2016 Ford Transit Connect Safety Report
2016 Ford Transit Connect Safety Report
Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2016 Ford Transit Connect
This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2016 Ford Transit Connect. It connects recall campaigns, owner complaint patterns, service bulletins, sibling model years, component issue hubs, and the model buying guide so a shopper or owner can move from a single report into the wider safety graph.
| Signal | Value | What to inspect next |
|---|---|---|
| Recall burden | High (10) | Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below. |
| Owner complaints | High (102) | Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates. |
| Crash and fire reports | 2 | Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item. |
| Primary component hub | Visibility | Compare visibility issues across vehicles. |
| Cleaner nearby model year | 2021 | Compare against the 2021 Ford Transit Connect with 5 complaints and 4 recalls. |
| Riskier nearby model year | 2015 | Check the 2015 Ford Transit Connect before buying across this generation. |
Ford Transit Connect Year-by-Year Comparison
The safest purchase decision usually comes from comparing neighboring model years, not reading a single page in isolation. The table below uses only validated Ford Transit Connect years already present in the cleaned NHTSA dataset, so each comparison links to a real vehicle safety report rather than a generated combination.
| Model Year | Complaints | Recalls | Use case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 Ford Transit Connect | 27 | 6 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2015 Ford Transit Connect | 65 | 10 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2018 Ford Transit Connect | 21 | 6 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2019 Ford Transit Connect | 47 | 8 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2020 Ford Transit Connect | 27 | 8 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2021 Ford Transit Connect | 5 | 4 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
2016 Ford Transit Connect Complaint Theme Map
Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2016 Ford Transit Connect, these are the component areas with the clearest NHTSA complaint signals. Use each link to jump from this single vehicle into broader component hubs and make-specific issue pages.
Visibility
11 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Visibility issues Ford onlyStructure
9 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Structure issues Ford onlyPower Train
9 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Power Train issues Ford onlyUnknown Or Other
7 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Unknown Or Other issues Ford onlyEngine
7 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine issues Ford onlyVisibility/Wiper
5 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Visibility/Wiper issues Ford onlyAI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Ford Transit Connect
Reliability Score
The 2016 Ford Transit Connect receives a reliability score of 5 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates below-average reliability. Significant issues have been reported by owners and should be carefully evaluated before purchase.
NHTSA Safety Ratings for the 2016 Ford Transit Connect
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) evaluates vehicles through controlled crash tests and assigns star ratings from 1 to 5, with 5 being the safest.
Known Issues for the 2016 Ford Transit Connect
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Ford Transit Connect:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visibility Issues The front windshield can malfunction, affecting visibility. Sunroof panels may unexpectedly lift, reducing driver and passenger visibility. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Automatic Transmission Issues Gear position indication problems can cause unexpected downshifts, leading to confusion and potential accidents. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Door Latch Failures Front doors may fail to latch properly, leading to potential safety hazards. |
Low | Occasional | 30k-60k miles |
| Back Over Prevention Malfunction The back over prevention system, including the rear camera, may malfunction, increasing the risk of accidents. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Ford Transit Connect:
Issues with the windshield and sunroof are common.
Gear position indication problems are a frequent issue.
Door latches can fail, leading to potential safety hazards.
The back over prevention system may malfunction.
Recall Details for the 2016 Ford Transit Connect
The following 10 recalls have been issued for the 2016 Ford Transit Connect by NHTSA:
Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Lincoln MKC, Mustang, F-350 SD, F-250 SD, F-450 SD, 2015-2017 Lincoln Navigator, Expedition, 2015-2018 Edge, Transit Connect, 2016-2019 F-550 SD, Transit, 2017-2019 Econoline, and 2019 Ranger vehicles. The rearview camera may display a distorted, inverted, or blank image when the vehicle is in reverse.
Consequence: A rearview camera that displays an inverted, distorted, or blank image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the rearview camera as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 13, 2026. Ford owners will receive letters in phases, beginning January 2026 and May 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S89. This recall expands previous NHTSA recall number 25V270. Vehicle Identificatio...
Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Transit Connect vehicles. The front door latch pawl may crack and prevent the door from latching.
Consequence: An unlatched door can open while driving, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the front door latches as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 2, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S36.
Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2019 Escape, 2013-2018 C-Max, 2013-2016 Fusion, 2013-2021 Transit Connect, and 2015-2018 Edge vehicles. The bushing that attaches the shifter cable to the transmission may degrade or detach.
