2018 Ford Transit Safety Report
2018 Ford Transit Safety Report
Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2018 Ford Transit
This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2018 Ford Transit. 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 (14) | Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below. |
| Owner complaints | Moderate (53) | 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 | Power Train | Compare power train issues across vehicles. |
| Cleaner nearby model year | 2020 | Compare against the 2020 Ford Transit with 78 complaints and 9 recalls. |
| Riskier nearby model year | 2015 | Check the 2015 Ford Transit before buying across this generation. |
Ford Transit 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 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 | 92 | 18 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2020 Ford Transit | 78 | 9 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2016 Ford Transit | 142 | 21 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2015 Ford Transit | 183 | 26 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
2018 Ford Transit Complaint Theme Map
Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2018 Ford Transit, 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.
Power Train
7 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Power Train issues Ford onlyUnknown Or Other
5 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Unknown Or Other issues Ford onlyStructure
5 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Structure issues Ford onlyEngine
4 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine issues Ford onlyElectrical System
3 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Electrical System issues Ford onlyPower Train,Engine
2 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Power Train,Engine issues Ford onlyAI Safety Analysis for the 2018 Ford Transit
Reliability Score
The 2018 Ford Transit receives a reliability score of 87 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates above-average reliability relative to comparable vehicles.
NHTSA Safety Ratings for the 2018 Ford Transit
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 2018 Ford Transit
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2018 Ford Transit:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Misfires Engine misfires are reported at moderate mileage, causing vibrations and potential loss of power. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Torque Converter Failures Torque converter failures are common, leading to reduced performance and potential safety concerns. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Rear-View Camera Malfunction The rear-view camera system can fail, creating significant safety hazards, especially in low-speed situations. |
High | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Center Display Malfunction The center display may flash intermittently, affecting the backup camera's usability in hot or humid conditions. |
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 2018 Ford Transit:
Engine misfires and torque converter failures are common issues.
Issues with the 6R80 transmission, including sensor failures, are reported.
The rear-view camera system can fail, creating blind spots.
The center display may malfunction, affecting the backup camera's usability.
Recall Details for the 2018 Ford Transit
The following 14 recalls have been issued for the 2018 Ford Transit 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 2015-2020 Transit vehicles. An incorrect driveshaft torsional damper service kit may have been installed, which can allow the damper shield to contact the parking brake cable, possibly resulting in parking brake failure.
Consequence: Parking brake failure can result in unintended vehicle movement, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the passenger side parking brake cable with a cable that provides sufficient clearance to the damper shield, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed on September 24, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 14, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S39.
Summary: LA West Inc. (LA West) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Ford Transit vehicles modified to be equipped with glass roof hatches. Temperature and vibration stresses may cause the tempered glass roof hatch to shatter.
Consequence: If the tempered glass roof hatch shatters, glass fragments may fall onto passengers, increasing the risk of an injury.
Remedy: LA West will notify owners, and dealers will replace the hatch lids, free of charge. The recall began July 11, 2019. Owners may contact LA West customer service at 1-704-498-4940.
Summary: New England Wheels (New England) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Ford Transit and 2014-2019 Ram Promaster 2500 and 3500 vehicles modified to be equipped with Freedman Go-ES Foldaway seats. When the back seat cushion is rotated from the stowed position to the upright position, the seat cushion may not remain locked into place when under load, such as in a crash or a sudden stop.
Consequence: In the event of a crash, if the seat back moves, the seat occupant has an increased risk of injury.
Remedy: New England has notified owners, directing them to contact Freedman for repairs to the foldaway seats, free of charge. The recall began May 27, 2019. Owners may contact Freedman customer service at 1-800-443-4540 or New England at 1-800-886-9247.
Summary: Prime-Time Specialty Vehicles (Prime-Time) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Ram ProMaster and Ford Transit vehicles modified to be equipped with Freedman GO-ES Foldaway Seats. When the seat back cushion is rotated from the stowed position to the upright position, the seat cushion may not remain locked into place when under load, such as in a crash or a sudden stop.
Consequence: In the event of a crash, if the seat back moves, the seat occupant has an increased risk of injury.
Remedy: Prime-Time Specialty Vehicles has notified owners, and Freedman dealers have inspected and repaired the foldaway seats, free of charge. The recall began November 16, 2018. Owners may contact Freedman customer service at 1-800-443-4540 or Prime-Time Specialty Vehicles at 1-574-293-9191.
Summary: Fenton Mobility Products, Inc. (Fenton Mobility) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Ford Transit vehicles modified to be equipped with Freedman GO-ES Foldaway Seats, part numbers 43705, 45467, 48923, and 75719. When the back seat cushion is rotated from the stowed position to the upright position, the seat cushion may not remain locked into place when under load, such as in a crash or a sudden stop.
