There aren't any bad bits. I have the 2.2 version, pretty much identical to the 2.4 mechanically. Engine needs to be filled with the correct grade of synthetic oil, mineral oil will kill it pretty quick. They have the advantage of chain driven cams so no belt to break and wreck the engine. The only bad mouthing they get is from people who have never owned one. Its a ford transit engine built for hard work and capable of incredibly high mileages.
rogerboy
Member
Thanks for reply.
I might have been lucky with my Mondeos. Had an 07 plate, estate 2.0 litre (130PS). Never had any issues with it. Pulled like a train and easily averaged 53mpg on mixed runs not over 70mpg. Currently got a 12 plate estate 2.0 litre (140PS) Pulls well, but gearbox a bit leggy, I think this one might be a bit longer and heavier too. Averages a shade over 50mpg. Nearly 8 years of running a TDCi with no engine problems. Except EGR valve packed in on the 07 one, very easy fix. These are TDCi Duratorque engines.
lightning
Well-Known Member
I bought a new Transit tdci and had endless issues with the engine, surging, lurching, self revving, poor economy, variable performance, hunting on light throttle...
Although it never actually broke down. You'd put your foot down and nothing would happen for two seconds, then it would take off like a rocket.
When l sold it at 80,000 miles it had early signs of injector problems.
Having said all that the Defender tdci drives well, if you get a good one.
I've driven three. A 90 HT (OK) 110 XS (very nice) and 110 Utility (awful)
TD5 Defenders are all getting on a bit now. There are good ones to be had but there's loads of mint tdci's just out of 2/3 year lease.
Although it never actually broke down. You'd put your foot down and nothing would happen for two seconds, then it would take off like a rocket.
When l sold it at 80,000 miles it had early signs of injector problems.
Having said all that the Defender tdci drives well, if you get a good one.
I've driven three. A 90 HT (OK) 110 XS (very nice) and 110 Utility (awful)
TD5 Defenders are all getting on a bit now. There are good ones to be had but there's loads of mint tdci's just out of 2/3 year lease.
Seems to me that every time this subject crops up, the bad press is by association to the transit - a vehicle that gets used and abused every day of its life. Thats what they are for - transporting tons of goods daily, by non owner drivers who probably don't give a sh1t about the vehicle. Mine, in my landy, is loved and well cared for by an enthusiast and should last a lot longer than a transit. Time will tell.
Yea, I do use it as a car. But it is no stranger to dirt roads and open cast mine sites. And I'll never go back to an ordinary car - thats the difference for me. And todays tdci is tomorrows tratter.
