2017 Ford Transit-250
The 2017 Ford Transit-250 is a popular cargo van known for its versatility and practicality. The 2017 model offers several engine options including a 3.7L Ti-VCT V6 producing 275 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 generating 310 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.2L Power Stroke inline-5 diesel engine making 185 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. The 2017 Transit-250 came standard with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Transit’s spacious cargo area, comfortable ride, and relatively good fuel economy for its size. However, common complaints often revolve around reliability issues, particularly with certain engine components, electrical glitches, and occasionally, transmission problems.
Engine
3.5L EcoBoost V6
- Turbocharger Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine, loss of power, check engine light illuminated. Can result in complete turbocharger failure.
- Solution: Replacement of the affected turbocharger(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ depending on if one or both need to be replaced, and shop rates.
- Recalls: None Found
- Coolant Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from various points in the engine bay, low coolant level warning, overheating. Often related to plastic coolant pipes and fittings.
- Solution: Identify and replace the leaking coolant pipes, hoses, or fittings.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the leak’s location and complexity.
- Recalls: None Found
3.7L Ti-VCT V6
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover gaskets or oil pan gasket. Visible oil spots under the vehicle.
- Solution: Replace the leaking gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800 depending on the location of the leak and shop rates.
- Recalls: None Found
3.2L Power Stroke Diesel
- Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced engine power, frequent regeneration cycles, DPF clogging.
- Solution: Forced regeneration, replacement of the DPF if severely clogged.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,500+ depending on the severity and required repair.
- Recalls: None Found
- Glow Plug Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, especially in cold weather, check engine light.
- Solution: Replace the faulty glow plug(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $600+ depending on the number of glow plugs needing replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic (All Engines)
- Harsh Shifting/Jerking
- Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts between gears, especially when accelerating or decelerating.
- Solution: Often resolved with a transmission fluid flush and filter change. In some cases, valve body replacement is necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the issue.
- Recalls: None Found
- Transmission Slipping
- Description/Symptoms: Engine revving without corresponding acceleration, feeling like the transmission is not engaging properly.
- Solution: Diagnose the cause of slipping (e.g., low fluid, worn clutches). Depending on the diagnosis, repair or replace transmission.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $4,000+ depending on the severity and required repair.
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Leaf Spring Sagging
- Description/Symptoms: Rear of the van sitting lower than the front, especially when loaded.
- Solution: Replace the rear leaf springs with heavy-duty aftermarket options.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ depending on parts and labor.
- Recalls: None Found
- Worn Shocks/Struts
- Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll when cornering, reduced handling.
- Solution: Replace worn shocks and struts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ depending on parts and labor.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Door Lock Actuator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking properly with the key fob or interior switch.
- Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per door.
- Recalls: None Found
- Backup Camera Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: Backup camera not displaying an image, distorted image, intermittent operation.
- Solution: Check wiring connections, replace the camera unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the issue.
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, dead battery, especially after short periods of inactivity.
- Solution: Test battery and charging system. Replace battery if needed. Check for parasitic draws.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ for a new battery, more if electrical issues are found.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Sliding Door Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding door, binding or sticking, worn rollers or tracks.
- Solution: Lubricate and adjust rollers and tracks. Replace worn or damaged components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ depending on the severity and required repairs.
- Recalls: None Found
- Side Mirror Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The side mirrors not adjusting properly.
- Solution: Check the wiring connections and replace the mirror.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ depending on part availablity.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- HVAC Blower Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The HVAC Blower motor not working, or only working on certain settings.
- Solution: Replace the HVAC blower motor or the Blower motor resistor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ depending on the part needing to be replaced.
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2017 Ford Transit-250, while versatile, can experience a range of issues. Engine problems, particularly with the 3.5L EcoBoost (turbo failure, coolant leaks) and 3.2L Diesel (DPF clogging, glow plug failure), and Oil Leaks in the 3.7L can be costly. Transmission issues, like harsh shifting, are also a concern. Suspension and electrical problems add to the potential maintenance burden. The severity and cost of repairs can vary, but addressing these common issues is crucial for maintaining the Transit-250’s reliability and longevity.