Consequence: A damaged or missing bushing may prevent the vehicle from shifting into the intended gear, and cause the vehicle to move in an unexpected direction. Additionally, the vehicle may roll after the driver selects the 'Park' position. Either scenario increases the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the under hood shift bushing and add a protective cap over the shift cable bushing, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters, informing owners of the safety risk, were mailed July 1, 2022. Remedy parts are expected to be available in 4th Quarter 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed October 27, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-73...
Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016 and 2020 Transit Connect vehicles. The front windshield may have been manufactured with inadequate adhesion to the vehicle body structure.
Consequence: During a crash, the windshield may detach from the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the windshield and, if necessary, remove and reinstall the windshield, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 11, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S20.
Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2021 Transit Connect vehicles equipped with 2.5L engines. The bushing that attaches the shifter cable to the transmission may degrade or detach.
Consequence: A damaged or missing bushing may prevent the vehicle from shifting into the intended gear, causing the vehicle to move in an unexpected direction. Additionally, the vehicle may roll after the driver selects the 'Park' position. Either scenario increases the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the underhood shifter cable bushing, and add a protective cap, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 29, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S24.
Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Fiesta, 2013-2014 Fusion, 2015 Mustang, 2013-2015 Escape and C-Max, 2012-2015 Focus, 2014-2016 Transit Connect, 2013-2014 Lincoln MKZ, and 2015 MKC vehicles. These vehicles were previously recalled and repaired under recalls 15V-246, 16V-643 or 17V-210, however the repair may not have been completed properly. A component within the door latches may break making the doors difficult to latch and/or leading the driver or a passenger to beli...
Consequence: A door that is not securely latched could open while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of injury to a vehicle occupant.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the latch date codes to confirm if the repair was done correctly, and replace the side door latches if necessary, free of charge. Owners will also have the option to inspect their own vehicle's door latches and enter the date codes into a website to determine if the latches are correct. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 27, 2020. Ow...
Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Transit Connect vehicles. The front driver and/or passenger seat belt pretensioner initiators could contain an improper generant mix ratio that may prevent the seat belt pretensioners from deploying in the event of a crash.
Consequence: In the event of a crash, the front driver and/or passenger seat belt pretensioners may not deploy, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace seat belt assemblies as necessary, free of charge. This recall began August 7, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S25.
Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2014-2017 Transit Connect vehicles equipped with a Panoramic Fixed-Glass Vista roof. An improper bond may exist between the panoramic roof and the vehicle body and may result in wind noise, water leak, and in some cases, separation from the vehicle.
Consequence: If the panoramic roof panel separates from the vehicle while it is being driven, it may increase the risk of an injury or crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will remove, clean, and reinstall the panoramic roof panel, free of charge. Ford issued owners an interim notification on May 26, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S22.
Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2012-2015 Ford Focus, 2013-2015 Ford Escape and Ford C-MAX, 2015 Lincoln MKC and Ford Mustang, and 2014-2016 Ford Transit Connect vehicles. A component within the door latches may break, preventing the doors from latching and/or leading the driver or a passenger to believe a door is securely closed when, in fact, it is not.
Consequence: A door that is not securely latched could open while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of injury to a vehicle occupant.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the door latches with an improved part, free of charge. The recall began on January 27, 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16S30.
Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2016 Transit Connect vehicles manufactured February 22, 2016, through June 16, 2016. The brake Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU) pump may be contaminated with metallic debris. As such, these vehicles fail to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems."
Consequence: If the brake HCU pump is contaminated, the performance of the electronic stability control and related brake systems may degrade, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners and dealers will replace the brake HCU pump, free of charge. The recall began on August 22, 2016. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 16C10.
NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2016 Ford Transit Connect
Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2016 Ford Transit Connect with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Transit Connect. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V572000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while shifted to reverse(R), the rearview camera image failed to display a clear image. The local dealer advised the contact that the recall warranty had expired. The vehi...
Was driving to work passenger front wheel locked overheating brakes and smoking had to have towed to jones ford in Shalotte North Carolina today
See attached document for complaint.
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Transit Connect. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the glass panel from the sunroof unexpectedly detached from the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was determined that the adhesive securing the sunroof glass had failed, causing the panel to detach. The contact was informed that the adhesive needs to be replaced to reat...
