The Mercedes Vito Is A Bargain VW Transporter Alternative With One BIG Problem
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- Опубликовано: 18 авг 2023
- 3 reasons why you should buy a Vito instead of a T5... But be careful of the one Big issue with the Mercedes vans. This once lovely camper van conversion has morphed back into its original form as a builders van.... but I still love it.
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The major advantage of a Vito compared to a T5 is the drivetrain in my opinion:
The OM611 in the 99-03 Vitos and practically identical OM646 successor engine in the 03 to 2010 Vitos is just a really solid motor.
Bulletproof timing chain, dead simple engine layout (i4, single turbo) and there are really no known mechanical failures apart from leaking injector seals which is a fairly simple fix.
The 3.0 V6 the OM642 is also known to be in the Mercedes hall of fame when it comes to their best diesel engines.
In the passenger cars these engines last forever but IF fitted in these commercial Vans they need to work harder and run hotter.
So caution is advised. If the engine had regular oil changes with 5w40 or 10w40 it will most likely be alright but a beat up rig with no service history, a ton of miles is probably just plain worn out.
Mercedes in house Automatic Transmission is also a lot more bulletproof than the Autoboxes you occasionally find in a T5 if you want to go for an automatic transmission.
Of course a T5 with a pre Euro 4 1.9TDI and manual transmission is equally good at first glance but id argue that the OM611 and 646 is the better engine ultimately. The timing chain in them lasts virtually forever while a 1.9TDI has a timing belt that needs changed every 100.000 or so Kilometers or every 10 years at the latest. A snapped belt or skipped teeth will grenade the motor.
Also the "Pumpe Düse" unit injectors on the 1.9TDI are more cumbersome than the standard Bosch solenoid valve injectors on the Mercedes Diesels, they last a long time while the PD injectors can go bad earlier and they are nor cheap or easy to replace.
Another known problem is the fact that the head of the 1.9TDI is aluminium while the injectors are hard steel. And with unit injectors there is a lot of downward force applied to them via the camshaft with each injection. Can you guess the failure mode already?
The injectors will work themselves into the cylinder head, wont seal up anymore and "tip over" slightly which ruins the injector seat. It rarely happens to these engines and some run for half a million miles without this ever happening and others suffer from his failure at 200.000 miles.
If this happens you are usually able to get the injectors to seal back up with the right techniques (using slightly! thicker seals, glowing them out to soften the copper, use ultra high temp sealant in the installation) but the cylinder head is on borrowed time then.
It ultimately comes down to Mercedes sporting a Bosch commonrail fuel injection system that is ultimately superior to VWs Pumpe Düse System.
VW switched to the 2.0TDI commonrail in T5 Vans from 2009 onward but those early 2.0TDIs are to be avoided they have many problems like junk EGR systems and intercoolers.
I don't really want to steer anybody's purchase decision too much but if I was given a Vito and a T5 both in good condition and with the same mileage I would take the Vito for the aforementioned reasons.
I've owned my 2007 Vito 115 sport for ten years now, it's been bulletproof in my ownership, I've had a couple of minor issues but they were easy fixes. It's taken me across Europe, taken my bikes to track days, been on holidays in it, oh and it was my place of work and office for seven of those ten years. Mine is rapid for a van and returns 38-40 mpg on long runs if I keep it under the motorway speed limits. Being a 2007 mine doesn't suffer with corrosion like the earlier W639 models. I thoroughly recommend the Vito, over the other manufacturers offerings, even as a sixteen year old van its quiet inside and drives waaay better than other vans half its age and mileage, even the standard sound system is well above average. Two sliding doors are worth their weight in chocolate biscuits. Things to keep an eye on are the propshaft, front suspension condition and geometry, wheel bearings, injector seating washers do fail, when they blow get the washers replaced as a matter of urgency, use toyota avensis diesel seating washers and the problem never returns. Top tip, get your parts from a MB truck dealer, they supply Vito parts at refreshingly lower prices than you would expect and under the prices motor factors charge, particularly service & consumable parts. A great van that deserves to be as respected as much if not more than the VeeDub, particularly the honking T5. Thanks for putting the Vito up there! 👍🏻
Thanks great info on the injectors washers👍
I have a 2009 Vito with no rust at all, 100% reliable and 50 mpg motorway driving @56 mph. Love it.. good video 👍
I used to Work for Mercedes for over 25 years, these are good vans, you’ve summed it up perfectly, the rust was a big issue at Mercedes back then, think it was the water based paints that were used it was actually embarrassing when customers came in with their vans showing you the rust, it was unstoppable at the time, but they are good looking, versatile vans. I’ve owned a lwb one and loved it, I used to work in the parts and have sold just about every part of these vans, I’ve always liked them, and definitely good for converting into a small camper,
Cheers from Edinburgh, ( I’ve subscribed to your channel).
Awesome thanks man! I do love it such a shame it’s crumbling like a sand castle 😅
Great video, I’ve owed VWs , transits, Vitos , but the best hardest working bullet proof van is the Toyota hi-ace , mine had 246k on the clock and still drove well 🤷🏻♂️
Few people have commented the same! Maybe I should get one on the channel 🙌😅
Had a few older hiaces, they’re pretty reliable.
