Ford Transit reliability
The Ford Transit fails its MOT more often than most cars 6 to 10 years old: 31.7% of 173,030 tests failed in 2023, against 24.4% on average.
56 DVSA recalls for the Ford Transit
Most cover a batch of cars built in a set period, and dealers fix them free. Sweep’s check shows the recalls for a car’s age and whether the DVSA has one outstanding.
26C36 - Transit – Vehicle Identification Number Label Missing Mandatory Weight Information
On affected vehicles the B-pillar label displays the Vehicle Identification Number but the fields for mandatory vehicle weight information may be blank.
Fix: Remove the existing label clean the area and install a new replacement displaying the correct mandatory information.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 4 vehicles
26S49 – Transit and Transit/Tourneo Custom – Automatic Transmission Snap Ring
Affected vehicles may have an Electronic One-Way Clutch Assembly built with an unseated snap ring which may lead to a sudden and unexpected loss of forward or reverse movement.
Fix: Disassemble the transmission to check the snap ring is correctly seated and replace any necessary parts.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 2 vehicles
26C31 – Transit M2 – Missing MOIS (Moving Off Information System
On affected vehicles the Moving Off Information System (MOIS) has been disabled so it is unable to warn of pedestrians or cyclists close to and in front of the vehicle.
Fix: Update the software to enable the MOIS.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 12 vehicles
Multi Vehicle Line: Unintended High Beam Behaviour - Compliance
Affected vehicles may experience erratic behaviour of the Glare Free High Beam function under certain circumstances.
Fix: Update the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems Electronic Control Unit software.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 8 vehicles
25C56 Transit - Potential Incorrect CO2 Emissions Recorded On The Certificate Of Conformity
On affected vehicles the Certificate of Conformity (CoC) may contain inaccurate CO2 data. As a result the CoCs state a lower CO2 value than intended.
Fix: Dealers will exchange CoC papers and help owners update their vehicle’s registration documentation. Ford will reimburse any underpaid purchase tax due as a result of the vehicle’s re-registration.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 2 vehicles
26C15 Transit - Instrument Panel Cluster Configuration Update
According to Ford’s records certain Transit vehicles may not have the remedy for Compliance Recall 21C32 installed correctly but were recorded as having received the repair successfully. Because the correct configuration update may not have been installed on these vehicles the underlying condition may still exist therefore these vehicles may still have the incorrect configuration loaded onto the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC). On affected vehicles an incorrect Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) configuration may have disabled the Advanced Emergency Braking System warning messages. Although the system remains functional the instrument cluster may not display the required warning message and no chime may sound which could result in the vehicle not complying with applicable regulations. Dealers will update the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) configuration to the latest available level.
Fix: Dealers will update the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) configuration to the latest available level.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 13 vehicles
26S20 Transit - Lower Arm Rear Bolt Replacement
On affected vehicles one of the front suspension bolts may have been overtightened during manufacturer which may cause it to weaken and fracture over time.
Fix: Replace the affected front suspension bolt.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 1 vehicles
25SC5 Transit Automatic Transmission Wiring Damage
On affected vehicles insufficient clearance between the wiring harness and transmission housing may lead to damaged wiring or chafing which can cause a short circuit and arcing increasing the risk of fire.
Fix: Check the wiring harness. Repair reposition and secure if necessary. .
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 10 vehicles
25C62 - Transit – Double Chassis Side Marker Lamps Missing
Affected vehicles have been produced without the required front side marker lamps.
Fix: Remove the existing front door body side mouldings and replace with new body side mouldings that include the side marker lamps.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 94 vehicles
25C80 Transit - Body Control Module Software Update
On affected vehicles the software repair for previous recall 25C80 may not have been delivered properly and incorrect Body Control Module (BCM) software may prevent the side parking lights from functioning as intended
Fix: Update the BCM software and perform an additional verification process to ensure the configuration has been installed correctly.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 4 vehicles
25SE6 – Transit and Transit Custom – 12V Battery Venting
Affected vehicles may have 12V batteries that have been incorrectly vented allowing any potential venting to be directed into the cabin.
Fix: Inspect the battery and replace if required. Fit a battery vent tube to expel any gases.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 2,526 vehicles
25C40 – Transit M2 Bus – Software Update
On affected vehicles information on safety instructions (location of emergency exits fire extinguishers and emergency hammers) is missing in the SYNC information screen.
Fix: Update the SYNC system software to add the necessary information and diagrams.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 120 vehicles
Frozen Rearview Camera Screen
On affected vehicles there is a potential software issue causing the rear-view camera not to function as intended.
