2018 Ford Transit connect problems
The Ford Transit Connect is a compact panel van sold by Ford since 2002. Developed by Ford of Europe, the model line replaced sedan-based vans (Ford Escort and Ford Courier vans) with a dedicated commercial vehicle platform. The model line is the second-smallest vehicle of the Ford Transit range, slotted between the Ford Transit Courier LAV and the Ford Transit Custom LCV/MPV. In line with other Ford Transit variants, passenger-oriented models (in Europe) are marketed as the Ford Tourneo Connect with side windows and rear seats.
The first and second-generation Transit Connect has been imported to North America from the 2010 model year. To circumvent the 25% "chicken tax" on imported light trucks, all examples have been imported as passenger vans, with cargo vans converted to the intended configuration after their importation. In the region, the Transit Connect does not have a direct predecessor; the closest vehicle to its size was the standard-length Ford Aerostar cargo van, which ceased production in 1997.
The first-generation Transit Connect was assembled by Ford Otosan (Kocaeli, Turkey) along with Ford Romania (Craiova, Romania). For the second generation, Ford of Europe shifted production to its Ford Valencia Body and Assembly facility (Almussafes, Valencia, Spain). For 2022, a third generation of the Tourneo Connect was released; based on the Volkswagen Caddy, the model line is assembled by Volkswagen in Poland.
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Common 2018 Ford Transit connect problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the Ford Transit Connect 2018, several common problems have been reported. These include transmission issues, electrical problems, suspension problems, engine problems, and braking problems.
Transmission Issues
Owners of the Ford Transit Connect 2018 have reported transmission problems, such as difficulty shifting gears, slipping gears, and abnormal noises. These issues can lead to reduced performance and safety concerns. Symptoms like these should prompt owners to seek a qualified mechanic for diagnosis and potential transmission replacement if necessary.
Electrical Problems
Electrical issues have also been a common complaint among Ford Transit Connect 2018 owners. Symptoms include dead batteries, flickering headlights, and intermittent power loss. These problems can affect various components like lights, radio, and climate control. To address electrical issues, owners should consult a mechanic experienced with the Ford Transit Connect for proper diagnosis and repair.
Suspension Problems
Suspension problems in the Ford Transit Connect 2018 can manifest as a bumpy ride, uneven tire wear, drifting while driving, and noisy rides. These issues can be caused by worn-out shock absorbers, damaged suspension components, or misaligned wheels. Seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic is crucial to diagnose and resolve suspension problems effectively.
Engine Problems
Engine problems reported by owners of the Ford Transit Connect 2018 include rough idling, decreased power, and check engine light illumination. These issues can stem from dirty air filters, faulty spark plugs, or a malfunctioning fuel pump. Addressing engine problems promptly by consulting a knowledgeable mechanic is essential to maintain the vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency.
Braking Problems
Braking problems in the Ford Transit Connect 2018 can result in decreased stopping power, increased stopping distance, and issues like a soft brake pedal, squeaking or grinding noises, and vibrations while braking. Causes of these problems may include worn-out brake pads, damaged brake rotors, or a malfunctioning brake caliper. Seeking professional assistance for diagnosis and repair is crucial to ensure braking system safety and functionality.
By addressing these common problems promptly and consulting experienced mechanics, owners of the Ford Transit Connect 2018 can maintain the performance, safety, and longevity of their vehicles.
What is the most common problem with a Ford Transit Connect?
Some common Ford Transit Connect problems include transmission failure, engine failure, and a loose panoramic roof panel.
What are the issues with Ford Transit 2018?
Common problems found on the 2018 Ford Transit include excessive vibrations, the engine misfiring, as well as exhaust fumes in the cabin of the van. Overall, these problems are similar to other large vans, with average repair costs as it ages.
What is the recall on the 2018 Ford Transit?
2018 Ford Transit-150 Recalls
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Transit vehicles. An incorrect driveshaft torsional damper service kit may have been installed, which can allow the damper shield to contact the parking brake cable, possibly resulting in parking brake failure.
What is the life expectancy of a Ford Transit Connect engine?
