2009 Ford Transit

The 2009 Ford Transit is a popular cargo van known for its versatility and practicality. This model year typically features two engine options: a 2.3L Duratec inline-4 producing around 145 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque and a 3.2L Duratorq inline-5 producing around 197 horsepower and 347 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. Owners often appreciate the Transit’s spacious cargo area and maneuverability, but some common complaints include rust issues, electrical problems, and wear on suspension components.

Engine

2.3L Duratec I4

• Timing Chain Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup. Can lead to poor engine performance and eventually engine failure if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain, sprockets, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, and loss of power. The check engine light will likely illuminate.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty ignition coil(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.2L Duratorq I5

• Fuel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, poor fuel economy, black smoke from exhaust, and difficulty starting the engine.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, rough idling, and increased emissions. The EGR valve may become clogged with carbon deposits.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacing the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission (Both Engines)

• Clutch Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty shifting gears, and a high engagement point.
  • Solution: Replacing the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Synchro Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or difficulty shifting into specific gears, especially 2nd and 3rd gear.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement. Rebuilding involves replacing worn synchros and other internal components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+ for rebuild; $2500 - $4000+ for replacement
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the van sits lower than normal, reduced load-carrying capacity, and a bouncy ride.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Ball Joints/Tie Rod Ends
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, clunking noises from the front suspension, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn ball joints and/or tie rod ends.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as malfunctioning lights, sensors, or other electrical components. Often caused by chafing or corrosion in the wiring harness.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the damaged section of the wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+, depending on the extent of the damage.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, warning lights on the dashboard, and difficulty starting the engine.
  • Solution: Replacing the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust, especially around the wheel wells, door seams, and underbody.
  • Solution: Rust repair, panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies significantly, $100 - $3000+ depending on severity.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sliding Door Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding door, due to worn rollers, hinges, or cables.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn components of the sliding door mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracks
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks in the dashboard, especially in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking properly with the remote or door switch.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per door.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Ford Transit, while a capable work van, can suffer from a range of issues, primarily concerning engine components, transmission wear, rust, and electrical problems. The severity and cost of these issues vary. The engine and transmission issues, such as timing chain wear, fuel injector problems, clutch wear, and synchro failure can range from a few hundred to thousands of dollars to repair. Rust, a common concern, can also lead to significant expenses depending on the extent of the damage. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for these common problems and factor in potential repair costs.