Which van for me

[jimwilli]

I keep chucking a few bob at my nearly 20 year old van every year. It doesn't really trouble me too much less than 500 a year I see it as equal to depreciation and I know the vehicle.

Clutch seems to be on the way out now and I've noticed a bit of rot starting on the cills. I know it's not a great time to buy used but just wondering which van I should keep my eye on.

I'm not brand loyal or specific but it's hard to browse and research every make and model I feel I should just focus on a couple or 3.

I'd like something able to fit a sheet of ply, ideally flat but otherwise on edge. Minimum electronics controlling the vehicle and toys in the cab. Simple mechanically, not that I do my own spannering but don't want huge repair bills. Also vans which aren't prone to rot. I can't believe my 04 has only just started showing I'm very happy with that. I'd be looking at something pre 2020 reg, even as old as 2010 ish if it's tidy enough. 3 seats up front.

I suppose it will end up being a transit, Vito (seem to rot a lot?), hiace etc but thought I'd consult the knowledgeable forum on what's best for me?

[bearman68]

Sorry, was going to say our very old Hiace was and is superb. Superbly reliable, very slow and dull to drive, but almost unbreakable.

[crispian22]

I ran a renault trafic 2.0dci from brand new in 06 up until 2 years ago,which I replaced with a T6 transporter, which was the most unreliable piece of muck I've ever had the mis pleasure of owning.
The renualt never let me down in all that time,only having one clutch and the usual consumables,tyres/brakes etc and didn't have one spot of rust anywhere.

I sold the Vw last November and went back to a brand new trafic.

[jimwilli]

That's the thing unless running warranty covered van I don't want to jump out of the fry pan and into the fire.

[gazza285]

Vitos have been galvanised since 2006, they don't rust anymore. I have a 2013 Vito with zero rust.