2018 Ford Transit Connect Safety Report

The 2018 Ford Transit Connect presents a mixed safety picture, with several significant recall campaigns addressing critical safety components, despite a relatively low number of direct consumer complaints to NHTSA. With only 21 total complaints, and no reported crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths, the vehicle's direct incident record appears favorable. However, the presence of 6 recalls, some of which address fundamental safety systems like rearview cameras and transmission shift cables, indicates potential underlying design or manufacturing issues. Crash test performance is generally good for the tested categories, achieving 4 stars for frontal impact and 5 stars for side impact, though rollover and overall ratings are not available. Common complaint patterns, despite their low volume, point towards issues with the STEERING system (5 complaints), SERVICE BRAKES (2 complaints), and POWER TRAIN (multiple complaints related to transmission shudder and shifter cable issues). The steering complaints frequently describe sudden power steering failure, often requiring rack and pinion replacement, which is a severe safety concern. The recalls reinforce some of these concerns, particularly the two recalls related to the POWER TRAIN: AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION: GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL), which addresses a bushing that can degrade or detach, potentially leading to unintended vehicle movement. Additionally, two recalls pertain to BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA, indicating persistent issues with the rearview camera display. The recall history is extensive for a vehicle with low complaint volume. Beyond the transmission and rearview camera issues, there's a recall for VISIBILITY: FIXED PANARAMIC ROOF/SKY LIGHT ASSEMBLY, where an improper bond could lead to the roof panel detaching, posing a significant road hazard. Another recall addresses SEATS, specifically for modified vehicles, where seat back movement in a crash could increase injury risk. While the low complaint count might suggest a generally safe vehicle, the breadth and nature of the recalls, coupled with recurring themes in the complaints (e.g., steering failure, transmission issues), suggest that potential buyers should be aware of these specific vulnerabilities and ensure all recall repairs have been completed.

Our recommendation: Given the multiple critical recalls and recurring complaints about power steering and transmission issues, prospective buyers should ensure all 6 recalls have been completed and consider a pre-purchase inspection focusing on the steering and powertrain systems.