All these problems started when the rear camera quite working.
The brakes suddenly locked up while I was driving which could have caused an accident. Luckily it did not cause me to swerve into oncoming traffic and no one was behind me at the time. This was caused by the ABS unit hydraulic control assembly. It was the right front and left rear calipers locking. My vehicle only has 44,401 miles on it. The diagnosis has been confirmed at the dealer. There ...
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Transit Connect. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the rear sliding door failed to remain securely closed. The local dealer was contacted; however, the contact was advised that the failure was not related to a recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related to the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V502000 (Latches/Locks/Linkages). The...
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Transit Connect. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V260000 (VISIBILITY). The contact stated that while one of the employees was driving at various speeds, the sunroof collapsed. The local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was repaired. The contact noticed that the sun visor was not installed. The contact returned the vehicle to the dealer ho...
I am writing to report a serious and recurring safety issue with my 2016 Ford Transit Connect. On four separate occasions, the rear sliding doors on both the driver and passenger sides have completely detached from the vehicle during the normal process of closing them. These incidents occurred without the application of any excessive force or unusual use. The doors unexpectedly slid off their trac...
dealership AL Packer Ford on 1530 N Military Trl, West palm Beach FL 33409 refuse to fix the Manufacturer Recall Number 22S20 (NHTSA Recall Number 22V192), they have to remove the windshield and resealed but they hire an company to do it, so the "company' went and check my windshield and they said they can not do it bc they find and crack(which I've never see) and the windshield can the windshield...
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Transit Connect. The contact stated that the ABS warning light was illuminated. The contact stated while driving at undisclosed speeds, the vehicle stalled. There was smoke coming from the rear of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that the brakes and calipers needed to be replaced. While the mechanic was test driving the vehi...
The vehicles front driver side wheel brakes keeps receiving too much pressure causing the brake pads to stick and the wheel to get hot and to shake the steering wheel. I have had the caliper replaced twice, the flex bake hose replaced as well, replaced brake pads and rotor and after the most recent diagnosis, I was told that the issue is the HCU. Ford has had issues with this model and you can see...
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Transit Connect. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, the transmission downshifted to 1st gear without warning. The contact continued driving and while coming to a stop light the failure recurred. The contact attempted to accelerate when the light turned green, and the vehicle inadvertently shifted into neutral, and the contact nearly crashed into another vehicle. ...
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Transit Connect. The contact stated that while her husband was operating the vehicle, the front driver side door failed to shut closed. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the door latch needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V50200...
While driving on the highway, the Panoramic Roof Window started lifting up along the leading edge of the glass panel. I was to slow down and get off the highway before the panel came completely out of the recessed window frame. Ford has told me that my VIN shows the recall repair on the roof was performed already by Ford for a previous owner. A local Ford dealership looked into redoing the repa...
Ford Transit Connect passenger van with a panoramic view roof window. Driving on the highway, when air starting rushing into the cabin via the glass roof. I was able to pull over before the whole panel blew off. The Front (leading) edge of the glass roof panel is now loose. I can push up on the glass panel and the front edge comes up at least a 1/2 inch now. Ford has a recall listed on the roof p...
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Transit Connect. The contact stated that while driving 65 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power. The accelerator pedal was depressed but the vehicle was slow to move. The engine HOT message was displayed. There was an unknown running sound detected. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, and an unknown repair was performed. The vehicle was towed to the local de...
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Transit Connect. The contact stated that while initially starting the vehicle and while driving at various speeds, the main computer screen displayed the “Hill Stop Assist Not Available" and "Parking Assist Not Available" messages. The check engine and ABS warning lights were illuminated. The speedometer, power steering, and several other unknown messages were displaye...
Going down highway at 70 mph, no power all of a sudden. No warning. Made it to the side, stranded. Transmission needs to be replaced, 83000 miles
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Transit Connect. The contact stated that cracks had formed in both taillights which lead to water accumulation inside the taillight housing. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and the contact was informed that moisture had leaked into the taillight wiring harness and both taillight sensors and sensor harnesses need to be replaced. In addition, the taillight wiring had b...
Showing 20 of 102 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.
NHTSA Defect Investigations for the 2016 Ford Transit Connect
NHTSA defect investigations are higher-signal than ordinary complaints because they indicate the agency opened a formal review of a potential safety defect. Some investigations later connect to recall campaigns; others close without a recall after review.
