We’re huge fans of the Volkswagen Transporter. This reliable and spacious van has been a staple on the commercial vehicle scene for as long as we can remember, outselling many other van makes and models for decades – its volume of sales was a whopping 12.4 million at last count! Unlike many of its rivals, it is a titan when driven off the beaten track too, making it the ideal choice for long distance travel.
Like any good off-roader however, its versatility, reliability, safety and sense of adventure rely on its upgrades and aftermarket replacements. Here we give you a rundown of the best parts for your VW Transporter to get you started…
Rival Underbody Protection
All those long journeys can take their toll on your Transporter. Whether you are a thrill seeker or a more leisurely adventurer, your VW Transporter needs protection in all the right places to stay in tip top condition. Here Van Camping Life explains why a camper or motorhome like the Transporter might need underbody protection:
“Skid plates have been designed to protect your vehicle from damage. The undercarriage is not the most romantic or sexy part of a vehicle, but a lot of critical stuff resides under there, and it is essential to protect it from harm. While they’re intended for off-roading, some people install skid plates on regular vehicles that sit low to avoid damage from high-speed bumps or other road obstacles.”
We stock Rival Skid Plate Underbody Protection, including their complete 3-piece kit, for the T5 and T6. These heavy duty skid plates are designed for off-road protection, with their stamped construction and corrosion resistant polymer finish as tough as they come.
ARB BASE Rack
When creating a home away from home in your Transporter camper, it can be difficult to find space for those extra supplies. With the ARB BASE Rack, you can enjoy the best of both worlds, saving essential space inside the cab for you and your passengers while stowing the essentials you need up top.
Team this with the fact that this unique modular roof rack system is completely configurable and you can create a setup that suits your exact requirements ahead of your next adventure.
Dometic FreshLight Unit
If your trip is taking you to warmer climes, you’ll want to upgrade your van to stay cool during your travels.
Our Dometic FreshLight Air Conditioning and Heating Unit is up to the task, providing a high quality roof mounted system, efficient ventilation and quiet operation. The unit is also the first of its kind with an integrated roof light window, ensuring effective cooling without compromising natural daylight.
Koni Dampers
Under the hood, your Transporter can also be enhanced. Transform its suspension with our Koni Dampers. These heavy duty shock absorbers are ideal for use both on the road and off. Choose between Koni’s user-adjustable Special Dampers and self-adjusting Active Dampers to find the right upgrade for you and your van.
evcX Bluetooth Throttle Controller
If you want to step up your van’s performance without major mechanical overhauls, the evcX Bluetooth Throttle Controller should be on your list of must-have Transporter upgrades.
This award-winning device tunes into the responsiveness of your accelerator pedal, allowing you to sharpen or dampen your throttle response at will. By providing new points of reference for your Transporter’s throttle mapping, you can unlock better response, reduced lag, enhanced acceleration, and an improved driving experience overall.
ARB Premium Recovery Kit
Don’t be left high and dry during your next adventure. Make sure you have the recovery and self-rescue supplies you need onboard by investing in the ARB Premium Recovery Kit. Featuring a snatch strap, tree trunk protector, winch extension strap, recovery damper, recovery gloves, D-shackles and snatch block all packaged in a large recovery bag, this kit is an upgrade you really shouldn’t be without.
Shop all the VW Transporter parts and accessories mentioned above and more here at 4×4 Works.