What is Ford Transit Connect lifespan? The estimated lifespan of a Ford Transit Connect is 157,000mi, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit. Fuel type is a major factor when looking into a vehicles lifespan/life expectancy.
What is the most common problem with a Ford Transit Connect?
One of the most common problems with the Ford Transit Connect is transmission issues. The transmission is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels and any problem with it can result in significant performance issues.
What are the issues with Ford Transit 2018?
Common problems found on the 2018 Ford Transit include excessive vibrations, the engine misfiring, as well as exhaust fumes in the cabin of the van. Overall, these problems are similar to other large vans, with average repair costs as it ages.
What year did Ford Transit Connect avoid?
Among the Ford Transit Van years to avoid, as noted by MotorBiscuit, the 2015 model year stands out as the most problematic. Known for significant issues in its engine, transmission, and electronic systems, the 2015 Ford Transit Van has faced several recalls and numerous owner complaints.
What are the recalls on the 2018 Ford Transit?
Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Transit vehicles. An incorrect driveshaft torsional damper service kit may have been installed, which can allow the damper shield to contact the parking brake cable, possibly resulting in parking brake failure.
2018 Ford Transit connect car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford Transit connect problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Steering problems
- Service brakes problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Power train problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2018 Ford Transit connect vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2018 Ford Transit connect complaints
The NHTSA has received 16 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2018 Ford Transit connect.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-05
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Ford Transit Connect. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted, with the traction and ABS warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was able to be restarted; however, the failure recurred. The contact also stated that while the vehicle was parked, the contact became aware that transmission fluid was leaking from the transmission. The dealer was not contacted, and the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 114,000. The VIN was not available.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-14
- VIN: NM0LS7E78J1
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: The transmission is having a shuddering issue, and looking online there on tons and tons of people having the same issue and stating it’s the torque converter and this is over many different years and variants of my vehicle… how is this not a recall yet?? People are having this issue right after purchase?
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-27
- VIN: NM0GS9E7XJ1
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: The contact's company owns a 2018 Ford Transit Connect. The contact stated that while an employee was driving at 30 MPH, the rear driver side sliding door unintendedly opened. The employee could not shut the door due to a defective latch. The contact stated that a zip tie was used to secure the door. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer nor the dealer had been notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-27
- VIN: NM0LS6E79J1
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: ABS light comes on as well as loss of traction control and hill assist. Steering is more difficult, and the speed ohmmeter will not work. This is the second time this has happen. First time mechanic replaced bad speed sensor on drivers' side front wheel and everything went back to normal it only had around 6K miles on it. Now it has around 7.5K on it and it has happen again. Have not taken it in for repair yet.
SEATS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-22
- VIN: NM0GS9F76J1
- Components: SEATS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: hello - this is not a safety issue with my car. for the moment. inputting the VIN it states that there is only 1 row of seats (D/P). this is not accurate. there are 3 seat rows in my van. (front x2, middle x3 and rear seats x2) total of 7 seats. thus this should be corrected for my VIN. if or when i have a complaint about the safety of the seats, belts, head rests etc... it will make sense. i do not have a cargo van. it's a seven passenger seat van.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-06
- VIN: NM0LS7E72j1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Steering system failed while driving put driver at risk of crash. The problem still exists. It appears that the power steering rack has failed for the second time and will need to be replaced. There was no warning prior to failure
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-01
- VIN: NM0ls7e72j1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Power steering failed without warning while vehicle was being driven at highway speeds. Vehicle required replacement of power steering rack. This is the 4th time this has happened with my Ford Transit Connect vans
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-19
- VIN: nm0ls7e79j1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Unexpected power steering failure while driving. Driver and surrounding vehicles at risk Ford Dealer has reproduced the problem but can't identify the cause There weren't any warning lamps or messages before failure I own two other Ford Transit Connect vans from 2018, each has had the same problem
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-12
- VIN: nm0ls7e72j1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Power steering failure while driving Driver safety at risk as well as surrounding vehicles yes yes no warning lights, messages or other symptoms prior to failure
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-01
- VIN: NM0GS9F79J1
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: My vehicle is less than 5 years old, 10 months out of warranty. The LOCKS stopped working. They made the noise, but no action. So, I thought the locks were still working. The dealership had no idea what the issue was - they've had my vehicle for almost a month trying to figure it out. So far they've changed the Body Control Module and are getting another part. Ford will do nothing even though Locks should be something always covered or at least for 5 years. No warnings. This put me at risk as I camp in the vehicle and didn't know it wasn't locking (because it made the noise like it was).
VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-01
- VIN: Nm0ge9f7xj1
- Components: VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE
- Summary: I had been driving my car for a few minutes when I heard a loud pop and my rear window glass shattered. Covered in spider glass cracks and only held in place by the tint. No point of impact visible to show that it had been hit by an object. It was chilly, 43 F, and I had the heat/defrost on. Unfortunately, when arriving to work, I opened my sliding door look at the damage from the inside and doing so caused glass to fall out, so I have no picture of just the glass the way it was when it broke. A quick search shows this has happened to other vehicles including transit connects like mine, and caused by the heated glass.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-15
- VIN: NM0LS7E70j1
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Torque Converter failed. Confirmed by dealer service department. No warning indicators. Dealer repaired under warranty but it took 3 months from the first phone call. Looking online at user boards this should be a recall issue. I was told I could continue to drive it until parts came in and only found out later that the transmission could be damaged by doing so.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-03
- VIN: NM0LS7E72J1
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: DRIVER'S SIDE FRONT LOW BEAM BULB BURNS OUT CONTINUOUSLY
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-06
- VIN: NM0GE9G73J1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: LOUD NOISE W/VIBRATION AND FOUL ODOR COMING FROM HEATER BLOWER. DEALERSHIP DISCOVERED A RODENT'S NEST IN THE CLIMATE CONTROL BLOWER MOTOR. DEALERSHIP INDICATED THAT THERE IS NO REMEDY TO PREVENT RECURRENCE. DEALERSHIP ALSO MENTIONED THAT THE FORD ESCAPE HAS A HISTORY OF THE SAME PROBLEM. SEE FORD'S TSB 17-0034, PUBLISHED 3/21/17 RE FORD'S RECOMMENDED PREVENTION: "...INSTALL THE NEW INLET DUCT GASKET WITH SCREEN..." (EMPHASIS ADDED).
SUSPENSION,WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-25
- VIN: NM0LS7E71J1
- Components: SUSPENSION,WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: HAVE TAKEN OUR VEHICLE TO FORD AT LEAST 12 TIMES AND HAVE THE EXTENDED WARRANTY, THEY HAVE SAID NOTHING IS WRONG WITH IT. WE BOUGHT BRAND NEW AND HAVE THREE SETS OF BRAKE PAD PLACED ON THE FRON AND TWO PAIRS ON THE REARS.. WE HAVE GONE THROUGH TWO SETS OF TIRES AND THE FRONT DRIVERS SIDE IS CLICKING... FORD HAS SAID THERE IS NOTHING WRONG.. NOT SURE WHAT ELSE TO DO BUT THE VEHICLE DOESN'T WANT TO STOP AND THE TIRES OR THE ONE ON THE FRONT IS COMPLETELY BALD AND THE VEHICLE ONLY HAS 15,000 MILES ON IT
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-08-16
- VIN: NM0GE9F79J1
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: VEHICLE IS EQUIPPED (STANDARD EQUIPMENT, NOT AN OPTION) WITH AUTOMATIC FOLDING SIDE VIEW MIRRORS ON DRIVERS DOOR AND PASSENGER DOOR. SAFETY FAULT IS THAT VEHICLE CAN BE STARTED AND DRIVEN WITH THE VEHICLE IN FOLDED POSITION. FORD DEALERSHIP AND FORD'S CUSTOMER HOTLINE ARE CLAIMING THAT THIS IS NORMAL OPERATION OF THESE MIRRORS. HOWEVER, COMMON SENSE DICTATES THAT A VEHICLE SHOULD NOT BE ABLE TO BE DRIVEN WITH THE MIRRORS FOLDED. LEGALLY, THIS APPEARS TO BE IN VIOLATION OF US DOT REGULATION CFR 571.111 S5.2.1 WHICH RELATES TO THE FIELD OF VIEW REQUIREMENTS FOR THE OUTSIDE REARVIEW MIRROR - DRIVER'S SIDE. IF THE MIRROR IS FOLDED, IT DOES NOT MEET THAT REGULATION. AS SUCH, THE MANUFACTURER CODING OF THE FOLDING SYSTEM'S HARDWARE SHOULD ALWAYS DEFAULT TO FULL OPEN POSITION WHEN THE VEHICLE IS RUNNING OR IN MOTION. THE DEALERSHIP SERVICE DEPARTMENT HAS INDICATED THAT THERE IS NO SETTINGS IN THEIR CONTROL RELATED TO CHANGING OR DISABLING THE FUNCTION OF THE AUTOMATIC FOLDING MIRRORS. THEY HAVE SEEN THE PROBLEM BUT CONSIDER IT NORMAL OPERATION OF THE