The Volkswagen Caddy California is a compact campervan, offering a blend of everyday usability and weekend adventure capabilities. Built form the versatile Caddy platform the California model adds camping equipment such as a fold-out bed and kitchenette. This guide provides a Kiwi perspective on owning and maintaining a 2020+ Caddy California.
Potential issues for the 2020+ Caddy California include: Same mechanical concerns as standard Caddy (suspension, AdBlue, sliding doors); wear and tear on camping equipment (bed mechanisms, kitchenette components); auxiliary battery failures or issues with the charging system; water leaks from pop-up roof seals; and corrosion from exposure to coastal environments. Regular inspection of all systems is crucial.
WOF considerations for the Caddy California include: Same as standard Caddy (lights, tyres, brakes, rust); ensure camping equipment is securely mounted and doesn't pose a safety hazard; check operation of safety features like seatbelts and airbags; and inspect auxiliary battery for secure mounting and proper ventilation. If the vehicle has a gas installation, it must meet NZ safety standards.
Combining the practicality of the Caddy with camping capability presents unique maintenance considerations. While the underlying mechanics are similar to the standard Caddy, additional items such as the pop-up roof (if equipped), camping equipment, and auxiliary battery system require specialized attention. NZ owners will enjoy the flexibility of this vehicle for weekend getaways.