Fix: Update the Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) software to the latest level.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 254 vehicles
CrossCar: Sync3 Rear-View Camera Software Update
On affected vehicles a software problem may result in issues with the rear-view camera that reduce the driver’s view or with it remaining on after a reversing event.
Fix: Update the vehicle software to the latest level.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 1 vehicles
24B36 Transit - Chassis Inspection
Ford constantly monitors production processes and vehicles in operation. While monitoring vehicles in operation we have become aware of a number of Transit Chassis vehicles which may require a strengthening plate to be fitted to the vehicle’s chassis. The strengthening plate is precautionary and will provide additional strength and durability for the life of the vehicle.
Fix: The Ford dealer will visually inspect the affected chassis section for any initial damage and will install a reinforcement plate to prevent any potential future deformation.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 140 vehicles
25S86 Transit Transit Custom - Potential Panther Engine Timing Idler Gear Loose
On affected vehicles the engine idler gear bolt may shear resulting in the idler gear dropping and primary drive failure. This can result in complete engine failure leading to a stall and/or no start condition.
Fix: Replace the idler gear and idler bolt.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 1 vehicles
25S59 Transit Transit Custom - Potential exhaust manifold nut incorrectly torqued
On affected vehicles the correct tightening torque was not reached on some of the exhaust manifold nuts during the manufacturing process. This could lead to exhaust gas leaking and the melting of the nearby plastic oil separator causing oil to leak on to hot surfaces and the risk of fire.
Fix: Visually check to confirm all nut positions and condition. Remove the engine and replace the nut and stud if not ok.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 2 vehicles
24C29 Transit - Side parking lights not operating correctly
On affected vehicles the incorrect software could prevent the Side Parking Light function from operating as intended therefore failing to comply with existing regulations.
Fix: Update the Body Control Module software.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 80 vehicles
24B64 - Transit Skeletal Chassis Inspection
On affected vehicles there may be damage to a section of the vehicle’s chassis.
Fix: Check the vehicle chassis and if found with a defect in the areas shown the manufacturer will buy back the vehicle.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 6 vehicles
24S57 Transit Rear hub bearing
Affected vehicles may experience a lack of lubrication to the rear wheel bearings leading to premature failure.
Fix: Check of vehicles current mileage and where necessary inspect bearing to ensure full lubrication with parts replaced as necessary.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 7 vehicles
24S30 Transit - Incorrect trailer tow installed
A small number of Transit vehicles have been manufactured with an incorrect tow bar that does not meet the correct load specifications. It is important for the affected vehicles to be returned to a Ford Authorised Dealer. If the tow load is in excess of 2600kg this could potentially result in the trailer becoming detached or the tow bar assembly being damaged. A detached trailer or a damaged tow bar could increase the risk of an accident.
Fix: Install the correct tow bar free of charge parts and labour.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 1 vehicles
24S22 – Transit Rear Brake Line Inspection
The wrong brake line hose may have been installed on the right rear. The longer brake line could create a touch condition with the rear wheel which could in turn cause a brake fluid leak. In the event of a leak you may notice a soft brake pedal feel and a red warning light will illuminate in the cluster. The brake system has two separate diagonal brake line circuits and in the event of one brake line circuit failure the vehicle is able to stop with the functionality of the secondary brake circuit. If the brake lines on both sides were to fail it may lead to a loss of brake function.
Fix: Inspect and replace with correct hose.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 6 vehicles
24S23 - Transit Skeletal Chassis Inspection
While monitoring vehicles in operation we have become aware of a number of Transit Chassis vehicles may have damage to a section of the vehicle’s chassis. The chassis is the structural element of the vehicle.
Fix: Inspect and replace vehicle if required possible reworking.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 129 vehicles
The SYNC screen may display a blue or black image when the vehicle is placed in reverse or when the 360 degree view is selected and available (during low-speed operation).
The SYNC screen may display a blue or black image when the vehicle is placed in reverse or when the 360 degree view is selected and available (during low-speed operation).
Fix: Replace rear camera and update software
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 6,952 vehicles
Due to an instrument panel cluster misconfiguration the advanced emergency braking system warning messages have been disabled
Due to an Instrument Panel Cluster misconfiguration the Advanced Emergency Braking System warning messages have been disabled.
Fix: Update the Instrument cluster configuration.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 111 vehicles
The fuel injector fuel return line connection may not be fully secure
There is a possibility that the fuel injector fuel return line connection/s may not be fully secured.
