How soon are you looking to buy a Ford Transit Van?

Within a week

Within a month

Within 90 days

*This will help us personalize your experience.

Great News: We found some top-ranked Ford Transit Vans near you

See Listings Now

The Ford Transit Van Years To Avoid

in Avoid
White Ford Transit Van in a parking lot

Ford Transit Van by Vauxford - CC-BY-SA-4.0

The Ford Transit Van has been a popular choice among businesses and individuals alike. With its spacious interior and reliable performance, it’s no wonder why many are interested in this vehicle. However, knowing the Ford Transit Van years to avoid can be essential for potential buyers.

While some years of the Ford Transit Van have proven to be dependable, others may present some challenges. In this article, we’ll dig into the Ford Transit Van years to avoid, along with other essential aspects of this well-known van.

THE MOST RELIABLE YEAR FOR THE FORD TRANSIT VAN

With so many on the road, it’s logical to ask about the most reliable Ford Transit van year if you’re looking for a second-hand work vehicle.

Ford Transit Van Years To Avoid

When considering purchasing a used Ford Transit Van, it’s crucial to identify the Ford Transit Van years to avoid. These are the model years that have shown significant problems or recalls:

  • 2015 Ford Transit Van
  • 2016 Ford Transit Van

The 2015 and 2016 models are notable for various issues, such as transmission problems, engine failures, and other mechanical defects. These models have faced recalls and a higher number of consumer complaints, making them the years to be cautious about. The extensive repair costs and potential hassle associated with these particular years make them less appealing to those in search of a reliable and robust van. It’s always wise to research thoroughly and consult with experts or trusted dealers to understand the specific challenges tied to these years.

NOT JUST FOR CAR SHOPPING

The CoPilot app isn’t just for buying a car - our new CoPilot for Owning tool will help you keep track of recalls and gives you advice on which scheduled maintenance tasks are most important.

What Was The Worst Year For The Ford Transit Van?

Among the Ford Transit Van years to avoid, as noted by MotorBiscuit, the 2015 model year stands out as the most problematic. Known for significant issues in its engine, transmission, and electronic systems, the 2015 Ford Transit Van has faced several recalls and numerous owner complaints. Here’s a brief overview:

  • Engine Problems: Several owners reported failures in the engine, leading to unexpected shutdowns or loss of power.
  • Transmission Defects: The 2015 model had problems with its transmission, including shifting difficulties and complete transmission failure in some instances.
  • Electrical Glitches: Electrical system failures were another common complaint, affecting components such as the dashboard lights, sensors, and more.

These combined issues led to costly repairs and a loss of trust in the vehicle, making 2015 the worst year for the Ford Transit Van. Potential buyers should be aware of these problems and should consider other model years or perform a detailed inspection before purchasing a 2015 Ford Transit Van.

Best Ford Transit Van Years

When considering the best Ford Transit Van years, a few model years stand out for their reliability, performance, and overall value. Below are the top selections:

  • 2017 Ford Transit Van: Known for its robust engine performance and fewer reported issues, the 2017 model year is a standout choice for those looking for a reliable van.
  • 2019 Ford Transit Van: With improved technology features and solid build quality, the 2019 Ford Transit Van has been praised by owners for its dependability and comfort.

These particular model years are well-regarded for their longevity, with reduced numbers of recalls and fewer significant problems reported:

  • Fuel Efficiency: Both the 2017 and 2019 models offer good fuel efficiency, suitable for various types of work.
  • Safety Features: Enhanced safety features, such as improved braking and stability control, make these years attractive choices for commercial use.
  • Comfort and Utility: Owners of these years have appreciated the comfort and space available, making them ideal for both passenger and cargo transport.

Opting for one of these best Ford Transit Van years can provide peace of mind and a satisfactory ownership experience.

How Many Miles Does a Ford Transit Van Last?

