2014 Ford Transit Connect

2014 Ford Transit Connect

The 2014 Ford Transit Connect is a compact cargo van that is known for its versatility and fuel efficiency. It is available with two engine options: a 2.5L I-4 and a 1.6L EcoBoost I-4, and a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. The 2.5L I-4 engine produces 169 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque, while the 1.6L EcoBoost I-4 engine produces 178 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The Transit Connect is praised for its spacious cargo area, comfortable interior, and easy handling. However, it has received some criticism for its lack of power with the 2.5L engine and its noisy cabin.

Engine

2.5L I-4

• Premature Timing Chain Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain may stretch or break prematurely, leading to engine damage. Symptoms include engine noise, reduced power, and difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain and related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The intake manifold gasket may fail, causing coolant or oil leaks. Symptoms include overheating, low coolant levels, and oil leaks.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.6L EcoBoost I-4

• No Major Issues Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

• Clutch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The clutch may wear out prematurely, leading to slipping or difficulty shifting gears. Symptoms include difficulty engaging gears, shuddering during acceleration, and burning smell.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Mount Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission mount may fail, causing excessive vibration and noise. Symptoms include vibration felt in the cabin, difficulty shifting gears, and rattling sounds.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission mount.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter may fail, causing slipping or shuddering during acceleration. Symptoms include loss of power, decreased fuel efficiency, and overheating transmission.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $1,800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The front struts may wear out prematurely, leading to rattling noises and poor handling. Symptoms include excessive noise, bouncing, and difficulty steering.
  • Solution: Replace the front struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Leaf Spring Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear leaf springs may break or sag, leading to decreased load capacity and poor ride quality. Symptoms include excessive sagging, uneven ride height, and rattling noises.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Discharge:
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery may discharge prematurely, leaving the vehicle unable to start. Symptoms include difficulty starting, dim headlights, and electrical malfunctions.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the battery discharge, which may include replacing the alternator, battery, or wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust Issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle may experience premature rust on the body panels, especially around the wheel arches and lower door sills. Symptoms include surface rust, bubbling paint, and holes in the metal.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the affected body panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the extent of the rust damage
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The door locks may fail to operate properly, leaving the vehicle insecure. Symptoms include difficulty locking or unlocking the doors, or doors that lock or unlock unexpectedly.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the door lock mechanism or replace the door lock actuators.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC System Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The HVAC system may fail to operate properly, leading to a lack of heating or cooling. Symptoms include no airflow, weak airflow, or inability to adjust temperature.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the HVAC system, which may include replacing the blower motor, HVAC control module, or heater core.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Steering Wheel Controls Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The steering wheel controls may fail to operate properly, including the audio, cruise control, or Bluetooth functions. Symptoms include unresponsive buttons, intermittent functionality, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the steering wheel control module or wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 Ford Transit Connect has received mixed reviews from owners. While it is praised for its versatility and fuel efficiency, it has been criticized for its lack of power with the 2.5L engine and its noisy cabin. The vehicle has experienced some significant issues, including premature timing chain failure, clutch failure, torque converter failure, and rust issues. The severity of these issues can vary, but some can lead to costly repairs. Overall, the 2014 Ford Transit Connect has received average reliability ratings and is best suited for those who prioritize space and fuel efficiency over power and refinement.