Let the buyer beware
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Ford Transit enjoys a reputation and sales that all other manufacturers aspire to. If you are in the market for a second-hand van, then here is a rundown of bodywork and mechanical issues to check before parting with cash
Vehicle
New generation Ford Transit with 2-litre TD (front-wheel drive) and 2.4-litre TD (rear-wheel drive), with payloads from between 843kg and 1,677kg.
Bodywork
Rear door looms: check the plastic pipe between the door and chassis for cracks or kinks, as this can indicate electrical problems – £70 discount or insist on repair.
Engine
Clutch: run the engine and feel the clutch pedal for a vibration, and when accelerating listen for a rattle. Both are signs it needs a new lywheel – £600 discount.
Diesel pipes: look for leaks on top of the engine, it’ll be coming from the injector leads – inspect the engine for full extent of damage. 2.4-litre engine: start the engine with the bonnet open and listen for a rattle from the top. Any sound suggests timing chain may need replacing – inspect engine further.
Propshaft: listen for a clonk or skipping sensation from the back of the van when accelerating. It’s a sign the universal joint needs replacing – £400 discount. Oil pressure switch: check oil light comes on with ignition and then goes out, then check the oil level using the dipstick. Plenty of oil and lickering oil light suggests a problem with oil pressure switch – negotiate a £60 discount or get it repaired.
Oil leaks: look under the engine towards the back for oil clinging to the underneath, it’ll be coming from the main oil seal – further inspection required.
Glow plug sensor: check that the glow plug light comes on with ignition and goes out again. If the light lashes, it could be a sensor, so have a diagnostics test – £65 for the test and up to £200 to replace the sensor.
Gears: check the gears change smoothly and easily, if selection is dificult a cable needs replacing – £100 discount or have it ixed.
Chassis
Lower suspension arms: drive over speed bumps and listen for any knocking noises from the front suspension. It means the lower suspension arm needs replacing – £200 discount. Wheel bearings: drive up to 30mph and listen to droning/rumbling noise from wheels. If you can hear it, the bearings and hubs need to be replaced – barter a £600 discount.
Brake pads and discs: average life is 15,000 miles, check paperwork for when they were changed – budget £240 for a brakes service. ■ ● Faults and additional information supplied by usedvanexpert.co.uk