Ford Transit problems
The Ford Transit is a family of light commercial vehicles manufactured by the Ford Motor Company since 1965, primarily as a cargo van, but also available in other configurations including a large passenger van (marketed as the Ford Tourneo in some markets since 1995), cutaway van chassis, and a pickup truck. The vehicle is also known as the Ford T-Series (T-150, T-250, T-350), a nomenclature shared with Ford's other light commercial vehicles, the Ford F-Series trucks, and the Ford E-Series chassis. As of 2015, 8 million Transit vans have been sold, making it the third best-selling van of all time and has been produced across four basic platform generations (debuting in 1965, 1986, 2000, and 2013 respectively), with various "facelift" versions of each.
The first product of the merged Ford of Europe, the Transit was originally marketed in Western Europe and Australia. By the end of the twentieth century, it was marketed nearly globally with the exception of North America until 2013 when it replaced the Ford E-Series van. Upon its introduction in North America, the Transit quickly became the best-selling van of any type in the United States, minivan sales included.
That mirrors the success the Transit has achieved in Europe, where it has been the best-selling light commercial vehicle for forty years, and in some countries the term "Transit" has passed into common usage as a generic trademark applying to any light commercial van in the Transit's size bracket.
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Ford Transit model years
Common Ford Transit problems
The Ford Transit, a popular choice for businesses and individuals, has had its fair share of problems over the years. Here are some of the most common issues based on complaints from owners:
- Premature Brake Wear: Many owners of the Ford Transit have reported problems with the brakes, particularly the rear brakes. This issue has been prevalent since the Transit models starting in 2015. The misalignment of brake pads, the new traction and stability control programs, and caliper issues can all contribute to premature brake wear.
- Transmission Issues: Transmission problems, especially in earlier models, have been a significant issue. The 2015 and 2016 models have shown significant problems with their transmission, including shifting difficulties and complete transmission failure in some instances.
- Fuel Pump Failures: Fuel pump failures can lead to engine stalling, a problem that has been reported by some Ford Transit owners.
- Electrical Problems: Electrical system failures, particularly with dashboard instruments and lighting, have been a common complaint among Ford Transit owners. These issues can affect components such as the dashboard lights, sensors, and more.
- Suspension Wear and Tear: Suspension wear and tear, often requiring replacement parts, is another common issue that has been reported by Ford Transit owners.
- Faulty Starter: A faulty starter is a common fault that can cause a Ford Transit to fail to start.
- Discharged Battery: A discharged battery is another common fault that can prevent a Ford Transit from starting.
- Rotten Wiring Harness: A rotten wiring harness can also cause a Ford Transit to fail to start.
- Faulty Immobiliser: A faulty immobiliser is another common fault that can prevent a Ford Transit from starting.
- Brake Caliper Issues: Brake caliper issues, where the calipers get stuck, can lead to the brake pads wearing out quickly.
- Faulty Turbocharger Actuator: Some 2.0 TDCi models have had an issue with poor performance, which is traced to a faulty turbocharger actuator.
- Chafed Insulation on Wiring: Some 2.0 TDCi models have suffered from an issue where the engine fails to respond when the accelerator is pressed, due to chafed insulation on the wiring from the accelerator position sensor.
- Steering Problems: Some versions of the Transit Custom have a fault with their electric power steering system, where a loose bolt has been found in the system, requiring the replacement of the steering gear.
- Overheating: Some examples of the Transit Custom have suffered from an overheating issue, caused by the fuse for the cooling fan being of an incorrect spec, which can blow under minor load and render the cooling fan inoperative.
- Transmission Glitches: Some versions of the Transit Custom have had a transmission issue where the gearbox drops from first gear into neutral and pops out of second gear into neutral.
These issues can lead to significant repair costs and potential downtime, making it crucial for Ford Transit owners to be aware of these common problems and address them promptly with regular inspections and maintenance.
How long do Ford Transit engines last?
How long do Ford Transits last? According to motorandwheels.com, a typical Ford Transit will last 160,000-300,000 miles. This range might be wide, but it depends on how well the driver cares for the vehicle. The less maintenance and careful driving, the faster components will wear and fall apart.
Is a Ford Transit reliable?
The Ford Transit-150 Reliability Rating is 3.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 8th out of 21 for commercial vans.
What years of Ford Transit Connect to avoid?
Early in 2021, Ford issued a recall for over 192,000 2013-2021 Transit Connects due to their high probability of rolling away when in park mode. Aside from the 2012 redesign, some 2013-2021 Transit Connects have also been reported to have transmission issues. Image source: Ford Media Center.
What are the most common problems with a used Ford Transit custom van?
1 – Loss Of Power
- Clogged Fuel And Air Filter. The fuel filter is responsible for blocking debris from entering the fuel system. ...
- A Clogged Fuel Injector. ...
- A Clogged Exhaust System. ...
- A Poor Compression. ...
- The Engine Warning Light. ...
