2018 Ford Transit

Here’s a comprehensive list of common issues and complaints reported by owners of the 2018 Ford Transit, categorized by component. The 2018 Ford Transit is a popular van known for its versatility and cargo capacity. Engine options include 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 I5 diesel rated at 185 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. A 6-speed automatic transmission is standard across all engine options. Owners often praise the Transit’s spaciousness and adaptability for various needs (cargo, passenger, conversion). Common dislikes include its relatively large size for city driving and potential for higher repair costs compared to smaller vans.

Engine

3.5L EcoBoost V6

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises, loss of power, check engine light. The turbocharger could fail prematurely.
  • Solution: Replacement of the failed turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, fuel smell, check engine light. Fuel injectors can become clogged or fail, leading to poor engine performance.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.7L Ti-VCT V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks, low oil level, burning oil smell. Common leak points include valve cover gaskets and oil pan gasket.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, engine noise.
  • Solution: Water pump replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.2L Power Stroke I5 Diesel

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced power, check engine light, frequent regeneration cycles. DPF can become clogged, especially with short trips.
  • Solution: DPF cleaning or replacement. Sometimes a forced regeneration can resolve the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, fuel smell, check engine light. Fuel injectors can become clogged or fail, leading to poor engine performance.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic Transmission (All Engines)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or delayed shifts, slipping between gears, transmission warning light.
  • Solution: Possible causes include low transmission fluid, valve body issues, or worn clutches. May require a transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid change) - $4000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, stalling, unusual noises.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Leaf Spring Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the van sitting lower than the front, reduced load capacity, poor ride quality. Particularly noticeable on models frequently used for heavy cargo.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear leaf springs or addition of helper springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Ball Joints/Tie Rod Ends
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front end, loose steering, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints and/or tie rod ends.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting. Can be caused by a parasitic draw from a faulty module or accessory.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the parasitic draw. May require module replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (diagnosis) + part costs.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions (ABS, TPMS, etc.)
  • Description/Symptoms: Warning lights on the dashboard, incorrect readings.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding door, sticking, unusual noises. Related to the door rollers, latches, or tracks.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the door rollers, latches, or tracks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Latch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door will not latch, or will not open
  • Solution: Replace the door latch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No air blowing from the vents, weak airflow, unusual noises.
  • Solution: Replacement of the blower motor or blower motor resistor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, Crashing, Poor Radio Reception
  • Solution: Update infotainment system or replace the unit
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Ford Transit, while a versatile van, has its share of reported issues. The severity and cost of these issues vary. Engine issues, particularly with the turbochargers on the 3.5L EcoBoost and the DPF on the 3.2L diesel, can be costly. Transmission problems also require attention, while suspension and electrical issues are more common and can range in cost depending on the specific component. While some issues are relatively minor, others can lead to significant repair bills. It’s important to have any used 2018 Transit thoroughly inspected before purchase, paying close attention to the engine, transmission, and suspension components.