2016 Ford Transit-350

Okay, here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints associated with the 2016 Ford Transit-350, categorized by component and engine/transmission configuration. The 2016 Ford Transit-350 is a popular full-size van known for its versatility and cargo capacity. It was offered with a variety of engine options including a 3.7L Ti-VCT V6 (275 horsepower, 260 lb-ft of torque), a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (310 horsepower, 400 lb-ft of torque), and a 3.2L Power Stroke inline-5 diesel engine (185 horsepower, 350 lb-ft of torque). All engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Transit’s spacious interior, fuel efficiency (relative to its size), and maneuverability. Common complaints include electrical gremlins, and certain engine-specific issues, and ride quality (especially when unloaded).

Engine

3.5L EcoBoost V6

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the turbocharger, loss of power, check engine light. Can eventually lead to complete turbo failure.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement. Inspect and replace oil feed lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Intrusion
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, rough running engine, check engine light, possible hydrolock.
  • Solution: Replacement of cylinder head.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.7L Ti-VCT V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil drips under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level. Often from the valve cover gaskets or oil pan gasket.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on location
  • Recalls: None Found

3.2L Power Stroke Diesel I5

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, check engine light, frequent regeneration cycles, “exhaust filter full” message. Can be caused by sensor failure or actual blockage.
  • Solution: DPF cleaning or replacement, sensor replacement, forced regeneration.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor fuel economy, black smoke from the exhaust, check engine light.
  • Solution: EGR valve replacement or cleaning.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

• Harsh Shifting/Shifting Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, harsh shifts between gears, slipping, delayed engagement.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush, valve body replacement/repair, or complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (flush) - $4,000+ (rebuild/replace)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at highway speeds, especially under light acceleration, transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Leaf Spring Sag/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the van sitting lower than normal, reduced load capacity, poor ride quality, clunking noises from the rear.
  • Solution: Leaf spring replacement (often upgraded heavy-duty springs).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, especially after sitting for a short period.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair parasitic drain (e.g., faulty module, aftermarket accessories improperly installed).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source of the drain
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks not working, intermittent locking/unlocking, or only working manually.
  • Solution: Door lock actuator replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found
• SYNC System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, Bluetooth connectivity problems, touchscreen malfunctions.
  • Solution: Software updates, SYNC module replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $500+ (module replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding door, sticking, noisy operation. Can be caused by worn rollers or damaged tracks.
  • Solution: Roller replacement, track repair/replacement, lubrication.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Discomfort
  • Description/Symptoms: Uncomfortable seats, lack of support, especially on long drives.
  • Solution: Seat cover replacements or adding support cushions
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Ford Transit-350, while a versatile and capable van, can experience a range of issues. Engine problems, particularly related to turbochargers on the 3.5L EcoBoost and DPF issues on the 3.2L diesel, can be expensive to repair. Transmission issues, while not as frequent, can also lead to significant costs. Electrical gremlins and sliding door problems are other common areas of concern. The severity and cost of repairs can vary greatly depending on the specific issue and the engine/transmission configuration. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and thoroughly inspect the vehicle before purchase, paying particular attention to maintenance records and any signs of the issues described above.