- The Mercedes Sprinter has been involved in the most recall incidents among the UK’s most popular vans.
- The VW Crafter and Ford Transit Connect have experienced the fewest recalls, with just one incident recorded each from 2020 to 2024.
- Tempcover advises checking vehicle recall history and keeping an eye out for manufacturer updates to minimise risk.
For many van drivers, having a reliable vehicle is a top priority to keep them on the road and their business moving. So, when a van is recalled due to an issue identified by the manufacturer, it can lead to unexpected downtime, delays, and lost income.
Tempcover, experts in temporary van insurance, analysed how often the UK’s most popular van models from 2020 to 2024 were affected by manufacturer recalls during the same period, offering useful insights for those considering their next vehicle.
The Top Five Most Recalled Vans
Of the UK’s most popular van models, the Mercedes Sprinter has been involved in the highest number of recall incidents from 2020 to 2024, with 32 instances recorded. These recalls were due to a range of issues, including software and electronic system malfunctions, potential mechanical failures, and safety concerns involving seat mechanisms and electrical wiring.
The Ford Transit and Vauxhall Vivaro rank in joint second place, each with 13 recall incidents recorded between 2020 and 2024.
| Model | Total vehicles recalled 2020-2024* | Total recalls 2020-2024 |
| Mercedes Sprinter | 246,724 | 32 |
| Ford Transit | 104,003 | 13 |
| Vauxhall Vivaro | 21,576 | 13 |
| Peugeot Expert | 35,534 | 11 |
| Ford Transit Custom | 119,113 | 9 |
* Figures for each recall include all models involved in a given recall, so the number for each individual model may be inflated.
Vans with the Fewest Recalls
The data also explored which of the UK’s most popular van models were involved in the least number of van recall incidents. The VW Crafter and Ford Transit Connect ranked with the least number of recall incidents, with one recorded between 2020 and 2024.
| Model | Total vehicles recalled 2020-2024* | Total recalls 2020-2024 |
| VW Crafter | 104 | 1 |
| Ford Transit Connect | 9 | 1 |
| Renault Trafic | 1,202 | 3 |
| Peugeot Partner | 31,315 | 3 |
| Vauxhall Combo | 2,270 | 3 |
* Figures for each recall include all models involved in a given recall, so the number for each individual model may be inflated.
Tips for Van Drivers
To help van drivers make informed decisions and minimise disruptions to their business, Tempcover provide some key tips to consider when it comes to recalls and vehicle maintenance:
- Research Recall History: Before purchasing a van, check its recall history to understand any past safety issues or recurring faults that could cause unexpected downtime.
- Keep Up with Manufacturer Updates: Stay informed about updates. Even if your vehicle isn’t recalled, software or part updates can improve reliability and safety.
- Stay on Top of Maintenance: Regular servicing can help detect or prevent issues early. While it won’t avoid a formal recall, it can reduce the risk of related problems.
Claire Wills-Mckissick, temporary van insurance expert at Tempcover, adds:
“While vehicle recalls can be disruptive, staying proactive with maintenance and keeping up with manufacturer updates can help minimise risk. And if your van does get recalled and you need to borrow a van at short notice, temporary van insurance offers a simple, flexible solution, so you can stay covered and keep your business moving.”
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