Ford Falcon 2009 Problems

Tyres are tricky because they are not normally covered by the warranty. They’re considered as fair wear and tear items. But scrubbing front tyres as you report would appear to be above and beyond “fair” wear and tear and I would certainly have a crack at Ford for compensation. Get as much information as you can from other owners to support your claim.

It's very difficult now that Ford has made an assessment and carried out the repairs it considers necessary. I would keep thorough records of the communications you have, or have had, with the dealer and Ford, retain any correspondence you have received from them, and perhaps have it inspected by an acknowledged paint expert like Graeme Cuthbert (0422 444 335). You need to have as much documentation as   possible if it comes to a dispute at a later date.

We have had quite a number of reports of vibrations in Falcons, but yours is the first report we have received of a tailshaft actually breaking. As you rightly say it's potentially dangerous and anyone who has a vibration in their cars would be well advised to have the tailshaft in the car checked.

Good to hear you're happy with the system and the people who did the work. Fitting LPG to you car can be an adventure if you get the wrong system or have the wrong people do it, you experience is further proof that you should do your homework before you jump in.

IT WAS wrong you weren't told the tonneau wasn't covered by the factory warranty if that's the case, though I doubt Ford would sell a product on a new car that wasn't covered. I suggest you follow Ford's suggestion and see the dealer from whom you bought the car and have them both fix it and explain their poor communication.

I HAVE driven several E-Gas Falcons from Ford and have observed the vibration you talk about in at least one of them, a one-tonne cab-chassis. My reading of the vibration was that it was definitely driveline-related and I would have had the tailshaft checked if it was my car. You could have the driveline inspected by an independent mechanic, but that will cost you money, so I would keep up the pressure on Ford.

BEFORE I changed the transmission I'd be carefully checking the whole driveline because it's not only the tailshaft balance that could be the problem. It could be the driveline angles that are out. It could also be the transmission mount -- all manner of things. The problem with our large cars is that the tailshaft is a long, heavy component that's very hard to balance.

I HAVE driven several E-Gas Falcons from Ford and have observed the vibration you talk about in at least one of them, a one-tonne cab-chassis. My reading of the vibration was that it was definitely driveline-related and I would have had the tailshaft checked if it was my car. You could have the driveline inspected by an independent mechanic, but that will cost you money, so I would keep up the pressure on Ford.