FORD TRANSIT MK8 SIDE STEP PROBLEM

[ianmac1122]

Hello i have just purchased a MK8 transit 17 seater minibus , i am having problems with the factory side step that works off the sliding side door . When opened the step comes out but sometimes just goes straight back in , also when stop to let passenger off i open door step comes out then when door is shut the step goes in and comes straight back out resulting in the engine cutting out when i put it into gear . The step also comes out randomly when i am driving and stays out , i know you can control the step from the driver assist but really need it functioning properly , has anyone had the same issue and know what the problem is with them ?

thanks

[loot]

Are these electronically operated? If so then there must be a contact switch or it is linked to the door contact switch, I will guess that the connection isn't very good. If it was the door contact switch I'd expect to see the door open message randomly coming on etc.

I'm not sure how the step works but it must be fairly simple setup.

[ianmac1122]

yes its an electric step , i had a quick look and couldn't see where the contact switch was to operate , i also tried unplugging the step but that only gives a step malfunction warning on dash and bus wont start , even on the driver assist if the step is turned off it still randomly comes out when driving , really annoying as i now do not trust the van out on the road unless im driving it which isnt much use to me as i have several drivers

do you think it could be an option to wire it to a seperate switch so i could manually switch it on and off rather than work off the side door ? also do you think the ecu could be programmed in such a way that it no longer looks for a step then could possibly add a switch to operate

[dumper]

Not been under mine so not sure what switch’s are underneath but It has a override on the step to stop it coming out if it hits something like your leg their is a switch on the right hand side of the door if you press it in manually when the door is open it closes the step so if door not fully shut step stays out and engine cuts out to stop you driveing off with it out the only outher thing I know is if it fails with it out you can wind it in manually with a bolt underneath

[loot]

I'd need more info but I'm sure that it could be programmed out with ids, non minibuses don't have them do they.
Then it would be a case of pushing the button when needed. You'd have to visually check that it is out though each time or you might end up getting sued if an old dear ends up in her back.

Alternatively if it is under 3 years old then it should be under warranty? It must just be a loose contact although it shouldn't be powered up in drive should it

Is it Ford factory kit not aftermarket?

[ianmac1122]

its a factory fit step that comes with all the new shape minibus , the vans dont have them think they just have a runner board which is fixed , unfortunately its a late 15 plate so 3 year warranty is up

i know one other person with a minibus and his acts up aswell although sounds like mine is worse and doing it constantly

[sigtravel]

I’ve got a 2014 mk8 minibus same as yours mate... I’ve had murder with my step. Ended up emptying a can of WD40 onto the hinges and it’s been fine since. The rollers get filled with shite from the road, need to keep them clean:

Also:... yeah you could get the step coded out by someone who has IDS. I’m thinking of having mine sticking out permanently.

[bambi mk 1]

I’ve got a 2014 mk8 minibus same as yours mate... I’ve had murder with my step. Ended up emptying a can of WD40 onto the hinges and it’s been fine since. The rollers get filled with shite from the road, need to keep them clean:

Also:... yeah you could get the step coded out by someone who has IDS. I’m thinking of having mine sticking out permanently.

You will need to install a wheelchair lift if you you leave it out permanently cause there will be a lot of people about with no legs

[loot]

Why doesn't it just open and shut with the door, direct mechanism will do, bloody switches and sensors all over the gaff and where all the dirt and splashes are likely to be

[bambi mk 1]

Why doesn't it just open and shut with the door, direct mechanism will do, bloody switches and sensors all over the gaff and where all the dirt and splashes are likely to be

I havent worked on a Mk 8 but had some on older ones give a lot of bother.The were made by the wooden planks who in their wisdom forgot to fit grease nipples or anything to keep dirt or water away

[Dan T]

They've got a sensor on them to detect if it's out to inhibit start/drive.
Prone to dirt and stuff... Presuming changing the sensor would be a good start.
Don't know what would happen if you disconnected the switch... it will default one way or the other when it's open circuit so may at leased allow you to use it.

[GAZZER]

Hi just put a step on my van from a 2015 but mine a 2018 and not the same plugs or wires can any one help plz

[Ollychic89]

Hi I have the same problem with my ford transit Custom minibus I have taken the lift out no problem but the side step has never worked so I want to take it out and put a runner board on how do I do it so the engine doesn't cut out I live in Liverpool if you know any one that can help let me know I am getting desperate as want to convert to campervan for holidays any help would be gratefully appreciated

[paul255]

I had the same problem on mine when I first got it.I replaced the secondary battery and it sorted it.If you bye pass the switch on the body panel it will think the door is closed and bye pass the electronics on the dash.

[allancockenzie]

I had the same problem on my 2017 PCV minibus, tried everything had to get a new step on it comes Compleat, not cheap around 2k, but not had any problems since, looks like all the Sencers are in the motor so you can't get at them, sorry but PCV so had to just change it.