The proace is awesome too!
Agree about the Hi-Ace. The couriers in Australia and NZ use nothing else. Shame that one doesn't seem to be available in the UK.
Old mk6 transit for me with the T280 ❤
Had a Vito W639 Sport now for 4 years, turned it into a day van with insulation, vents, carpets , rock & roll, new seats, ICE, and loads of subtle but useful mods, serviced it and looked after it and I can tell you, it’s so worth it. It goes like stink, handles great, never ever left me stranded and yet if I feel like it, park up and have a tea, take in the view, sleep, then in the morning, embarrass a few cars down the motorway.
Sounds like a stunner 👌😎
Great video dude,
My dad had an old Vito, and I did really like it! He did mention the clutches went quite often on his… but it was great to drive.
Just realised I saw your pal the bearded explorer at Shedfest last weekend! I thought I knew his face.
Yeah he was there too 😅 he was the first to do a collaboration with me, featured me in one of his videos really early on 🙌
I have a 2013 116 and love it for its versatility with performance. Changed the rear 2+1 seats for single viano seats and can drive to the beach with 4 people a 10'6" SUP paddleboard stashed down the middle + tons of other kit no need for roof racks, ladders go in etc....and it's a compact! Auto gearbox is a massive win. Tailgate bootlid is another favourite of mine I can sit on the back of the van and get changed or brew up a tea in pouring rain. Not converted her at all like you need the convenience of taking seats out and hauling loads to the tip but still throw an old mattress in and sleep in her occaisionally😂 130k miles and no rust issues
My old one had a tailgate boot 😎
I had W638 which I loved apart from the rust, Then I got a 2011 W639 Sport X which had no issues with rust as it was a late model and converted it into a camper van, I really loved that van the only reason I got rid was it needed a timing chain which I was going to do at work myself as I was a Skoda main agent diagnostic technician but I lost my job during Covid and then the insurance shot up above what I was willing to pay. I keep toying with getting another now though as it was a cracking van, I could practically drift it around roundabouts it handled that well!!
👌😎
Had a Type 1 Vito from nearly new (18 mth old) for 11 years and totally loved it.
It was a panel van originally, and I got it professionally converted to a crew cab, with removing rear seats.
Yes, it was an absolute rust bucket, but only from the door trim down to the sills. I resprayed those areas myself, and it looked like new for a further 4-5 years before I sold it on to another VanFan.
I drive a Ford transit custom, crew cab these days, but it is in no way as much fun to drive as the Vito.... that could easily pull 120mph on the Autobah. 😉
🙌😎
We have a 2006 vito 2.1 with 214000 and still going strong, must say, its 17 years old and still driving 100 percent. Strand, city of capetown
I’m a VW fanboy but this is a great video. You are a very engaging presenter and well edited.
Subscribed
Thanks man! Glad you found the channel! 🙌😎
Thank you for all the information, it really helps me decide which van should i buy in irder to convert it into a camper. I've watched and read a lot of opinions of Vito vs Tranporter, but here i've found the truth, in your video and in the comments section. Thanks a lot! New sub here.
Awesome! Glad it was helpful :)
Thats really helped me out. Im replacing my peugeot expert in the winter and want to get the 2.1 latest shape version. Another plus point is the fact it has twin sliding doors which the t5 doesn't have. Will check out your supra vid. Nice work
Yeah the twin doors are great! 🙌 if you like sports car you’ve found the right channel 😅
I loved your video. Keep up the awesome work.
Thanks Frank 🙌
To a restoration series on the Vito. I've driven a vito a few months ago and I fell in love with it so much that I want to get one. It was so smooth and nice to drive.
🙌😊
What’s funny is the only actual engines that are a Mercedes engine is the 2.1 diesel and the actual hand built AMG engines every single other engine is actually a Renault
Had a 2005 vito for about 4 years. Loved it and was mechanically bullet proof and I know its still on the road now. Went all around he country in it towing our caravan. I eventually traded it for an E class estate which I have now. Thats also bullet proof aswell. Its a great car and very comfortable. But you know what I still really miss the old vito. Id have another in a heart beat.
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Rust was caused by Mercedes having a partnership with Chrysler until 2007 & using the cheaper American metal.. It’s the same with all the Mercedes of that period.
Basically If it says Chrysler Benz on the VIN by the door then best walk away..
This is interesting… thanks for sharing
As an owner of a few transporters currently a t5, ive always thought the vito was a no brainer alternative, ive read anything after 2006 has better rust proofing, they look really smart and are mechanically solid. Saying that if you do your homework and buy the right vw you should be fine, stay away from the big power engines. Never had any issues with mine. 😊
I can imagine with the high prices of transporters the lower price ones are always attractive, but it’ll likely be those that will cost the new owner a lot to maintain… like you say I’m sure if you get a good well looked after one it’ll be a pleasant ownership :)
No way on earth is an equivalent Vito half the price of a VW. I've got a 13 plate t5.1 I paid 13 grand for it 3.5 years ago with 100,000 if I could have got a 13 plate Vito with 100,000 miles on it back then for 7,500 I would have.
