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Ford Transit & Transit Custom 2.0 EcoBlue Timing Belt Interval Update (6 Years/100,000 Miles)
Important maintenance update for Ford Transit, Transit Custom, Van and Tourneo owners/operators with the 2.0 EcoBlue diesel engine.
In 2024, Ford Motor Company revised the official timing belt replacement interval for all 2.0 EcoBlue-engine vans. This change reflects real-world evidence of premature timing belt degradation linked to engine oil dilution – a recognised issue in the wet belt design.
As one of Slough's leading independent Ford Wet Belt specialist, contact us for advice or service to avoid a costly breakdown.
What Has Changed?
Ford’s General Service Bulletin 24-7042 (23 April 2024) confirms a new service interval for the timing belt, tensioner and idler assemblies fitted to:
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Ford Transit (2.0 EcoBlue)
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Ford Transit Custom (2.0 EcoBlue)
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Ford Tourneo (2.0 EcoBlue)
These vehicles were produced for the European market between 2016−2023. Revised Service Requirement:
Replace timing belt, tensioners and idlers at 6 years or 160,000 km (100,000 miles) – whichever comes first.
This is a significant reduction from older guidance (up to 10 years or ~240,000 km in some earlier materials).
Why the Change Matters
The 2.0 EcoBlue engine uses an internal (wet) timing belt, lubricated by engine oil. While this design improves efficiency and noise, it also exposes the belt to:
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Diesel contamination in the oil
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Heat and chemical degradation
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Premature wear and delamination
Over time, these factors can weaken the belt and increase the risk of sudden failure.
A broken timing belt can result in catastrophic engine failure, including bent valves, damaged pistons or costly rebuilds – downtime and repair costs far outweigh the preventive service.
How Was the Problem Identified?
Independent garages and fleet specialists across the UK have been reporting wet-belt wear issues for years, with some recommending even shorter intervals (for example, before 90,000 miles on high-use vans).
Regular servicing and checks improve long-term reliability and help protect your investment.
What Should Van Operators Do?
1. Check Your Service History
If your Ford Transit or Transit Custom with the 2.0 EcoBlue engine is approaching 6 years or 100,000 miles, book a timing belt inspection now.
2. Plan Preventive Replacement
Don’t wait for failure. Replace the timing belt kit, tensioner, and idlers at the revised interval, and consider replacing them even earlier if you operate under heavy-use conditions.
3. Use Quality Parts & Correct Oil
Always insist on genuine Ford (or manufacturer-approved) parts and oil that meets Ford’s specification. Proper oil maintenance slows belt degradation and extends service life.
4. Keep Detailed Service Records
Meticulous records help with warranty considerations and resale value.
Common Symptoms of Timing Belt Wear
Watch out for:
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Ticking or unusual engine sounds
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Oil warning light or low oil pressure
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Rough running or reduced fuel economy
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Visible belt fibre in oil checks
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Excessive smoke or unusual performance issues
If you notice these signs, call Motorcare promptly.
Why Preventive Timing Belt Replacement Pays Off
Ignoring the updated interval can lead to:
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Sudden breakdowns and roadside recovery
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Major engine damage and expensive repairs
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Lost revenue for business users due to vehicle downtime
Preventive timing belt replacement is cost-effective insurance for commercial vehicles.
Book Your Timing Belt Service
At Motorcare Service Centre, we specialise in Ford Transit & Transit Custom 2.0 EcoBlue maintenance. Our services include:
✔ Comprehensive inspection of timing belt and associated components
✔ Replacement of timing belt, tensioner and idlers
✔ Engine oil, filter change and sump strainer clean
✔ Use of genuine parts and Ford-approved lubricants
✔ Detailed service reports to support resale and compliance
👉Call our team for advice and quotes. Keep your van reliable and compliant with the latest manufacturer guidance.
Frequently asked questions
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