Ford Transit Van Preventive Maintenance Checklist

Transit Van Preventive Maintenance Overview

Regular preventive maintenance is crucial for keeping your Ford Transit vans running efficiently, preventing costly repairs, and maximizing uptime. This checklist covers essential maintenance procedures for all Ford Transit models including cargo vans, passenger vans, and cutaway models. Always refer to your specific model's owner's manual for any variations in maintenance requirements or intervals based on usage conditions.

Essential Maintenance Procedures

Follow these structured procedures for comprehensive Transit van maintenance.

Fluid Service Procedures

Replace engine oil and filter (5W-30 for EcoBoost, 15W-40 for diesel)
Check and top off transmission fluid
Inspect and top off brake fluid (DOT 4)
Check and top off power steering fluid
Inspect coolant level and condition
Check and top off windshield washer fluid
Inspect for fluid leaks under vehicle
Check differential fluid level (rear-wheel drive models)

Brake System Maintenance

Inspect brake pad thickness (minimum 4mm)
Check brake rotor condition and thickness
Inspect brake calipers for leaks or damage
Test parking brake operation and adjustment
Inspect brake hoses and lines for leaks
Check brake fluid condition with test strips
Test ABS system function
Road test braking performance

Filtration System Service

Replace engine oil filter
Inspect and replace engine air filter as needed
Check and replace cabin air filter
Inspect fuel filter (replace at 30K miles for diesel)
Clean filter housings before reinstallation
Check filter seals and gaskets
Inspect PCV system operation
Check EGR system (diesel engines)

Belt and Timing System

Inspect all drive belts for wear and tension
Check belt tensioner operation
Inspect timing belt condition (if equipped)
Check belt pulleys for alignment
Listen for abnormal belt noises
Verify proper alternator operation
Inspect water pump for leaks (belt-driven)
Check A/C compressor belt condition

Component Inspection Checklist

Verify the following components as part of your Transit preventive maintenance.

Engine Systems

Inspect for oil leaks around seals and gaskets
Check for coolant leaks at hoses and connections
Inspect intake and exhaust manifolds
Check for abnormal engine noise or vibration
Test engine performance and acceleration
Inspect throttle operation (clean if necessary)
Check engine mounts for damage or wear
Test exhaust emissions (when applicable)

Transmission & Driveline

Check transmission fluid condition and level
Inspect for transmission leaks
Test shifting quality through all gears
Check transmission mount condition
Inspect driveshaft and U-joints
Check CV boots and joints (if equipped)
Inspect differential seals for leaks
Test transfer case operation (AWD models)

Steering & Suspension

Inspect tie rod ends and ball joints
Check power steering operation and fluid
Inspect shock absorbers and struts for leaks
Test suspension for abnormal noise or play
Check steering gear box mounting and operation
Inspect control arm bushings for wear
Check stabilizer bars and links
Test steering wheel alignment and response

Electrical System

Test battery condition and load capacity
Clean battery terminals and connections
Check alternator output voltage (13.5-14.5V)
Test starter operation
Check all exterior lighting functions
Inspect wiring harnesses for damage
Test horn and interior warning systems
Check power accessories operation

HVAC System

Test A/C cooling performance
Check heating system operation
Inspect A/C compressor and clutch
Test blower motor operation at all speeds
Check for proper vent operation
Inspect refrigerant level and pressure
Clean evaporator drain (check for clogs)
Test defroster function

Tires & Wheels

Check tire pressure in all tires (including spare)
Inspect tread depth and wear patterns
Rotate tires according to pattern
Check wheel alignment indicators
Inspect for wheel damage
Torque lug nuts to specification
Inspect sidewalls for damage or bulges
Test TPMS system operation (if equipped)

Commercial Upfit Inspections

Inspect cargo area wall panels and flooring
Check cargo tie-downs and securing points
Inspect roof rack mounting (if equipped)
Test cargo door latches and hinges
Check interior partitions and bulkheads
Inspect auxiliary equipment connections
Test liftgate operation (if equipped)
Check commercial upfit electrical connections

Safety & Emissions

Test all seat belts for proper operation
Inspect airbag system indicator function
Check exhaust system for leaks or damage
Inspect catalytic converter condition
Test all warning lights and indicators
Inspect DEF system (diesel engines)
Check DPF status (diesel engines)
Verify fire extinguisher and safety equipment

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