Welcome to the FORD Base Vehicle Wiki, your go-to resource for understanding and maintaining your car in New Zealand. This guide provides insights into common issues, maintenance schedules, and general advice to help you keep your Base on the road.
Known Weak Points:
Owners may encounter rust, particularly around common areas (windscreen and door sills), and automatic transmission related problems. These issues often become apparent around the 150,000-200,000km mark. Regular inspection and preventative maintenance helps addressing potential problems before they escalate.
DIY Friendliness:
The FORD Base presents a moderate challenge for DIY enthusiasts. Basic maintenance tasks can be tackled with readily available tools and resources, but more complex repairs may require professional assistance.
When taking your FORD Base for a Warrant of Fitness (WOF) in New Zealand, be mindful of potential watch points such as corrosion around the windscreen and door sills, as well as ball joint wear. Addressing these issues proactively can help ensure a smooth WOF inspection.
The FORD Base was known in New Zealand as a practical and budget-friendly option, often used as reliable family cars or in fleet services. Owners appreciated their dependability and straightforward design.
Maintenance & Key Components
Regular maintenance is crucial for any vehicle, especially one that plays a vital role in daily life. Here's a look at some components that typically require attention:
• Engine & Cooling: Maintaining the engine is paramount. Consider regular checks of the radiator coolant, thermostat housing gasket, and fan clutch functionality to prevent overheating.
• Transmission: Automatic transmission fluid should be checked and replaced according to the recommended service intervals, as transmission issues are a known weakness.
• Steering & Suspension: Components like the steering rack, steering rack circlip, and suspension bush (sway bar link) play a critical role in handling and safety. Inspect these regularly for wear and tear.
• Drivetrain: Front drive shaft and front inner hub oil seal are important for smooth power delivery and preventing leaks.
• Braking & Safety: A functioning switch stop light is essential for safety. Ensure regular checks of wiper blades (including the rear) and the windshield washer pump (front) for optimal visibility.
• Sealing: Various seal rings may need replacement over time to prevent leaks.
• Engine Components: Cylinder head saver shims can be checked during engine servicing to maintain proper tolerances.
Remember to always consult your vehicle's service manual for the most accurate and specific maintenance recommendations.