- The Misalignment Of Brake Pads. ...
- The New Traction & Stability Control Programs. ...
- Caliper Issues.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Ford Transit years
We have researched Ford problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Ford Transit cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Ford Transit model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Ford Transit model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Ford Transit years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Ford Transit car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Ford Transit , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Power train problems
- Engine problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Electrical system problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Ford Transit vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Transit model years
A total of 11 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Transit model years
There were a total of 8 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Transit model years
There were a total of 34 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Transit model years
There were a total of 10 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 455 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Ford Transit . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Ford Transit vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Ford Transit 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
- VIN: 1FBAX2CV8GK
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Ford Transit. The contact stated while driving 40-45 MPH, the message "High Temperature - Pull Over Safely" was displayed. The contact stated that upon decelerating, the temperature gauge dropped, then started fluctuating from normal to high temperature. The contact was able to drive to the nearby residence. The contact stated while driving to the dealer the following day, the check engine warning light illuminated. The dealer diagnosed that the EGR was fractured. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer informed the contact of Ford Campaign Number: 18M06; which the contact related to the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the campaign had expired. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
Ford Transit 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
- VIN: 1FTSF4XV3FK
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Ford performed a safety recall for driveshaft repair and the recall was performed - as a result of the upgraded parts (first section of driveshaft and ujoint) installed due to the recall, the driveshaft is out of balance due to the newly changed design of the driveline (going from a giubo joint to a ujoint). The vehicle now needs the rest of the driveshaft balanced (a ~15ft long driveshaft) as a result of the recall - this poses a safety issue because it could make the carrier bearings fail at any minute of operation
Ford Transit 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
- VIN: 1FBAX2CG5JK
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Exhaust manifold warped/broken stud causing exhaust leak.
Ford Transit 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-09
- VIN: 1FTNE1YM4FK
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Vehicle will randomly downshift into first gear at 40mph almost caused me to lose control
Ford Transit 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- VIN: 1FTYR2CM8HK
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: We currently have a vehicle fleet of 40+ vehicles. Within the last two months, we have had to replace FOUR evaporator coils assemblies. I believe this is an indication of a factory issue that was never caught.
Ford Transit 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- VIN: 1FTYR2CM9HK
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: We have a vehicle fleet of over 40+ vehicles. Within the last two months, we have had FOUR vehicles needing the evaporator housing replaced. I believe this is an indication of the factory issue never caught.
Ford Transit 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- VIN: 1FTYR2CM9HK
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: We have a vehicle fleet of 40+ vehicles. In the last two months, we have had to replace a FOUR evaporator coil assemblies. I believe this is an indication of a factory issues that was never caught.
Ford Transit 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- VIN: 1FTBR2C86LK
- Components: STEERING,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: In march 2024 my vehicle unexpectedly cutoff on [XXX] heading into wash. Dc. Called a tow to my mechanic and had the alternator and battery replaced. Mechanic noticed that the vehicles battery light remained and investigated further. After amonth in the shop we observed that components were utilizing battery power when the system should be off. We heard mechanical diagnostic sounds, and the battery would not maintain a charge after being driven. Upon getting it home and a day later upon jump starting again and when i began to turn the wheel, a violent jerking response came from the steering column. Cheched the dash and several popup windows had to be closed. AWD, BATTERY, and low fuel. There was also the wrench light on the dash itself. Went on the Ford forum and many others were describing the same issues, mainly battery drain. I thought i had disconnected the cargo area lights only to find out i did disconnect part but not them all only to further discover Ford engineered the vehicle where most of the features that were described in the forum not so accessible such as the fuse panel 'fuse 32' because theres no clear indication of where that is exactly on the diagrams. Ive have pretty much used the vehicle on occasions where im moving my equipment. As of september, i received a letter from fords "Customer Satisfaction Program" in which i responded only to be told from Bannister Ford that the Software Update that would fix High-Torque launches would not be installed because the battery light was on. Now to me, this sounds like a catch-22 because the issue is with their electrical design where if one problem occurs they have a fix but you wont get it until you fix the prom (ideally with them). all the while I'm setting up the appointment im being served ads for add-on services. Its october 2024 and i am just sick of this van. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Ford Transit 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-27
- VIN: 1FBZX2YMXHK
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Ford Transit. The contact stated while driving approximately 60 MPH, there was an abnormal banging sound underneath the floorboard. The contact pulled over and turned off the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that there was fluid puddling underneath the vehicle. The contact had the vehicle towed to a dealer. The dealer informed the contact that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V767000 (Power Train), and that the failure was caused by the driveshaft separating from the flexible coupling. The contact was informed that the driveshaft had damaged the transmission and the fuel line. The contact was informed that the recall repair only covered the repair of the driveshaft and flexible coupling, and that he had to cover the repair costs of the other damages. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 113,000.
