Why Choose A Mazda Bongo? My Likes and Dislikes!

Here's a few of my reasons for buying a Mazda Bongo. Let me know your likes and dislikes in the comments!
Bonus drinking game - Take a sip every time I say the word "Bongo" :)
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[@scottpaxton2043]

Great vid as always mate makes me smile every time i drive mine also most are 4x4 so go were other campers dont great off grid and with the size again goes were others dont with ease

[@sarahvegangarden4822]

Lovely list of pros and cons. Good one! 👍

[@deborahgriggs891]

Nice summary of the pros and cons. I've had my Bongo 5 years and it just makes me smile. Can't wait to get out and about again!

[@VantasticIdeas]

Thanks! They do make you smile :) I agree, really itching to get back out and enjoy visiting new places!

[@RetroGamesCollector]

I agree with you regarding maintenance being key with the Bongo. I've had 2 x 2.5TDs over the past 9 years and never had a problem. But that's because I didn't expect 24 year old hoses to not split on me, so replaced them. And yes, there isn't even an issue with bleeding a Bongo if you fit a bleed kit (easy to fit yourself) which takes any air out of your system and leads it into your header tank. Size, like you say, is contentious. I love the size of the Bongo because it fits in any standard car parking space and we use an awning when camping. Not even found rust a particular problem to be honest, they are no worse than a 20 year old VW van in my experience.

[@VantasticIdeas]

Yes age is the key thing to remember with them. Rust is currently my biggest issue, but nothing that can't be sorted. For me this has been the most reliable vehicle I've owned, so I'm not complaining! If I had the diesel I would 100% put one of those bleed kits on as they sound like the solution (the 2ltr is self bleeding so no probs). Thanks for your post 👍

[@keithmiller7702]

Have you got a picture of the bleedkit or where one can find one, thank you

[@BackPackMac]

As a Bongo owner (I'm on my second as I regretted selling the first), I thought I might throw in some additional pro's : a) Front windows wind covers - open a crack and you have weatherproof ventilation all the time. b) Rear tail-gate - pack up in the rain without soaking stuff in the back - Also I have converted mine with a shower curtain for off-grid showering c) Get the passenger Seat swivel installed - you will never regret it d) Electric elevating roof with full fly net - hassle free setup

[@VantasticIdeas]

Totally agree!! so many pro's to these vans, the video could stretch to over an hour :) I would like to have the swivel seat at some point (I've made my own little seat behind the passenger seat for now (which is working out pretty good). Thanks for your additions!

[@TheHappyWanderers1]

Great vid m8. Some good tips in there. I did a similar sort of vid on my channel last year. I agree with the size thing. They are so versatile being the same width as a car. Enjoy your vids keep them coming. Stay safe.

[@VantasticIdeas]

Thanks! I'll check out your channel, more bongo vids the better!

[@flanners41]

Nice review had mine for 4 years, 2.0 2002 rear conversion with led lights, flattened middle swivel seat etc in a tin top which for me is the best layout as used a lot as a day van when cycling/MTB, together with a seasonal roof top tent. For the money/features a great functional van; never had the urge to buy something else it just does what I want with the 2.0 lump being so reliable; no need to spend more. Perfect size usable but discreet for wild camps/height restrictions and car parks etc. Thule bike rack also used with a BackUp box as and when needed for keeping clutter/cargo from interior. Had some great memorable trips and days away.

[@VantasticIdeas]

Sounds similar to mine, very adaptable vans! Good to hear you like the 2.0 engine, like you say it is very reliable. Those roof tents look awesome, more room than my aftermarket pop top! Cheers 👍👍

[@helenhamill6217]

We are looking to buy a Bongo in the best month or so ..out first ,to enjoy our retirement Your page has been excellent explaining so much thank you

[@VantasticIdeas]

Hi! Thank you for the positive feedback 👍 I'm really glad your enjoying the content. I hope your search for the right Bongo goes well 😁

[@theswingbeans6058]

Thanks. I like my Bongo van. It was imported to Australia from Japan and set up as a camper by Oz Motorhomes in Brisbane. Good for going to music festivals, though festivals are not happening during these Covid times!