I agree there great vans but half price is a big exaggeration in my opinion.
I would imagine both are money pits past a certain amount of age and miles.
Still a good video though.
Turn the vito back into a camper, it'll likely go up in value considerably.. great video
Great video. I have managed to run my T5 for buttons. We needed a LWB Shuttle for our then 5 kids. We went on to have 8. Two big bills in 17 years. The trick is not to have it serviced at a dealer. Dealer parts and labour are eye watering. So big bill one was 4 years in and was a couple of grand. Big bill two was a refurb of injectors and turbo at 100,000 miles are an injector failure on the M1. When a council tipper reversed into my T5 we got a Viano (posh Vito) for a loaner. It rode better and was more refined. I was also usefully smaller, even in XLWB spec. But the tin worm is the big issue with the Spanish built Vitos and back then they were just as expensive. In my experience lots of T5 spares are cheap as, especially the four cylinder which is all car parts. There is an endless supply of pattern parts from places like Autodoc. For example VW wanted £280 for an air-con condenser. Autodoc had one for £66. The five cylinder 2.5 AXD which I have is more expensive but it is a great engine and has a gear driven camshaft. I can't believe that over 17 years of motoring it has only depreciated about £10,000, or around £50 a month. They are pricey second hand but they do hold their value.
Great comment! Thanks for sharing this, wait what how many kids do you have?! 🤯
@@dadcars like you we had 4 young ones by the year 2000 which we carted about in a couple of T4s but we just kept going and by 2013 we had 8!
@@Gorbyrev that’s incredible! Well done 🙌😅
Had my 2007 vito 120 for a couple of years now, been a great thing. Only issue I've had is certain spare parts - my van is an auto and the auto gear position switch cacked itself. When that dies, at best you're stuck in a single gear so it can leave you in a bad position if you're far from home. It took Merc 3 months to get the part. Luckily I managed to get a second hand one in the meantime but that wasn't easy to get either. Apparently the key receptacle thing can fail also and they can't be purchased anymore either.
Other than that switch its had a new aftermarket prop-shaft as the original's UJ's were failing and squealing (150k on them, can't argue with that) and I've had to replace the parking brake shoes as one side fell to bits.
The backplate that the brake shoes fit to looks to be a problem as well as the holes for the springs rust out and being rear wheel drive changing the back plate looks like a bit of a pig to do, a few video's of it on this here tube.
Only a slight amount of rust on the os sliding door though so that's a result 😂😂
Ah so you’ve still had rust on the panels in your 07 that’s interesting, not to the level of mine it seems 😅
The vito is the best van I owned, but I had to down trade for the citan for fuel economy. I like the rear wheel drive too, but it's shit on wet grass with no weight in the back, and there is always the possibility of overloading it, so you keep the drive but lose your steering. Fun and games.
I bought a cheap Vito when I started Amazon driving over lockdown. I loved it to bits!! It was ratty and faded red, but it was brilliant. Unfortunately it was rust that got it. The panels were a bit rusty but it was the underside that I couldn't see that claimed it. Nearly half the sill under the sliding door had dissolved and some very large holes in the front cross member. I would buy another in a heartbeat though, if it wasn't for the stupid London ulez. It would be the perfect vehicle for my current job, if I didn't have to go into the ulez zone regularly. Your video has made me really miss my red baron van 😢
Yeah ULEZ must be making it very hard for self employed people who need a van 😓
Restoration video definitely
I love mercs had a 54 plate sprinter the running gear was great but the body was shocking same with the cars I've had but I still love em great video!
I like the idea of a sprinter 😎 would need that size for a camper with 4 children 😅
I can trump you on this absolutely hands down.
I have a Nissan Elgrand van its got 4x4 with diff locks, 250 bhp V6, full luxury leather interior with bose sound system, surround cameras and electric drop down TV's.
Twin electric sliding doors, rear seats swivel to make a lounge are with tabe in the middle, its a 7 seater with space for luggage.
I paid £7200 including all the import costs form Japan. Its a 2009 with 46k miles and full service.
Its goes like hell with a 3.5L V6 sounds wonderful and blows away every single VW transporter 'sport van' it have ever met 😁
That sounds awesome! Although I only paid about 3k for this 7 years ago so not a fair trump! 😅 I’d love to film one of those though! Bet I’d love it
@@dadcars yup its alot of fun at the lights. Ive got a large chrome badge on the back of it that says 1.4L Eco Cargo Van, you should see the look on the faces of the top end Transporter when blasting past. Had a bloke in a Transit SMRT sport van pull up and ask how its faster than his van, and its only a 1.4, told him its because I peddle harder.
@@IronMountainx don’t know where you’re based but if you fancied a trip to Hampshire I’d love to feature it 😎
vito has the ultra reliable 611/646 engine. even if it breaks, replacement engines are easy to find since they are in almost all models from that era. biggest problem with the 611 is air leaks in the low pressure fuel system
Correct about the rust I had a 2004 vito ,and it went to the scrap yard.
Now I have a 2013 vito and it's got very little rust.
They are good work horses, they ran to 2013-14 .
