2011 Ford Transit Connect

The 2011 Ford Transit Connect is a compact cargo van appreciated for its fuel efficiency, maneuverability, and versatile cargo space. The 2011 model was only offered with one engine option which was the 2.0L Duratec I4 engine producing 136 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally like the van’s practicality and ease of parking, especially in urban environments. Common dislikes include the relatively low power output, simple interior, and less refined ride compared to larger vans.

Engine

2.0L Duratec I4

• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks developing from the thermostat housing or water pump. Symptoms include a low coolant level, engine overheating, and visible coolant under the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replacing the thermostat housing and gasket, or the water pump and gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running engine, and the check engine light illuminating. Often caused by a failing ignition coil.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty ignition coil. It is often recommended to replace all coils at the same time.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ per coil.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (4F27E)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifting between gears, especially between 1st and 2nd or 2nd and 3rd.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. In more severe cases, valve body repair or replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine revving high but the vehicle not accelerating properly. May also experience delayed engagement into gear.
  • Solution: Often caused by low transmission fluid or internal wear. Repair options range from fluid service to complete transmission rebuild or replacement, depending on the severity.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Leaf Spring Sagging/Breaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sitting lower than normal, especially when loaded. May also hear clunking or squeaking noises from the rear suspension. In severe cases, the leaf springs may crack or break.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Noises such as squeaks and clunks, coming from the strut towers.
  • Solution: Replacing the front strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Sliding Door Contact Plate Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The contacts on the sliding door for the interior lights and door chime can corrode or fail, causing the lights not to work or the chime to malfunction when the door is opened or closed.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacing the contact plates.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Ajar Sensor Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The “door ajar” light staying on even when all doors are closed, or the interior lights remaining on.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty door ajar sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Cable Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding door, or the door becoming stuck.
  • Solution: Replacing the sliding door cable and associated components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Door Latch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear doors not latching properly or becoming difficult to open/close.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear door latch assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seatbelt Retractor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Seatbelts not retracting properly or becoming slow to retract.
  • Solution: Replacing the seatbelt retractor assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Glove Box Latch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Glove box latch breaking or becoming difficult to open/close, or the glove box door hanging open.
  • Solution: Replacing the glove box latch or the entire glove box assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $25 - $150+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Ford Transit Connect has a few common issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. The engine can experience coolant leaks and ignition coil failures, while the transmission may suffer from harsh shifting and slipping. Suspension issues, such as sagging rear leaf springs, can also occur. Electrical issues with the sliding door contact plate, and door ajar sensors can be annoying. The cost of repairs can vary widely, from relatively inexpensive fixes for minor issues to more costly repairs for major components like the transmission or suspension. Overall, while the Transit Connect offers practicality and versatility, it’s essential to inspect potential vehicles thoroughly and be prepared for potential maintenance and repair costs.