Parts for your 2015 Ford Transit-Struts

Struts Replacement and Maintenance for the 2015 Ford Transit

The 2015 Ford Transit is equipped with a suspension system that relies on struts, making these components critical for maintaining the smoothness of your ride. If you're driving a Ford Transit from this year, here's an easy guide to understanding the importance of struts and knowing when and how to replace or maintain them.

Struts on the Ford Transit serve several functions. They not only help absorb shocks from the road, providing a more comfortable ride, but they also play a crucial role in ensuring that your tyres maintain contact with the road for traction and stability. As part of the Transit's suspension system, struts also support the vehicle's weight and aid in the overall handling of the vehicle.

Regular maintenance of struts can prevent larger, more expensive problems down the road. As struts wear out, you'll notice the ride becoming increasingly bumpy, unusual tyre wear, or even a nosedive during heavy braking. Here are some tips to help you identify when struts need replacing:

1. Inspect for Leaks: If you see oil leaking from the strut itself, it's a clear indication that the internal seals are worn out. Leaking fluid leads to decreased damping ability, making the ride less smooth.
2. Monitor Ride Comfort: Pay attention to changes in ride quality. A rough, bouncy ride can often indicate that the struts are losing their damping ability.
3. Watch for Uneven Tyre Wear: If the tyre tread wears unevenly, it can be a sign that your struts are not properly supporting the vehicle, which leads to increased tyre friction.

Once you've concluded that it's time to replace the struts on your 2015 Ford Transit, it's wise to be informed about the process and principles of strut replacement. The more you know, the better you can determine whether you can handle the job yourself or should seek professional assistance.

Replacing struts involves several steps that require both tools and technical knowledge:

• Secure the Vehicle: Begin by ensuring the Transit is parked on a flat surface. Use wheel chocks to prevent any movement, and lift the vehicle using a jack and secure it on jack stands.
• Remove the Old Strut: After removing the wheel, the strut assembly can be accessed. The strut is typically fastened by bolts top and bottom. Remove these carefully, maintaining the integrity of surrounding components.
• Install the New Strut: With the old strut out of the way, you can position the new strut. Ensure that it is aligned correctly and securely fastened with the prescribed torque settings.
• Reassemble and Test: Reattach any components you removed and replace the wheel. Lower the vehicle and take a short, cautious test drive to ensure everything functions correctly.

Strut replacement can be complex. If you're not confident in your mechanical skills, seeking help from a professional mechanic is often the best course of action. Incorrect installation can lead to serious safety risks or further damage to the vehicle.

In terms of maintaining your Ford Transit's suspension system, consider regular check-ups as part of routine vehicle maintenance. Inspections every 50,000 kilometres is a good rule of thumb, although driving conditions can affect this schedule. Regular inspections and maintaining strut integrity can enhance the vehicle's versatility, whether you're using it for transport or carrying heavy loads.

While the struts might not always be top of mind, ensuring they're in good condition is key to safety and comfort. Paying attention to these components can save money in the long run and ensure a smooth driving experience in your 2015 Ford Transit.

Whether you're doing it yourself or heading to a professional, understanding the ins and outs of strut maintenance helps keep your Transit running efficiently. Keep your journeys comfortable and predictable by prioritising these crucial parts of your vehicle.