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2020 Ford Transit-250

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By Research the Car 5 min read

Here’s a breakdown of common issues reported for the 2020 Ford Transit-250, categorized by system, with engine and transmission options specified. This information is gathered from owner forums, repair databases, and recall information.

The 2020 Ford Transit-250 is a popular cargo and passenger van known for its versatility and spaciousness. Engine options include a 3.5L PFDi V6 engine which produces 275 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine which produces 310 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0L EcoBlue Diesel engine which produces 195 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque. All engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Transit’s payload capacity, configurable interior, and available technology. Common dislikes include its fuel economy, ride quality, and some reported reliability issues.

Engine

3.5L PFDi V6

  • Engine Misfires
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, hesitation upon acceleration, check engine light illuminated. Often related to faulty ignition coils or spark plugs.
    • Solution: Replace faulty ignition coils and/or spark plugs. Diagnostic scan to identify the affected cylinder(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ depending on the number of coils/plugs replaced.
    • Recalls: None Found

3.5L EcoBoost V6

  • Turbocharger Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, unusual noises (whining, hissing) from the engine bay, check engine light. Can be caused by wastegate issues, failing turbo seals, or damaged turbine blades.
    • Solution: Diagnose the source of the turbocharger failure. Repair or replace the affected turbocharger component, or replace the entire turbocharger assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+ depending on the severity and if one or both turbos need service.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Fuel Injector Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough running engine, misfires, poor fuel economy, fuel smell. Fuel injectors can fail due to clogging or electrical malfunction.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty fuel injector(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the number of injectors replaced.
    • Recalls: None Found

2.0L EcoBlue Diesel

  • Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) System Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced engine power, DEF system warning messages. Issues can range from a faulty DEF injector to a malfunctioning DEF pump or sensor.
    • Solution: Diagnose the DEF system to identify the faulty component. Replace the DEF injector, pump, sensor, or other related part as needed.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1200+ depending on the component.
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

10-Speed Automatic Transmission (All Engines)

  • Harsh Shifting/Jerking
    • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts, especially between lower gears. Can also include clunking noises during shifts. This is often attributed to valve body issues or software glitches.
    • Solution: Perform a transmission software update. If the issue persists, inspect the valve body for damage or wear. Replacement of the valve body might be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 for software update, $800 - $2000+ for valve body replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Transmission Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine revving high without a corresponding increase in speed, delayed engagement, or failure to shift into certain gears.
    • Solution: Diagnose the cause of the slipping, which may include low transmission fluid, damaged clutch packs, or internal mechanical failure. Repair or replace the transmission as needed.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid) - $4000+ for full transmission replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Rear Leaf Spring Sagging
    • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sitting lower than the front, reduced load-carrying capacity, and potentially a rougher ride.
    • Solution: Replace the rear leaf springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+ for parts and labor.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Backup Camera Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Backup camera displaying a black screen, distorted image, or not functioning at all.
    • Solution: Check the camera wiring and connections for damage or corrosion. Replace the camera unit if necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the extent of the problem and whether it requires professional diagnosis.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • 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
  • Dead Battery Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle struggles to start or doesn’t start at all, requiring a jump start. Common causes include parasitic drain, a faulty alternator, or an aging battery.
    • Solution: Test the battery’s voltage and charging system. Replace the battery if necessary, and investigate any potential parasitic draws.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 for a new battery, $200 - $500 for alternator replacement, and additional costs for diagnosing and repairing parasitic drains.
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Sliding Door Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sliding door is difficult to open or close, makes unusual noises, or gets stuck. Issues can be caused by worn rollers, damaged tracks, or faulty latches.
    • Solution: Lubricate and adjust the sliding door mechanism. Replace worn rollers, tracks, or latches as needed.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the parts that need to be replaced.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • HVAC Blower Motor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: HVAC system not blowing air, or only blowing air at certain speeds. Often caused by a failing blower motor or resistor.
    • Solution: Replace the blower motor or resistor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ for parts and labor.
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Ford Transit-250 can experience a range of issues, from engine-related problems like turbocharger failures in the EcoBoost engine to transmission issues affecting all engine options. Electrical and suspension problems are also reported, although less frequently. The severity of these issues varies, with some requiring relatively inexpensive fixes (e.g., replacing spark plugs) and others potentially leading to more costly repairs (e.g., turbocharger or transmission replacement). Potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and have the vehicle thoroughly inspected before purchase.

Ford, Transit-250
Ford Transit-250 2020
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