Description
I've owned this Bongo since October 2024, and while it's been a great introduction to van life over the last year and a half, we've decided to move to a larger van. It's a very honest, mechanically solid example that I've spent a fair bit of time and money on to make it reliable and comfortable for actual trips. I've also been using it as my daily driver and its size is incredibly convenient; large enough for plenty of stuff, small enough to park at the supermarket.
MECHANICALS AND RELIABILITY
Overheating is a common concern for Bongos; I've had the rear heater matrix replaced (a common weak point) and fitted a low coolant alarm for peace of mind. Since I've had it, it's also had a new alternator, fresh discs and pads all round and a fresh front windscreen. It's the 2.5L V6 petrol, which is supposed to be much smoother and quieter on the motorway than the diesels. It starts on the first turn and the automatic box is very smooth.
INTERIOR & INSULATION
I've redone the floor to make it a bit more modern. I stripped it back to the bare metal, treated the floor pan with rust-inhibiting paint (it was very clean anyway), and laid down proper sound deadening and thermal insulation before putting the new vinyl floor in. I have photos of the bare floor and the insulation process which I've included in the gallery to show the condition beneath the surface. It's noticeably quieter to drive and stays much warmer at night than a standard van.
It's currently a 5-seater (potential for 6 seater with the rear flip down seat) with a side kitchen unit which has a 2 ring hob and sink with tap. It's a very versatile setup, easy to park in town and you've still got the seats for daily use, but you can be set up for camping pretty quickly. The electric pop-top (Auto-Freetop) works exactly as it should.
FURTHER DETAILS
Mileage: The clock is in KM and reads 133,000 (roughly 85k miles).
Condition: Structurally very sound. There are a couple of small surface spots starting to show on the paintwork here and there, but it's in very good shape for a 2000-plate van. Thees spots are slightly more pronounced since these pictures were taken but can provide updated pictures. Listed price is reflective of condition.
Sensors: I have brand new front and rear parking sensors to replace the old ones.
I'm based in Cardiff and more than happy to show people around or answer any questions.