The later one return better mpg but all are good value.
Great video.
No house to fix, I think the Vito has earned a RUclips restoration series. 😁
😅 maybe I should start with a “first clean in 6 years video”
We had a 115 CDI crew cab Vito as the family car my father got it new in 2004 and had it until 2017 and that time covered over 200k miles and never skipped a beat the only issue was from it starting to rust afrer about 10 years both side rear quarters around the sliding door rails
Bloomin rust! 😅 like you say, never skip a beat mechanically do they
I’ve got a 2015 dsg t5.1 transporter and a 2007 Vito 109. Id have to agree with you about the maintenance and repairs . The original battery lasted 14 years on the Vito!. The transporter looks better imo but the Vito drives better, I’d happily drive it anywhere, it clonks and bangs and is full of dents but always is reliable.
Cars like this are quite important as the coolest of cool DadCar usually comes with a Family Beater-Bus like this that does the job of enabling the nice car.
I wouldn’t be surprised if AutoAlex offered to buy your van; he does love his rust buckets 😉
Alex will be a lot more impressed by this than the Aston 😅
134000 miles on my 2010 W639 Vito converted camper and not a single bit of rust on it at all. If looked after, these vans are bullet proof. As vans go, it drives brilliantly.
I made on my 2009 W639 Vito (high and long model) 470,000 km. Not single point of rust. Bought in Holland, it seem this model has zinc cover on chasie, as even if some scratch, no rust happen.
Nice that you did piece about your "old faithful"... warts and all...
I was going to tidy it up a little but thought I’d keep it real 😅
Great vid thanks for sharing. I haven't owned a van for 27yrs. I used to run mk2 Transits. Couldnt find an affordable modern one that wasnt hanging off the chasis. I avoided the VW, like you say, excessive mileage at a decent price point. I know Mercs rust out but for a few hundred over my budget I picked up a SWB Sprinter, no rust. I had dismissed the Vito. This was because the independent Mercedes van guy who serviced my mates fleet said he wouldn't touch one. Ive seen a lot of older ones on the road, going strong, that says something. I like my Sprinter but boy is the front suspension and steering awful. Ive dropped a grand on mine, all the joints and shocks that were worn done. Its still tiring to drive, compared to my works, Transits. For a low top I can just stand up in it, a bonus as it doubles as a stealth camper as well as my daily commute/ PA shifter. Im not getting any younger. I may run it for a year and swap out for the Vito. Im not out in it enough to warrant the height. You’ve opened my eyes. If the Vito has "normal" suspension.
My suspension isn’t great 😅… I like the idea of doing a sprinter office/ camper conversation!
@dadcars I'll have to hire one. See how it drives. From somewhere with older models. I don't buy new motors.
Never had much interest in vans until I drove a transporter couple of years ago since then I've had a soft spot for transporters. In all fairness that was a 2017 with AppleCarplay, dsg and 200bhp engine I think so was a nice experience. No 7 seater has big last row with a big boot unless you get something like this
Yeah I’m sure the newer merc vans are brilliant too, same dimensions as a large SUV but so much more practical
I'm on my second Vito. My current 2015 LWB 116 axe-murderers van is mine from new, 240K km, bulletproof, right up until yesterday when the Can-bus had a fit and shut down half my electronics including A/C on a filthy humid summer day when I was still 300km from home. After I got home, it would not start, and the cooling fan went mad, so I disconnected the battery overnight, and bugger me, it's perfect today. NO rust and I live at teh beach, no garage. It's kinda beat to shit, but still looks immaculate after a quick wash. I'm worried that it's developed German electrical gremlin syndrome. Might be time to trade. The new ones are so expensive and the nav screen is beyond 80's naff. I'm thinking about a Ford Transit Custom Sport.
I like the vitos. I would say though that I bought a Vw t5.1 (high line) 4 years ago now and it’s worth the same as what I paid for it even now with a few extra k on the clock.
My current Vw in 40k miles has only had routine servicing, intercooler needed replacing as a stone went through it and an air con condenser. So pretty good imo. My previous one was a money pit and cost me about 2k. For my current one I went for the most popular 2.0 tdi 140 engine as they’re so common and if the engine did go I could replace the engine relatively cheaply.
They do hold their values very well!
A company | worked for got a fleet of Vitos when they first came out (2002). The only issue I had with them was the lack of space above the pedals. On the one I was issued with I removed the trim above the pedals. They were all electronically restricted to 75mph. Except for some reason, mine wasn't. During a week off, one of the supervisors found out mine wasn't restricted and decided we were swapping vans.
😅 how did their fair over time? All rust to bits?
@@dadcars I left the company 6 months after they were issued. Last time I saw one of the vans, it was 3 years later and it was on the side of the M4 at Reading after rear ending another car in a traffic jam. That one looked quite badly bent.
I've been after a decent van for a while. I always dismissed these due to rust, and Mercedes parts cost. (Last Merc van I had (1984 508D) cost nearly £2,000 for a full set of brakes and put me off them for a while. I sold that van not long after (1999) and the person who bought it from me still uses it. So it was a reliable beast. ) Maybe I should reconsider.
