2021 Ford Transit-150

The 2021 Ford Transit-150 is a popular full-size van known for its versatility, spaciousness, and capability. It’s a favorite for commercial use, camper conversions, and family transportation. Engine options include a 3.5L PFDi V6 producing 275 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 producing 310 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0L Diesel producing 121 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. All engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Transit’s cargo capacity, ease of driving, and available technology. Common dislikes include relatively low fuel economy (particularly with the EcoBoost), some quality control issues, and the van’s large size, which can make parking challenging.

Engine

3.5L PFDi V6

• No Common Issues Found
  • Description/Symptoms:
  • Solution:
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L EcoBoost V6

• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported premature turbocharger failure, resulting in reduced power, unusual noises (whining or screeching), and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners may experience engine misfires, especially under heavy load or acceleration. This can be caused by faulty ignition coils, spark plugs, or fuel injectors.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to pinpoint the cause, followed by replacement of the faulty component(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Diesel

• No Common Issues Found
  • Description/Symptoms:
  • Solution:
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

10-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported harsh or erratic shifting, especially during low-speed operation. Some have also reported experiencing hesitation when accelerating.
  • Solution: Software updates, transmission fluid flush, or valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners report the transmission slipping between gears, particularly during acceleration or when towing.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $7,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Leaf Spring Squeaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners report excessive squeaking noises emanating from the rear leaf spring suspension, especially when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces.
  • Solution: Lubrication or replacement of leaf spring bushings. In some cases, the entire leaf spring assembly may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The SYNC infotainment system may freeze, crash, or become unresponsive, requiring a reset.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software updates) - $800+ (APIM replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the backup camera.
  • Solution: Check wiring connections, replace the camera module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle door does not lock or unlock when commanded, or the door lock actuator may make a grinding sound when commanded.
  • Solution: Replacement of the Door Lock Actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding door, latching issues, or unusual noises.
  • Solution: Adjustments to the door alignment, lubrication of hinges and rollers, or replacement of the latch mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling/Squeaking Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Various rattling and squeaking noises emanating from the interior panels and trim, especially when driving on rough roads.
  • Solution: Tightening loose fasteners, adding sound dampening material.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• HVAC Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with the heating and air conditioning system, such as inconsistent temperature control, weak airflow, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the HVAC system, replacement of faulty components such as the blower motor, blend door actuator, or compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Ford Transit-150, while generally reliable, does have some reported issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. The 3.5L EcoBoost engine seems to have the most prevalent engine issues with turbo failures. Common transmission problems include harsh shifting and slipping. Electrical problems such as infotainment issues and backup camera failures have been reported. Suspension issues such as squeaking have also been reported. While many issues can be fixed relatively inexpensively, some, like transmission rebuilds or turbocharger replacements, can be quite costly. Addressing these potential issues proactively can help ensure a positive ownership experience.