Fix: Inspect the fuel injector fuel return line connections to ensure that the connections are fully secured and the locking tags are engaged.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 2 vehicles
Some vehicles may have been built with an additional bolt that may be loose within the electric power assisted steering
Some vehicles may have been built with an additional bolt that may be loose within the Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS).
Fix: Replace the steering gear on all vehicles affected.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 20 vehicles
A rear driveshaft bearing support bracket has not been fitted with the intended internal bushes
On affected vehicles the rear driveshaft bearing support bracket has not been fitted with the intended internal bushes.
Fix: Fit a new driveshaft bearing support bracket.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 2 vehicles
Weld penertration on left lower control arm might not meet specification
The left-hand lower control arm may be fitted to vehicles where the weld penetration does not meet specification.
Fix: Inspect the left-hand lower control arm and replace if within the affected date range.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 2,180 vehicles
The lower control arms may be fitted with missing or partial welds
The lower control arms may have missing or partial welds
Fix: Inspect the lower control arms and replace if required.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 2,675 vehicles
The run on water pump may overheat
The Run On Water Pump (ROWP) fitted to Transit and Transit Custom vehicles may overheat
Fix: Replacing the 15 Amp fuse with a 7.5 Amp fuse to prevent the possibility for the ROWP to overheat.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 91,814 vehicles
Incorrectly torqued left hand seatbelt to seatbelt shoulder height adjuster bolt
An incorrectly torqued left hand seatbelt to seatbelt shoulder height adjuster bolt.
Fix: Replace the left hand seatbelt and shoulder height adjuster with new parts.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 3 vehicles
Vehicle handling may be compromised by rear stabiliser fault
The Rear Stabiliser bar may not be to specification. This could result in the Rear Stabiliser bar cracking and failing which will result in the vehicle handling characteristics being adversely affected.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and fit a new rear stabiliser bar.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 1,747 vehicles
Tow bar may fail
A non approved tow bar was fitted during manufacture. The rating of the fitted towbar is below the vehicles approved gross train mass (GTM) and could fail if the vehicle is loaded to it's maximum GTM.
Fix: On affected vehicles Replace tow bar with an approved towbar of the correct rating.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 22 vehicles
Engine may cut out
A batch of fuel injector may have been assembled correctly. The internal valve can fail and cause reduced fuel pressure and engine shutdown shutdown with no restart.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and check the injectors. If the injectors of concern are fitted they will be replaced.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 13,853 vehicles
Possible brake failure
It is possible that the material specification of the brake pedal pin retaining R clip is not correct. This can cause the spring tension of the clip to reduce. If not rectified there is a possibility that the R clip could become detached which can result in the separation of the brake pedal and the brake booster push rod. This will result in brake failure.
Fix: Recall all affected vehicles and replace the R clip with a new quality assured one.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 16,348 vehicles
Brake fluid may leak - braking efficiency may be affected
The rear brake pipe bracket to axle securing bolt may fail due to inconsistencies in bolt manufacture. Low clamp load of the joint could lead to bolt failure and subsequent fatigue failure of the rear brake bundy pipe. This would result loss of brake fluid and significantly reduced brake performance (single circuit brake operation only and soft brake pedal).
Fix: The original bolt will be replaced with a new bolt and locking nut.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 127,882 vehicles
Wiper arm may detach
Wiper arm may detach due to the wiper arm pivot pins not being to specification. If the wiper arms detach view to the front could be impaired.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the wiper arm pivot pins.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 5,021 vehicles
Possibility of fire
It has been identified that a batch of vehicles converted by SVP have been fitted with a split charging system the relays of which may not be to specification and could subsequently fail. This can result in wiring loom damage and the possibility of a fire.
Fix: Whereas the converter has approached 89 customers and supplied revised parts. It is proposed that Ford will contact the owners of the outstanding vehicles to emphasise the importance of end users contacting the convertor thus ensuring that the remaining vehicles are reworked.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 109 vehicles
Steering hub may fracture and detach
The steering wheel may detach from the steering column due to a defect in the centre hub casting.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to inspect the steering wheel centre hub casting and where necessary fit a new steering wheel.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 8,587 vehicles
Tipper bed could raise without warning
It has been identified that the tipper bed could raise without warning due to a concern with the power system module (PSM).
Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the PSM replaced.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 3,209 vehicles
Power steering may fail with ensuing risk of fire
It has been established thatthe high pressure connection to the power assisted steering pump could detach. Should this incur loss of steering assistance would ensue. Additionally hydraulic fluid could leak onto the exhaust with the attendant risk of fire.