@@LordClunk yeah parts not been to bad for me, always taken it to an independent garage of course
Loved driving Sprinter based vans for one of the large supermarkets in the early noughties, and have to admit I like the look of the Vito.
Always got a bit of power to them as well 👌
@@dadcars was always fun running back to the store empty 😉
Just bought a 2013 116 sport to transport my artwork to art shows up and down the country, so I am looking forward to many happy miles and slowly making it my own
If you're after an automatic, the vito is the clear winner. Proper torque converter box, well proven and reliable, 40mpg with a rear wheel drive, it has no equal. Vw DSG is excellent too bit you're going to have to renew a clutch eventually. It also has problems with it's mechatronics.
Yeah a torque converter is want you want on something like a van
I live in Australia and bought a 99' Vito. Even the dents I put in it have barely rusted years later. It's parked outdoors too. From the sounds of it, I think I got lucky.
Never even considered a Vito. It's not a vehicle at front of mind when looking at people luggers. Gutted I can't make Shedfest as travelling back from a long weekend on the continent. Was great seeing JayEmm at Helmingham when on holiday I'm Norfolk a fortnight ago, would have been awesome to see a few more of you and say thanks in person. Maybe next year.
There will be future events 😎 be good to meet you
After owning a sprinter for many years Just bought my first vito 2.2 2019 so excited to see how will work
How you finding this Vito? Looking myself! Thanks
I've owned a T4, Sprinter, Bongo and a Vito. The Vito/Sprinter engine is much better than the others and more economical. Also the reliability has been better. The fuel pipe detaching is a common issue with the engine and a super easy fix.
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Great video. I liked my Vito(2004) but sold it to get back into a VW (T4 2.5 tdi) which I love. I can concure on the rust, seen some really bad Vito's but mine was pretty good, perhaps as I did wash and wax it regularly. The T4 does has some rust but not all over like some Vitos can get. The Vitos's ride was better (but my T4 is lowered a bit) and as was the drive, I loved the 6th gear and wish had it on the T4. When I bought /sold prices were a bit more level, account for age, was probably 33% move for the vw but wasn't that expensive.
A bad point on the rear wheel drive it that in snow or mud it make it really hard (or fun) to drive. I'd take it out if had too but wife wouldn't. Note on the hand / foot brake too. I had no problem but it put my wife off driving it.
The Vito has a chain not a belt so that seem to really help with the maintenance as the VW new belt big bill every 4 years seems to come round pretty quick. My T4 has been good for 4 out of 5 years. But last year was expensive. With the VW price being high it also means the depreciation is a lot lower. I think my van is worth more now than when I bought it (covid 'camper' boom) but a Vito a lot less. That 50% price difference now probably right.
Bit of a heart not head decision to sell the Vito and get the T4. I have recommended people get a merc if they want a vw alternatie ('but check for rust as they can disolve'). Sold mine to get back into the VW scene as makes every trip more interesting (wave hunting, vvw spotting) and I do a fair few shows (more acturately convoys) so it's a hobby as well as means of transport.
VW is a lovely van to own if you can afford the price of entry I agree 🙌
Ive owned one of the first edition vito's, like you.. right rust bucket.. couldn't get it into reverse.. (bought in haste and got royally ripped off.) but I loved owning one (had always wanted a vito!).. nowadays I run a 2013 vito and to be fair its been good (mostly!).. Bulbs blow often so Im usually replacing a bulb every month, and recently the gear cables detached from the gear knob and I was left stranded on a roundabout.. The RAC got me to a garage who fitted a small clip to hold them in place so they cant come off any more.. cost all in was £50 for the repair... touch wood all good.... I also own a vauxhall vivaro sportive 2011.. LWB, crew cab.. Loads of room in the back.. that vans also been good.. main takeaway is regular servicing really does help, and keeps on top of most issues
Had your new one had any rust?
so far touch wood pretty much none.. had it 3 years now @@dadcars
Love the vito. The removable captain seats make them really versatile. I bought a 2010 model 4 years old in 2014. Had it for 10 years and taken it from 50k to 150k miles without a single issue. The dual sliding doors is totally a game changer and when we go camping we have an inflatable side cabin. Taken it skiing also in Austria and put chains on so rear wheel drive was fine.
I bought a brand new 2004 Vito 115 at 150+bhp first in Cornwall, brilliant rally car in van clothing,12 months later the silver paint had an issue as every panel was a different shade and Mercedes said it was in a smash but no it was the paint, Mercedes repainted it free of charge, only other issue was the turbo actuators, years later and i mean years i pulled into a local garage and the guy who had bought it after my 2.5 years of ownership pulled up and the mechanics were perfect but the body was goosed,Currently on my second ML270 and still a merc fan.
🙈
I had a 2013 but had to get rid as had another child and couldn't do the school run. I loved that van. The engine management light started coming on (dpf issues) so was time to get rid.
2 years later ive been offered a 2009 lower spec vito vut has only done 40000 miles with one owner who i know well. Im very tempted to convert but worried again about dpf issues. Nout sure if the lower mileage will help with that though....
