2013 Ford Transit Connect

The 2013 Ford Transit Connect is a compact cargo van and passenger wagon known for its practicality, fuel efficiency, and maneuverability in urban environments. It came with two engine options: a 2.0L Duratec I-4 engine producing 136 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque, and a 1.6L EcoBoost I-4 engine producing 173 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. People generally appreciate the Transit Connect for its car-like driving feel, excellent cargo capacity for its size, and relatively low running costs. Common complaints include limited power from the base engine, a somewhat basic interior, and less towing capacity compared to larger vans.

Engine

2.0L Duratec I-4

• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, shaking, loss of power, check engine light illuminated. Often caused by faulty ignition coils or spark plugs.
  • Solution: Replace faulty ignition coil(s) and/or spark plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Purge Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulties filling the fuel tank, check engine light, poor engine performance, rough idle.
  • Solution: Replace the purge valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

1.6L EcoBoost I-4

• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Low coolant level, overheating, coolant smell, visible leaks near the engine. Can be caused by cracked coolant reservoir or leaking hoses.
  • Solution: Replace damaged coolant reservoir or hoses.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining or screeching noise from the turbocharger, loss of power, reduced fuel economy, check engine light. Potential for turbocharger failure.
  • Solution: Inspect and replace the turbocharger if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts between gears, particularly when accelerating or decelerating. Can be accompanied by a clunking noise.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter change may alleviate the issue. More severe cases might require valve body repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Leaf Spring Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable sagging in the rear of the vehicle, especially when loaded. Can lead to reduced ride quality and handling.
  • Solution: Replace the rear leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut and Shock Absorber Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Bumpy ride, excessive bouncing, poor handling, visible leaks on struts or shocks.
  • Solution: Replace worn struts and shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Sliding Door Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the power sliding doors, problems with the interior lights near the sliding doors, or issues with the door locks.
  • Solution: Inspect and repair or replace the wiring harness within the sliding door.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle battery drains overnight or within a short period, requiring frequent jump starts.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic drain (e.g., faulty module, aftermarket accessory).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Roller Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding doors, grinding or squeaking noises, doors not aligning properly.
  • Solution: Replace the sliding door rollers and lubricate the tracks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks failing to lock or unlock, making a clicking noise, or working intermittently.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, particularly in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Replacing the dashboard is the ideal solution, but can be costly. A dashboard cover can be used as a temporary fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (cover) - $1000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Ford Transit Connect can be a reliable and practical vehicle, but owners should be aware of some common issues. Engine problems, particularly with the 1.6L EcoBoost, and transmission issues can lead to moderate to significant repair costs. Electrical problems such as the sliding door wiring harness and battery drain can also be frustrating. Suspension wear is typical for a vehicle used for hauling cargo, but should be addressed for safety and ride quality. Overall, the 2013 Transit Connect has some potential reliability concerns, but with proactive maintenance and addressing issues promptly, it can remain a useful and economical vehicle. The most expensive repairs tend to be engine-related, particularly turbocharger replacements on the EcoBoost model.