This post covers the Ford Transit Custom alarm system, which models have one, and what other security features the van has as standard equipment.
I also go into detail about what options there are to improve the factory security and patch up some of the weak points.
Gen 2 Ford Transit Custom 2023-
Ford released the 2nd generation Transit in 2023, with 7 versions currently available in New Zealand. You can read more about the various model specifications on the Ford NZ website.
All models come with Remote locking, immobiliser and deadlocks.
FordPass
Every Gen 2 Transit Custom is equipped with FordPass. This allows you view the location of the vehicle and lock and unlock via the App, along with other vehicle specific functions.
Does the 2026 Ford Transit Custom have an alarm?
That depends on which model you have.
The chart below shows which versions come with a factory alarm system, and what type of alarm it has.
2026 Ford Transit Custom security specifications
- 320 LWB TOURNEO SPORT BUS AWD DIESEL
- 320 SWB SPORT VAN AWD
- 320 LWB VAN
- 320 SWB VAN
- 340 LWB VAN BEV
- 340 LWB BUS
- 320 LWB BUS
Icon explanation
- Thatcham alarm with interior protection
- Perimeter alarm only (Doors & Bonnet)
- No Alarm
Transit Custom factory alarm features
Thatcham approved alarm is a good benchmark
The models with the Thatcham approved alarm have ultrasonic sensor protection in both the cabin and the load area. This is a refreshing change as most factory van alarms neglect the work area of the van.
For the models with just the perimeter alarm or no alarm at all, I recommend upgrading the alarm to a Vodafone Automotive 4822 Thatcham CAT 2-1 CAN-BUS upgrade alarm.
Everything works flawlessly with the factory Ford remote.
Retro fitted cabin sensors
The 4822 comes with ultrasonic sensors that fit into the empty slots retaining the factory look. The photo shows the back of the roof pod where the sensors can be installed.
Load area protection
A PIR sensor or a Microwave sensor can both be added to protect the load area.
Deadlocks
Activating the Ford deadlocks
This means that the load area remains locked, which is a good thing.
Gen 1 Ford Transit Custom 2012-2023
The original Transit Custom was released in 2012. All models came with remote locking and immobiliser.
Easy to defeat alarm and deadlocks
Whilst the van had deadlocks and a perimeter alarm which honked the horn these were easy to defeat. The alarm would disarm with the key in the driver’s door and the deadlocks would unlock with a 2nd turn of the key.
The problem was that you did not need the key as the whole door lock mechanism could be forced to turn, disarming the Ford security.
Factory Transit Custom alarm vs upgraded alarm
2018 facelift and security updates
Ford updated the Transit in 2018 to prevent the alarm being disarmed via the key in the door.
As of 2020 FordPass was added to the Transit Custom.
Still no load area protection
The Gen 1 Transit Custom does not offer any internal movement sensors in either the load area or the cabin.
4822 CAN-BUS upgrade alarm in the Transit Custom
Ford Transit Custom alarm installation
The Vodafone Automotive 4822 Enhanced CAN-BUS upgrade alarm is my recommendation.
Whilst there are no factory holes for ultrasonic sensors to fit, the roof pod still has enough space for flush-mount sensors to be installed.
The upgraded alarm remains armed if the driver door is mechanically unlocked and goes off instantly activating the siren and horn, compared to a 12-second delay.
Check out my post about van security for more tips and advice about security upgrades.
