Is a used Ford Transit Custom a reliable buy?

I am looking at a 2016 Ford Transit Custom, however I have read terrible reviews of this year’s model. The model I am looking at is a limited black 2.0 TDCi 130ps with 80000 miles on the clock. I am aiming to use it as my only vehicle, replacing my car and campervan to cut down costs. Annual mileage will be about 5000 miles.I am a 70 year old woman and live on a small pension, so cannot afford any costly problems. Would you recommend this vehicle, or do you suggest I steer clear of it?

Asked on 4 March 2024 by Tim French

Answered by Craig Cheetham
There are a few known issues with cambelt failure on "wet belt" engines on this model (without seeing the VIN plate we can't tell you if it is a wet belt engine or not) but otherwise reliability is good. The issue is that sometimes the belt fails before Ford's recommended seven-year/144,000 mile replacement. Given the age and mileage of the van you're looking at we'd either insist on a new cambelt before sale or alternatively, if it's a private sale, factor in a cambelt replacement cost of circa £750 into the price you offer for the van. Otherwise the Ford Transit Custom is a great van to drive with plenty of affordable parts and repair options.
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