2016 Ford Transit

The 2016 Ford Transit is a versatile van popular for commercial use and camper conversions. It offered three engine options: a 3.7L Ti-VCT V6 producing 275 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 delivering 310 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.2L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel I5 outputting 185 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. All engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Transit’s spacious interior, cargo capacity, and relatively good fuel economy for its size. Common complaints include wind noise, some reliability concerns, and the van’s overall size making it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.

Engine

3.5L EcoBoost V6

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced power, whistling noise from the engine, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+ depending on whether one or both turbos need replacement and labor costs.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant intrusion
  • Description/Symptoms: White smoke from exhaust, coolant loss without external leaks, misfires, rough running engine.
  • Solution: In some cases a new engine is required, in other cases the cylinder head may be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $7,000
  • Recalls: None Found

3.7L Ti-VCT V6

• Purge Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting after refueling, rough idle, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the purge valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

3.2L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel I5

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, increased fuel consumption, DPF warning light. Frequent regeneration cycles.
  • Solution: Forced DPF regeneration, DPF cleaning, or DPF replacement if severely clogged.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 for cleaning, $1500 - $3000+ for replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, black smoke from exhaust, check engine light.
  • Solution: EGR valve replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard shifts between gears, transmission slipping, delayed engagement.
  • Solution: Software update, valve body replacement, or complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250 for software update, $800 - $1500 for valve body, $3000 - $6000+ for rebuild/replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Leaf Spring Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking noises from the rear suspension, sagging rear end, reduced load carrying capacity.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks not working properly, remote key fob not working, doors locking and unlocking randomly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400 per door.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Body Control Module (BCM) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, malfunctioning lights, issues with power windows/locks, battery drain.
  • Solution: BCM reprogramming or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the severity and need for programming.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Image is black, fuzzy, or non-existent.
  • Solution: Replacement of the backup camera.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: 20V767000 (Recall Number)

Exterior

• Sliding Door Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficult to open or close, sticking, alignment problems.
  • Solution: Adjustment of the door, replacement of worn rollers or hinges.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the extent of the damage.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Side Mirror Vibration
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive vibration of the side mirrors, especially at highway speeds.
  • Solution: Replacement of the mirror assembly or tightening of mounting hardware.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400 per mirror.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Bluetooth Connectivity Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty pairing devices, frequent disconnects, poor audio quality.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the SYNC module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200 for software, $300 - $800+ for SYNC module.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Ford Transit can be a reliable workhorse, but potential buyers should be aware of certain common issues. Engine problems, particularly with the EcoBoost turbochargers, DPF, and EGR on the diesel, can be costly. Transmission issues also crop up, with harsh shifting being a notable concern. Electrical problems with door locks, the BCM, and backup camera are also worth noting. Suspension issues with the rear leaf springs are also known to happen. The severity and cost of these potential problems vary widely, but being informed can help buyers negotiate a fair price and budget for potential repairs.