2015 Ford Transit Custom
The 2015 Ford Transit Custom is a popular van known for its versatility and practicality. It was available with several engine options, including the 2.2L Duratorq TDCi diesel engine, offered in various power outputs (100 PS, 125 PS, and 155 PS), and the 2.0L EcoBoost petrol engine. Depending on the engine, it could be paired with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and good fuel economy (especially with the diesel engines). Common criticisms include reported electrical issues and concerns about long-term reliability. The horsepower and torque figures for the 2.2L Duratorq range from approximately 100-155 hp and 229-284 lb-ft of torque, respectively, depending on the variant. The 2.0L EcoBoost makes around 200 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque.
Engine
2.2L Duratorq TDCi Diesel
- Injector Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, rough running, excessive smoke, poor fuel economy. Often linked to the Delphi injectors used in this engine.
- Solution: Replacement of faulty injectors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500+ per injector (including labor).
- Recalls: None Found
- EGR Valve Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, engine warning light, rough idling, excessive black smoke. The EGR valve can become clogged with carbon deposits.
- Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the EGR valve.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 (including labor).
- Recalls: None Found
- Turbocharger Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine, loss of power, engine warning light.
- Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+ (including labor).
- Recalls: None Found
2.0L EcoBoost Petrol
- Coolant Intrusion
- Description/Symptoms: Low coolant levels, Overheating, White smoke from exhaust, “Sweet” smell from coolant in oil
- Solution: Engine replacement
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
6-Speed Manual Transmission
- Clutch Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Clutch slipping, difficulty shifting gears, unusual noises from the clutch pedal.
- Solution: Clutch replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500 (including labor).
- Recalls: None Found
- Difficulty Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Hard to get into gears, grinding noises during shifting
- Solution: Check and adjust shift linkage. Replace worn synchros if necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+, depending on severity (including labor).
- Recalls: None Found
6-Speed Automatic Transmission
- No Issues Found
Suspension
- Rear Leaf Spring Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear suspension, poor ride quality, reduced load-carrying capacity. This is more common in vans that frequently carry heavy loads.
- Solution: Replacement of rear leaf springs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000 (including labor) for both sides.
- Recalls: None Found
- Worn Suspension Bushings
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, vague steering, poor handling.
- Solution: Replacement of worn bushings (e.g., control arm bushings, sway bar bushings).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ (including labor), depending on which bushings need replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Central Locking Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Doors failing to lock or unlock, remote not working.
- Solution: Check and replace faulty door lock actuators, check wiring harness for breaks.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400 per door (including labor) for actuator replacement; wiring repair can vary greatly.
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Flat battery overnight, difficulty starting. Often caused by a parasitic drain from a faulty module or aftermarket accessory.
- Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic drain.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (diagnostic and repair costs).
- Recalls: None Found
- Instrument Cluster Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Gauges not working, warning lights illuminating incorrectly, display flickering.
- Solution: Replacement or repair of the instrument cluster.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (including labor).
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Sliding Door Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding door, latch mechanism failure.
- Solution: Adjustment or replacement of the door latch mechanism, check for worn rollers.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500 (including labor), depending on the severity.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Air Conditioning Failure
- Description/Symptoms: AC not blowing cold air.
- Solution: Recharge the AC system, replace faulty compressor, condenser, or evaporator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1000+ (including labor), depending on the failed component.
- Recalls: None Found
- Seatbelt Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Seatbelt not retracting, buckle mechanism failing.
- Solution: Replace the faulty seatbelt assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$400 per seatbelt (including labor).
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2015 Ford Transit Custom can be a reliable workhorse, but potential buyers should be aware of some common issues. Engine problems, particularly with the 2.2L Duratorq diesel (injector, EGR, turbo) and 2.0L EcoBoost (coolant intrusion) can be costly to repair. Electrical problems are also fairly common. Suspension and transmission issues are less prevalent but should still be checked. The severity and cost of repairs can vary widely depending on the specific problem. Performing a thorough inspection before purchasing, especially paying attention to these potential trouble areas, is highly recommended.