How to Extend the Life of your Ford Transit
If you rely on your Ford Transit for work or personal use, keeping it in top shape is key to getting the most out of it. These vans are built tough, but like anything, a little care can go a long way.
At Colorado Fleetworks, we repair Ford Transits in our Denver shop every week, and we know firsthand that routine maintenance is the best way to keep them running smoothly for years. Here are a few simple tips to help extend the life of your Transit.
1. Stick to Regular Maintenance
First things first, always stick to your regular maintenance. Oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checks should be done on schedule. It’s easy to put these things off, but delaying routine service can lead to much bigger (and more expensive) problems down the road. If you’re not sure what your van needs or when, check the manual or ask us. We're happy to help.
2. Keep an Eye on Your Brakes
Brakes are a big deal, especially if you’re using your van to haul heavy loads or doing a lot of city driving. If you hear squeaking or grinding, or if it feels like it’s taking longer to stop, don’t wait. Getting your brakes checked regularly can save you from bigger problems down the line. Plus, replacing brake pads when they’re worn out is a lot cheaper than dealing with damaged rotors.
3. Pay Attention to Your Tires
Your tires might not always be top of mind, but they’re critical for both safety and performance. Underinflated tires can mess with your fuel economy, and worn-out tires reduce your grip on the road. Check your tire pressure regularly and keep them inflated to the right level. Also, rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,000 miles will help them wear evenly which will keep you safer and make them last longer.
4. Don’t Forget Your Transmission
Your Transit’s transmission is doing a lot of heavy lifting, especially if you’re using it for towing or carrying big loads. Keep an eye on the transmission fluid and make sure it’s topped off and clean. If you’re noticing any weird noises or issues shifting, it’s time to have it looked at. Transmissions aren’t cheap to fix, but catching problems early can save you a lot of hassle.
5. Take Care of the Cooling System
Overheating is no joke, and it can really damage your engine. Make sure your coolant levels are where they should be and replace the coolant according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. If your engine’s running hot or your temperature gauge is creeping up, don’t ignore it. Have a knowledgable Transit mechanic take a look and find the issue.
By sticking to these basic tips, you can get a lot more life out of your Ford Transit. Regular maintenance, catching problems early, and keeping things clean all help keep your van in great shape. If you need any help with your Transit, whether it’s routine maintenance or something more serious, give us a shout at Colorado Fleetworks and our expert Transmit mechanics. We’re here to make sure your van stays on the road for the long haul.
