I have a Ford Transit Sport, 2012, (Mk 7, old style) and now out of warranty. It’s had a few issues, the oil pump being one, which I gather isn’t unusual on Ford Puma diesel engines of a certain age. Plus it has gone through two EGR valves, a whole air intake manifold, and a new battery. All on a van with only 11,000 miles on the clock. The battery replacement is probably down to me, I accept, as it doesn’t get much use, and it may sit around for three to four weeks unused. 

Anyway, to the point! I am part-exchanging it for a new Transit (yes, I’m a sucker for punishment), the new shape van. It’s the Limited 123bhp one, and one trim level down from the Sport which, although nice, is vastly overpriced over the Limited, just for a paint job, bigger wheels and leather. Anyway, the Limited comes with 16-inch alloy wheels, running 215/65/R16 tyres. The Sport has 18-inch wheels, running on 235/50/R18s. I would quite like to change the wheels to larger black ones. Are there any consequences of changing up? The body, suspension, and brakes appear the same on both vehicles and the wheel arch clearance is huge. Any advice would be appreciated.

D.P. Surrey.

To be totally honest, I’m not at all well informed on Transit vans. But you should know my opinions on wheels and tyres. Don’t do it! Unless you really fancy a noisy and hard ride (and why would you?), then there’s no good reason to do this surely? Visual appeal can’t be the objective? Or better roadholding? Transit vans with big black alloys won’t pull the ladies either, unless you’ve got some tasty graphics painted all over it, and possibly a swish pink leather-trimmed interior! OK, so 235/50/18s are not too extreme, but have you checked the extra cost, and tyre replacement costs? A quick scan online seems to indicate that 215/65/16s cost around £75 plus fitted to replace, but the 235/50/18s will be £130 to £150 a corner. Maybe your low annual mileage means that tyre costs are not critical though. Road noise is always amplified in something with large metal panels, like a Tranny van, so the effect may be worse than in any car. Had you thought of getting a set of winter wheels and tyres instead, which would possibly be of more use to you? If you do decide to go ahead, do at least check out the EC ratings for the 18-inch tyres that you will, presumably, be free to choose. The noise ratings vary from 69dB for Michelin Primacy to 75dB for Yokohama Advan ST, which in itself could make a lot of difference, and the fuel economy and wet grip ratings also vary quite a bit. Regards,

Doc Diesel