[@VantasticIdeas]

A Bongo + Australia = living the dream!! my first campervan was in Australia, loved every minute touring there. Hopefully we can back to sort of normal and enjoy our vans again. Cheers 👍

[@TECHMOvoice]

I read so much on Facebook groups about problems with rust and I never thought the reason is that Bongos are not prepared for salt on roads. I'm happy to use mine in Japan :)

[@VantasticIdeas]

Yes, salt is like kryptonite to the bongo! Nice to hear of a fellow Bongo owner in the birth place of the Bongo!! do you see many around now?

[@tony3444]

Great channel I've had my bongo 4 years never had a problem I fitted a coolant alarm and a self bleed kit ,I did crash once coming down bealach na bar up Scotland I learnt to weld like you lol

[@VantasticIdeas]

Thanks!! Glad your liking the channel 👍 Welding is definitely the skill to have 😂

[@mikeonb4c]

Enjoyed watching that. Have had my one Bongo (2wd diesel) for nearly 16 years and here's some random thoughts to add to those excellent ones from you and others: * Mid engine is a huge plus in its role as a day van when you might want to park up on a cold day and admire the view while having lunch - Bongo interior stays warm thanks to the 'storage radiator' when other cars would get cold and mist up quicker. Mid engine also helps handling balance and wheel traction in poor conditions * Both diesel and v6 need special bleeding * Only 4wd option is diesel * Rust is THE big issue to watch for on all but best fresh imports. The Bongo uses thinner steel than similar age Toyotas and some design and construction details are poor. I've heard it said that the design life was 10 years (being a Japan only weekend/day van and in Japan they don't keep cars to a grand old age due to v strict MOT test). So with all that and UK using salt, rust triumphs * As a true value for money MPV the Bongo is almost matchless. I kept mine unconverted as it was to be my only and everyday car, and with 3 children and friends to cart around. It has the AFT roof and I planned maybe to camp in it but reckoned if I didn't its car like width would make it an easy everyday car. That has all turned out 100% right, kids now grown so its now a single mans bed on wheels in retirement, and a day van where electric blinds (all closeable at once from drivers seat) give instant privacy from prying eyes for whatever you need to do inside! * The head went on my diesel at 9 yrs in for no reason. Still cheaper to fix than most modern cars. The diesel is a wonderful torquey engine in the Bongo and the best for load lugging over hill and dale * Some spares are getting tricky but its a great sign that Bongo businesses (like Bongospares in Halifax) are getting organised on breaking and keeping 2nd hand parts. Also www.bongofury.co.uk do great work updating availablity and sourcing parts * I've always felt, and the enduring affection for it seems to support this, that the Bongo is a classic design. Be very eyes wide open if you go buying an old one, do your research, don't rush to buy and have a budget (and welder) for restoring and repairing it. But 16 years into ownership its still the only vehicle I really want to drive. Something magic about it, and like The Tardis, just as you said :-)

[@VantasticIdeas]

Thanks for taking the time to make such a superb list. Great points Mike, 100% agree with them all. Glad to see a fellow enthusiast and a veteran at that! they really are a great design, just wish they were still in production. Cheers 👍

[@mike76rob]

Just my experience from owning a diesel Bongo, I have never had an issue with bleeding the van and I have changed to coolant several times now but I have bled it the same as I have any other vehicle I have owned. The rust side I have to say is a bug bjg bear of mine as all vehicles will rust if they are not sealed up or galvanised so it is not really a Bongo issue, T4's are just as bad really. There are a couple of spots where trim washers fail or grommets perish or in my case simply disappear, water gets in these and boom, rust will always occur if the water isn't drained. Also, for folk that use them as campers with the standard trim with or without a conversion nd then sleep several people in them that is a lot of condensation building up behind the trim that eventually drips away into the body. Good to see a few newer videos of Bongos. I love mine and live in it full time, I always get comments on it no matter where I go especially as I have a self conversion and they love it because it is unusual. I work at a camp site and I have named an area V-Dub Gardens because all yous ee are VW's..! They are are old buses and they will always take work to keep them going but that is the case with all cars/vans/campers etc, Bongos just have a little more character 😉

[@VantasticIdeas]

Hi Mike, thanks for the reply 👍 I don't think I've met anyone that's lived in there's full time! that is pretty cool (I would be happy to live in mine). I can imagine you do see a never ending stream of VW's! I've got to deal with my rusty arches & sills soon, it seems inevitable that they will go at some point, but like you say they are full of character 😁 cheers!

