Used buying guide · Large van · panel van conversions and motorhomes
The full-size Transit is a common base for big panel van conversions and some coachbuilt motorhomes. Parts are cheap and everywhere, but rust and the EcoBlue timing belt are the big things to check.
This guide covers the Ford Transit problems owners report most often on used vans and campervans, what each one looks like on a viewing and what to ask the seller. Not every van will have them. But knowing where to look stops you paying for someone else’s repair bill.
Engines you’ll find: 2.0, 2.2 and 2.4 TDCi (2000-2014), 2.2 TDCi (2014-2016), 2.0 EcoBlue (2016 on)
What goes wrong on a used Ford Transit
1. Timing belt in oil on 2.0 EcoBlue engines
From 2016 the 2.0 EcoBlue uses a belt that runs in oil. Diesel in the oil can make it break up and starve the engine of oil. Ask for evidence of belt checks and smell the oil.
2. Rust on 2000-2014 vans
Older Transits rust on the wheel arches, sills, door bottoms, the bulkhead and chassis rails. Check underneath and inside the door shuts.
3. Injector problems on TDCi engines
Injector faults on the TDCi engines cause smoke, misfires and hard starting. Ask about any injector replacements.
4. Clutch and dual-mass flywheel
Heavy conversions wear the clutch and flywheel. Check for slip and rattles.
5. Rear axle and springs
Rear-wheel-drive Transits carry a lot of weight at the back. Look for leaking axle seals, sagging springs and uneven tyre wear.
Our tip: Check whether it is front or rear-wheel drive. Rear-drive Transits are better for heavy conversions but cost more to put right at the back.
These are problems commonly reported by owners, garages and the motoring press. They are not a diagnosis of any particular van. A van with a full service history and the right repairs already done can be a very good buy.
Checking the conversion as well as the van
On a campervan or motorhome, the living area can cost as much to put right as the engine. Whatever the base vehicle, check these before you buy:
- Damp readings around windows, rooflights, lockers and the floor. Damp is the most expensive hidden problem in a camper.
- Gas appliances light and work, and the regulator hose is in date.
- Leisure battery, 12V system and mains hook-up all work and look professionally installed.
- Water pump, taps and tanks do not leak.
- Any added seats have proper fixings and belts, and the V5C body type matches the conversion for insurance.
- A pop-top or high-top roof does not leak, and the mechanism works.
Before you pay for a used Ford Transit
- Check the history. Run the free MOT history check online and look for mileage gaps and repeat advisories. Pay for a full history check for finance, theft and write-off markers.
- Match the paperwork. The seller’s ID, the V5C and the VIN on the van should all match. Be wary of a seller who is selling for someone else.
- See it running from cold. Ask the seller not to start it before you arrive. Many faults show up in the first few minutes.
- Never send a deposit unseen. Pay only at handover, by bank transfer, once you have the keys and the V5C.
Can’t get there to see it? We’ll check it for you
SafeBuy views campervans and motorhomes for buyers across the UK. We check the seller and paperwork against the V5C, run a history and finance check, walk you round the Ford Transit on a live video call and send you a photo report. Add our Habitation Check and we take damp readings throughout and test the gas, electrics, battery and water.
Viewing & Verify
£149 + travel
Seller and document checks, history and finance check, live video walk-round and photo report.
Viewing + Habitation Check
£299 + travel
Everything above plus damp readings and checks of the gas, electrics, battery and water.
Drive It Home
By mileage
If you buy it, we drive it to your door. Fixed quote before you commit.
A viewing is not a full mechanical inspection. We report what we can see and measure on the day, so you can decide with the facts in front of you. See the areas we cover.
Other buying guides
Looking at more than one van? Read our guides to Ford Transit Custom common problems and Fiat Ducato common problems, or see every model we cover.
Questions about buying a Ford Transit
What are the most common problems with a used Ford Transit?
The problems reported most often are: Timing belt in oil on 2.0 EcoBlue engines; Rust on 2000-2014 vans; Injector problems on TDCi engines; Clutch and dual-mass flywheel; and Rear axle and springs. Not every van will have them, so check the service history and see the van running from cold.
Is a Ford Transit a good base for a campervan?
It can be. Ford Transit vans are widely used for panel van conversions and motorhomes. The best buys have a full service history, a professionally fitted conversion and no damp in the living area.
Can SafeBuy check a Ford Transit before I buy it?
Yes. We view the van for you, check the seller and paperwork, walk you round it on a live video call and can test the living area with our Habitation Check. Prices start at £149 plus travel.
Found one you like? We’ll check the Ford Transit for you
Send us the advert and we’ll reply within one working day with a fixed quote to view it for you.