Parts for your 2014 Ford Transit-Coil springs

2014 Ford Transit coil springs — what they do and when to replace them

Coil springs are absolutely used on the 2014 Ford Transit. Technical references including the Ford Workshop Manual (Transit 2014–, Section 204-01 Front Suspension), Ford’s Body and Equipment Mounting Manual (BEMM) for 2014MY, and the Haynes Ford Transit Diesel 2014–2019 manual specify a MacPherson strut front suspension with coil springs. The rear on van models is a rigid axle with leaf springs (spring rates vary by GVM and wheelbase), so “coil springs” relates mainly to the front end on most AU/NZ vans.

Up front, the coil springs carry vehicle weight, hold ride height and keep the tyres planted over Aussie and Kiwi backroads. Working with the struts, they soak up bumps, help the Transit track straight with a load on board and stop the nose diving under brakes. When they tire out or crack, ride height drops, the van feels crashy over corrugations, and steering can go off-centre.

• Tell-tales it’s time: uneven ride height, a broken coil end, clunks on lock, harshness over speed humps, or scalloped tyre wear.
• Frequent heavy loads, gravel roads, or salty coastal air can speed up spring fatigue and corrosion.

During routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect the front coils every 20,000 km for chipped paint, rust pitting, or fractured ends near the seats. If replacement’s needed, do both sides as a pair so ride height and handling stay balanced. Always match the spring to the Transit’s build (wheelbase, GVM, drivetrain) — the rate and free length matter for proper stance and headlight aim.

• Use a quality spring compressor and follow workshop procedures — the stored energy is no joke.
• Replace related bits while you’re in there: strut top mounts/bearings, dust boots and bump stops, consider new front struts if they’re weeping or past it.
• Torque the lower arm and strut fasteners at normal ride height to avoid bushing preload.
• Finish with a wheel alignment so it tracks straight and the tyres wear evenly.

There’s no fixed change interval, but many Transits see 150,000–250,000 kilometres before front coils show their age, depending on payload and roads. If a coil breaks, don’t keep driving — the sharp end can cut into a tyre. Get it towed, sorted, and the Transit will be back to a comfy, controlled ride.

Are the rear springs on a 2014 Ford Transit coils or leaf?

On most AU/NZ 2014 Transit vans, the rear uses a live axle with leaf springs, not coils. The coil springs are at the front as part of the MacPherson struts. Rear spring rates vary by payload and wheelbase, so parts selection should match the vehicle’s spec plate.

How often should the front coil springs be replaced?

There’s no set interval. Inspect them every service or 20,000 km. Replace if they’re cracked, sagging, badly corroded, or if ride height is uneven. With heavy use and rough roads, expect replacement somewhere around 150,000–250,000 km, give or take.

What else should be replaced when fitting new front coils?

Best practice is to replace in axle pairs and add new strut mounts/bearings, dust boots and bump stops. If the struts are worn or leaking, replace them too. Always finish with a wheel alignment.