How to Extend the Life of your Ford Transit

John Liotine • October 2, 2024

If you rely on your Ford Transit for work or personal use, keeping it in top shape is key to getting the most out of it. These vans are built tough, but like anything, a little care can go a long way.


At Colorado Fleetworks, we repair Ford Transits in our Denver shop every week, and we know firsthand that routine maintenance is the best way to keep them running smoothly for years. Here are a few simple tips to help extend the life of your Transit.


1. Stick to Regular Maintenance


First things first, always stick to your regular maintenance. Oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checks should be done on schedule. It’s easy to put these things off, but delaying routine service can lead to much bigger (and more expensive) problems down the road. If you’re not sure what your van needs or when, check the manual or ask us. We're happy to help.


2. Keep an Eye on Your Brakes


Brakes are a big deal, especially if you’re using your van to haul heavy loads or doing a lot of city driving. If you hear squeaking or grinding, or if it feels like it’s taking longer to stop, don’t wait. Getting your brakes checked regularly can save you from bigger problems down the line. Plus, replacing brake pads when they’re worn out is a lot cheaper than dealing with damaged rotors.


3. Pay Attention to Your Tires


Your tires might not always be top of mind, but they’re critical for both safety and performance. Underinflated tires can mess with your fuel economy, and worn-out tires reduce your grip on the road. Check your tire pressure regularly and keep them inflated to the right level. Also, rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,000 miles will help them wear evenly which will keep you safer and make them last longer.


4. Don’t Forget Your Transmission


Your Transit’s transmission is doing a lot of heavy lifting, especially if you’re using it for towing or carrying big loads. Keep an eye on the transmission fluid and make sure it’s topped off and clean. If you’re noticing any weird noises or issues shifting, it’s time to have it looked at. Transmissions aren’t cheap to fix, but catching problems early can save you a lot of hassle.


5. Take Care of the Cooling System


Overheating is no joke, and it can really damage your engine. Make sure your coolant levels are where they should be and replace the coolant according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. If your engine’s running hot or your temperature gauge is creeping up, don’t ignore it. Have a knowledgable Transit mechanic take a look and find the issue.


By sticking to these basic tips, you can get a lot more life out of your Ford Transit. Regular maintenance, catching problems early, and keeping things clean all help keep your van in great shape. If you need any help with your Transit, whether it’s routine maintenance or something more serious, give us a shout at Colorado Fleetworks and our expert Transmit mechanics. We’re here to make sure your van stays on the road for the long haul.


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If you're thinking about buying a Mercedes or already own one, it's normal to wonder how long it will actually last. We hear this question all the time. The short answer?  If you keep up with maintenance, most Mercedes-Benz vehicles will run strong for 200,000 to 250,000 miles. Some of models like the E-Class and S-Class can even hit 300,000 or more. Of course, how long your car lasts depends on things like how you drive it, how often it’s serviced, and which model you’ve got. But if you treat it right, a Mercedes can easily go the distance. Mercedes Vehicles Are Built to Last Mercedes puts a lot of engineering into their vehicles. You get solid drivetrains, high-quality components, and well-designed systems. But even a great vehicle can wear out early if it's not cared for. If you stay on top of oil changes, fluid services, and repairs when they first show up, your Mercedes has a real shot at lasting longer than most cars on the road. Some people run into issues because they wait too long between services or skip them altogether. Ignoring things like coolant leaks, check engine lights, or transmission problems might save you money in the short term, but it usually leads to bigger repairs later on. Gas vs Diesel Longevity Most Mercedes owners are driving gas-powered models, but diesel engines are known for lasting even longer with the right upkeep. If you're running a diesel, just know there are extra systems to watch, like the DPF and DEF systems. If those go unchecked, repairs can get pricey. But with regular inspections and the right service schedule, both gas and diesel Mercedes vehicles can stick around for a long time. Service Makes a Difference One of the biggest things that impacts the life of any Mercedes is where you take it for service. Not all shops know how to work on these vehicles properly. At Colorado Fleetworks in Denver, we work on Mercedes-Benz vehicles all the time and understand how to keep them running at their best. We do everything from regular maintenance to complex diagnostics and engine work. Whether your vehicle is still under warranty or well into its high-mileage years, we can help you avoid the common problems that shorten a car’s life. If you’re wondering whether your Mercedes can make it to 300,000 miles, the answer is yes. But it’s not automatic. Staying ahead of problems, following a maintenance schedule, and working with a shop that knows what it’s doing will make all the difference. Need help keeping your Mercedes on the road? Get in touch with us . We’re here to help you get the most out of your vehicle, mile after mile.
By John Liotine March 24, 2025
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By John Liotine March 10, 2025
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