Used buying guide · Mid-size van · campervan conversions
The Transit Custom has become one of the most popular bases for new and used campervans, because it drives well, parts are everywhere and any Ford dealer can work on it. The 2.0 EcoBlue engine has one issue you must know about.
This guide covers the Ford Transit Custom 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: 2.2 TDCi (2012-2016), 2.0 EcoBlue (2016 on), plus PHEV and electric versions
The newest Transit Custom (2023 on) also underpins the latest VW Transporter.
What goes wrong on a used Ford Transit Custom
1. Timing belt in oil on 2.0 EcoBlue engines
From 2016 the 2.0 EcoBlue uses a timing belt that runs in engine oil. If diesel gets into the oil the belt can break up, block the oil pump strainer and destroy the engine. Ask for proof of belt checks and changes, and walk away if the oil smells of diesel.
2. DPF and EGR problems
Vans used for short journeys clog their DPF and EGR systems. Repeated regeneration, warning lights and limp mode are the signs, so look for any DPF cleaning or replacement on the invoices.
3. AdBlue system faults
2016-on EcoBlue vans use AdBlue. Pump, sensor and heater faults bring up warnings that can end in a no-restart countdown, so check the dash for messages.
4. Clutch and dual-mass flywheel
Heavy conversions and towing wear out the clutch and flywheel. Rattles at idle, judder pulling away or a slipping clutch on a hill mean a big bill.
5. Corrosion on early vans
Early 2012-2016 vans can corrode on the bonnet leading edge, door bottoms and around the rear wheel arches. Check the underside too, especially if the van lived near the coast.
Our tip: On an EcoBlue Custom, the service history matters more than the mileage. Ask for every invoice before you pay a deposit.
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 Custom
- 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 Custom 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 VW Transporter common problems and Renault Trafic common problems, or see every model we cover.
Questions about buying a Ford Transit Custom
What are the most common problems with a used Ford Transit Custom?
The problems reported most often are: Timing belt in oil on 2.0 EcoBlue engines; DPF and EGR problems; AdBlue system faults; Clutch and dual-mass flywheel; and Corrosion on early vans. Not every van will have them, so check the service history and see the van running from cold.
Is a Ford Transit Custom a good base for a campervan?
It can be. Ford Transit Custom vans are widely used for campervan conversions. 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 Custom 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.
Seen one for sale? We’ll check the Ford Transit Custom for you
Send us the advert and we’ll reply within one working day with a fixed quote to view it for you.