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2014 Ford Transit Custom

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By Research the Car 5 min read

The 2014 Ford Transit Custom is a popular mid-size panel van known for its practicality, fuel efficiency, and versatility. The 2014 model offered several engine options, including a 2.2L Duratorq TDCi diesel engine with varying power outputs (100PS/74kW, 125PS/92kW, and 155PS/114kW), a 2.0L EcoBoost petrol engine (203PS/149kW), and a 2.3L Duratec petrol engine (145PS/107kW). Transmissions typically included a 6-speed manual and, on some models, a 6-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciate the Transit Custom’s spacious cargo area, comfortable ride, and maneuverability. However, common complaints often revolve around electrical issues, injector failure in some diesel models, and premature wear of certain components.

Engine

2.2L Duratorq TDCi Diesel

  • Injector Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, rough idling, black smoke, and reduced power. Often caused by injector nozzles becoming clogged or failing due to poor fuel quality.
    • Solution: Diagnose the faulty injector(s) using diagnostic tools. Replace the failing injector(s) with new or refurbished units. Recode the new injectors to the engine management system.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • EGR Valve Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, increased emissions, engine warning light. The EGR valve can become clogged with carbon deposits.
    • Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the EGR valve.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Timing Chain Issues (Primarily on higher mileage vehicles)
    • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on cold starts. Engine performance may be affected.
    • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found

2.0L EcoBoost Petrol

  • No Issues Found

2.3L Duratec Petrol

  • No Issues Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

  • Clutch Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty shifting gears, high clutch pedal engagement point.
    • Solution: Replacement of the clutch disc, pressure plate, and potentially the flywheel.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Synchro Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Grinding noise when shifting gears, difficulty engaging certain gears, particularly 2nd or 3rd.
    • Solution: Rebuild the transmission with new synchros, or replace the entire transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+ (depending on whether a rebuild or replacement is chosen)
    • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic

  • Rough Shifting/Hesitation
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed gear changes, particularly between 1st and 2nd gear.
    • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. In severe cases, valve body repair or replacement might be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Rear Leaf Spring Sagging
    • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging in the rear, reduced load-carrying capacity, poor ride quality.
    • Solution: Replacement of the rear leaf springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ (for both sides)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Worn Shocks and Struts
    • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll.
    • Solution: Replacement of the shocks and struts.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (depending on the number replaced)
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Central Locking System Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking/unlocking correctly, remote key fob not working. Often caused by faulty door lock actuators or wiring issues.
    • Solution: Diagnose and repair the faulty wiring or replace the door lock actuators.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ per door.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Battery draining overnight, difficulty starting the vehicle. Often caused by a parasitic draw from a faulty electrical component.
    • Solution: Identify and repair the source of the parasitic draw.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the complexity of the issue)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Faulty Instrument Cluster
    • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent display issues, inaccurate readings, or complete failure of the instrument cluster.
    • Solution: Replacement of the instrument cluster or repair of the faulty components within the cluster.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Radio/Infotainment System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: System freezing, Bluetooth connectivity problems, no sound, screen going blank.
    • Solution: Resetting the system, software update, or replacement of the head unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Sliding Door Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding door, sticking or binding. Issues with the rollers, tracks, or latch mechanism.
    • Solution: Lubricating or replacing the rollers, cleaning the tracks, or adjusting the latch mechanism.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Rust on Wheel Arches/Seams
    • Description/Symptoms: Surface rust appearing on wheel arches, door seams, or other body panels, especially in areas prone to salt exposure.
    • Solution: Treating the rust, applying rust inhibitor, and repainting the affected areas.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per area depending on the severity of the rust.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Dashboard Cracking (in hot climates)
    • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, particularly in areas exposed to direct sunlight and high temperatures.
    • Solution: Repairing the cracks with filler and refinishing, or replacing the dashboard.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Rattling/Squeaking Noises
    • Description/Symptoms: Various rattling or squeaking noises from the dashboard, door panels, or cargo area.
    • Solution: Identifying and addressing the source of the noise (e.g., loose panels, worn bushings).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ depending on complexity.
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 Ford Transit Custom, while generally reliable, has some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. Engine issues, particularly injector failures in the diesel models, can be costly. Electrical problems, ranging from central locking malfunctions to battery drains, are also frequent complaints. Suspension issues like sagging leaf springs can affect ride quality and load capacity. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others, such as transmission rebuilds or dashboard replacements, can be quite costly. Prospective buyers should have a thorough inspection performed, focusing on these potential problem areas, to make an informed decision.

Ford, Transit Custom
Ford Transit Custom 2014
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