Component: Latches/Locks/Linkages:Doors:Latch
Opened 2019-12-19 · Closed 2022-02-07
In December 2019, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this investigation based on 235 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) alleging doors failed to latch when closed, and/or inadvertently opened while driving, on model year (MY) 2012-2014 Ford Fiesta, and 2013-2014 Fusion and Lincoln MKZ. Some VOQs reported the failure occurred after the latch had been remedied under a prior recall which involved fracture of the latch pawl spring tab due to thermally induced cyclic fatigue. Other VOQ...
Component: Latches/Locks/Linkages:Doors:Latch
Opened 2016-01-16 · Closed 2016-10-29
In January, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this Preliminary Evaluation based on consumers' allegations of doors failing to latch and/or inadvertently opening on model year (MY) 2012-2013 Ford Focus vehicles (subject vehicles).ODI has received 464 unique reports related to the alleged problem, with over 200 claiming that the door(s) opened inadvertently while the vehicle was in motion.One consumer alleged an injury that occurred while driving when a door inadvertently opened and...
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Ford Transit Connect
Has the 2016 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT been recalled?
Yes, the 2016 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT has 10 recalls on record with NHTSA. Each recall addresses a specific safety defect identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA.
How many complaints does the 2016 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT have?
The 2016 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT has 102 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 1 involved crashes. 3 injuries and 0 deaths have been reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2016 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT?
The 2016 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT received an overall NHTSA safety rating of excellent (5/5). Frontal crash: 4/5. Side crash: 5/5. Rollover: 4/5.
What are the most common problems with the 2016 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2016 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT involve visibility (11 complaints), structure (9 complaints), power train (9 complaints). Other affected components include unknown or other, engine, visibility/wiper.
How many crash reports does the 2016 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT have?
There are 1 crash reports associated with the 2016 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT out of 102 total complaints (1.0% of complaints involved crashes).
How many fire reports does the 2016 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT have?
There are 1 fire reports for the 2016 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT out of 102 total complaints. Fire reports are among the most serious safety concerns tracked by NHTSA.
Are there any deaths reported for the 2016 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT?
No deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2016 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT.
How many injuries are reported for the 2016 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT?
3 injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2016 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT. These are self-reported by vehicle owners as part of their safety complaints.
Should I buy a 2016 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT is acceptable with caveats. It has 102 complaints, 10 recalls, and a excellent (5/5) safety rating. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.
What components fail most on the 2016 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT?
The components with the most failures on the 2016 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT are: 1. VISIBILITY (11 complaints), 2. STRUCTURE (9 complaints), 3. POWER TRAIN (9 complaints), 4. UNKNOWN OR OTHER (7 complaints), 5. ENGINE (7 complaints). VISIBILITY is the single most-reported problem area with 11 complaints.
What should I know before buying a 2016 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT?
Be cautious of visibility and automatic transmission issues. Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure the proper functioning of these systems. The 2016 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT has 102 NHTSA complaints and 10 recalls on record. NHTSA rates it excellent (5/5).
How reliable is the 2016 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT?
The 2016 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT receives a reliability score of 5/100, indicating below-average reliability. This is based on 102 owner complaints, 10 recalls, and 2 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Visibility Issues and Automatic Transmission Issues.
What are the known issues with the 2016 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT?
Known issues with the 2016 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT include: Visibility Issues, Automatic Transmission Issues, Door Latch Failures, Back Over Prevention Malfunction. These are based on patterns found across 102 NHTSA complaints. 10 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.
Can visibility issues with the windshield affect driving safety?
Yes, windshield malfunctions can reduce visibility, posing safety risks.
What should I do if I experience unexpected downshifts in the transmission?
Have the vehicle inspected by a professional to diagnose and fix the issue.
Are door latch failures common in the 2016 Ford Transit Connect?
Yes, door latches can fail, leading to potential safety hazards.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Be cautious of visibility and automatic transmission issues. Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure the proper functioning of these systems.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Ford Transit Connect
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Ford Transit Connect. The data includes 102 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 10 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 1 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, 3 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2016 Ford Transit Connect an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.
Disclaimer: This analysis is AI-generated from NHTSA public data and does not constitute professional automotive or safety advice. Always verify recall status at NHTSA.gov and consult a qualified mechanic.
Analysis last updated: 2026-05-16