2018 Ford Transit-350 HD

The 2018 Ford Transit-350 HD is a popular choice for commercial use, van conversions, and large families. This model year offers a range of configurations and engine options. The standard engine is a 3.7L Ti-VCT V6 producing around 275 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. There is also an optional 3.5L EcoBoost V6, boasting roughly 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. Common praises for the Transit-350 HD include its spacious interior, versatile configurations, and car-like handling. Criticisms often center on the ride quality, fuel economy (especially with the larger engines), and some reported reliability issues. All engine options are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

3.5L EcoBoost V6

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling or whining noise from the engine bay, check engine light. Potential for turbocharger failure due to oil coking and overheating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger(s). Thorough inspection of the oil supply lines to the turbos to ensure proper oil flow.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Intrusion
  • Description/Symptoms: White smoke from exhaust, coolant loss, potential engine failure
  • Solution: New long block replacement due to block failure.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $7,000 - $10,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.7L Ti-VCT V6

No Issues Found

3.2L Power Stroke Diesel

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Frequent regeneration cycles, reduced power, check engine light. Potential for DPF clogging, especially with short trip driving.
  • Solution: Forced DPF regeneration (if possible), replacement of the DPF. Consider changing driving habits to include longer trips to allow for proper regeneration.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, reduced power, increased smoke from exhaust, check engine light. Carbon buildup on EGR valve.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

• Harsh Shifting/Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard shifts between gears, especially when cold. Hesitation when shifting from Park or Reverse to Drive.
  • Solution: Software update, transmission fluid flush, or in severe cases, valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software) - $1,500+ (valve body)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Leaf Spring Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end sitting lower than normal, especially when loaded. Reduced ride quality and potential for bottoming out.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear leaf springs. Consider upgraded, heavy-duty springs if frequently carrying heavy loads.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, especially after sitting for a short period of time. Potential parasitic drain caused by faulty modules or aftermarket accessories.
  • Solution: Diagnostic testing to identify the source of the parasitic drain. Repair or replacement of the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Ajar Warning Light Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Door ajar light stays on when the doors are closed
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the door jamb switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sliding door difficult to open or close, sticking, or making excessive noise. Roller and track issues.
  • Solution: Lubrication of the rollers and track. Adjustment or replacement of the rollers and track components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Blower motor not working or only working on certain speeds. Resistor failure is a common cause.
  • Solution: Replacement of the blower motor resistor or the blower motor itself.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Ford Transit-350 HD, while versatile, can have some notable issues. The 3.5L EcoBoost has some potential issues such as turbocharger failure. The diesel can have emission related issues. The transmission can have harsh shifting and delayed engagement issues across all engine options. Some electrical gremlins such as battery drain can also occur. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially costly repairs, with estimated repair costs ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. It’s important to note that these are common complaints, and not every vehicle will experience all, or even any, of these problems.