2012 Volkswagen California 2.0L Diesel · YY62 ABU
2012 Volkswagen California (2.0L, diesel). First registered 31 Oct 2012. Recorded mileage 91,606 miles. MOT valid until 10 Nov 2026. Taxed until 01 Jan 2027.
- Make & Model
- VOLKSWAGEN CALIFORNIA
- Year / Origin
- 2012 · Beverley / Hull
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 10 Nov 2026
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 Jan 2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 91,606 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 6 Diesel)
- Fuel & Engine
- Diesel · 2.0L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
AI-generated interpretation of this vehicle’s MOT record — not an official statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
YY62 ABU Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 21/10/2025
- 91,606 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- No defects recorded at the latest MOT
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
YY62 ABU MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 2012 Volkswagen California (YY62 ABU) between November 2022 and October 2025.
The record contains 4 passes and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 21 October 2025 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 1 failure that buyers may want to investigate.
Recorded failure items include: “Offside Front Anti-roll bar ball joint likely to become detached (5.3.4 (a) (ii))”.
YY62 ABU Mileage History
- 01/11/202271,764 mi
- 16/10/202374,188 mi+2,424 mi
- 05/11/202482,255 mi+8,067 mi
- 05/11/202482,266 mi+11 mi
- 21/10/202591,606 mi+9,340 mi
Average of roughly 6,680 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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MOT Roadworthiness: Good
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Digital Service History
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Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
A solid option for a camper enthusiast, provided the service history matches the clean recent MOT records. The vehicle shows consistent usage patterns and a relatively clean recent testing history.
When inspecting this 2.0L diesel California, focus on the camper conversion elements alongside the mechanicals. While the MOT records for this specific vehicle do not show mechanical failures, you should verify the operational status of the pop-top roof, heating systems, and water pumps, as these are not covered by standard MOT inspections.
Negotiate based on the documented service history. Given the mileage is just over 90,000 miles, check if the cambelt and water pump have been replaced, as this is a critical maintenance item for the 1968cc engine. Ensure there is evidence of regular oil changes to maintain the health of the diesel engine.
As a 2.0L diesel, running costs will be higher than a standard passenger car but are typical for a vehicle of this weight and purpose. Fuel economy will depend heavily on load and driving style, but you can expect moderate efficiency for a campervan.
Tax and insurance groups for a 2012 California are generally mid-range. Maintenance costs should be budgeted for higher than a standard VW Transporter due to the specialized camper equipment. Estimated annual running costs cover fuel, tax, insurance, and routine maintenance.
The MOT history for YY62ABU shows one failure in November 2024 at 82,255 miles, though no specific defect type was recorded in the summary provided. You should ask the seller for clarification on what caused that specific failure to ensure it was a minor issue and not a sign of neglect.
Beyond the MOT, inspect the underside for signs of corrosion, which is common in older diesel vans. Check the tyre tread and condition, as the 2024 and 2025 tests suggest the vehicle is in active use. Finally, test all electrical components within the living quarters to ensure the conversion remains functional.
This 2012 Volkswagen California, finished in blue, has covered 91,606 miles since its first registration in October 2012. The MOT history shows a consistent testing pattern, with the most recent test in October 2025 recording no defects. While there was a single failure recorded in November 2024 at 82,255 miles, the vehicle has passed all subsequent inspections without recorded defects.
No aggregate reliability data is available for the Volkswagen California to provide a specific model comparison.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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