Welcome to the world of the Ford Laser Base—an emblem of reliability and value for Kiwis throughout the 90s. This page is dedicated to helping you keep your Laser in peak condition, ensuring that it continues to drive smoothly and serve you faithfully for many years to come.
Common issues to watch for include rust in body panels (especially around wheel arches), potential oil leaks from engine seals, and CV joint wear. These issues often appear between 150,000-250,000 kilometers.
When taking your Ford Laser for a Warrant of Fitness (WOF) inspection, be aware of these common check points:
• Rust: Inspectors will pay close attention to rust around the windscreen and wheel arches.
• Steering Components: Excessive play in steering components is a common cause for WOF failures.
• Suspension Bushes: Worn suspension bushes can also lead to WOF failure, affecting handling and safety.
Keeping Your Ford Laser Base on the Road
The Ford Laser Base was a beloved choice due to its simple design and unwavering dependability. To maintain your vehicle effectively, staying on top of routine servicing and understanding common issues is essential.
Maintenance & Servicing
Regular servicing is crucial in extending your Laser's lifespan. Make sure to adhere to the recommended service intervals to keep everything running smoothly.
• Filters: Don’t forget to regularly replace your air, oil, and fuel filters, as these keep your engine performing efficiently.
• Brakes: Regular checks on brake components like pads, rotors, and brake fluid are vital for safety.
• Suspension: As your Laser ages, inspect suspension parts such as shocks, struts, and bushings for wear and damage to maintain optimal handling.
Common Problems & Things to Watch
Just like any older vehicle, the Ford Laser may have a few areas requiring attention:
• Rust: Regularly inspect for rust on body panels, especially around the wheel arches and windscreen, and address any issues promptly to avoid costly repairs.
• Oil Leaks: Keep an eye out for potential oil leaks from engine seals, which can be mitigated by regularly checking the engine.
• CV Joints: Be alert for noises indicative of CV joint wear, particularly clicking or popping sounds during turns.
These common issues often appear between 150,000 and 250,000 kilometers, so make sure to prioritize inspections around this mileage.
DIY Friendliness
With its straightforward design, the Ford Laser is considered moderately DIY-friendly. Many tasks can be tackled with basic tools, but for more complex repairs, don’t hesitate to seek professional help.
Make sure to check your vehicle's cooling system around the 150,000 km mark. Components like the water pump, thermostat, and radiator hoses commonly require attention. [This naturally links to /shop/cooling] where you can find everything you need to keep your cooling system in check.