A Ford Transit Van is designed with durability and long-term use in mind. On average, a well-maintained Ford Transit Van can last anywhere between 250,000 to 300,000 miles, according to motorandwheels.com. Factors such as regular maintenance, driving conditions, and usage play a significant role in its lifespan. 

Many commercial owners who keep up with regular service schedules report even longer life spans. Choosing one of the best Ford Transit Van years and adhering to the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines ensures that the van will serve reliably for many miles and years. Proper maintenance is one reason the Ford Transit Van has become a favorite for commercial transport and delivery.

THE BEST CARS FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS

Whether you’re squeezing into a tight campus parking spot or hauling ten loads of laundry back home, these best cars for college students will get you, your friends, and your stuff where you’re going.

Common Issues With The Ford Transit Van

Ford Transit Vans are generally reliable, but like all vehicles, they can have some common issues. Some of the recurring problems reported to The Driver Adviser include:

  • Transmission issues, especially in earlier models.
  • Fuel pump failures, leading to engine stalling.
  • Electrical problems, particularly with dashboard instruments and lighting.
  • Suspension wear and tear, often requiring replacement parts.

Being aware of these common issues and addressing them promptly with regular inspections and maintenance can help avoid more significant problems down the road and extend the Ford Transit Van’s lifespan. Regular inspections and adhering to Ford’s recommended maintenance schedule can further ensure the van operates smoothly, maintaining its status as a trusted workhorse.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU REPLACE YOUR BRAKES?

Unless you’re a mechanic or super-dedicated car enthusiast, you might not know much about the brakes on your car. How long do they typically last?​ How often should you replace your brakes​? We’ve got answers

How Reliable Is The Ford Transit Van

The Ford Transit Van’s reliability can vary depending on the specific model year. While some years may face more mechanical challenges, the Ford Transit Van has generally earned a reputation for being an “average” dependable commercial vehicle. The more recent model years tend to have fewer issues and benefit from technological advancements that enhance their longevity. 

The key to ensuring continued reliability is regular maintenance, adherence to service schedules, and being mindful of any recalls or known issues. It’s also valuable to consult with specialists or Ford dealers who are familiar with the van’s particular requirements. By being proactive, owners can maximize the reliability of their Ford Transit Van, making it a strong choice for both businesses and individual consumers seeking a spacious and capable vehicle.

Final Thoughts

The Ford Transit Van has proven to be a versatile and generally reliable vehicle. However, awareness of the Ford Transit Van years to avoid can help potential buyers make a more informed decision. Careful consideration of the common issues and choosing the right model year can lead to a satisfying ownership experience. Regular maintenance will further enhance the van’s lifespan and functionality.

Get a Curated List of the Best Used Cars Near You

The CoPilot car shopping app is the easiest way to buy a car. Tell us what you’re looking for and we’ll search the inventories of every dealership in your area to make you a personalized list of the best car listings in your area.

Only looking for newer models? CoPilot Compare is the search engine for nearly-new cars. Only see cars five years or newer with low mileage — CoPilot Compare is the best way to find off-lease, early trade-in, and CPO cars.

The best part? CoPilot is built using the same technology that dealerships use to buy and sell their inventories, so we have more info on each vehicle than competitors. CoPilot doesn’t work with dealerships, so there are no sponsored posts or other shady practices — just the most info on the best cars. Check out our About Us page to see how CoPilot works.

Share on Pinterest
Share on Reddit
Why Use CoPilot?

Shop and buy your next car with confidence. CoPilot searches every car at every dealer, every day, and ranks them based on what matters to you.

When you shop for a new or used car, CoPilot helps you know more. We search every car at every dealer so you don't have to, we give you data and insights you won't find anywhere else, and we rank every car so it's easy to find the best car at the best price.

When you're ready to buy your next car, CoPilot helps you make sure you never get taken advantage of at the dealership. Would you like to know more than the salesperson? CoPilot helps you avoid any tricks, traps, and scams. Know how and what you can negotiate. With CoPilot, you'll save time, money, and frustration.