[@SoulMedicine14u]

Really helpful. Thank you

[@VantasticIdeas]

Thanks 👍

[@KevinSmith-tm4gb]

Good video the comment about rust on the rear wheel arch as soon as I got my Bongo the first job was to fill the ledge with car body filler before I had it undersealed no sign of rust as mud and muck can't gather on the ledge hope this helps.

[@VantasticIdeas]

Thanks! I wish I'd done that with mine when I first got it. It's such a mud trap in there. Another thing that I will be doing when I finally weld in new arches is spray Dynax s50 on the inside seams of the arches as they also rot from inside out. For an extra layer of protection, I'll be adding insulation to prevent condensation forming on the inside. Hopefully all that will help!! :)

[@bobi2582]

I love my Bongo (2.5 AWD Diesel) but have experienced the dreaded overheating in the past, due to a replacement radiator which the Garage didn't bleed right and an Air Lock blew off the top hose!! Also had the Auto Gearbox go on it at a rebuild cost of £2,300. I have since found a really good, old school Bongo Mechanic and she's running well now, although I always keep one eye on the TM1 overheat alarm! I have a side conversion from Clearcut Conversions with lots of storage, a Propex blown air heater, 4 Bike Carrier, Fiamma 45S wind out Shade Awning (made some sides to make a room of it) and I carry a large Drive Away awning, which is a bit of a faff after a long drive and when it's wet. My likes and dislikes are similar to yours but my blinds will only work with the ignition on so I just pull them most of the time. I am planning on selling her soon and getting a slightly larger Autosleeper so that we don't need to worry auto the awning as we are not getting any younger!

[@VantasticIdeas]

Ouch, the overheating issue is always a concern! and that was an unfortunately costly outcome!! sounds like you have a very nice Bongo there with all the bells and whistles! shame you need to sell, but I totally understand, these vans won't last forever anyway so it's natural to move on (something bigger sounds good). Good luck with your new van :)

[@bobi2582]

@@VantasticIdeas Cheers. I will be sorry to see it go but it's a bit of a labour of love. Better suited to someone a bit younger!

[@nightwolf1592]

Just ordered a fresh import from a dealer. 2.5 diesel 4x4 and it’s beautiful. It will fully serviced, 12 months MOT, low coolant alarm, fully wax oiled underneath and inside arches etc, new cam belt, full deep clean and valet. 😁

[@VantasticIdeas]

That sounds AWESEOME!! welcome to the club :) It sounds like every box is ticked for what needs doing. Exciting times ahead my friend!!!

[@andrewmackay1515]

Which company supplied your Bongo Night Wolf? I see that there is a few of them, cause I am thinking of buying one and going along that road. Excuse the pun.😊

[@nightwolf1592]

@@andrewmackay1515 Stephen Mcwhirter near Kirby Stephen in Cumbria. I believe he’s just imported several recently.

[@alanblundell6615]

Great informative vid, thanks. Is the Bongo insulated for mild to cold weather? (Cold, damp British summers). Also whats the insulation like for using the upper bed in the pop up top?

[@VantasticIdeas]

Thanks! Nope, it's freezing in winter :) There's room in the wall cavities to insulate though so it's something that can be added. The pop top is also not insulated so fairly cold up there, plenty of layers needed.