VEHICLE. THE SCENARIO TO PRODUCE THIS PROBLEM IS SIMPLY: - UNLOCK AND ENTER THE VEHICLE (MIRRORS UNFOLD TO OPEN POSITION) - LOCK THE VEHICLE USING THE BUTTON ON THE ELECTRONIC KEY/FOB. (MIRRORS FOLD) - START VEHICLE. (MIRRORS REMAIN FOLDED AND WILL REMAIN FOLDED AS LONG AS VEHICLE IS BEING OPERATED) ----- IF PROBLEM IS SPECIFIC TO MY VEHICLE, IT REQUIRES REPAIR. BUT IT APPEARS THAT PROBLEM IS RELATED TO EVERY SIMILARLY EQUIPPED VEHICLE OF THIS YEAR/MODEL AND MAY EXTEND TO OTHER FORD MODELS. IF SO, THIS REQUIRES A RECALL AND RESOLUTION TO COMPLY WITH REGULATIONS AND BASIC SAFETY FUNCTION.
2018 Ford Transit connect recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2018 Ford Transit connect.
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: VISIBILITY:FIXED PANARAMIC ROOF/SKY LIGHT ASSEMBLY
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Transit Connect vehicles. An improper bond may exist between the panoramic roof and the vehicle body, which can result in the panel detaching from the vehicle.
- Consequence: A roof panel that detaches while driving can create a road hazard and increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will remove, clean, and reinstall the panoramic roof panel, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 4, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S29.
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2019 Escape, 2013-2018 C-Max, 2013-2016 Fusion, 2013-2021 Transit Connect, and 2015-2018 Edge vehicles. The bushing that attaches the shifter cable to the transmission may degrade or detach.
- Consequence: A damaged or missing bushing may prevent the vehicle from shifting into the intended gear, and cause the vehicle to move in an unexpected direction. Additionally, the vehicle may roll after the driver selects the 'Park' position. Either scenario increases the risk of a crash or injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the under hood shift bushing and add a protective cap over the shift cable bushing, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters, informing owners of the safety risk, were mailed July 1, 2022. Remedy parts are expected to be available in 4th Quarter 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed October 27, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S43.
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2021 Transit Connect vehicles equipped with 2.5L engines. The bushing that attaches the shifter cable to the transmission may degrade or detach.
- Consequence: A damaged or missing bushing may prevent the vehicle from shifting into the intended gear, causing the vehicle to move in an unexpected direction. Additionally, the vehicle may roll after the driver selects the 'Park' position. Either scenario increases the risk of a crash or injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the underhood shifter cable bushing, and add a protective cap, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 29, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S24.
- Manufacturer: TransitWorks
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: TransitWorks is recalling certain 2015-2018 Ford Transit, 2018 Ford Transit Connect, and 2016 Dodge Ram ProMaster vehicles modified to be equipped with Freedman Seating GO-ES seats. When the back seat cushion is rotated from the stowed position to the upright position, the seat cushion may not remain locked into place when under load, such as in a crash or a sudden stop.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash, if the seat back moves, the seat occupant has an increased risk of injury.
- Remedy: TransitWorks has notified owners and instructed them to contact Freedman seats for a repair kit. The recall began December 19, 2019. Owners may contact Freedman Seating customer service at 1-800-443-4540 or TransitWorks customer service at 1-855-337-9543.
