CARFIX

The Ford Base, a popular choice for budget-conscious drivers, remains a familiar sight on New Zealand roads. Known for its reliability and practicality, understanding its maintenance needs and potential issues is key to keeping your Base a dependable runaround.

Parts for the Ford 99646

Known issues

Owners of the Ford Base should be aware of some common issues that can arise, particularly in models with higher mileage. Rust is a significant concern, especially in the sills and wheel arches. Regular inspections and rust prevention treatments can help mitigate this. Early engine wear can also be a problem, often stemming from a lack of consistent maintenance. Addressing these issues promptly, ideally between 150,000 and 250,000 km, helps ensure the continued performance of the vehicle.

WOF tips

When taking your Ford Base for a Warrant of Fitness (WOF) inspection, be mindful of the following common watch points. Corrosion around the windscreen is a frequent issue, so ensure this area is thoroughly checked. Worn suspension components can also lead to a WOF failure, making it essential to address any signs of wear or damage proactively.

About the Ford 99646

Keeping your Ford Base in top condition requires attention to several key areas. Regular maintenance is paramount, especially considering the age of many of these vehicles. Pay close attention to the following components during servicing:
• Steering and Suspension: Be aware of the condition of the drag link ends, tie rod ends, front suspension bushes (control arm and radius arm), front shocks/struts, rear shocks/struts and related fitting kits, and rear spring U-bolts. Replacing worn components will help ensure safe handling and a comfortable ride. The camber toe correction kit might be useful to retain optimal alignment after component replacement.
• Drivetrain: Regular inspection of the clutch slave cylinder and advanced clutch system is crucial to ensure smooth gear changes.
• Braking: Regularly inspect and replace brake pads in the front as needed to avoid problems stopping.
• Electrical: Monitor the alternator's performance to prevent battery drain and starting issues.
• Wipers: Ensuring good visibility in adverse weather conditions starts with new wiper blades in the front.
• Engine: Make sure that the sump/drain plug is secure at all times and in good order.

Regular servicing, coupled with addressing common problem areas, will ensure your Ford Base continues to deliver dependable service.

Questions owners ask

What are some common rust spots I should check on my Ford Base –2999?
Rust is a known issue for the Ford Base, especially on older models. Pay close attention to the sills and wheel arches. Regular inspections and rust prevention treatments are recommended to keep rust at bay.
What suspension parts on my Ford Base –2999 should I pay close attention to?
For your Ford Base, regularly inspect the drag link ends, tie rod ends, front suspension bushes (control arm and radius arm), front and rear shocks/struts (and related fitting kits), and rear spring U-bolts. Replacing worn components will improve handling and ride comfort. A camber toe correction kit might also be useful after replacing suspension parts to retain optimal alignment.
Where can I get front brake pads for my Ford Base –2999 in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 36 SKUs for the Ford Base –2999. You can find front brake pads and other parts on the CARFIX website or at your local CARFIX store.
What are some common WOF failure points for the Ford Base –2999 in New Zealand?
When getting a WOF for your Ford Base, be aware that corrosion around the windscreen is a common issue. Also, worn suspension components are frequently flagged, so ensure these are in good condition.
How often should I service my Ford Base –2999?
The recommended service interval for the Ford Base –2999 is every 10,000km. Regular servicing is crucial, especially given the age of many of these vehicles.
What drivetrain components should I inspect regularly on my Ford Base –2999?
Regularly inspect the clutch slave cylinder and advanced clutch system on your Ford Base –2999 to ensure smooth gear changes. Addressing any issues promptly will help maintain optimal drivetrain performance.
My Ford Base –2999 is getting up there in mileage. What engine issues should I be prepared for?
Early engine wear can be a problem in Ford Base models with higher mileage, often due to inconsistent maintenance. Addressing any engine issues promptly, ideally between 150,000 and 250,000 km, will help ensure the continued performance of your vehicle.