Ford Transit Owners' Guide

The Transit van, introduced in 1965, is one of Ford's biggest successes and a long-standing favourite in the commercial vehicle market. 

This owners’ guide compiles key information about your Transit in one convenient place, covering service intervals, recommended tyre pressures, and answers to frequently asked questions to help you keep your van running smoothly. 

Ford Transit generations

Ford Transit 1965-1977 

The first-generation Transit replaced the Thames 400E. It had a front-engine layout and offered a superior load capacity compared to rivals, which made it a hit with tradespeople and public services.  

Crucially, the Transit was highly versatile, with various body options. You could get it with a long or short wheelbase, a tipper function or a high top, to name just a few variations. 

Key engine options: 

• 1.7-litre V4 petrol 

• 2.0-litre V4 petrol 

• 2.4-litre diesel 

Ford Transit 1977-1986 

The body and the mechanical parts beneath this Transit generation remained largely the same, while the engine line-up changed. Notably, the Pinto petrol engine was introduced – a tough engine ideal for a workhorse vehicle. 

Key engine options: 

• 1.6-litre petrol 

• 2.0-litre petrol 

• 2.4-litre diesel 

• 2.5-litre diesel 

Ford Transit 1986-1999 

The 1986 Transit had an all-new design – it was boxier and, crucially, far more practical. You could get the Transit as a camper, tipper, Luton, beavertail, pickup, or minibus. There were various other configurations to choose from, including the wheelbase length.   

A facelift in 1994 provided a new dashboard, central locking, air conditioning and electric windows. In 1995, Ford released a limited-edition version called Transit Hallmark to celebrate the model’s 30th anniversary. 

Key engine options: 

• 2.5-litre diesel 

• 2.0-litre petrol 

• 3.0-litre V6 petrol 

Ford Transit 2000-2013 

The fourth iteration of the Transit had an all-new design courtesy of Ford’s ‘New Edge’ philosophy. It was the first Transit to be offered with front-wheel drive, significantly increasing the rear load space.  A facelift in 2006 completely overhauled the Transit’s styling inside and out. It introduced new diesel engines with common-rail injection, better safety features, and updated suspension. 

Key engine options: 

• 2.0-litre Duratorq TDDi diesel 

• 2.4-litre Duratorq TDDi diesel 

• 2.0-litre Duratec petrol 

• 2.3-litre Duratec petrol 

Ford Transit Mk6 2013- 

This Transit generation marked the model’s shift to a global vehicle platform under Ford’s ‘One Ford’ strategy. It had improved crash protection, better efficiency, and a more car-like driving experience.   

In 2019, a facelift introduced a redesigned front grille and bumpers, a revised dashboard with a SYNC3 infotainment system, improved cabin storage, and a 48v mild-hybrid option.  

Additionally, 2024 saw another minor refresh focusing on software, connectivity and electric variants. 

Key engine options: 

• 2.0-litre 105-185bhp EcoBlue TDCi diesel 

• 2.0-litre EcoBlue MHEV 

• E-Transit (Electric) - 68kWh battery with 184bhp or 269bhp 

Service intervals

Generally, vehicles should be serviced annually to keep on top of maintenance and more often if they cover lots of miles. A full service includes fluid and filter changes and key system checks.  

 However, each vehicle has manufacturer-recommended servicing and part replacement intervals.   

 Ford recommends the following service intervals for different Transit configurations. A time and a distance are given for each interval – the service should be carried out at whichever comes first. 

Additionally, Ford recommends you should carry out the following checks at home.  

Monthly: 

✅ Engine oil level 

✅ Function of exterior and interior lights 

✅ Tyre wear and pressure 

✅ Screen wash level 

Every six months: 

✅ Battery connections 

✅ Body and door drain holes 

✅ Coolant level and strength 

✅ Door weatherstrips 

✅ Hinges, latches and outside locks 

✅ Safety belts and seat latches 

✅ Handbrake 

✅ Safety warning lamps 

✅ Washer spray and wiper operation 

Want to learn more about vehicle servicing? Check out the following guides: 

• What's the difference between a full service and an interim service? 

• How much should a full service cost? 

• How much should an interim service cost? 

• The ultimate guide to car maintenance 

Tyre pressure

What are the tyre pressures for a Ford Transit? 

The recommended tyre pressure varies depending on the spec and engine of your vehicle. The table below shows tyre sizes and pressures listed for the Transit on TyrePressures.com. 

However, you should always check this information before adjusting your tyres. You can find the correct pressure for your Transit: 

• In the vehicle handbook/owner’s manual. 

• Printed on the sill of the driver’s door. 

• On the inside of the fuel tank cap. 

Read our guide to tyre pressure for more information. 

How to reset the Ford Transit tyre pressure warning light 

The reset process can vary between different Transit generations. If unsure, consult your owner’s manual. 

• Press the menu button on the right side of the steering wheel. 

• Using the steering wheel controls, scroll down and select ‘maintenance’ from the dashboard menu options. 

• Next, navigate to ‘tyre monitor’. 

• Press and hold the ‘OK’ button to store your current tyre pressures. 

Engine oil

It’s crucial to use the correct engine oil for your vehicle – find out why in this guide. The recommended oil grade depends on your Transit’s engine; the best place to find this information is in your owner’s manual. 

The table below gives a few examples of Transit models and their engine oil grades. 

What is the oil capacity of a Ford Transit? 

Oil capacity is another thing that depends on which engine your vehicle has. You can find this information in your owner’s manual, along with the exact oil capacity.  

The Ford Transit generally requires between six and ten litres for an oil change.  

