CALIFORNIA BUYING GUIDE – PART 4 of 4
In this, the final section of our VW California buyer’s guide we will spend some time looking at the provided tables, stowaway chairs and optional sun canopy.
TABLES
There are two tables with the California. The inner table, stowed next to the kitchen units and a larger removable table that fits into the sliding door.
Check this moves freely, the leg is secure, look underneath especially at the rivets to ensure no weight has been applied to the table.
For the inner table there is an included strap that hooks around the head restraint to turn it into a work surface – check that this is included. If it is missing a new table strap can be bought for around £13.
For the outdoor table that is stowed in the sliding door, check that the ledge it sits in is firm and has not been stepped on. Open the table to check that it has a levelling screw for uneven ground on one of the legs, and that the legs clip open and close smoothly.
TAILGATE STOWAWAY CHAIRS
In the tailgate there is a zipped compartment for stowing chairs. Check this holder for the chairs; check the zips and rings that hold the seats in place. Take the deck chairs out and open them and check for wear and make sure that all the bolts are in place – these can work loose and so we recommend you tighten every once in a while.
ROLL OUT SUN CANOPY
If included, check that the winder and pegs are with the vehicle. Unwind about 45cm and bring the legs down for support. Then wind the canopy out to it full span. Check the legs and the fittings, check the canvas for stretching and tears.
See that everything winds out and in reasonably smoothly.
REAR PARCEL SHELF / TOOL KIT
Chances are that there will be a degree of wear and tear around the boot area – make sure that this is an acceptable level. Check that the parcel shelf / bed frame can be removed and moved up to or down to the next level as the fixtures for this can suffer a few knocks.
While in the back you should also check the mattress for any signs of damage.
Fitted to the rear bench / bed and accessed from the rear is the toolbox. Check the contents for Jack, Screwdriver, Centre Cap remover, Wheel brace and wheel nut key.
ITEM CHECKLIST
Other items you should have with the vehicle as standard (depending on options).
- Two sets of Keys
- Remote Heating Fob
- Water Cap Key
- Handbook/Roadside Assistance Book/ Service Book
- Cutlery Insert
- Emergency Roof Strap
- Table strap
- Plastic sink bowl
- Sink Plug
- Fridge Basket
- EU hook up Lead
- Sun Canopy Winder
- Four Pegs
- Curtain/Blind Pack
- Mosquito Mesh for Sliding Window
- Rear Mattress
- Top Bed Mattress
- Top Bed Safety Net
- First Aid Kit
- Warning Triangle
- Gas Fittings
- Toolkit
There maybe other extras sold with the vehicle that are not listed above.
We would recommend going to your main dealer or any big Camping and Caravanning Show to check out a new California to see what the vehicle entails, and to use this demonstration as your guide to inspecting a used vehicle.
One of the best ways to try a campervan is to hire first; a test drive and demo won’t let you get a feel for what it would be like to live in a 5m by 2m vehicle for any extended period.
We would highly recommend that you hire with campervantastic.com on a “try before you buy” deal. The friendly staff have a wealth of experience between them and will talk you through every aspect of the Campervan ensuring it is the right vehicle for you.
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CONTINUED IN THE NEXT SECTIONS >> PART ONE || PART TWO || PART THREE || PART FOUR