Both my parents have owned transporters (mums is ‘05, Dad’s owned a few but current one is a ‘10 plate from new) and they’ve been basically flawless. An EGR fault on the 2010 and a faulty electric window on the 2005.
I’m currently looking at getting my first van (to sleep in) and I’m torn between the Vito and Transporter purely due to cost… maybe I’ll end up with a Caddy 🤷♂️
You could get a Vito AND convert it for the same price as an equivalent transporter panel van 🤷♂️ if you, unlike me… keep on top of the rust then it’ll be a lovely owning experience for you
Have you seen the ludicrous prices for Caddy’s?😮😮😮😢
I had 2 T4 Transporters and they were both high miles, and bulletproof, but 1.9D non turbo, so very slow. I wanted a T5 but when I looked around there were so many for sale with issues it put me off. I worked for a company that had 2 W639 Vitos with different blokes driving them, worn out looking, not an easy life, and 250k miles plus, but both ran well. I picked up a W639, 115CDI, not sure if it's chipped but it's very nippy, high miles, but drives really well and been a great van. I really rate the 639 2.2cdi.
Thanks for the video which has convinced me to stay with my grey imported Nissan El Grand. Better equipped, highly reliable and quality built for the extemely discerning Japanese market.
😅 I am a big JDM fan!
Check out the old hiace super customs. You can get mega spec interiors with all the goodies. Digital dash, seat and steering retract when key is taken out...... plus they'd do veg oil at a ratio
I do love a Toyota 😊
I’ve had both and the Vito is better to drive and more reliable and it’s got 217,000 miles on the clock,the only thing is the transporter was more spacious but the size was a issue with car parks where the Vito doesn’t have that problem,great video 👍
Previously had an 02 (W638) and an 07 (W639) Vito camper. The mk1 was worse for rust and on par with Transits.
I would avoid both models as you can never eliminate the rot.
Mechanical issues can be rectified.
After the MBs I converted an 09 Renault Master Minibus. Not a spot of rust on it. Highly recommend them and Trafics for camper conversions. Just bought a 2000 T4 Atlantis, luckily I just moved to Spain so rust isn't an issue here.
My dad just bought a first generation vito the thing is extremely beat up, but still relatively solid in mechanical means. Now it’s a challange for me to get it to pass the MOT
Door sills wheel arches rear flooring panel needs replacing windscreen must be repaired the entire suspension of the van needs to be changed. It’s going to be heaps of work but I bet it will be fun wrenching with the old man
Father son time 😊🙌
Hi Ben. Hope your doing good.
I would keep that minivan just for Tesco runs. It could be worse. It could be the 2017 VW Metris my Uncle bought new back then with only 1 sliding door. Lol. Or even worse than that. I could be me. I just did the stupidest thing ever. I bought a 2012 Citroen C6, V6 turbo diesel with 90,000 miles on it. I don't know why. I should of just bought another XM. Lol.
Just never use it now! Just handy for picking up something from Facebook marketplace 😅
Yep I've had two Vito's , and now looking for a third , was thinking of a GLA but maybe I'll stick with Vito.
Naa stick with a Vito 😅 if you buy a modern one it won’t rust 👏
Lover my 08 vito 115cdi. I found it well built and reliable, my t5 vw was beautiful but every few weeks there was always a mechanical issue to tend to
Was looking after this videos at similar, then i saw the comments about rust. And lots mention the toyota hiace. Whats the model to go for? Anyone? Thanks.
We had a 2007 extended 109 cdi version. Now we drive a petrol VW...( yup), a Caddy Maxi... 7 seater... and a boot! So they do exist. Do to emision regulations on diesel engines in the netherlands, we made the switch to petrol.. and you are right. A 7 seater with a boot are hard to find if you use the seats.
ULEZ in London is killing a lot of these good old work horses too 🥲
Great video - Good content. ❤
Thanks man! 🙌
I still got my 2006 vito sunroof, 2 slide doors with little windows, automatic diesel but I’m looking to sale will be a good project for someone
I have a VW T6, converted myself, and my partner has a vito, bought fully converted, for half the price i paid (and half the milage on the clock too!) I have a swivel seat, she cant fit one apparently :)
She loved her vito, we joke about it being a turdis - but it does its job very well.
I would never go with one personally, even if i didn’t go VW again, id probs got Merc Sprinter.
I’d love a sprinter 😎
ive got a 2005 vito that i got for 5.5k and doin it as a campervan its literally just flown through its mot and because i`d only done bout 500 miles the guy said not to bother servicing it, bloody love em, so comfy, not speedy but hey i get there eventually, wats everyone else got, mines a 05 115 minibus auto, but only got 2 seats cos of conversion.
My good friend Fred Whitmarsh sold your van new in 2004 from Commercial Motors in Holmbush St Austell. I’ve got a 2014 64 plate Vito 122 CDI Sport X Dualliner in black only done 51k miles, mint van and not rusty, plus I sold it from new, so I know it’s total history. Far better vans than Transporters , but I guess I’m biased as I sold them new for 24 years!
Wow this is awesome! Thanks for sharing 🙌 what’s your theory on the rust? Is there a year that it was sorted from?