How to reset the oil change light on a Ford Transit 

The reset method can vary depending on which generation of Transit you own. Check your owner’s manual if unsure.  

⚠️ You should only reset the oil warning light after you have changed the oil and filter. 

• Switch the ignition on without starting the engine. 

• Fully press the brake and accelerator pedals at the same time. 

• Keep the pedals pressed. 

• After around three seconds, you will see a message saying a reset is in progress. 

• After 25 seconds, the reset will be complete. 

• Release the brake and accelerator pedals. 

• Switch the ignition off. 

Battery

What battery do I need for my Ford Transit? 

The type and size of the battery will depend on the model’s configurations. You should check this information in your owner’s manual to ensure you buy the correct battery.  

The table below shows the battery requirements for a selection of Transit engines. 

Things to consider when buying a battery for your Ford Transit 

• Start-Stop Systems: Models equipped with start-stop technology require Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) or Enhanced Flooded Batteries (EFB) due to their enhanced charge cycles and durability.    

• Battery Dimensions: It's crucial to match the battery dimensions and hold-down type to ensure proper fitment.    

• Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): Higher CCA values are beneficial for cold starts, especially in diesel engines.    

• Battery Brands: Reputable brands like Bosch, Varta, Exide, and Halfords offer batteries compatible with Ford Transit models.   

Find out how to maintain your car battery in this guide. 

Where is the battery in a Ford Transit? 

Unlike most vehicles, the Transit’s battery isn’t under the bonnet. It’s not even in the boot. Instead, it’s kept under the driver’s seat.  

You can access the battery by raising the seat as high as it will go and sliding it forward. You’ll then need to remove the metal cover by unscrewing the bolts. Once that’s gone, remove the plastic cover to reveal the battery. 

Learn how to change a car battery. 

Warning lights

What do the warning lights mean on a Ford Transit? 

Dashboard warning lights are triggered by the car’s electronic control unit (ECU) when a problem is detected. You can learn some information by looking at the shape and colour of the light, but for a detailed diagnosis, you’ll usually need to book a diagnostic test. 

• Red lights indicate a severe problem. You should stop driving and contact a mechanic. 

• Yellow lights are less urgent – you can continue driving to your destination, but you should book your van into a garage. 

Learn more about car warning lights and what they mean in this guide. 

Ford Transit warning lights you might not know 

Ford AdBlue warning light (diesel models) 

Euro 6 diesel models use AdBlue fluid to minimise harmful emissions. The AdBlue warning light resembles a beaker or fluid symbol with a road underneath. In some Ford models, it appears as a warning message rather than a light.  

 When you see an AdBlue warning, you must top up your vehicle’s diesel exhaust fluid. 

Ford service reminder light 

The service reminder light looks like a spanner. It signals that your vehicle is due for a service or oil change and shouldn’t be mistaken for the engine warning light, which illuminates in the presence of a genuine problem. 

Spotted a warning light but don’t know what’s causing it? Don’t guess – book a diagnostic test! 

Common problems

Here, we look at two common problems encountered by Transit owners. 

1. Turbocharger failure 

Transit vans are often used as work vehicles, which means they suffer from wear and tear more quickly than your average hatchback. In models fitted with a turbocharger, this can lead to various issues, including oil leaks and loss of turbo efficiency. 

According to Haynes, a common problem with the 2013-2022 Transit stems from the actuator, a pressure release valve that controls the boost output of the turbocharger. When it fails, it generates the fault code P2599. 

2. DPF and EGR issues 

Diesel Transit models are popular commercial vehicles, but two key exhaust system components can cause problems: the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve (pictured above).   

If the van is used for too many short journeys, the DPF won’t get hot enough to clean itself (known as regeneration) and will become blocked, leading to a loss of power and thick black exhaust smoke.  

Similarly, the EGR valve can get stuck due to a build-up of soot, often directly affected by the DPF blockage. As a result, you’ll likely experience increased emissions, poor fuel efficiency, a lack of power and rough idling.  

There are ways you can prevent these problems from happening – find out how here. 

Need help diagnosing car problems? Check out the following guides for advice: 

• Diagnose car problems & find the right fix 

• Diagnose strange noises in your car & find a fix 

Top Ford Transit questions and topics

How to open the bonnet on a Ford Transit 

The method of opening the bonnet depends on your Transit's year and spec. You either need to use the key or a bonnet release lever in the cabin. 

Using the key 

You slide the Ford badge up on older models and insert the key beneath it. In newer models, you use a different keyhole below the Ford badge to open the bonnet.  

• Insert the car key in the correct keyhole at the front of the vehicle.  

• Turn it to the left. You’ll hear the bonnet click open slightly.  

• Turn it to the right.   

• You can now lift and secure the bonnet. 

Using the bonnet release lever 

• Open the passenger door and locate the bonnet release lever near the footwell. Pull it towards you – you'll hear the bonnet click open. 

• Slide your fingers under the bonnet above the Ford badge and slide the yellow lever to the left. 

• Raise the bonnet and secure it in place. 

How high is a Ford Transit van? 

The height of a Transit van varies depending on the model’s configuration. The most common height is 2490mm for a standard H2 van. The typical height of an H3 van with a long wheelbase is around 2780mm. 

If you found this guide helpful, you might also like:

• Car ownership 101: everything you need to know

• The ultimate guide to car maintenance

• How does a car work?

• Common problems with the Ford Fiesta

• Ford vs Toyota: which is best?

• Ford Fiesta owners' guide

• Ford Ka owners' guide

• Ford Focus owners' guide

• Ford Kuga owners' guide

• Ford Mondeo owners' guide