2011 Ford Transit
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of common issues reported by owners of the 2011 Ford Transit, categorized for clarity and focusing on specific components and configurations.
The 2011 Ford Transit, primarily a commercial vehicle, offers practicality and utility. While not known for luxury, owners appreciate its cargo capacity and functional design. Common dislikes often revolve around ride comfort and interior aesthetics. The 2011 Ford Transit offered a 2.3L Duratec 16 valve DOHC in-line 4 cylinder engine producing 143 horsepower and 149 lb-ft of torque. This engine was available with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Another option was the 2.4L Duratorq TDCi 16 valve DOHC in-line 4 cylinder diesel engine producing 115 horsepower and 274 lb-ft of torque. This engine was offered with a 6-speed manual transmission. Also available was a 3.2L Duratorq TDCi 20 valve DOHC in-line 5 cylinder diesel engine producing 197 horsepower and 347 lb-ft of torque. This engine was offered with a 6-speed manual transmission. The 2.3L gasoline engine and the 2.4L diesel engine were the most common choices.
Engine
2.3L Duratec I4 Gasoline Engine
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners report higher than expected oil consumption between oil changes. This may be indicated by low oil levels and the need to add oil more frequently. Blue smoke from the exhaust can also be a symptom.
- Solution: Regular oil level checks and using the recommended oil type and viscosity are essential. If consumption is severe, a mechanic should inspect for leaks, worn piston rings, or valve stem seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (leak repairs) - $2,000+ (engine rebuild).
- Recalls: None Found
- Catalytic Converter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The catalytic converter may fail prematurely, leading to poor fuel economy, a check engine light (usually code P0420), and reduced engine performance.
- Solution: Replacement of the catalytic converter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+.
- Recalls: None Found
2.4L Duratorq TDCi Diesel Engine
- Fuel Injector Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, black smoke from the exhaust, and difficulty starting.
- Solution: Replacement of faulty fuel injectors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per injector.
- Recalls: None Found
- Turbocharger Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Whining or screeching noises from the engine, loss of power, and the check engine light illuminating. Can be caused by oil starvation, foreign object damage, or general wear.
- Solution: Diagnosis to determine the cause (oil lines, leaks, or internal damage) and subsequent repair or replacement of the turbocharger.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+.
- Recalls: None Found
3.2L Duratorq TDCi Diesel Engine
- EGR Valve Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, reduced power, increased emissions, and the check engine light illuminating.
- Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the EGR valve.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700.
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (Gasoline Engine)
- Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts between gears.
- Solution: Could be due to low transmission fluid, worn solenoids, or valve body issues. A fluid change and inspection can sometimes resolve the problem, but more extensive repairs may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid change) - $1,500+ (valve body replacement/transmission rebuild).
- Recalls: None Found
6-Speed Manual Transmission (Diesel Engine)
- Clutch Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, or a soft/spongy pedal feel.
- Solution: Clutch replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,800.
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Worn Shocks and Struts
- Description/Symptoms: Bouncy or unstable ride, excessive body roll in corners, and longer stopping distances.
- Solution: Replacement of worn shocks and struts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (depending on parts and labor).
- Recalls: None Found
- Leaf Spring Sagging (Rear Suspension)
- Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sitting lower than the front, reduced load-carrying capacity, and a harsher ride.
- Solution: Replacement of the leaf springs or adding helper springs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Faulty Door Lock Actuators
- Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking properly, requiring manual operation.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 per actuator.
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Battery draining overnight or within a few days of being charged, making it difficult to start the vehicle.
- Solution: Identify and repair the parasitic drain. Common culprits include aftermarket accessories, faulty modules, or a malfunctioning alternator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain).
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rust (Especially Around Wheel Arches and Lower Body Panels)
- Description/Symptoms: Visible rust spots and bubbling paint.
- Solution: Rust repair, including sanding, treating, and repainting.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ per panel, depending on severity.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Headliner Sagging
- Description/Symptoms: The headliner material detaching from the roof, usually starting at the edges.
- Solution: Headliner replacement or repair.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+.
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2011 Ford Transit is a practical work vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of common issues. Engine problems, especially concerning oil consumption and diesel engine components, can be costly. Suspension issues, such as worn shocks and leaf spring sagging, affect ride quality and load capacity. Electrical problems can also be frustrating. Rust is a major concern, especially in regions with harsh weather. The severity and cost of repairs can vary widely depending on the issue and the specific engine/transmission configuration.