The FPV Falcon of 2008-2014 represents a golden era of Australian performance motoring. These weren't just Falcons; they were Ford Performance Vehicles, honed for driving thrills. The GT and GT-P, crowned with the potent Boss 302 V8, and later the Miami V8, were the kings, while the F6 offered a turbocharged puch and the XR8 continued the V8 heartland. These Aussie icons found a good home in New Zealand, revered by enthusiasts seeking raw power and distinctive style.
Common issues include worn suspension components (bushes, ball joints, shocks), brake wear, potential rust (especially in lower body panels), and oil leaks (particularly around the rocker covers and rear main seal on the V8s, and around the turbocharger on the F6). The ZF 6-speed automatic transmission, while generally robust, can suffer from valve body issues over time, leading to harsh shifting. The cooling system, crucial for these high-performance engines, should be inspected for leaks and corrosion. Additionally, the Miami V8 in later XR8 models can suffer from supercharger issues.
WOF tips
Pay close attention to tyre condition and tread depth, as these cars can chew through tyres quickly. Check for any suspension play, especially in the ball joints and tie rod ends. Ensure all lights are functioning correctly, including the high-mount brake light. Rust, especially near suspension mounting points, can be a WOF failure point. Brake performance is crucial; ensure even and effective braking.
About the Fpv Falcon GT
These FPV Falcons are more than just fast; they offer a unique driving experience. The Boss 302 (and Miami) soundtrack is legendary, and the turbocharged Barra in the F6 delivers exhilarating torque. The chassis, while not as sophisticated as modern sports cars, provides a communicative and engaging feel. However, their age now requires careful inspection and proactive maintenance.
Key areas to inspect are the suspension components, as these cars were often driven hard. Bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers can wear out. The braking system, vital for controlling all that power, should also be scrutinized for worn pads, rotors, and fluid leaks. Furthermore, due to the vehicle's age and performance nature, rust can develop, particularly in the lower body panels and chassis.
Questions owners ask
What are the most common issues to look out for on a 2008-2014 FPV Falcon?
Owners of 2008-2014 FPV Falcons should be aware of common issues such as worn suspension components (bushes, ball joints, shocks), brake wear, potential rust (especially in lower body panels), and oil leaks. Specifically, V8 models can experience leaks around the rocker covers and rear main seal, while F6 models might have turbocharger oil leaks. The ZF 6-speed automatic transmission can also develop valve body issues leading to harsh shifting, and the cooling system needs regular inspection for leaks and corrosion. Later XR8 models with the Miami V8 can also suffer from supercharger issues.
What should I pay close attention to during a WOF inspection for my FPV Falcon (2008-2014)?
For your FPV Falcon's WOF, pay close attention to tyre condition and tread depth, as these high-performance cars can wear through tyres quickly. Check for any suspension play, particularly in the ball joints and tie rod ends. Ensure all lights are functioning correctly, including the high-mount brake light. Rust, especially near suspension mounting points, is a critical WOF failure point. Finally, brake performance is crucial; ensure even and effective braking.
Where can I get replacement suspension components for my 2008-2014 FPV Falcon in New Zealand?
CARFIX stocks 226 SKUs for the 2008-2014 FPV Falcon, including a range of suspension components. You can find parts like shock absorbers, bushes, and ball joints through CARFIX to address common wear issues on these vehicles.
How often should I service my 2008-2014 FPV Falcon?
The recommended service interval for your 2008-2014 FPV Falcon is every 10,000km. Given the performance nature and age of these vehicles, adhering to this schedule and proactive maintenance is key to their longevity.
Are there any specific oil leak issues to be aware of for the FPV Falcon's engines?
Yes, for the V8 FPV Falcons (2008-2014), oil leaks are commonly found around the rocker covers and the rear main seal. For the F6 models with the turbocharged Barra engine, oil leaks can occur around the turbocharger itself. Regular inspection of these areas is recommended.
What are the common signs of a failing ZF 6-speed automatic transmission in my FPV Falcon?
While generally robust, the ZF 6-speed automatic transmission in the 2008-2014 FPV Falcon can suffer from valve body issues over time. The most common symptom of this is harsh shifting, which can indicate a need for inspection and potential repair.