2018 Ford Transit Safety Report
2018 Ford Transit: Numerous safety recalls, particularly for seats and rearview camera, with common power train and engine complaints.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2018 Ford Transit
Reliability Score
The 2018 Ford Transit 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 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rearview Camera Malfunction Rearview camera displays inverted, distorted, or blank images, increasing crash risk. Subject to recall 15-2019 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 S. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Parking Brake Failure Incorrect driveshaft torsional damper service kit installation can lead to parking brake failure and unintended vehicle movement. Subject to recall for 2015-2020 Transit vehicles. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Seat Back Movement In Crash Freedman Go-ES Foldaway seats may allow the seat back to move in a crash, increasing injury risk. Subject to multiple recalls affecting various model years and modifiers. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Engine Coolant Intrusion/Misfire Coolant intrusion into the engine leading to misfires, check engine light illumination, and loss of motive power. Multiple complaints reference this issue. |
High | Occasional | 47000-103000 miles |
| Transmission Issues (Limp Mode, Hard Downshifts, Torque Converter Failure) Vehicle enters 'limp mode' randomly, experiences hard downshifts, or has torque converter failure, leading to loss of power or control. One complaint mentions a complete transmission replacement recommendation. |
High | Common | 30000-60000 miles |
| Right Side Passenger Door Opening While Driving Passenger door fails to latch securely and slides open while the vehicle is in motion, posing a significant safety risk. |
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 2018 Ford Transit:
Frequent complaints about transmission issues including limp mode, hard downshifts, and torque converter failure, often requiring significant repairs.
Issues such as coolant intrusion, misfires, cam phaser problems, and loss of motive power are reported.
Complaints include issues with glass roof hatches shattering (subject to recall) and doors not latching properly.
Rearview camera malfunctions, displaying distorted or blank images, which is also subject to a recall.
Numerous recalls (8 total) related to Freedman Go-ES Foldaway seats, where seat backs may move in a crash, increasing injury risk.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Ford Transit
Is the 2018 Ford Transit safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2018 Ford Transit has a 4-star frontal crash rating, but lacks side and rollover ratings. It has 14 recalls, many concerning critical safety items like seats and rearview cameras. With 53 complaints, including 1 crash and 12 injuries, there are significant safety concerns, particularly around power train and engine reliability, and the effectiveness of modified seating.
What are common problems with the 2018 Ford Transit?
The most reported issues are related to the POWER TRAIN (7 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (5 complaints), and STRUCTURE (5 complaints). Specific problems include transmission failures (limp mode, hard downshifts, torque converter issues), engine coolant intrusion, rearview camera malfunctions, and issues with modified seating and door latches.
How many recalls does the 2018 Ford Transit have?
The 2018 Ford Transit has 14 recalls. A significant portion of these (8 recalls) are related to modified Freedman Go-ES Foldaway seats, which could increase injury risk in a crash. Other recalls address rearview camera malfunctions and parking brake issues.
Are there any engine problems with the 2018 Ford Transit?
Yes, there are several engine-related complaints, including coolant intrusion leading to misfires and loss of motive power, cam phaser issues causing stalling and misfires, and exhaust manifold problems. The ENGINE component category has 4 direct complaints, with additional related complaints under 'POWER TRAIN,ENGINE'.
What should I look out for when buying a used 2018 Ford Transit?
When considering a used 2018 Ford Transit, pay close attention to the transmission's performance for signs of limp mode or hard shifts, and check for any engine warning lights or unusual noises. Verify that all 14 recalls, especially those related to seats and the rearview camera, have been addressed. Also, inspect the passenger doors for proper latching and operation.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the numerous safety recalls and common complaints regarding power train and engine issues, thoroughly verify all recall repairs are completed and have a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection focusing on the engine, transmission, and modified seating components.
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.