The Ford XD Falcon was a quintessential sight on New Zealand roads in the 1980s. A practical, reliable, and spacious family car, it was often found serving as a taxi or fleet vehicle. Though relatively simple by modern standards, keeping an XD Falcon running smoothly requires attention to its common weak points. Here's what you need to know.
Rust (sills, around windows, boot floor). Very common. Sagging headlining. Power steering pump failures. Dashboard cracking.
WOF tips
Rust in typical Falcon areas (sills, around windows, boot floor). Ball joints and steering components. Brake condition. Exhaust system. Engine and transmission oil leaks.
About the Ford Falcon 250ci EFI
The XD Falcon, assembled locally, represents a time when large, locally-made vehicles dominated the New Zealand automotive landscape. Its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and robust construction made it a popular choice for families and businesses alike.
Heritage & Heart: The XD Falcon is deeply embedded in New Zealand's cultural fabric, representing a time when large, locally-assembled cars were king. Owning one is a tangible connection to a bygone era of Kiwi motoring.
Questions owners ask
What are the common rust spots on a 1982-1984 Ford Falcon XD in New Zealand?
Like many Falcons of this era in NZ, the XD is prone to rust. Key areas to inspect are the sills, around the windows (especially the windscreen and rear window), and the boot floor. Regular rustproofing can help slow its progress.
What should I pay attention to during a WOF inspection on my XD Falcon?
During a Warrant of Fitness (WOF) check, pay close attention to rust in the sills, around windows, and the boot floor. Also, the inspector will check ball joints and steering components, brake condition, the exhaust system for leaks, and engine/transmission oil leaks. These are common failure points on XD Falcons.
Where can I get parts for my 1982-1984 Ford Falcon XD in New Zealand?
CARFIX stocks over 700 SKUs for the 1982-1984 Ford Falcon. You can find a wide range of parts, from essential maintenance items like oil filters and brake pads to more specific components. Check the CARFIX website or visit a local store to find the parts you need to keep your Falcon running smoothly.
My XD Falcon's headlining is sagging. Is this a common problem?
Yes, sagging headlining is a very common issue in XD Falcons. The original adhesive deteriorates over time, causing the fabric to detach. You can either attempt a DIY repair or have it professionally re-trimmed.
How often should I service my 1982-1984 Ford Falcon XD?
The recommended service interval for the Ford Falcon XD is every 10,000km. Regular servicing is crucial to keeping your Falcon reliable and addressing any potential issues before they become major problems, especially given its age.
What are some common mechanical issues to watch out for on an XD Falcon?
Besides rust, common mechanical issues on the XD Falcon include power steering pump failures and engine/transmission oil leaks. Keeping an eye on these areas and addressing problems promptly will help extend the life of your Falcon.
Is it difficult to find parts for my 1982-1984 Ford Falcon XD in New Zealand?
While the XD Falcon is an older vehicle, parts availability is generally good in New Zealand. CARFIX stocks a wide range of components, and many other auto parts suppliers also cater to classic Australian vehicles like the Falcon. However, some specific or less common parts may require a bit more searching.