Fix: To prevent such an occurrence recalled vehicles will have the subject power assisted steering pipe fitted with a retaining collar.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 51,712 vehicles
Axle shaft may detach
Excessive axle shaft end play which can be identified by excessive noise and changes in vehicle handling could possibly if not detected lead to detachment of the axle shaft retaining clip and result in the shaft 'walking out' of the axle.
Fix: Recall all affected vehicle for the replacement of the axle shaft retaining clip by a modified replacement.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 53,766 vehicles
Seat belt mounting bracket bolt may fail
Concern that the front seat belt outer fixing may not have been installed to manufacturer's specification.
Fix: Recall all affected vehicles for mounting to be inspected and retorque of the mounting bolt.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 1,460 vehicles
Power steering may be lost
It has been identified that the power steering pump drive belts could de-laminate and fail. Should this occur drive to the power steering pump would be lost likewise the assistance to the steering.
Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the power steering drive belts checked and renewed should they be found to be within the affected batch.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 7,000 vehicles
Front suspension strut to knuckle clamping bolt insufficient torque
It has been identified that the front suspension strut to knuckle clamping bolt torque might be insufficient. The possibility therefore exists that should the assembly move within it's mounting the tyre may contact the wheel arch. Additionally in the case of FWD vehicles the shock absorber could contact the driveshaft.
Fix: Subject vehicles will have the suspension strut checked for correct positioning and the clamp bolt tightened to the revised torque.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 57,275 vehicles
Possible partial detachment of front suspension lower arm.
It has been identified that a number of vehicles have been produced with front suspension lower arm bolts which may have been tightened to an incorrect torque. In this condition failure of a bolt may result in partial detachment of the arm from the subframe which could adversely affect the steering and stability control.
Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the subject bolts checked for correct torque and tightened if necessary. Should any bolt be found to be damaged it will be replaced.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 846 vehicles
Lpg fuel supply will not switch off
The liquid petroleum gas supply to the engine will not shut off if it stalls.
Fix: Fit a new LPG fuel control module.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 480 vehicles
Automatic gearshift concern.
The gearbox may incorrectly shift into a lower gear during normal driving.
Fix: Recall affected vehicles and reprogramme the transmission control unit.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 70 vehicles
Possible damage to brake pipes.
The service replacement engine may have been fitted with with the rear lifting eye still attached. Under certain operating conditions the eye may contact and damage adjacent brake pipes. This could cause a loss of braking efficiency.
Fix: Check for the presence of the rear lifting eye and remove if fitted. Check brake pipes for damage and if required replace.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 162 vehicles
Engine compartment wiring loom
The engine compartment wiring loom may chafe on one of the engine cooling system thermostat housing securing bolts. In the worst case circumstances this could result in a short circuit and a fire risk.
Fix: Recall affected vehicles to reposition and protect the wiring loom from chafing.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 24,879 vehicles
Front suspension ball joint circlip
Under conditions of excessively rough use such as driving over kerbs etc the front suspension ball joint taper pin may become loose in the suspension upright. If this occurs the secondary retaining circlip may be ineffective in preventing the complete detachment of the suspension upright from the track control arm.
Fix: Replace the existing circlip with an improved design part.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 68,436 vehicles
Tailboard latch concern
The tailboard latch may not keep the tailboard in the closed position. This could result in the load dropping onto the highway.
Fix: Modify the tailboard latch.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 1,112 vehicles
That the seat belt stalks will not resist passenger abuse.
It has been established that the seat belt stalks may fail due to abuse by passengers.
Fix: Replace the seat belt stalks with a stronger design.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 1,146 vehicles
Wiring loom insulation also split charge relay capacity
On some Transit Ambulance vehicles the split charge relay is insufficiently rated for its application. Additionally on these same vehicles the engine compartment wiring loom is equipped with unsatisfactory insulation.
Fix: Recall the affected vehicles for the fitment of a new level charge relay. At the same time the engine compartment wiring loom will be inspected replaced if damaged or retaped with new level insulation tape if undamaged.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 160 vehicles
Tyre ply rating may be incorrect
It is possible that 6 ply rated tyres may have been fitted instead of the 8 ply rated tyres specified.
Fix: Recall the affected vehicles to have the tyre ply ratings checked and where necessary to have correctly rated tyres fitted.
Recalled models: TRANSIT · 74 vehicles
Checking a Ford Transit before you buy
Look at the parts above at the viewing, and read the car’s own MOT history: advisories for the same parts suggest the problem is already starting. Sweep’s free check shows every MOT, advisory and mileage reading for a registration.