2015 Ford Transit Connect

The 2015 Ford Transit Connect is a compact cargo van and passenger wagon, popular for its fuel efficiency, maneuverability, and versatility. Available engine options included a 2.5L Duratec I4 producing 169 hp and 171 lb-ft of torque and a 1.6L EcoBoost I4 producing 178 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque, both paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate its practicality, ease of parking, and car-like driving experience. Common dislikes include limited cargo space compared to larger vans and some reported reliability concerns.

Engine

2.5L Duratec I4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warnings and the need to add oil every few thousand miles.
  • Solution: There is no definitive fix. Some owners have tried using different viscosity oils or additives, but results vary. In severe cases, engine replacement may be considered.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+ (Engine Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Purge Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, rough idling, check engine light illumination (often associated with EVAP system codes).
  • Solution: Replace the purge valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.6L EcoBoost I4

• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, white smoke from exhaust, sweet smell under the hood. Coolant leaks can be caused by a cracked cylinder head or failed water pump.
  • Solution: Diagnose the source of the leak (pressure test). Replace the cylinder head or water pump as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noises from the engine, check engine light.
  • Solution: Diagnose turbocharger condition. Repair or replace turbocharger as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6F35 6-Speed Automatic Transmission (Both Engine Options)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifts between gears, transmission slipping during acceleration.
  • Solution: Begin with a transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. If the issue persists, valve body replacement or a complete transmission rebuild/replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (Fluid Flush) - $3,000+ (Transmission Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Leaf Spring Sagging/Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting lower in the rear, reduced load capacity, clunking noises from the rear suspension.
  • Solution: Replace the rear leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or creaking noises when turning the steering wheel, especially at low speeds. Worn strut mounts can also contribute to uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the front strut mounts. It’s generally recommended to replace the struts themselves at the same time if they are worn.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Sliding Door Electrical Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning power sliding doors, intermittent operation, doors not opening or closing properly.
  • Solution: Inspect the sliding door wiring harness for damage or corrosion. Check the sliding door motor and control module. Replace faulty components as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, vehicle not starting, requiring frequent jump starts.
  • Solution: Perform a parasitic draw test to identify the source of the drain. Common culprits include aftermarket accessories, faulty modules, or wiring issues. Repair or replace the affected component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Latch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sliding door failing to latch properly, difficulty opening or closing the door, door opening unexpectedly while driving.
  • Solution: Replace the sliding door latch assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: Ford’s MyFord Touch or Sync system freezing, unresponsive touchscreen, system crashing and restarting.
  • Solution: Try performing a system reset or updating the software to the latest version. If the issue persists, the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ (APIM Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Upholstery Issues (Specific to Cloth Seats)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rips or tears in the cloth seat upholstery, particularly in high-wear areas. Seam separation or fraying.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the seat upholstery. Seat covers are a more affordable alternative.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2015 Ford Transit Connect experiences a range of issues, with the engine being a significant area of concern due to potential coolant leaks in the 1.6L EcoBoost and oil consumption issues in the 2.5L. The 6-speed transmission can also exhibit harsh shifting. Electrical gremlins, particularly with the sliding doors, are present. Overall, while some issues may be relatively minor, others like engine or transmission replacements can be quite costly.