Used Volkswagen Crafter Towbar

The Crafter runs across two distinct generations: the first generation (2006–2017), which was built on a shared platform with the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, and the second generation (2017–onwards), which moved to VW's own platform and is a completely different vehicle underneath. Towbars are not interchangeable between these two generations, so make sure any used towbar you're sourcing matches your generation. Confirm the exact fit with the breaker against your registration before purchasing.

For the towbar itself, wheelbase and roof height do not directly affect fitment, as the tow hitch attaches to the rear chassis rails which are consistent across wheelbase variants within the same generation. However, if the towbar includes any rear bumper cutout, bracket extensions, or wiring loom routed through the body, the breaker should confirm against your specific vehicle. Always give the breaker your registration so they can cross-reference the chassis details.

Yes, this can matter. The rear door arrangement — barn doors versus a single tailgate — can affect the bumper pressing and the way the towbar bracket sits in relation to the rear apron. A towbar from a barn-door Crafter may not align correctly on a tailgate model, or vice versa, even within the same generation. Confirm with the breaker which door configuration the donor vehicle had before agreeing a purchase.

No — engine size and trim specification have no bearing on towbar fitment for the Crafter. The towbar mounts to the rear chassis, which is the same regardless of whether the donor vehicle was a higher-spec kombi or a basic panel van. You can safely disregard engine and trim differences when sourcing a used towbar, and focus instead on generation, wheelbase if bracket-related, and rear door type.

No, these are different generations. The 2016 Crafter is first generation (2006–2017), while a 2018 Crafter is second generation (2017–onwards), built on an entirely different platform with a redesigned rear end. Towbars from the second generation will not fit first-generation vehicles. Make sure the breaker sources a towbar from the same generation as your van, confirmed against your registration.

Towbars were available across the Crafter range — both generations — and were either factory-fitted or dealer/aftermarket-fitted options on panel vans, kombis, and chassis-cab variants. There is no drivetrain or engine restriction that would prevent a Crafter from being fitted with a towbar, so you are not limited to specific variants when sourcing one used. That said, confirm with the breaker that the towbar and any associated brackets are from a vehicle matching your generation and rear door configuration.