REDLINE ALLEYFord Falcon FG buying guide
2008 to 2016. An FG XR6 Turbo or XR8 suits a buyer after a fast, roomy rear drive sedan who will check the gearbox and any tune carefully.
Big jobs
- Transmission cooler and auto gearbox. The transmission cooler is a renowned weak point, and owners still report gearbox failures from coolant getting into the transmission oil.
- Modified XR6 Turbo cars. Poorly modified turbo cars are called the biggest risk in the FG market. Check for boost leaks and drivetrain stress.
Workshop jobs
- Brake hydraulics and rotors. A pedal that sinks when held for a minute is reported, and rotors groove and warp with hard use.
- ZF auto servicing. ZF autos need fluid servicing despite sealed for life claims.
- Suspension bushes. Worn bushes show up as knocks or clunks.
- V8 cooling and oil use. On the V8 cars, check the cooling system, oil consumption and the exhaust manifolds. V8 parts cost more.
Small jobs
- Diff bushes and axle tramp. Diff bushes can fail past about 30,000 km; cars built from 2009 have improved bushes.
Questions for the seller
- Has the transmission cooler been replaced or bypassed with an external one?
- When was the ZF fluid last changed?
- Has it been tuned, and can I see the records?
- Has it been used as a company or rental car?
Sources
Researched 2026-11-01. General guidance from owner and specialist sources. Check the specific car with an independent inspection.