Negative 2018 Ford Transit connect car reviews
Positive 2018 Ford Transit connect car reviews
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Great mileage!
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If Ford were to advertise this vehicle, there would be many more on the road. It's truly a gem for the price. It's worth noting that people have varying opinions on the design and style, but that's what makes it unique!
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Hi there! I wanted to share my experience with the 2018 Transit Connect long wheel base cargo van. As a courier, I need a van that can provide me with room, fuel efficiency, comfort, and power, and this van has exceeded my expectations in every way. I've driven over 230,000 miles in less than 3 years and have not had a single problem with it. Of course, I do keep up with scheduled maintenance and use only full synthetic oil. Even when fully loaded to its 1600 lb capacity, it pulls mountains at 65 mph and could go even faster if I pushed it. I usually get anywhere from 27.5 to 31 mpg, and even higher on long freeway trips. While I have noticed a small drop off in performance now that it has so many miles, it's still a great van. If all goes well, I'll have over 300,000 miles on it by the end of this year!
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Get ready to receive compliments on how sharp it looks!
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Comfortable, easy to live with, and great air conditioning. The 'sync' sound system is also very good. I use the van for pick up and delivery for my dry cleaning business, as well as my personal 'get around' vehicle. It would be even better if there was more light in the cargo area. Considering the economies of scale, it would be great if Ford could add additional light for just a few pennies. Overall, I am a happy owner of this van after my short time with it, including mostly city driving and one road trip to move my child to college.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2018 Ford Transit connect problems:
2018 Transit Connect Transmission issues | Ford Transit USA Forum
Jun 14, 2021 ... After much searching about the transmission shudder, I've learned that the Ford Powershift (dual clutch) Transmission may have faulty clutch ...
2018 Ford Transit Connect Q&A: Common Problems & Transmission ...
Feb 18, 2022 ... Was this answer helpful? up Yes. down No. Finish.
Ford Transit Connect Reliability and Common Problems - In The ...
Feb 26, 2024 ... Some common Ford Transit Connect problems include transmission failure, engine failure, and a loose panoramic roof panel. Contents hide. Is the ...
Q&A: 2019 Ford Transit Connect Problems & Transmission ...
Jul 19, 2023 ... As we recently bought this vehicle we need to know the likelihood on whether the issue was pre-existing or likely known by the seller.
Thinking about buying a used Ford transit connect for work, is it ...
Dec 2, 2022 ... Super common in NYC, but unusual as a personal vehicle in other places. Sounds like a fair price to me for the miles.
Jamie Spinka 2024-11-14
I completely understand the feeling of having to leave the house before dawn and the challenges that come with it. It can be quite nerve-wracking to navigate the roads with limited visibility, especially when there are joggers around. I always try to be extra cautious and drive slowly, but it can still be difficult to spot them without proper lighting. It's unfortunate that there is no way to adjust the headlights, but I try to make the best of the situation by driving in the middle of the street and keeping a lookout. Stay safe out there!
Malcolm Schuppe 2024-11-12
My company has provided me with this vehicle, but I would not recommend getting the vinyl seats. Regardless of which seats you choose, if you're 5'11
Roel Schmitt 2024-11-04
I purchased this vehicle new and have unfortunately experienced recurring issues with it. Despite multiple attempts to fix the problems, they persist. While the warranty has expired, I have consulted with a Ford mechanic who has provided me with a repair estimate of over $3000. I am confident in my assessment of the situation and believe that Ford should take responsibility for the ongoing issues with this vehicle.
Vince Hill 2024-10-06
This vehicle is overpriced considering the lack of features it offers. The AC/heat system is noisy and the road noise is also quite noticeable. Additionally, the heating system takes a while to warm up and the heat dissipates quickly due to cold air entering from the door sides. However, the roll doors on each side are a nice feature and work well. Overall, this vehicle could benefit from more features and improvements to justify its price.
Stuart McKenzie 2024-09-13
I sat in the van and decided not to drive it because the cockpit felt awkward. It's quite different from the full-size Transit, which I prefer.