[@adamv7228]

I've not long owned my 1st bongo. I wanted one for years and finely got one (tintop) honestly love it!!! It's been blowing the water out the expansion bottle and now I know why 🥳🥳🥳🥳🥳 cheers mate

[@VantasticIdeas]

They are great vans (when they work as they should!!). I would consult a Bongo specialist garage for that problem, better to get professional advice for anything to do with the coolant system. Cheers 👍

[@adamv7228]

@@VantasticIdeas thanx for your advice 👍👍

[@js24765]

30 seconds in and already back where I was lastnight, at 10am, lawlllll

[@Artbox49]

Yep, access from cab to rear is a problem for me too. The interior size is good for me as I'm single so I built a benchbed and store everything underneath. I hated the size of my panel van on narrow country roads. No problem with a Bongo, although other drivers move over because they perceive the van is BIG! The size for parking is fab too. I don't hate the height of the van, I hate the height of carpark barriers! I hate the AFT. Although I love the envy on car owners faces when I press the button to raise the roof! I'd love a solid high top. High wind means less space inside. I made space for a portapotti but when the aft is down, it's difficult! Love the auto gearbox. Hate the price of some repairs. Hate the worry of having more repairs done. That goes for any vehicle though.

[@VantasticIdeas]

Thanks for taking the time to write such a good comment 👍Agree with everything you've listed. I bet the room as a single traveller is superb! I would love to make another conversion based on a side bed (must be very comfy). The porta-potti is a tough nut to crack eh! Cheers 😁

[@Artbox49]

I forgot to add that I took 2 years to decide on a Bongo. Went in a circle - buy another panel van? buy a commercial and convert? buy a microcamper? Full circle led me back to the Bongo. I settled on looking for a 2L petrol as they are simpler, lower maintenance vehicles. (I'm still bad at checking fluids though) Bought the excellent Roary for £5k, have spent about £2k on him, and it looks like it might be worth £10k now. I may be tempted to sell as its so solid underneath so inspection would favour me. Whether I'll be able to part with Roary is another matter!

[@VantasticIdeas]

@@Artbox49 Sounds like you've got a good one. Mines 2L as well and haven't had any major issues thankfully. The question is what to buy next if you sold Roary? I keep thinking what other van would I buy? it's quite tricky, but something more modern and easier for garages to get parts and repair would be a welcome change.

[@keithmiller7702]

Hi there. You inspired us to invest in one of these, and love your ideas. So seeing as we are getting one, we will have a lot of questions. Hope you ready😁😁. The one we looking at has had the following done. No belt was done when I got new head shaft and valves pump thermostat and other stuff Anything specific i should find out or ask before i buy. Thank you

[@VantasticIdeas]

If you are able to take along anyone with knowledge of a Bongo that would be the best way to do it. Do you live anywhere near a Bongo specialist garage or anything like that that you could take it too? There's so many point to watch out for, but main points are check the MOT online (via the REG) for old issues and check they've been sorted properly. Rust is the biggest issue so you will need to get underneath with a torch and check every nook and cranny. Cambelts need changing every 4 years or 40,000 miles. Check coolant pipes. I'm not as good at the mechanical side of things so I would maybe ask for a comprehensive check list on one of the Bongo Groups on Facebook and make a check list from the replies! Take it for a full test drive and make sure it gets to temperature and doesn't make any weird noises isn't a bad idea. Look for any signs of oil leaks (or any liquid leaks of any kind!). These old vans need plenty of TLC and as wonderful as they are you need to be really on guard with them as there are plenty of lemons out there.

[@sarahvegangarden4822]

I usually get in through the side-door, so I can strap the dogs onto the rear seat, then climb through from the back to the front seat to drive. If my shoes are muddy it's not great, but it's good to keep me flexible. 😁

[@VantasticIdeas]

Ha ha, it's maybe a new form of exercise "bongosize"!

[@callumfreebairn8082]

yes, you can give the positives

[@rogerhoman8858]

Great video. I have been considering buying a bongo for some time. As I live in Scotland, the 4 wheel drive diesel would be my first choice, but they are getting old and finding a rust free example probably impossible. Are the 2 ltr petrols all rear wheel drive?

[@VantasticIdeas]

Thanks! The 2 ltr petrol's are all rear 2WD. I believe that some of the 2.5 V6 pretrols that are 4WD? As long as someone has repaired the rust correctly there are good bongo's out there. I wish I had known to look after the arches better (regular cleaning and undersealing) when I first got my van.

