2016 Ford Transit-150

The 2016 Ford Transit-150 is a popular cargo and passenger van known for its versatility, spaciousness, and relatively good fuel economy compared to older vans. It offers a range of configurations to suit different needs, from hauling cargo to transporting passengers. Engine options included a 3.7L Ti-VCT V6 producing 275 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 with 310 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.2L Power Stroke inline-5 diesel engine rated at 185 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. All engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Transit’s modern design, comfortable ride, and customization options. Common complaints include issues with reliability, particularly related to the engine, transmission, and electrical systems, as well as concerns about repair costs.

Engine

3.7L Ti-VCT V6

• Purge Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light is on. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system, such as P0446, P0455, P0456, P1450, or P144A, are present. The vehicle may exhibit rough idling, stalling, or difficulty starting after refueling.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty purge valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200

3.5L EcoBoost V6

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, reduced fuel economy, excessive turbocharger noise (whining or whistling), and a check engine light. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to turbocharger performance (e.g., P0299) may be present.
  • Solution: Replace the failing turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Intrusion
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, white smoke from the exhaust, engine knocking, coolant loss with no external leaks, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the entire engine.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $7,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.2L Power Stroke Diesel Inline-5

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, increased fuel consumption, frequent regeneration cycles, and a check engine light. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to the DPF (e.g., P2463, P2453) may be present.
  • Solution: Forced DPF regeneration or replacement of the DPF.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Glow Plug Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, especially in cold weather, rough idling, and a check engine light. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to the glow plugs (e.g., P0671-P0675) may be present.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty glow plug(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifting between gears, hesitation during acceleration, and the transmission slipping out of gear.
  • Solution: Valve body replacement or transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Leaf Spring Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sits lower than the front, especially when loaded. Reduced ride quality and handling.
  • Solution: Replace the rear leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Warped Brake Rotors
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibration or pulsation felt in the steering wheel or brake pedal when braking.
  • Solution: Replace the front brake rotors and pads.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Body Control Module (BCM) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as malfunctioning power windows, door locks, lights, or other accessories.
  • Solution: Reprogram or replace the BCM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks failing to lock or unlock properly.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding door, sticking, or requiring excessive force.
  • Solution: Adjust or replace the sliding door rollers and/or latches.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Discomfort
  • Description/Symptoms: Uncomfortable seats, especially on long drives.
  • Solution: Aftermarket seat cushions or replacement of the seats.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2016 Ford Transit-150, while versatile and spacious, has been reported to have a number of common issues. Engine problems, especially related to turbochargers and DPF issues in the diesel engine, can be costly to repair. Electrical issues and transmission problems are also common complaints. Suspension problems can also be expensive to repair. While some issues are relatively minor, the potential for more significant and expensive repairs should be a consideration for prospective buyers.