The VWT25 is a popular van and motorhome, in part because it is bigger and cheaper than older Type 2 Splittie and Bay Window motorhomes. It was produced from 1980 to 1991. You will find the same model described as the Volkswagen T3 and Vanagon in the US.
But many VW T25s are over 20 years old, so it’s really worth researching and looking at various trucks before you buy. Rust and rot can cause problems and expensive to repair, so take this guide to check for rust and rot when you see.
Ask the owner
If you talk to the owners, you will have a good idea of the history of the vehicle, how it has been used and what maintenance it receives. Find out how often you drive. Have you been off the road for some time? You want to know that the vehicle is used or vacationed regularly. Take your time, look at a series of examples, and you will know what to expect for your money.
Bring a ladder, a flashlight, a magnet, and old clothes. Always test the vehicle and always look in good light during the day.
First body check
Now let’s get down to inspection. All T 25 vans are over 17 years old, so the bodywork is unlikely to be perfect. First check for marks, dents, and ripples on the body panels by looking to the sides.
Then use your magnet if you find any suspicious marks or lumps, to find out how much filler is under the paint. The vehicle may have been in a serious accident.
Decide if you can live with any blemishes or if you are happy to pay someone to do the work.
Check the seams
Check the body seams, this is important. Most of the rust on the VW t25s starts between the body panels and you will see it coming out from under the paint. To make the repair, you’ll need to sandblast the old sealant between the panels, treat the area, and repaint it.
Also check that all the seams that should be there are there. They have sometimes been soldered or filled in (use the ‘fridge magnet again) and of course there may be something nasty lurking underneath.
Another key area to check is the ceiling. Get on the ladder and look around the roof gutters; they can be another problem area for rust. if there is a pop-top, check where it is connected; this can be a problem too, especially with less professional and DIY conversions.
Wheel arches
The chassis is very resistant and does not usually have serious oxidation problems. But the front steps and rear wheel arches can be affected, as can the battery tray, so check them carefully. Also check for rust under the front wheel arches. This can cause rust within 30cm of a suspension or a seat belt, so it can be an MOT fault and make the VW T25 illegal. Lift up the mats to see the seat belt mounts and make sure they are rust free.
Check the fuel tank too, as they can rot on top! There is a recess in the top designed to fit some model variations, which is great for trapping dirt and moisture, then rust settles.
Check the windows
Take a good look around the windows as rust here can be a problem and also check the window rubbers for wear. They can be replaced quite easily, but they are an expensive item. Check for long-term leaks as they can damage internal accessories such as cabinets or seats, as well as providing a place for rust to start and spread. At the front, leaking windshield rubbers can mean that there is water in the footwell, so lift the floor mats to check for rust.
So there it is – a quick but comprehensive guide to checking bodywork and rust when you’re looking to buy a VW T-25 or Vanagon van or caravan.