Generations
V362 — V362 (2012-2024)
2012–2024
2.0 EcoBlue, 2.0 EcoBlue, 2.0 EcoBlue, 2.2 TDCi, 2.2 TDCi
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Ford Transit Custom problems ranked by severity. We track 7 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Dangerous
Brake pipe corrosion
Transit Custom brake pipes suffer accelerated corrosion, particularly affecting 2.0L diesel models. MOT data shows failure rates 46.1x the national fleet average, with the trend worsening over recent years. The issue appears most severe at 40,000-60,000 miles but extends across all mileage bands above 40,000 miles. Commercial usage patterns with frequent loading and exposure to road salt exacerbate the corrosion. This is a critical safety defect that can lead to complete brake failure.
What happens if ignoredCorroded brake pipes can rupture without warning, causing immediate loss of braking on the affected circuit. While the dual-circuit system provides backup, commercial loading means stopping distances increase dramatically. Complete brake pipe renewal typically costs £400-800 depending on extent of corrosion. Vehicle is unsafe to drive if brake pipe integrity is compromised.
Independent garage
£300–£600
Specialist
£400–£700
Main dealer
£500–£800
Parts only
£80–£150
Dangerous
Suspension component corrosion
Transit Custom suspension components, particularly lower control arms and subframe mounting points, suffer severe corrosion that compromises structural integrity. MOT data shows failure rates peaking at 53.6x the national fleet average on 2.0L diesel models. The combination of commercial loading, road salt exposure, and steel construction creates accelerated corrosion of safety-critical suspension mounting points. This affects vehicle stability and steering control.
What happens if ignoredSeverely corroded suspension components can fracture without warning, causing immediate loss of vehicle control and potential wheel detachment. Partial failure leads to poor handling, irregular tyre wear, and compromised braking stability. Suspension component replacement typically costs £400-1,200 depending on extent of damage. Vehicle is unsafe to drive if structural corrosion is present.
Independent garage
£400–£800
Specialist
£500–£1,000
Main dealer
£600–£1,200
Parts only
£150–£400
Major
Injector issues (EcoBlue)
Ford EcoBlue diesel injectors develop internal wear and seal degradation, causing rough running, increased emissions, and reduced fuel economy. The issue is particularly prevalent on high-mileage commercial vehicles due to extended idling periods and stop-start driving patterns that prevent injectors reaching optimal operating temperature. Contaminated diesel fuel and extended service intervals exacerbate injector wear. Individual injector replacement is possible, but multiple injector failure is typical.
What happens if ignoredFailed injectors cause reduced power, poor fuel economy (typically 20-30% increase in consumption), excessive emissions leading to MOT failure, and potential engine damage from poor combustion. Single injector replacement costs £300-500, but multiple injector failure requiring complete set replacement typically costs £1,200-2,000. Vehicle remains driveable but with significantly reduced performance and economy.
Independent garage
£300–£600
Specialist
£400–£700
Main dealer
£500–£800
Parts only
£150–£300
Major
DPF issues (EcoBlue)
Ford EcoBlue engines suffer DPF blockage due to urban commercial driving patterns that prevent proper regeneration cycles. The DPF requires sustained high exhaust temperatures to burn off accumulated soot, but stop-start delivery patterns and extended idling prevent this. Warning lights indicate when forced regeneration is needed, but ignored warnings lead to complete DPF failure. Commercial operators frequently experience this issue due to inappropriate duty cycles for DPF-equipped vehicles.
What happens if ignoredComplete DPF blockage causes vehicle to enter limp mode with severely restricted power and speed. Continued driving with blocked DPF can damage the turbocharger and engine through excessive back-pressure. DPF cleaning costs £200-400, replacement £800-1,500. Professional DPF removal and cleaning may restore function, but complete replacement is often necessary on severely blocked units.
Independent garage
£500–£1,000
Specialist
£600–£1,200
Main dealer
£800–£1,500
Parts only
£400–£800
3 more known issues tracked
Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems.
MOT failure hotspots
Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Ford Transit Custom fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Obligatory rear fog lamp missing, or a front or...
Lights & Electrics · 100-120k miles
MOT failure rate: 178x the fleet average
Sample: 19,245 tests
Tyre load capacity load capacity insufficient f...
Tyres · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 82x the fleet average
Sample: 39,471 tests
Tyre load capacity or speed rating not in accor...
Tyres · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 57x the fleet average
Sample: 66,134 tests
Lens defective which has no effect on emitted l...
Lights & Electrics · 80-100k miles
MOT failure rate: 27x the fleet average
Sample: 34,183 tests
Suspension component damaged or corroded
Suspension · 100-120k miles
MOT failure rate: 21x the fleet average
Sample: 12,433 tests
Stop lamp missing, inoperative or in the case o...
Lights & Electrics · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 19x the fleet average
Sample: 210 tests
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Related
- Ford Transit Custom buyer's guide
- Ford Transit Custom service history check
- Ford Transit Custom service schedule & costs
- Ford Transit Custom MOT failure rates
- Ford Transit Custom price guide
- How to check Ford service history
- Buying a car without service history
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Ford Transit Custom reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Ford Transit Custom?
The Ford Transit Custom has 7 known issues across 3 severity levels. The most serious are: Brake pipe corrosion, Suspension component corrosion.
Is the Ford Transit Custom reliable?
The Ford Transit Custom has 2 dangerous and 2 major known issues. Most can be avoided with a thorough pre-purchase check and full service history.
How much does it cost to fix Ford Transit Custom problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Brake pipe corrosion) costs £300–£600 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.