VW Crafter Accessories
In the bustling world of vans, the VW Crafter stands out for its exceptional combination of reliability, versatility, and the opportunity it offers for personalisation. For enthusiasts and professionals alike, enhancing a van is not just about the aesthetic appeal; it’s about improving functionality, efficiency, and making a statement on the road. Incorporating the right VW Crafter accessories can transform a standard vehicle into a bespoke tool, tailored to meet specific needs and tastes. From practical considerations like towing and cargo management to the desire for a distinctive look through alloy wheels and lighting, the choice of accessories can significantly impact both performance and style.
This article zeroes in on the top accessories that elevate the VW Crafter, covering essential add-ons from roof racks and bars for maximising storage solutions to side steps and bars that enhance accessibility. Lighting upgrades, particularly LED, are crucial for those seeking to improve visibility and safety, while alloy wheels offer a blend of strength and elegance for the discerning owner. Front grille enhancements will also be discussed, offering a way to give the vehicle a distinctive face. Through a comprehensive exploration of options including wheels, towing capabilities, lighting, floor mats, and seat covers, readers will be equipped with the knowledge to select the best VW Crafter accessories that not only enhance van styling but also boost functionality and performance.
Roof Racks and Bars
Roof Racks and Bars Features
The Rhino Modular Rack, renowned for its combination of strength, usability, and style, stands out as a leading choice for VW Crafter roof racks in the UK and Europe. Key features include:
- Full-width wedge-shaped aerofoil to reduce wind noise and drag.
- Electroplated steel roller for easy loading.
- High tensile steel construction, electroplated and coated in a matte black finish for durability.
Roof Racks and Bars Installation
Installation of the Rhino Modular Rack is designed to be straightforward:
- The rack sections are bolted together to form a single piece.
- Custom-designed feet and a fitting kit specific to the VW Crafter ensure a perfect fit without the need for drilling.
- The system uses the original mounting points on the van’s roof, making installation manageable for two people.
Roof Racks and Bars Benefits
Owners of the L3 High Roof Volkswagen Crafter will find the Rhino roof racks indispensable for enhancing their vehicle’s functionality. Benefits include:
- Improved load stability and security during transit, thanks to 6-inch side rails.
- Easy access to the roof with the help of a full-width rear roller, facilitating the loading of materials such as ladders and panels.
- Each order comes with free UK mainland delivery, ensuring not only cost savings but also convenience.
This section of roof racks and bars not only provides practical solutions for cargo management but also contributes significantly to the van’s overall aesthetic and operational efficiency.
Side Steps and Bars
Side Steps and Bars Styles
VW Crafter side steps are available in various styles, including polished, black side bars, and stainless steel with checker plate steps. Each style is designed not only to enhance the visual appeal of the vehicle but also to ensure durability and functionality. They are crafted from high-quality aluminium, ensuring that they are lightweight yet robust enough to withstand daily use.
Side Steps and Bars Installation
Installing side steps on a VW Crafter can be a straightforward process, although it may require some adjustments depending on the vehicle’s specific configurations such as diesel heaters and water tanks. The side steps are designed to attach to the original mounting points under the vehicle, which simplifies the installation process. However, some users may find they need to modify or adjust the brackets slightly to achieve a perfect fit. It’s advisable to measure and perhaps consult fitting guides or professional services if uncertainties arise during installation.
Side Steps and Bars Advantages
The primary advantage of installing side steps on the VW Crafter is the ease of access they provide, making it significantly easier to enter and exit the vehicle. This is particularly beneficial for models with a higher ground clearance. Moreover, side steps protect the sill of the vehicle from scratches and dents. They also add an element of safety, as most are equipped with plastic strips or studs that provide grip and prevent slipping. Many of the available models are TÜV/ABE approved, indicating they meet high safety and quality standards.
LED Lighting Upgrades
LED Lighting Upgrades Options
Volkswagen Crafter II owners can significantly enhance their vehicle’s lighting system with the High Performance LED Conversion Kit. This kit includes:
- 4500 Lumens per bulb for exceptional brightness.
- 8 PREMIUM LEDs per bulb, ensuring top quality and performance.
- Pure white light colour for a modern, effective look.
- No ODB error messages post-installation.
- 360° adjustable beam for optimal light direction.
- Sturdy construction with aviation aluminium material.
LED Lighting Upgrades Installation
The installation process for the LED lighting upgrades is designed to be user-friendly and straightforward:
- The LED Conversion Kit is 100% plug and play, requiring no modifications to your headlights.
- Installation involves a simple replacement of the original bulbs with the new LED bulbs.
- A removable fastener ring allows for easy adjustment and a perfect fit, ensuring a 360° beam alignment tailored specifically for the Volkswagen Crafter II.
LED Lighting Upgrades Benefits
Upgrading to LED lighting not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the VW Crafter but also improves functionality and safety:
- The intense brightness and clarity of the LEDs ensure greater visibility during night driving.
- LED bulbs have a longer lifespan and consume less power compared to traditional halogen bulbs.