@@dadcars
Yes, Mercedes started galvanizing the body shells for the 2006 model year, so from 2006 06 plate to current model, their rust resistance is pretty good. My 2014 Sport X is completely rust free, but it has had an easy life to be fair.🫤
brilliant video, I've lived the same life... first vito new... my current is 2nd hand. 2011. way better rust. thye just drive... best example... CAT broke 40 km south of Paris... still got me, and the kids home. only issue... I would want a 4 wheel drive.
Awesome! I filmed an update video on the vito this week! Coming soon 😎
As a 2017 vito L2 owner I can say you are right about transporter and Vito's
Would you buy a VW over a merc car
The vito I have is a lot better that VW I know
And does more to the gallon
I like transporters too but I feel they are overpriced for what they are, If buying new which I never would, I’d get a VW because of that though
When I was looking at buying a van to convert to a camper there’s something called Black Death kept coming up on the Vito think it was something to do with the injectors ? as well as the rust so based on that I bought a T4 to convert
T4 is cool! They rust as well though don’t they?
@@dadcars yes they do at 25yrs old now it’s starting to rot on inner sills I had to repair them for mot and the arches are starting to bubble so it’s not too bad considering it’s age
Injector seals leak!!..Which causes "Black Death" it is horrendous as the soot plus gunge accumulates around the injectors and on the cylinder head plus glues up everything. Takes ages to sort out and clean. Use a different copper seal from another car and it helps
Have a 2008 vito 109 mapped custom exhaust have owned it for over 13 years still does what it should just starting to bubble around rear arches 18 inch amg alloys 196 bhp rear wheels what more do you want
Honestly never thought about mapping it… maybe I should 😅
nice vid. i would love to see you test a mercedes benz R class amg 63 or 500. these can be had as a 7 seater. this one should be practical and sporty to.
Me too! I mentioned this in a recent video in fact! Great minds 😜
@@dadcars 😀 idd
I'm on my second transporter now. First, an 06, 9 seater shuttle which i bought having done 187,000 miles. I sold it after 6 years with 260,000 miles on it and still running strongly. Our second is a T5.1 caravelle which is now on 140,000 miles. Ive found both to be reliable, trustworthy, workhorses for a busy chaotic at times family of six plus 2 dogs. We also pull a large caravan with no issues. Never owned a vito and much prefer the looks of the transporter. Each to their own though. Vw tax is a thing so i understood why people buy Vitos.
Yeah transporters do look fab and they have the prestige now as everyone knows they are more desirable and valuable
I had a Mercedes with the same engine and it suffered from the "black death", was quite expensive to sort it out. Check the injectors are not leaking. Saying that I was able to replace the injector myself after getting the head helicoiled. Also the seats were uncomfortable, a big step down from 80s Mercedes I owned. However some brands are even worse now so I can see the argument for these.
I have a 638 vito. Had it around 4years, and have the basic 108cdi, always starts and stops (discs all round) and is 100 x better than the vivaro it replaced.
Although mine has rust scabs, it's not impossible to tart up. The underside is solid.
Mine's fwd and regularly gets between 40-50mpg when driven carefully 👍
Would you believe I’ve never calculated my mpg 😅 but compared to the cars I drive, it feels like a tank of diesel goes on forever 🙌
My mate has a Mercedes Vito brabus lwb on a 12 plate that’s done 250000 miles , lovely to drive and sounds awesome with the v6 diesel but he’s spent a fortune on it maintaining it and that’s showing rust on the wheel arches
That’s impressive milage for the year 🙌
I'm an ex-VW Service Manager and can confirm that Transporters are overrated junk - I genuinely pity everyone who buys one, or even dreams of owning one.
Oh wow! That’s very interesting! 😅
A really good video. But I've got a Berlingo VTR which I reckon its a real competitor. Cheap to run and mend. Just a thought.
Berlingo is smaller than Vito/t5 though but yeah friend of mine has had one for years and it’s been a trusty steed
Restoration series on this would be fun!
First clean in 6 years video… would anyone watch that? 😅
@@dadcars I would mate 😄👍🏻
I’ll see you at Shedfest and picking up those stickers!! I’ll defo try have a chat if you’re not crowded by others 😊
Awesome! Make sure you come say hi! Was chatting to Alex about it yesterday, sounds like it’s going to be an awesome event!
@@dadcars 100% Can’t wait to wish this week at work away 🤣 We’ve decided to take the MK2 Focus ST as it fits with the show better than a run off the mill EV6 GT 😅
@@A2KLAU awesome look forward to seeing it 😎
Hi thx for your review but how would you compare it to a Toyota Hiace all-wheel drive diesel thx
I’ve never driven one so cannot comment, I’d like to though
I owned a T5 2008 130 for 14.5 years in the end it had rusted sub frame and inner wings drivers door bottom and a rear arch lip. The sub frame was £800 and a lot of labour so it went to salvage.
should have waxoyled the transporter subframes and the body.
It drove beautifully lovely steering but the gear change quality was great turned notchy around 90 K.
The first big expense was a DPF delete and remap.
