CARFIX

Ford Laser i (1987–1990)

The Ford Laser i has carved a special place in the hearts of New Zealanders, known not only for its remarkable reliability but also for its commendable fuel efficiency. This guide aims to equip you with essential insights and tips to ensure your Laser i remains in peak condition, helping you navigate ownership smoothly with an understanding of both its strengths and potential maintenance needs.

Parts for the Ford Laser i

Known issues

Owners should be aware of some common issues that tend to surface as the kilometers increase. Distributor wear can lead to ignition problems, while CV joint failures might cause clicking noises during turns. Early rust, particularly around the windscreen and rear wheel arches, is also something to watch for. These issues often arise between 150,000 and 250,000 kilometers.

WOF tips

During Warrant of Fitness (WOF) inspections, pay close attention to potential rust around the windscreen and rear wheel arches. Also, be mindful of excessive play in the steering rack ends, as this is a common point of failure.

About the Ford Laser i

Maintaining your Ford Laser i is crucial to ensuring its longevity and performance. Regular servicing contributes significantly to keeping your vehicle running optimally. Focus on maintenance tasks such as replacing air filters, checking radiator coolant levels, and examining the condition of the distributor cap to avoid ignition issues. As your Laser i ages and reaches various mileage milestones, specific components may require closer scrutiny.

Notable parts that often need replacement include the front and rear brakes, steering rack seals, and the drive shaft components. Pay attention particularly as you approach 150,000 kilometers. At this stage, the cooling system warrants inspection—be sure to check the water pump, thermostat, and radiator hoses for wear. [Explore our Cooling products here: /shop/cooling] Similarly, your braking system is critical; a comprehensive front brake service, including pads and rotors, can help maintain your safety on the road. [Check out our Braking service packs: /shop/braking] Beyond that, filtration services are essential for maintaining air quality in your engine and cabin, ensuring a pleasant drive. [Find our Filtration offerings at: /shop/filtration]

Questions owners ask

What are the common rust spots to check on a 1987-1990 Ford Laser for a WOF in New Zealand?
For your Ford Laser, pay close attention to potential rust around the windscreen and the rear wheel arches during a Warrant of Fitness (WOF) inspection. These are common areas for early rust to appear, especially between 150,000 and 250,000 kilometers.
Where can I get replacement steering rack seals for my 1987-1990 Ford Laser in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 594 SKUs for your 1987-1990 Ford Laser, and steering rack seals are a notable part that often needs replacement, particularly as you approach 150,000 kilometers. You can find these and other parts on the CARFIX website.
What maintenance should I do on my Ford Laser as it approaches 150,000 km?
As your Ford Laser approaches 150,000 kilometers, it's crucial to inspect the cooling system, including the water pump, thermostat, and radiator hoses for wear. Additionally, consider a comprehensive front brake service, including pads and rotors, and check for wear in the steering rack seals and drive shaft components.
What are common issues with the ignition system on a 1987-1990 Ford Laser?
Distributor wear is a common issue that can lead to ignition problems in your Ford Laser, especially as the kilometers increase. Regularly checking the condition of the distributor cap can help avoid these issues.
What should I look out for regarding the steering on my Ford Laser during a WOF inspection?
During a WOF inspection for your Ford Laser, be mindful of excessive play in the steering rack ends. This is a common point of failure for this vehicle.
How often should I service my 1987-1990 Ford Laser?
The recommended service interval for your 1987-1990 Ford Laser is every 10,000 kilometers. Regular servicing, including tasks like replacing air filters and checking radiator coolant levels, is crucial for its longevity and performance.