Consequence: In the event of a crash, if the seat back moves, the seat occupant has an increased risk of injury.
Remedy: Fenton Mobility will notify owners, and a Fenton Mobility technician will repair the foldaway seats, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in June 2019. Owners may contact Fenton Mobility customer service at 1-716-484-7014.
Summary: Mobility Transportation Services (MobilityTrans) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Ford Transit and Ram Promaster vehicles and 2014-2015 Ford Econoline vehicles modified to be equipped with Freedman GO-ES Foldaway Seats, part numbers 43705, 45467, 48923, and 75719. When the back seat cushion is rotated from the stowed position to the upright position, the seat cushion may not remain locked into place when under load, such as in a crash or a sudden stop.
Consequence: In the event of a crash, if the seat back moves, the seat occupant has an increased risk of injury.
Remedy: MobilityTrans will notify owners and Freedman Seating dealers will inspect and repair the foldaway seat, free of charge. The recall began May 19, 2019. Owners may contact Mobility Transportation Services customer service at 1-734-453-6452.
Summary: Waldoch Crafts, Inc. (Waldoch) is recalling certain 2018 Ford Transit shuttle vans modified to be equipped with Freedman GO-ES Foldaway Seats, part number 43705. When the back seat cushion is rotated from the stowed position to the upright position, the seat cushion may not remain locked into place when under load, such as in a crash or a sudden stop.
Consequence: In the event of a crash, if the seat back moves, the seat occupant has an increased risk of injury.
Remedy: Waldoch will notify owners and dealers will inspect and repair the foldaway seat, free of charge. The recall began September 25, 2020. Owners may contact Waldoch customer service at 1-651-464-3215.
Summary: Cabot Coach Builders, Inc. DBA Royale Limousine (Royale) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Ford Transit-based mini-coaches equipped with Freedman GO-ES foldaway seats recalled under 18E-076. When the back seat cushion is rotated from the stowed position to the upright position, the seat cushion may not remain locked into place when under load, such as in a crash or a sudden stop.
Consequence: In the event of a crash, if the seat back moves, the seat occupant has an increased risk of injury.
Remedy: Royale will notify owners and dealers will inspect and repair the seat. The recall began June 6, 2019. Owners may contact Royale customer service at 1-800-544-5587.
Summary: Vantage Mobility International, LLC (Vantage) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Ford Transit Van, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, and 2007 Ford F-250-based shuttle vehicles equipped with Freedman GO-3S foldaway seats. When the back seat cushion is rotated from the stowed position to the upright position, the seat cushion may not remain locked into place when under load, such as in a crash or a sudden stop.
Consequence: In the event of a crash, if the seat back moves, the seat occupant has an increased risk of injury.
Remedy: Vantage has notified owners, instructing them to contact Freedman for a repair kit, free of charge. The recall began March 25, 2019. Owners may contact Freedman customer service at 1-800-443-4540.
Summary: TransitWorks is recalling certain 2015-2018 Ford Transit, 2018 Ford Transit Connect, and 2016 Dodge Ram ProMaster vehicles modified to be equipped with Freedman Seating GO-ES seats. When the back seat cushion is rotated from the stowed position to the upright position, the seat cushion may not remain locked into place when under load, such as in a crash or a sudden stop.
Consequence: In the event of a crash, if the seat back moves, the seat occupant has an increased risk of injury.
Remedy: TransitWorks has notified owners and instructed them to contact Freedman seats for a repair kit. The recall began December 19, 2019. Owners may contact Freedman Seating customer service at 1-800-443-4540 or TransitWorks customer service at 1-855-337-9543.
Summary: Quality Van Sales, Inc. (Quality Van) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Ford Transit and E-350 vehicles modified to be equipped with Freedman GO-ES Foldaway Seat back cushions. The seat cushion may not remain locked into place when under load, such as in a crash or a sudden stop. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 207, "Seating Systems."
Consequence: In the event of a crash, if the seat back moves, the seat occupant has an increased risk of injury.
Remedy: Quality Van will notify owners and dealers will inspect and repair the foldaway seat, free of charge. The recall began March 21, 2019. Owners may contact Quality Van customer service at 1-800-408-8550.
Summary: XL Hybrids, Inc (XL) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Ford Transit vehicles modified to be equipped with XL's electric hybrid system. The cardan (universal) joint on the front driveshaft may fail, possibly causing the front driveshaft to detach.
Consequence: If the front driveshaft detaches from the vehicle, drive power will be lost, increasing the risk of a crash. The detached driveshaft may also create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash for following traffic.
