ModerateAffected: 2013-202130,000–80,000 miles

Ford Transit Transit Custom 2.0 TDCi 130bhp — DPF Blockage from Idling and Short Trips

Fleet Transit Customs spend long periods idling at low speed — the worst possible operating profile for a DPF. Blockage is the number one reported fault across UK fleets.

Severity

Moderate

DIY Difficulty

Moderate

Est. Cost

£200–£1000

OBD Codes

P2452P2453

Component Diagram

DPF

Typical layout and location for the DPF assembly.

Reference Illustration

Symptoms

DPF warning light
Power reduction
Black smoke
Engine oil rising above max (failed regens)
P2452/P2453 codes

Root Cause

Van use involves frequent idling, slow speeds and short trips. The DPF cannot regenerate below 550°C exhaust temperature. Failed regens pump diesel into the engine oil.

How To Fix

Check oil immediately — change if smells of diesel or above max
Force regen via Forscan or dealer tool
Professional DPF clean: £200-350
Policy: van must do one 30-min motorway run per week

Estimated Repair Costs

Repair Option	Est. Cost (GBP)
DIY (parts only)	£80–£400
Independent Garage	£200–£1000
Main Dealership	£320–£1600

Other Faults on This Variant

EGR Valve and Cooler Failure

Moderate

2013-202140,000–90,000 miles£300–£700

EGR failure on the Transit Custom 2.0 TDCi is extremely common in fleet use. The valve carbons up rapidly in stop-start environments.

Turbocharger Variable Vane Sticking

Severe

2013-202160,000–130,000 miles£200–£1000

The VNT turbocharger on the 2.0 TDCi Transit Custom develops sticky variable vanes from carbon build-up, causing power loss and limp mode.

Dual Mass Flywheel Failure

Moderate

2013-202180,000–160,000 miles£800–£1300

The Transit Custom carries loads and covers high mileages — both conditions that accelerate DMF wear. A shuddering, rattling van at idle is the typical presentation.

Disclaimer: Repair cost estimates are indicative and based on community data. Always get a quote from a qualified mechanic before proceeding with any repair.