[@rogerhoman8858]

@@VantasticIdeas Thank you

[@PhilipPembleton-rm4lm]

Enjoyed the video, as usual very useful. Not sure if you can help me, I've got a 1994 2Lt r Friendee. For a couple of months now the "low coolant" warning light and buzzer is on ,all the time. Coolant level is full, no leaks visable. Do you think I have a faulty sensor, do is need a new coolant container or an I missing something really obvious. Thanks

[@VantasticIdeas]

Do you have the coolant alarm that has the ‘screws in the tank’ type? If so I’ve heard that removing and cleaning the screws can stop this. But it also could be a faulty alarm sensor.

[@PhilipPembleton-rm4lm]

Thanks for the advice, I'll check that out today Please keep the videos coming, one of the very best sites on U Tube

[@BOGZTV_]

How much you purchase your bongo

[@amiverdon2292]

Great video. How do you find the 2.0L eco engine, we exploring Bongo ownership, but some say it's underpowered?

[@VantasticIdeas]

After 5 years of owning the 2ltr it's been totally fine and is apparently the easiest to maintain. As for power, it's not as powerful as the v6 or diesel versions for sure, but it's powerful enough! it is a campervan at the end of the day, so speed isn't top priority. I've been all over in it and it's coped with everything I've thrown at it. It's when it's fully loaded with camping gear and people that it will be most sluggish, but we did a month in France and never once thought about it's power. It will cruise at 70 no problem, but it does need extra revs for bigger hills. I would be happy to buy another 2ltr. Best thing is to do a good test drive in one and see for yourself. If you can find a 2002 onwards version (chassis number SGEW-503208 or SGE3-400091 onwards) it will be compatible with E10 fuel, just worth bearing in mind. Good luck with your search!! 👍👍

[@ladyinthebongo]

Thank you for mentioning our Facebook page 🚐😘

[@VantasticIdeas]

It's such a good resource for Bongo owners, every owner should be a member 🚐💨😀

[@shedendman]

Just had one come in for replacement front and rear cross member,both rotten to the core,trust me,not going to be cheap,anyone done this?

[@Riderdownn]

Hi from Canada! Thinking of buying a petrol v6 bongo friendee from 2000. You really seem to know a lot! What would you recommend that I go over before buying it!? 160kkm seems like little rust.

[@VantasticIdeas]

Hi from the UK! Ideally if you can get it to a garage to check over that would be best. Get it up on ramps and really inspect underneath. See if it's been undersealed, if not it might need doing (not sure if Canada salts roads as they do in the UK?). Front cross member needs checking and wishbones along with sills and arches. Also the coolant pipes need a good inspection. Another thing to ask is if the cambelt (and water pump) has been changed recently if not might need to factor that in, they usually need replacing every 4 years or 40,000 miles. 160km isn't much so that's no problem for these engines. I'm not a mechanic so get as much professional advice as possible. Superb vans if you get a good one :) mines been going strong for 5 years and no major issues.

[@Riderdownn]

@@VantasticIdeas thanks a lot for the response! Lots of salt on the roads here! Really appreciate you taking the time. Love your videos! Cheers

[@muff_jr5760]

When you say earlier models are prone to over heating. What sort of age is that?

[@VantasticIdeas]

I guess all models can be prone to it, as they are old vehicles coolant pipes can fail and if not caught quickly can lead to cracked heads. But it's the diesel models (not so much an age) that are most difficult to bleed (I'm not sure about the V6 petrol models), so if not done correctly they can be more prone. As I mentioned there is a bleed kit for those diesel models to help with that now (my 2ltr petrol has a self bleeding coolant system so is very easy to repair and refill). I really should fit a coolant alarm to catch any overheating issues though. Hopefully a well maintained van will last a long time!

[@glynscothern3876]

Rust ,3\4 new floor 26 to 33 m p g diesel

[@markweatherill]

'Centre' console please!

[@morleysonthemove5624]

Adrian flux insurance is a good company for bongos well campers in general

[@VantasticIdeas]

Agreed 👍

[@brianthompson2537]

Checking oil level on dipstick is a bit of a drag...had my vehicle 8 years and love it despite needing TLC.

