CARFIX

Ford Taunus NYR (1975–1979)

The Ford Taunus Base, a practical and reliable choice for many Kiwi families and businesses, offers a straightforward driving experience. These vehicles are known for their robust build and simple mechanics, although some common issues can arise with age. This guide provides information on keeping your Taunus Base running smoothly.

Parts for the Ford Taunus NYR

Known issues

Ford Taunus Base owners should be aware of some common problems that tend to develop, particularly as the vehicle ages. These include:
• Rust: Keep a close eye on rust, especially in the sills and wheel arches. Early intervention can prevent significant structural damage.
• Timing Gear Wear: Listen for unusual noises from the engine, which could indicate wear in the timing gear.
• Carburetor Issues: Be alert to symptoms like rough idling, poor fuel economy, or difficulty starting, which may point to carburetor problems.

These issues typically become more prevalent between 120,000 and 200,000 kilometers. Being proactive with maintenance can help mitigate these problems.

WOF tips

When taking your Ford Taunus Base for a Warrant of Fitness (WoF) inspection, be aware of these common points of attention:
• Rust around strut towers: Examiners will carefully check this area for structural integrity.
• Brake lines corrosion: Corrosion on brake lines is a common reason for WoF failures, so ensure they are in good condition.

About the Ford Taunus NYR

Maintaining your Ford Taunus Base involves staying ahead of potential problems. Regular servicing is crucial, and paying attention to the following areas can help extend its lifespan:

Engine & Drivetrain: Be mindful of potential timing gear wear, especially as your Taunus approaches higher mileage. Keep an eye (and ear) on the carburetor for any signs of malfunction. Consider components like the CONTACT SET DISTRIBUTOR and SPARK PLUGS as part of your regular maintenance schedule. Consider an ADVANCED CLUTCH SYSTEM if you require more robust performance.

Suspension & Steering: Over time, suspension components can wear, affecting handling and ride comfort. Examine the SUSPENSION BUSH RADIUS ARM FRONT, SUSPENSION BUSH FRONT CONTROL ARM - LOWER, SUSPENSION BUSH FRONT CONTROL ARM - UPPER and SUSPENSION BUSH REAR CONTROL ARM - LOWER. A STEERING COUPLING KIT can help address any play in the steering system. SHOCKS / STRUT REAR influence ride quality and should be inspected.

Braking System: The braking system is critical for safety. Routine checks of the BRAKE PAD SET and DISC BRAKE ROTOR FRONT are essential. Don't forget to inspect the BRAKE DRUM REAR.

Other Components: The WHEEL BEARING KIT/HUB FRONT provides smooth and safe wheel rotation and can wear over time. Ensure good visibility with functional WIPER BLADE FRONT.

Questions owners ask

What are the most common rust spots I should check on my 1975-1979 Ford Taunus?
For your Ford Taunus, pay close attention to rust, especially in the sills and wheel arches. During a Warrant of Fitness (WoF) inspection, examiners will also carefully check for rust around the strut towers, as this can indicate structural integrity issues.
My Ford Taunus is idling rough and using more fuel. What could be the problem?
These symptoms, along with difficulty starting, often point to carburetor issues. As your Taunus ages, particularly between 120,000 and 200,000 kilometers, carburetor problems become more prevalent. Regular maintenance and inspection of the carburetor are crucial.
What should I look out for during a WoF inspection for my Ford Taunus?
When taking your Ford Taunus for a Warrant of Fitness (WoF), be aware that examiners will carefully check for rust around the strut towers for structural integrity. Additionally, corrosion on brake lines is a common reason for WoF failures, so ensure they are in good condition.
Where can I get suspension bushes for my 1975-1979 Ford Taunus in NZ?
CARFIX stocks various suspension bushes for your Ford Taunus. You'll want to look for SUSPENSION BUSH RADIUS ARM FRONT, SUSPENSION BUSH FRONT CONTROL ARM - LOWER, SUSPENSION BUSH FRONT CONTROL ARM - UPPER, and SUSPENSION BUSH REAR CONTROL ARM - LOWER to address wear and improve handling.
What are the signs of timing gear wear in a Ford Taunus engine?
As your Ford Taunus approaches higher mileage, be mindful of potential timing gear wear. Listen for any unusual noises coming from the engine, as this could indicate a problem with the timing gear. Addressing this early can prevent more significant engine damage.
What braking system components should I regularly check on my Ford Taunus?
For critical safety, routine checks of the BRAKE PAD SET and DISC BRAKE ROTOR FRONT are essential. Don't forget to inspect the BRAKE DRUM REAR as well. Ensuring these components are in good condition is vital for effective braking.