2016 Ford Transit Connect Safety Report
2016 Ford Transit Connect: Strong Crash Ratings Undermined by Numerous Recalls and Persistent Door, Transmission, and Visibility Complaints
AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Ford Transit Connect
Reliability Score
The 2016 Ford Transit Connect receives a reliability score of 55 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Door Latch Failure Front door latches may crack, preventing the door from latching securely or causing it to open while driving. Multiple recalls (21V376, 16V643000, 15V246000) address this. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Transmission Shifter Cable Bushing Degradation The bushing attaching the shifter cable to the transmission may degrade or detach, leading to unintended gear shifts or the vehicle moving in an unexpected direction. Two recalls (22V192000, 20V260000) cover this. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Panoramic Roof Detachment Improper bonding of the panoramic fixed-glass vista roof can cause it to detach while driving, increasing crash risk. Covered by recall 20V260000. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Rearview Camera Malfunction The rearview camera may display an inverted, distorted, or blank image, reducing visibility and increasing crash risk. Addressed by recall 22V192000. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Windshield Adhesion Failure Inadequate adhesion of the front windshield to the vehicle body can cause it to detach during a crash, increasing injury risk. Covered by recall 22V192000. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Brake Hydraulic Control Unit (Hcu) Contamination Contamination of the brake HCU pump can degrade electronic stability control and related brake systems, increasing crash risk. Covered by recall 16V463000. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Seat Belt Pretensioner Malfunction Improper generant mix ratio in front seat belt pretensioner initiators may prevent deployment in a crash, increasing injury risk. Covered by recall 17V024000. |
High | Rare | unknown 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:
11 complaints related to visibility, including issues with the rearview camera and panoramic roof detachment.
9 complaints regarding structural integrity, often involving door latches and the panoramic roof.
9 complaints concerning the power train, frequently related to transmission shifting issues, loss of power, or unexpected deceleration.
7 complaints related to the engine, including issues like loss of power and overheating.
4 complaints specifically about service brakes, with reports of brakes locking up and HCU unit failures.
4 complaints indicating problems with the hydraulic brake system and electronic stability control, often linked to the HCU recall.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Ford Transit Connect
Is the 2016 Ford Transit Connect safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 Ford Transit Connect received excellent crash test ratings, including a 5-star overall rating. However, it has a high number of recalls (10) addressing significant safety concerns like door latch failures, transmission issues, and potential detachment of the panoramic roof or windshield. There are 102 complaints, including 1 crash and 3 injuries, indicating real-world safety problems despite strong crash test performance.
What are common problems with the 2016 Ford Transit Connect?
The most reported issues for the 2016 Ford Transit Connect are related to VISIBILITY (11 complaints, including rearview camera and panoramic roof), STRUCTURE (9 complaints, often door latches and sunroof), and POWER TRAIN (9 complaints, frequently involving transmission shifting or loss of power). Other notable problems include ENGINE issues (7 complaints) and SERVICE BRAKES (4 complaints, including HCU failures).
How many recalls does the 2016 Ford Transit Connect have?
The 2016 Ford Transit Connect has 10 recalls issued by NHTSA. These recalls address critical components such as door latches, transmission shifter cable bushings, rearview cameras, windshield adhesion, panoramic roof bonding, brake hydraulic control units, and seat belt pretensioners.
Are there any transmission issues with the 2016 Ford Transit Connect?
Yes, there are significant transmission-related issues. The POWER TRAIN component has 9 complaints, and there are two recalls (22V192000, 20V260000) specifically for the bushing that attaches the shifter cable to the transmission, which can degrade or detach, leading to unintended gear shifts or unexpected vehicle movement.
What should I look out for when buying a used 2016 Ford Transit Connect?
When considering a used 2016 Ford Transit Connect, ensure all 10 recalls have been completed, especially those related to door latches, transmission shifter cable bushings, and the panoramic roof. Pay close attention to the operation of the doors, transmission shifting, rearview camera, and any signs of brake system malfunction. Check for any aftermarket windshield or sunroof replacements, as these could be related to recall issues.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the high number of recalls and recurring complaints despite good crash ratings, thoroughly verify all 10 recalls have been addressed and inspect for common issues like door latch function, transmission shifting, and panoramic roof integrity before purchasing.
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.