go for a 2.5 pre 2011 or a 1.9 post 2011?. Any other points to beware of?. John

vwcaliforniaclub.com

 

[Karlos]

Hi we’ve owned a T25 for the last 6 years but are now upgrading to a larger van with all the facilities and looking to purchase a 2008 California SE 2.5. Has anyone got this model and are they reliable? It has low mileage and is in good condition so hoping our purchase goes through and all is well.

 

[B J G]

Check VED rate as some 2.5's are in high cost category (like big 4x4's)

 

[MrP]

Hi we’ve owned a T25 for the last 6 years but are now upgrading to a larger van with all the facilities and looking to purchase a 2008 California SE 2.5. Has anyone got this model and are they reliable? It has low mileage and is in good condition so hoping our purchase goes through and all is well.

Hi, I own a 2008 SE 2.5 174 and have for over 4 years now. Have looked at replacing with a newer one but can't see the benefits as I am not that bothered by the fancy tech.

In the ownership time I have only had three issues:
1. Fridge stopped working. Forum answered the issue and s new controller purchased from Penguin.
2. Control panel losing pixels. Fixed by using the forum and a DIY hack. Works perfectly now.
3. More recently had to replace the exhaust sensor. This is just due to age but didn't cost much at in independent specialist.

All vans of all ages have potential issues. There is a wealth of great advice on this site regarding maintenance. There is not much to do apart from regular charging of leisure battery's and giving the moving parts a bit of lubrication on the camping side.
The van itself is pretty good. Just keep it well serviced. The engine is particularly delicate when it comes to oil, so ensure the person who services it uses the correct oil for that engine.
Around town they are not quite as economical as the newer vans but on the motorway there is little in it, I can easily get 38-40mpg with load and I drive at the speed limit.
If you look after it and maintain it, it will be the best investment you have ever made!