Remedy: XL will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front driveshaft with an updated one, free of charge. The recall began April 15, 2019. Owners may contact XL Hybrid's customer service at 1-833-953-5338.
Summary: National Van Builders, Inc. (National Van) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Ford Transit vehicles equipped with Freedman GO-ES Foldaway Seats, part numbers 43705, 45467, 48923, and 75719. When the back seat cushion is rotated from the stowed position to the upright position, the seat cushion may not remain locked into place when under load, such as in a crash or a sudden stop. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 207...
Consequence: In the event of a crash, if the seat back moves, the seat occupant has an increased risk of injury.
Remedy: National Van will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and repair the foldaway seat, free of charge. The recall began November 26, 2018. Owners may contact National Van customer service at 1-508-222-2272.
NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2018 Ford Transit
Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2018 Ford Transit with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 1 complaint involved crashes. 1 involved fires. 3 reported injuries or fatalities.
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Transit. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was a misfire coming from the engine with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to several independent mechanics, where it was diagnosed with coolant intrusion into the engine, causing engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. ...
1- THE TURBO HAS FAILED TWICE 2- CURRENTLY The torque converter has failed. The mechanic has claimed this is a common problem and recommends a complete transmission replacement. This is available for inspection right now. The problem was suspected by Dealer but independent center diagnosed. The vehicle made a terrible hum as if it was going to explode. We had it cleaned and it made it stop for 1...
Rear-view camera displayed on rear-view mirror quit working, creating a blind spot behind the vehicle. No accident has yet occurred, but the danger is there. The vehicle is available for inspection. Ford has issued a recall for this problem for this year, make, and model vehicle, but Ford says that the recall is not extended to vehicles like mine that were manufactured in a plant not covered by...
In hot or humid conditions, the 8 inch center display flashes on and off intermittently. This failure makes the backup camera unusable, which is a safety problem. It also makes controlling the navigation or radio very difficult. The dealer has looked at this vehicle problem a few times in the last five years and has been unable to duplicate the problem. I cannot force this to occur at the dealersh...
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Transit. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40-60 MPH, the vehicle started vibrating abnormally and was almost uncontrollable. The contact held the steering wheel tightly. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed and determined that the driveshaft coupling had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaire...
09/18/25 As per conversation with Ford Customer Service; while the vehicle falls within the Mfg Date (Oct 19 2017) and Mfg Place (Kansas) listed on recall notice 25S89 AKA 25V572000, 25V270, the issue description -"rear view camera distorted or blank" is still not eligible because it falls outside of Fords approved/listed VIN numbers. Ford Customer Support recommended having the issue repaired at ...
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2018 Ford Transit. The contact stated that upon taking the vehicle to the Ford dealer for service, the contact was informed that the vehicle was a Lemon vehicle, and that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a dealer sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 33,135; however, upon retrieving the Carfax history report of the vehicle, t...
My 2018 Ford Transit 250 experienced a failure of the Input/Turbine Speed Sensor in the 6R80 transmission’s mechatronic lead frame at approximately 60,000 miles. The failure was confirmed by an authorized Ford service department, which retrieved DTC codes P0715-00 and P0717-00. These codes indicate that the turbine speed sensor signal is lost, forcing the transmission into limp mode, causing loss ...
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Transit. The contact stated that while slowly driving into a parking space, the vehicle suddenly experienced unintended acceleration and crashed into another parked vehicle. During the incident, the brake pedal was pressed, but the vehicle did not stop. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, who was unable to determine the cause of the failure. No injuries were rep...
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Transit. The contact stated while driving at 55 MPH, the vehicle suddenly started losing power, after driving over 200 yards, the vehicle became inoperable. The check engine and service engine warning lights were illuminated. The contact merged to the side of the road as a ramp was coming up and called AAA. The vehicle was towed to the dealer and was diagnosed with a t...
I finance this car 10/ 25/24. I found some papers inside the car that says the car was 300.0 miles. But i purchased to the dealer with 77.0miles, how can I know is was a fraud?
I was driving on a rural highway 55 mph when I heard a pop! I lost control and veered into oncoming traffic! I slowed down by tapping brakes and ended up back on the right side in the shoulder/ditch. The shoulder had new gravel so it slowed me down and grabbed a hold of what was left. Found the wheel out in the ditch a good ways from the car and also three lug nuts with bolts still attached and...
Exhaust manifold warped/broken stud causing exhaust leak.
Randomly down shifts on its own while driving
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Transit. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, an abnormal squeaking sound would be emitted from the vehicle without warning. The contact stated that the sound went away upon the depression of the brake pedal. Since owning the vehicle, the contact had taken the vehicle to the dealer for an oil change, each time, the contact was informed that both the...
