The FG Falcon represents a significant era for Ford in New Zealand. A large, rear-wheel-drive sedan imported from Australia, it offered affordability and practicality. But as these Falcons age, what should Kiwi owners watch out for? Let's delve into the details.
Rust, automatic transmission problems, front suspension wear, interior trim issues, fuel economy.
WOF tips
Pay close attention to rust, suspension components (ball joints, bushes), automatic transmission health, engine oil leaks, and tail light assembly condition during WOF inspections.
About the Ford Falcon i
The FG Falcon found its way into many Kiwi driveways as a family car, fleet vehicle and tow rig. Its appeal lies in its affordability and power, along with a robust, utilitarian design. It's a living piece of Australasian automotive history. Common issues to watch for include rust, particularly around the rear wheel arches, sills, and windscreen. Automatic transmissions, especially in earlier models or those with poor maintenance, can also present problems. Front suspension wear and interior trim durability are other aspects to keep in mind.
Why it Matters: While the Falcon's Australian V8 Supercars pedigree may not directly translate to NZ roads, the XR6 Turbo models do offer a performance edge with a nod to that racing heritage. These are some of the last 'big banger' Falcons to come to NZ, their appeal isn't just sentimentality, it's about the power delivery and driving feel can can't be replicated in many modern cars.
Questions owners ask
What are the most common rust spots to check on a 2008-2014 Ford Falcon in New Zealand?
When inspecting a 2008-2014 Ford Falcon, pay close attention to rust, especially around the rear wheel arches, sills, and the windscreen. These areas are known trouble spots for this model in New Zealand.
Are there any common issues with the automatic transmission in the FG Falcon?
Yes, automatic transmission problems are a known concern, particularly in earlier models of the 2008-2014 Ford Falcon or those that haven't received diligent maintenance. A pre-purchase inspection is highly recommended to assess its health.
What should I look out for during a WOF inspection for my 2008-2014 Ford Falcon?
For a WOF inspection on your 2008-2014 Ford Falcon, pay close attention to rust, all suspension components (especially ball joints and bushes), the health of the automatic transmission, any signs of engine oil leaks, and the condition of the tail light assembly. These are common failure points for this model.
Where can I get replacement front suspension parts for my 2008-2014 Ford Falcon in NZ?
CARFIX stocks a wide range of parts for the 2008-2014 Ford Falcon, including front suspension components. With 766 SKUs available and 99 DIY guides, you can find what you need to address common front suspension wear issues.
How often should I service my 2008-2014 Ford Falcon?
The recommended service interval for the 2008-2014 Ford Falcon is every 15,000km. Regular servicing is crucial, especially regarding rust prevention and automatic transmission maintenance, to keep this robust vehicle running smoothly.
My FG Falcon's interior trim is looking a bit tired. Is this a common problem?
Yes, interior trim durability is another aspect to keep in mind with the 2008-2014 Ford Falcon. Wear and tear on the interior trim is a common issue for these models.