Ford Transit 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-25
- VIN: 1FTBR2XG9LK
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Ford Transit. The contact stated that whenever it rained, the door seal towards the rear of the passenger’s side sliding door was leaking. The contact stated that the leak was allowing water to accumulate in the pillar located at the rear on the passenger’s side. The contact stated that the pillar was filling nearly to where the pillar joined the ceiling. The contact stated that water was forming puddles on the floorboards and was draining from the pillar. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer but had not had the vehicle diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. Additionally, the contact had observed that the seam on the roof of the vehicle where the two roof panels were joined was also showing extreme deterioration of the caulking; however, there was no water leaking into the vehicle yet. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 3,100.
Ford Transit 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-17
- VIN: 1FBAX2CM6GK
- Components: SUSPENSION,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Ford Transit. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle was vibrating abnormally. The contact stated that there was a loud squeaking noise while depressing the accelerator pedal. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the NHSTA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 72,419.
Ford Transit 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-11
- Components: PARKING BRAKE,POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Ford Transit. The contact stated while driving 65-70 MPH on the freeway, the vehicle began to vibrate. The contact moved to the right lane, and there was an abnormal knocking noise detected. The brake pedal was depressed but failed to respond. The contact struck the curb, ran over the curb, and pulled up the parking brake, and the vehicle stopped. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who determined that the failure was due to the drive shaft being faulty and referred him to the local dealer. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed the failure was due to the driveshaft flexible coupling. The vacuum line, brake line, and fuel line were cut, and the transmission was inoperable. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 131,000. The VIN was not available.
Ford Transit 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-03
- VIN: 1FTYE1CM6GK
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Ford Transit. The contact stated that while an employee was driving above 15 MPH, the vehicle was shaking abnormally with loud clanking sounds. The vehicle was inspected by an independent mechanic who determined that the driveshaft was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The contact was informed that the vehicle was previously serviced on three separate occasions which included under NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V767000 (Power Train), but the failure persisted. The failure mileage was 150,000.
Ford Transit 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-29
- VIN: 1FBZX2YG6FK
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: When I was driving, the driveshaft came apart and everything underneath broke including fuel lines, brake lines, and turbo lines. Ford is refusing to pay for the recall repair.
Ford Transit 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-28
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-28
- VIN: 1FTYR1YM1HK
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: Vehicle rear camera has failed for the second time. Had it inspected at dealer and was told it was corrosion of wires, same as first time. Transit forums show it's a common problem. I don't want to back into/over anyone or run into something like my boat trailer which I did when it failed backing up and now have a large dent in the left rear door. Wire harness cost quoted at $450. There is obviously an issue. Thank you.
Latest 5 recalls Ford Transit
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 114 recalls for different components of the Ford Transit.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Ford Transit 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-08-09
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: STEERING:COLUMN
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Transit vehicles. The steering column intermediate shaft may have been secured to the steering gear pinion shaft with an incorrect bolt, which can result in the separation of steering components and cause a loss of steering control.
- Consequence: A loss of steering control can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the steering column intermediate shaft bolt, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed August 22, 2024. A second notice will be sent once the final remedy is available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S48.
- Model: Ford Transit 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-07-24
- Manufacturer: A&J Vans Inc
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: A&J Vans Inc (A&J) is recalling certain 2024 Ford Transit vehicles, equipped with certain GO-ES Space Saver Foldaway Seats. The recliner mechanism may not engage when the seat back is fully reclined.
- Consequence: The seat back could release when force is applied to the shoulder belt, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
- Remedy: A&J will inspect and repair the seats as necessary, free of charge. Owners may contact A&J customer service at 920-775-9333.
- Model: Ford Transit 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-07-19
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Transit vehicles equipped with a Transit Trail package. The electronic power assist steering (EPAS) ground eyelet joint may experience corrosion, which can result in a loss of power steering assist.
- Consequence: A loss of power steering assist can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will install a new EPAS ground pigtail kit, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed August 7, 2024. A second notice will be sent once the final remedy is available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S46.
- Model: Ford Transit 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-03-22
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Transit vehicles equipped with the Transit Trail package. The tires may contact the front wheel arch liner and body flange, causing damage to the tires.
- Consequence: Damaged tires may experience a sudden loss of air pressure or tread separation, causing a loss of vehicle control and increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the tires, tire placard, and certification label, and also recalibrate the vehicle, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters explaining the safety risk are expected to be mailed April 4, 2024. A second notice will be sent once remedy parts become available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S21.
- Model: Ford Transit 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-09
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Ford Transit vehicles. An inadequate amount of rear axle lubricant may cause rear axle tail bearing damage and seizure, which can result in wheel lock-up or driveshaft separation.
- Consequence: Wheel lock-up or driveshaft separation can result in a loss of drive power. A disconnected driveshaft can also result in a roll away when the vehicle is in park without the parking brake applied. Any of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the rear axle, and replace the axle bearings or axle assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 4, 2024, and October 25, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S05.
Are you having problems with your Ford Transit?
