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2020 Ford Transit

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2020 Ford Transit is a popular van known for its versatility and cargo capacity. It’s available in various configurations, including cargo van, passenger van, and chassis cab, with multiple roof heights and wheelbase lengths. Engine options include a 3.5L PFDI V6 (275 hp, 262 lb-ft of torque), a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (310 hp, 400 lb-ft of torque), and a 2.0L EcoBlue Diesel I4 (121 hp, 221 lb-ft of torque). All engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Transit for its spaciousness, payload capacity, and driving comfort. However, some common complaints include issues with the infotainment system, build quality, and certain engine/transmission components.

Engine

3.5L PFDI V6

  • Engine Misfires/Rough Idle
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idle, and potential check engine light illumination. Often caused by faulty ignition coils or spark plugs.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty ignition coils and/or spark plugs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

3.5L EcoBoost V6

  • Coolant Intrusion
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking into the cylinders, possibly from a warped head or cracked block. This can cause white smoke from the exhaust, engine knocking, and potential engine failure.
    • Solution: Replacing the engine or rebuilding it after addressing the coolant intrusion source
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $10,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Turbocharger Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, unusual noises from the engine bay, and potential check engine light. Often caused by a wastegate malfunction or oil starvation.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty turbocharger(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

2.0L EcoBlue Diesel I4

  • Fuel Injector Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough running engine, poor fuel economy, excessive black smoke from the exhaust.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty fuel injector(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: DPF clogging, leading to reduced engine performance, warning lights, and potential limp mode. Can be caused by frequent short trips that don’t allow for proper regeneration.
    • Solution: Forced DPF regeneration, cleaning the DPF, or replacing the DPF.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

10-Speed Automatic Transmission (10R80)

  • Harsh Shifting/Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Hard shifts, slipping between gears, and unusual noises from the transmission.
    • Solution: Replacing the valve body or solenoids.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Shudder
    • Description/Symptoms: A vibration or shudder, especially during light acceleration at highway speeds.
    • Solution: Replacing the torque converter or performing a transmission flush with updated fluid.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Rear Leaf Spring Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Rear suspension sagging, especially when loaded, and potentially squeaking noises. May lead to reduced load-carrying capacity and ride quality.
    • Solution: Replacing the rear leaf springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
    • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system (SYNC 3) freezes, crashes, or becomes unresponsive.
    • Solution: Performing a system reset, updating the software, or replacing the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (reset) - $1,000+ (APIM replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Door Lock Actuator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Door locks failing to function properly, either not locking or not unlocking.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Sliding Door Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding door, sticking, or unusual noises. Can be caused by worn rollers, damaged tracks, or a malfunctioning door latch.
    • Solution: Replacing the rollers, repairing the tracks, or replacing the door latch.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Rattling Noises
    • Description/Symptoms: Various rattling noises from the dashboard, trim panels, or seats.
    • Solution: Locating and securing the source of the rattle.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ (depending on the complexity)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • HVAC Blower Motor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: HVAC fan not working or only working on certain speeds.
    • Solution: Replacing the blower motor or blower motor resistor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2020 Ford Transit, while versatile, exhibits a range of issues. Engine problems, particularly with the EcoBoost and diesel variants, can be severe and costly. Transmission issues, especially with the 10-speed automatic, are also common. Electrical glitches, like infotainment system problems and door lock actuator failures, are prevalent. While suspension and exterior issues exist, they are generally less severe. Overall, prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and carefully inspect any used Transit before purchase. The cost of repairs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor issues to several thousand dollars for major engine or transmission work.

Ford, Transit
Ford Transit 2020
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