[@VantasticIdeas]

Yes it's a pain to check! I have LPG valve saver oil I need to regularly check the level of, so double pain. Gotta love though :)

[@ladyinthebongo]

I can see my orange bongo x

[@VantasticIdeas]

😀I wondered if you would spot that! We actually chatted on the campsite for a while. Your van is Bongo royalty 👍

[@sarahvegangarden4822]

To me, this feature is a con but other people might find it a pro: when I unlock the driver's door from the inside, it automatically unlocks all the doors including the boot. Then, when I exit from the driver's door and lock it from the outside, it only locks that one door, so then I need to go round and individually lock each door in turn, remembering to lock the boot as well! Is it just my Bongo, or do they all do that? (That's another reason I don't bother unlocking the driver's door, and just climb in and out between the seats and out of the side-door, so I know the only door that's been unlocked is the side-door.)

[@VantasticIdeas]

I've never tried that? I usually just use the central locking key fob. I'll see if mine does that tomorrow!

[@scottpaxton2043]

Yes its just yours mine locks all doors from the key on the drivers side

[@bobi2582]

Yes, the drivers side should lock and unlock all doors.

[@VantasticIdeas]

@@bobi2582 Yep, mine does it too.

[@gavinaucote7059]

That will be a broken wire in the door shut, mine used to do that but found a wire that had split and now it locks them all

[@LeedsRider]

Picking up my newly imported and converted Bongo in two weeks. Only had to sell a kidney to get it. So excited though!

[@VantasticIdeas]

😂 I know what you mean! You won't regret it, superb vans. Good times 👍👍

[@erinpein3892]

What do you mean by converter?

[@LeedsRider]

@@erinpein3892 Converted into a campervan. Had the conversion company remove the standard seats and fit a kitchen unit. She's been absolutely perfect since I bought her 😊

[@1TheVanFulpen4]

Up to 30 mpg for a van? That's insane

[@tmo2798]

I get 23 mpg in a 1.8 NB MX-5 Miata.

[@sarahvegangarden4822]

Please do a video on overheating and bleeding? All new to me.

[@VantasticIdeas]

I'll try, I need someone with a diesel to cover both types of engine.

[@sarahvegangarden4822]

@@VantasticIdeas Mine's a diesel. I need to fit a coolant alarm, or get one fitted. Steep learning curve.

[@bobi2582]

@@sarahvegangarden4822 A TM1 alarm is a must on a diesel. Mine monitors the engine cylinder head temperature which is set to alarm at 98C. It also monitors the coolant level in the expansion bottle so that if you spring a leak it will also alarm. The standard temperature gauge is not good enough on its own. When mine overheated, the gauge on the dash was still sitting happily in the middle whilst the TM1 alarm was showing 100C.

[@sarahvegangarden4822]

@@bobi2582 Thank you. I've never heard of a TM1 alarm. I take it that's different from a standard coolant alarm? So much to learn! Is it the sort of thing a muggle like me could fit or do I need to take it to a garage - or even to a specialist Bongo garage? Cheers!

[@bobi2582]

@@sarahvegangarden4822 Mine was already fitted but I don't think it's too hard. The worst of it is the sensor that blots to the cylinder block and another one that you have to drill a small hole, just below the water line in the expansion bottle. Contact Bongo Fury. They will put you right.

[@johnminshell6532]

Best Camper Van , But Nightmare Coolant problems finally got rid of it ,

[@VantasticIdeas]

Agreed. The earlier models need some preventative TLC to avoid the coolant issue (some old vans out there). Thankfully the 2 ltr models are a lot easier to bleed so maintenance is easier. The form factor is hard to beat though!

[@handsomesteve2131]

@@VantasticIdeas they are simple to bleed if you follow the correct method and have a little patience. No specialist tools required. Never had any issues with my old girl!

[@VantasticIdeas]

@@handsomesteve2131 I think patience is the key. I assume you have the diesel version? I agree when you have them set up right they will go forever! no major issues with mine as yet. As it's a 2ltr it self bleeds so makes life a little easier. Cheers 👍

[@Bill_Dingsite]

I totally regret selling mine 😥

[@VantasticIdeas]

There's always another Bongo on the horizon! I must admit if I had to sell mine I'm not sure what I'd replace it with?