With this vehicle when driving on highway or interstate once you go past about 40 miles the transmission begins to overheat and when it reaches a temperature of approximately 245° it will kick down into limp mode causing the vehicle to suddenly slow down in front of other traffic. You have to get over to the side of the road and let the transmission cool down before you can continue at a safe pace...
The contact owns a 2018 Ford Transit. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle made an abnormal whistling sound. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where an unknown sensor was replaced, and the check engine warning light was no longer illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated while driving 60 MPH with her hu...
The contact's company owns a 2018 Ford Transit. The contact stated while driving 60 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power. The contact was able to veer to the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to the tow company mechanic, where it was diagnosed that coolant intrusion in the engine had caused the engine to seize. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and info...
The vehicle goes into "limp" mode at random and without warning. The driver loses the ability to accelerate even though the engine remains on. This poses a serious safety risk to the driver, passenger and all other drivers on the highway when the driver has lost mechanical control and has to coast to the side of the road out of traffic. This began happening only after 37,000 miles. The throttle bo...
Hi, I bought this Ford 150 transit brand new back in 2018. About 6 months ago my rear camera is not working properly, sometimes the screen is dark or the view is real fuzzy hard to see cars when backing up. I called Ford corporation to see if this has a recall , but no such luck. They did file a complaint form of the issue. Will let me know when there is a recall. I'm worried that someday i'm goi...
Showing 20 of 53 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Ford Transit
Has the 2018 FORD TRANSIT been recalled?
Yes, the 2018 FORD TRANSIT has 14 recalls on record with NHTSA. Each recall addresses a specific safety defect identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA.
How many complaints does the 2018 FORD TRANSIT have?
The 2018 FORD TRANSIT has 53 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 1 involved crashes. 12 injuries and 0 deaths have been reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2018 FORD TRANSIT?
The 2018 FORD TRANSIT does not have an NHTSA safety rating on file. This can happen for newer model years, specialty vehicles, or models that have not been crash-tested.
What are the most common problems with the 2018 FORD TRANSIT?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2018 FORD TRANSIT involve power train (7 complaints), unknown or other (5 complaints), structure (5 complaints). Other affected components include engine, electrical system, power train,engine.
How many crash reports does the 2018 FORD TRANSIT have?
There are 1 crash reports associated with the 2018 FORD TRANSIT out of 53 total complaints (1.9% of complaints involved crashes).
How many fire reports does the 2018 FORD TRANSIT have?
There are 1 fire reports for the 2018 FORD TRANSIT out of 53 total complaints. Fire reports are among the most serious safety concerns tracked by NHTSA.
Are there any deaths reported for the 2018 FORD TRANSIT?
No deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2018 FORD TRANSIT.
How many injuries are reported for the 2018 FORD TRANSIT?
12 injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2018 FORD TRANSIT. These are self-reported by vehicle owners as part of their safety complaints.
Should I buy a 2018 FORD TRANSIT?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2018 FORD TRANSIT is proceed with caution. It has 53 complaints, 14 recalls. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.
What components fail most on the 2018 FORD TRANSIT?
The components with the most failures on the 2018 FORD TRANSIT are: 1. POWER TRAIN (7 complaints), 2. UNKNOWN OR OTHER (5 complaints), 3. STRUCTURE (5 complaints), 4. ENGINE (4 complaints), 5. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (3 complaints). POWER TRAIN is the single most-reported problem area with 7 complaints.
What should I know before buying a 2018 FORD TRANSIT?
Be cautious of engine misfires and torque converter failures, and ensure the rear-view camera and center display are functioning properly. The 2018 FORD TRANSIT has 53 NHTSA complaints and 14 recalls on record.
How reliable is the 2018 FORD TRANSIT?
The 2018 FORD TRANSIT receives a reliability score of 87/100, indicating above-average reliability. This is based on 53 owner complaints, 14 recalls, and 2 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Engine Misfires and Torque Converter Failures.
What are the known issues with the 2018 FORD TRANSIT?
Known issues with the 2018 FORD TRANSIT include: Engine Misfires, Torque Converter Failures, Rear-View Camera Malfunction, Center Display Malfunction. These are based on patterns found across 53 NHTSA complaints. 14 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.
What are the common engine issues with the 2018 Ford Transit?
Common engine issues include misfires and torque converter failures.
Can the rear-view camera system fail, and what are the consequences?
Yes, the rear-view camera system can fail, creating significant safety hazards, especially in low-speed situations.
What should I do if I experience intermittent center display failures?
Check the display for any signs of malfunction and have it inspected by a professional.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Be cautious of engine misfires and torque converter failures, and ensure the rear-view camera and center display are functioning properly.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2018 Ford Transit
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2018 Ford Transit. The data includes 53 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 14 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 1 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, 12 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
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