2018 Ford Transit Connect

Introduction:

The 2018 Ford Transit Connect is a compact cargo van that offers a practical and versatile solution for businesses and individuals. It boasts a spacious interior, efficient powertrains, and a wide range of configuration options. The Transit Connect is powered by either a 2.5L Duratec iVCT gasoline engine producing 169 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque or a 1.5L EcoBoost turbocharged gasoline engine generating 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque. It is available with either a 6-speed automatic transmission or an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate the Transit Connect’s fuel efficiency, reliability, and maneuverability, while some find its interior to be cramped and its ride quality to be rough.

Engine

2.5L Duratec iVCT Gasoline Engine

• Oil Leak:
  • Oil leaking from the valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket
  • Symptoms: Engine oil consumption, oil spots under the vehicle
  • Solution: Replace leaking gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Failure:
  • Intake manifold runners failing and causing vacuum leaks
  • Symptoms: Reduced engine power, rough idle, engine light
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 22V088

1.5L EcoBoost Turbocharged Gasoline Engine

• Turbocharger Issues:
  • Turbocharger failing due to actuator or boost control issues
  • Symptoms: Reduced engine power, boost leaks, engine light
  • Solution: Replace turbocharger
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 20V314

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Fluid Leaks:
  • Transmission fluid leaking from seals or gaskets
  • Symptoms: Transmission fluid consumption, slipping gears, transmission light
  • Solution: Replace leaking seal or gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

8-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Shifting Issues:
  • Hesitation or rough shifting, slipping gears
  • Symptoms: Difficulty changing gears, delayed shifts
  • Solution: Reprogram transmission or replace transmission control module
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Failure:
  • Front struts failing and causing excessive noise and vibrations
  • Symptoms: Thumping or rattling noises while driving, unstable handling
  • Solution: Replace struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Battery draining prematurely due to parasitic draw
  • Symptoms: Difficulty starting the vehicle, dead battery
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair electrical system
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust:
  • Corrosion on body panels, especially in areas such as the wheel wells and tailgate
  • Symptoms: Visible rust on metal surfaces
  • Solution: Regular car washes, removal of rust and application of rust protection
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Malfunction:
  • Climate control system failing and not providing adequate heating or cooling
  • Symptoms: Inconsistent temperature, fan not working properly
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair climate control system
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Ford Transit Connect has its fair share of issues, but the severity and cost of these issues vary. Common problems include oil leaks, turbocharger failures, transmission fluid leaks, and suspension issues. Rust is also a concern, especially in areas with heavy salt use. While some repairs can be relatively inexpensive, others can be quite costly. Owners should be aware of these potential issues and consider the cost of repairs before purchasing a used Transit Connect.