Then the 5cyl exhaust manifold was warped leaking and the turbo bearings worn and the manifold was skimmed and turbo reconditioned the intercooler bent like a banana due to the welds corroding. Otherwise at 15 years old it was on its original clutch shocks and exhaust and never let me down.
It still used plenty of oil even after the turbo was renewed.!
But get them waxoyled and change the oil 2x per year I neglected mine!
Protect your subframes !!!! It’s epidemic as they’re just tin
I got a 2.2 viano and it's brilliant
Any signs of rust at all?
I am trying to get a Vito for a camper conversion. Currently, I have a Renault Grand Scenic, which is fine for camping, but not for living in it
You do see a lot of nice vitos around without rust too, just have to do a good bodywork inspection
I painted my w638 rust spots with white household paint, its not perfect but it looks better than rust.
😂🙌
You have convinced me to definitely *not* get a Vito or a Transporter, I will look for a Hiace!
😂 Lots or people recommending them in the comments
@@dadcars I know I’m just hopping on the band wagon, all the comments that are pro Vito seemed to have owned them nearly new which doesn’t fill me with confidence
Plus side ...Vito has chain driven cam
Minus side injector seals prone to leaking
My favourite quality of this van is what you did with it at Shedfest! Pure Art!
(Your Instagram followers will know what I mean).
I still haven’t cleaned it 😂 get some strange looks driving it around while my car is off getting work done 🙈
You could turn the Vito into a family car ie put a double passenger bench seat in the front and three seats in the back to enable you to use it as a main car.
Yeah I’ve often thought about reinstalling the original 3 across seat in the front for practicality
Got 3 kids soon to have our 4th. New to the channel so i don't know if you've covered this already. But what is your dad to day runner for your family of 6???? Just asking for a friend 😉
I just posted a new video which features our main family car 👍
Thanks I'll go take a look now. Look forward to seeing what it is ✨👍✨@@dadcars
I’ve had mk1 6 seater then I bought a mk2 with fold down/ away seats.I had to get rid coz of rust issues that could not be resolved.I’m now on my third one a silver mk3, 13 plate panel van lwb . Having previously had a mk2 that rusted away before my very eyes I was dubious about getting another but after driving everything else I decided to take the risk.
i would definitely recommend them again because they have rectified the issues with rust and adding to that definitely recommend them to anyone who wants low maintenance trouble free motoring.the engines very good and run forever and ever I wouldn’t buy anything else it drives like a car I can honestly tell you that it does corners at high speed I’ve got 18’s on mine with wide ass tires and goes like the clappers and beats most people off the line and I’ve got a lwb!😮I love them !! The absolute Best van on the market!! For sure!
I wished I had a LWB every time I picked up sheet materials in this 🙈 you have to put plasterboard at an angle as it’s slightly too small
great video, even newer ones are half the price
I’m about to buy a ex vito taxi for my Saint Bernards means dogs can step in instead of me lifting the back ends lol 😆 I’ve been through every car make model for giant breeds who don’t jump and vito is perfect and I get some comfort too. The mileage is 250k but it’s been serviced twice year in mint no rust lol 😂 I still want my vito Thank you 😊 great video and funny 😆
I’m also ex employee of Chrysler and I’ve always loved a Mercedes’ great product with comfort, I find vw little basic and seats are always too hard. Just one lady’s opinion. Xx
Just don't drive it through large puddles like i did. I'd bumped up onto the kerb so as to minimise the risk, but the kerb dropped down as it was an entrance to an industrial estate and i came to juddering halt soon after as the engine seized completely. Being an automatic it didn't respond well when i revved the engine. So that cost me £1000 on the insurance excess, and I found out the hard way that Mercs don't like murky water. Judging by the rust on your van, it's probably not that keen on clear water!
Ooo sounds nasty… to be fair the underside of mine isn’t too bad 😊
Engine water ingress is what killed it. The lesson is to approach deep puddles slowly so as not to create a bow wave. A BMW 3 and a Mercedes C class soon joined me in grief, and yet a Bentley put the puddle to the muddle and sailed through, and couple of Fords also managed to ford this temporary ford. They were obviously Focused enough during this Transit-ion to not get Cortina trap!
@@josephdaly3327 EVs get written off like this as well 😬
Brilliant!
New subscriber😊
🙌😎
Is this the same Vito that you brought to shedfest a couple of weeks ago? I’m sure it had writing all over it?
This was the week before shedfest so we hadn’t drawn all over it yet 😅
I have a Mk1 Vito, Rusty as hell. One thing you didn't mention was fuel consumption. I struggle to get 30mpg, I rented a Peugeot Expert a few years ago and I got an easy 55mpg.
And the Peugeot hardly rusts
I fill up the tank on this and it lasts FOREVER! 😅
Does it come with sliding doors on both sides? Most affordable used vw transporters seem to have a sliding door on only one side
That’s a great point I could have included! Yes vitos have sliding doors both sides 👌
@@dadcars Just checked used car listings, it seems the even more expensive 'multivan' VW versions were the transporters with seats and two sliding doors. (Current multivan is a whole different car altogether)
Sadly very few (or none?) petrol Vito listed. I'm aiming for Petrol as it's likely Diesel will be first to get banned in city centres for non-commercial use.