The FORD TRANSIT CUSTOM TDCi is a common sight on New Zealand roads, frequently used as a work van and increasingly popular for campervan conversions. Understanding its maintenance requirements and potential issues is key to keeping your Transit Custom in top condition.
Some owners report injector failures, particularly when using lower-quality fuel; sticking to high-quality fuels can help mitigate this. DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) blockages can also occur, especially with frequent short trips that don't allow the filter to regenerate fully. Premature clutch wear is another potential issue, particularly under heavy loads or in stop-start traffic. Many of these issues tend to appear between 100,000 and 200,000 kilometers.
WOF tips
When taking your FORD TRANSIT CUSTOM TDCi for a Warrant of Fitness (WOF) inspection, be aware of potential watch points such as front suspension ball joints and rear brake imbalance. Remember that Euroncap repair standards can vary, it is vital to ensure any crash repairs have been completed to a high standard for ongoing safety.
About the Ford Transit Custom TDCi
The Transit Custom TDCi might not have a rich motorsport history or groundbreaking engineering feats, but its practicality and versatility have made it a cornerstone for businesses and adventurers alike in New Zealand. Its robust design lends itself to a variety of uses, from bustling city deliveries to exploring the country's stunning landscapes, but commercial use often means demanding a high level of reliability and regular maintenance.
To keep your Transit Custom TDCi running smoothly, be mindful of components like the strut boots, hatch/tailgate struts, and bolts. Regularly inspecting and replacing worn suspension bushings, particularly those on the front lower control arms, can maintain optimal handling. Pay attention to the steering rack ends and ensure proper maintenance of the clutch slave cylinder. Consider replacing glow plugs as part of preventative maintenance, especially approaching higher mileage. When undertaking more involved maintenance, replacing the cylinder head gasket, timing kit, and engine oil pan gasket may be necessary. When addressing brake maintenance, consider the fitting kit and wear sensor for the rear brakes. Proper valve cover maintenance will ensure optimal engine performance.
Questions owners ask
What are some common problems I might encounter with my FORD TRANSIT CUSTOM TDCi in New Zealand?
Some FORD TRANSIT CUSTOM TDCi owners in NZ report injector failures, often linked to fuel quality. Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) blockages can occur, especially with short trips. Premature clutch wear is also a possibility, particularly under heavy loads. Many of these issues tend to appear between 100,000 and 200,000 kilometers.
What should I watch out for during a WOF inspection on my FORD TRANSIT CUSTOM 2012–2016?
When taking your FORD TRANSIT CUSTOM TDCi for a Warrant of Fitness (WOF) inspection, pay close attention to the front suspension ball joints and rear brake imbalance. Also, ensure any crash repairs meet high safety standards, as Euroncap repair standards can vary.
How often should I service my FORD TRANSIT CUSTOM 2012–2016?
The recommended service interval for the FORD TRANSIT CUSTOM 2012–2016 is every 15,000km. Regular servicing is crucial for maintaining its reliability, especially given its common use for commercial purposes in NZ.
Where can I get strut boots for my FORD TRANSIT CUSTOM 2012–2016 in NZ?
CARFIX stocks over 60 SKUs for the FORD TRANSIT CUSTOM 2012–2016, including strut boots. You can find these and other parts on the CARFIX website or at your local CARFIX store.
What maintenance should I do to avoid DPF blockages in my FORD TRANSIT CUSTOM TDCi?
To prevent DPF blockages in your FORD TRANSIT CUSTOM TDCi, especially if you frequently drive short distances, ensure you take it for longer drives periodically to allow the DPF to regenerate fully. Using high-quality fuel can also help.
Are there any specific suspension components I should pay attention to on my FORD TRANSIT CUSTOM TDCi?
Yes, regularly inspect and replace worn suspension bushings, particularly those on the front lower control arms, to maintain optimal handling in your FORD TRANSIT CUSTOM TDCi. Also, keep an eye on the steering rack ends.
What parts should I consider replacing as preventative maintenance on my FORD TRANSIT CUSTOM TDCi, especially as it gets older?
As your FORD TRANSIT CUSTOM TDCi approaches higher mileage, consider replacing the glow plugs as part of preventative maintenance. Also, keep an eye on the clutch slave cylinder and be prepared to replace it if necessary.