The Ford Transit Custom TDCi is a ubiquitous sight on New Zealand roads, serving as a reliable workhorse for tradespeople, courier services, and businesses of all sizes. Known for its practicality and versatility, understanding its maintenance needs is key to keeping your Transit Custom TDCi on the road and performing optimally for years to come. This guide provides essential information for owners in New Zealand, covering typical issues, warrant of fitness (WOF) considerations, and recommended service intervals.
Like many modern diesel vehicles, the Ford Transit Custom TDCi can be prone to certain issues, particularly as the kilometers climb. Be aware of the potential for injector failure, DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) problems, and EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve clogging. These issues often start to surface around the 120,000 - 180,000 km mark. Addressing these issues promptly can help avoid more significant and expensive repairs later.
WOF tips
When it comes to Warrant of Fitness inspections, keep an eye on some common areas. Lower ball joints are a consistent check item, as is the rear brake system for binding. Also, the windscreen's position leads to more windscreen chips, so make sure to get them repaired quickly to prevent potential WOF failure.
About the Ford Transit Custom TDCi
The Ford Transit Custom TDCi has quickly become a modern classic in New Zealand's commercial landscape. While not steeped in motorsport heritage or groundbreaking engineering firsts, the Transit Custom TDCi has carved its own niche as a dependable and adaptable vehicle, heavily relied upon in daily workflows across the country.
Maintenance Matters: Regular servicing is crucial for the Transit Custom TDCi. Following the recommended service intervals can help prevent costly repairs down the line.
Common Replacement Items: Owners often find themselves needing to replace parts like front wiper blades, front lower ball joints, rear brake pad wear sensors, valve covers, rear bump stops, timing kits, starter motors, steering rack ends, rear brake pads, rear brake pad fitting kits, front lower control arm suspension bushes, clutch slave cylinders, flywheel bolts, intercoolers and even the cylinder head after extended use or improper maintenance.
Questions owners ask
What are some common issues to watch out for on a Ford Transit Custom TDCi in New Zealand?
Like many modern diesel vehicles, the Transit Custom TDCi can experience injector failure, DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) problems, and EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve clogging, especially around the 120,000 - 180,000 km mark. Addressing these promptly can prevent more significant repairs. Regular servicing at the recommended 20,000km intervals is crucial.
What are some common reasons a Ford Transit Custom TDCi might fail a WOF in NZ?
During a Warrant of Fitness inspection, pay close attention to the lower ball joints, as these are a common failure point. Also, the rear brake system is often checked for binding. Given the windscreen's position, stone chips are frequent, so ensure any chips are repaired promptly to avoid a WOF failure.
What kind of maintenance schedule should I follow for my Ford Transit Custom TDCi to keep it running smoothly in NZ?
Regular servicing is key to keeping your Transit Custom TDCi in top condition. Ford recommends a service interval of 20,000km. Pay attention to potential issues like injector problems and DPF clogging, especially as the kilometers increase. Replacing parts like front wiper blades, front lower ball joints, rear brake pad wear sensors, valve covers, rear bump stops, timing kits, starter motors, steering rack ends, rear brake pads, rear brake pad fitting kits, front lower control arm suspension bushes, clutch slave cylinders, flywheel bolts, intercoolers and even the cylinder head after extended use or improper maintenance.
Where can I get rear brake pads for my FORD TRANSIT CUSTOM 2012–2015 in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 65 SKUs for the FORD TRANSIT CUSTOM 2012–2015, including rear brake pads and rear brake pad fitting kits. Check our website or visit a local CARFIX dealer to find the right parts for your vehicle.
Are there any common parts that need replacing on a Ford Transit Custom TDCi?
Yes, several parts are commonly replaced on the Transit Custom TDCi. These include front wiper blades, front lower ball joints, rear brake pad wear sensors, valve covers, rear bump stops, timing kits, starter motors, steering rack ends, rear brake pads, rear brake pad fitting kits, front lower control arm suspension bushes, clutch slave cylinders, flywheel bolts, intercoolers and even the cylinder head after extended use or improper maintenance. Regular checks and timely replacements can prevent further damage.
What should I know about maintaining the diesel particulate filter (DPF) on my Ford Transit Custom TDCi in New Zealand?
The DPF on your Transit Custom TDCi can become clogged, especially with urban driving. Ensure you occasionally take your van for longer drives at higher speeds to allow the DPF to regenerate. Ignoring DPF issues can lead to reduced performance and costly repairs. Regular servicing at the recommended 20,000km intervals can help identify potential DPF problems early.
What are the most common issues with the suspension on the Ford Transit Custom TDCi that I should be aware of for WOF inspections?
For WOF inspections, pay close attention to the front lower ball joints and front lower control arm suspension bushes on your Transit Custom TDCi. These components are subject to wear and tear, and any excessive play or damage can result in a WOF failure. Regular inspection and replacement of worn suspension parts are crucial for maintaining vehicle safety and passing the WOF.