- The pure white light enhances the modern look of the vehicle.
- Automatic features like Dynamic Light Assist and High Beam Assist adjust the beam intensity and angle based on driving conditions and oncoming traffic, significantly improving road safety.
These upgrades provide a combination of style, efficiency, and enhanced visibility, making them a valuable addition for any VW Crafter owner looking to improve their vehicle’s lighting system.
Alloy Wheels
Alloy Wheels Designs
Volkswagen Crafter owners have a variety of alloy wheel designs to choose from, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of their vehicles. Popular designs include the classic 5-spoke, multi-spoke, and innovative turbine styles. These designs not only offer visual enhancement but also ensure even weight distribution across the wheel. Colour options range from silver and black to more unique shades like anthracite, chrome, and bronze, allowing for further personalisation.
Alloy Wheels Fitment
Selecting the right alloy wheels involves considering several key fitment parameters to ensure optimal performance and compatibility with the VW Crafter. Important factors include the rim size, which typically ranges from 16 to 20 inches, and the bolt circle, often 6×130 mm. The offset (ET) of the wheel is crucial as it affects how the wheels sit in relation to the car’s bodywork. Proper fitment enhances the vehicle’s stability and ensures the wheels operate within safety margins.
Alloy Wheels Advantages
Alloy wheels offer significant advantages over traditional steel wheels. They are lighter, which reduces the unsprung weight of the vehicle, leading to improved acceleration, braking, and fuel efficiency. The enhanced heat dissipation properties of alloy wheels also benefit the braking system by reducing brake fade and extending the life of brake components. Additionally, the strength and durability of alloy wheels make them a cost-effective choice, withstanding harsh conditions while maintaining their aesthetic appeal. This upgrade not only boosts the vehicle’s performance but also its resale value, making alloy wheels a worthwhile investment for VW Crafter owners.
Front Grille Enhancements
Front Grille Enhancements Styles
Volkswagen Crafter owners can opt for a distinctive upgrade with the ABS Honeycomb inserts, specifically designed for models from 2017 onwards. These inserts are made from durable ABS plastic and finished in matte black, offering a robust and stylish addition to the vehicle’s front. Not only do they enhance the visual appeal, but they are also re-paintable, allowing for further personalisation.
Front Grille Enhancements Installation
The installation process for the honeycomb grille inserts is straightforward and requires no modifications to the vehicle. These inserts fit perfectly into the existing gaps of the grille body and are secured with screws provided. The entire assembly process is quick, taking no more than 5 minutes, making it an accessible upgrade for most owners.
Front Grille Enhancements Impact
Installing these grille enhancements not only boosts the aesthetic appeal of the VW Crafter but also serves as a practical modification. The honeycomb design not only adds a tough, rugged look but also allows for potential modifications such as the addition of Go-Pro accessories or other devices, enhancing the functionality of the vehicle. This upgrade is particularly appealing for those using their Crafter as a motorhome or for more intensive commercial use, providing both style and utility.
Conclusion
Through the exploration of top VW Crafter accessories, this article has illustrated how strategic enhancements can significantly augment both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of the vehicle. From the indispensable utility of roof racks and bars to the sleek allure of alloy wheels, each accessory has been scrutinised not only for its immediate benefits but also for its contribution to the overall performance and style of the Crafter. The detailed examination of items such as LED lighting upgrades and front grille enhancements has offered a clear pathway for owners to customise their vans, ensuring better visibility, safety, and a distinctive presence on the road.
Emphasising the importance of selecting the right accessories, this guide serves as a comprehensive source for VW Crafter owners seeking to personalise their vehicle to match their professional needs and personal taste. As we’ve journeyed through the options available, the potential for further research and deeper exploration into each accessory category becomes apparent, encouraging owners to consider how each addition might meet their specific requirements. Whether it’s for improved practicality, enhanced safety, or simply elevating the van’s aesthetic, the careful curation of accessories can transform a standard VW Crafter into a finely-tuned machine that stands out from the rest.
FAQs
1\. How long can you expect a VW Crafter to last?
A Volkswagen Crafter typically has a lifespan of up to 168,000 miles before it may reach the upper limit of its expected life.
2\. Is the Volkswagen Crafter a reliable vehicle?
The Crafter embodies many traditional Volkswagen qualities reminiscent of models from around a decade ago. This translates to a van that’s robust, thoughtfully designed, and equipped with practical features that are quite useful. The infotainment system, for instance, is similar to that found in the Mk7.
3\. Who competes with the VW Crafter in the market?
The main competitors of the VW Crafter are the TGE and the Sprinter. Other alternatives include the Ford Transit, Citroen Relay, Peugeot Boxer, Fiat Ducato, Renault Master, and Vauxhall Movano.
4\. What is the carrying capacity of a VW Crafter?
The maximum payload that a Volkswagen Crafter Panel Van can handle varies depending on the specific model and its configuration. Generally, it can transport between 1,000 KG and 2,500 KG of cargo.