2019 Ford Transit Safety Report

2019 Ford Transit faces significant recalls for critical components, moderate complaint volume, and unrated crash safety.

83Complaints
9Recalls
45/100Reliability Score
4Crash Reports
1Injuries
Most reported components: Power Train (21)Service Brakes (13)Unknown Or Other (8)Electrical System (5)Service Brakes, Hydraulic (3)Service Brakes,Forward Collision Avoidance (2)Seat Belts (2)Engine (2)Steering (2)Structure (2)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2019 Ford Transit

The 2019 Ford Transit presents a mixed safety picture, with a notable number of recalls addressing critical components, but a relatively low number of overall complaints for its age. With 83 total complaints, 4 crashes, 0 fires, and 1 injury reported to NHTSA, the vehicle's direct incident rate appears moderate. However, the nine recalls issued for this model year are a significant concern, covering issues from parking brake failure and wheel detachment to rearview camera malfunctions and seat belt defects. These recalls indicate potential manufacturing or design flaws that could severely impact safety if not addressed. Common complaint patterns revolve heavily around the power train and braking systems. The 'POWER TRAIN' category accounts for 21 complaints, with specific mentions of transmission failure, harsh shifting, and loss of drive power. 'SERVICE BRAKES' and 'SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC' combine for 16 complaints, detailing issues like seized calipers, sticking brakes, and brake pedal failure. These patterns align with some of the recall topics, such as the parking brake recall and the XL Hybrids driveshaft recall, suggesting that underlying issues in these areas have been persistent. Crash test performance data from NHTSA is not available for the 2019 Ford Transit, making it difficult to assess its structural integrity and occupant protection in a collision based on official ratings. However, the recalls related to seat belts and wheelchair restraints highlight potential risks for occupants if these systems fail. The recall concerning fractured studs leading to wheel detachment also poses a severe crash risk. While the overall complaint volume is not exceptionally high, the nature and breadth of the recalls, particularly those affecting fundamental driving and safety systems, warrant careful consideration for current owners and potential buyers.

Reliability Score

The 2019 Ford Transit receives a reliability score of 45 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 2019 Ford Transit

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2019 Ford Transit:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Transmission Failure/Malfunction
Numerous complaints (21 under Power Train) detail transmission failure, harsh shifting, loss of power, and hesitation, with some owners reporting issues even after recall repairs. This aligns with a recall for driveshaft failure.		 High Common 30000-80000 miles
Brake System Issues (Seized Calipers, Sticking Brakes)
Multiple complaints (13 under Service Brakes, 3 under Service Brakes, Hydraulic) describe seized calipers, brakes locking up, and sticking, leading to overheating and pulling. A parking brake recall also exists.		 High Common 34000-60000 miles
Rearview Camera Malfunction
A recall addresses rearview cameras displaying inverted, distorted, or blank images, increasing crash risk.		 Medium Occasional N/A miles
Wheel Detachment Due To Warped Axle Flange/Fractured Studs
A recall for certain T150, T250, T350 models with aluminum alloy wheels warns of warped axle flanges causing fractured studs and potential wheel detachment.		 High Rare N/A miles
Seat Belt Retractor Failure/Seat Back Movement
Multiple recalls from upfitters (National Van Builders, TransitWorks) indicate issues with seat belt retractors not securing occupants and seat backs moving in a crash.		 High Occasional N/A miles
Exhaust Fumes/Manifold Bolt Failure
A complaint mentions smelling exhaust fumes due to broken manifold bolts, a known issue with the 3.5 Ecoboost motor.		 Medium Occasional 46000 miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2019 Ford Transit:

Power Train 25% of complaints

The most frequent complaints relate to the power train, specifically transmission failures, harsh shifting, and loss of drive power, accounting for 21 out of 83 complaints.

Service Brakes 16% of complaints

Braking system issues, including seized calipers, sticking brakes, and general brake failure, are a significant concern, with 13 complaints under 'SERVICE BRAKES' and 3 under 'SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC'.

Unknown Or Other 10% of complaints

8 complaints fall under 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER', indicating a variety of less categorized issues, including odometer fraud and electrical system failures.

Electrical System 6% of complaints

5 complaints mention electrical system problems, such as complete power loss and malfunctioning wipers after software updates.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2019 Ford Transit

Is the 2019 Ford Transit safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2019 Ford Transit has a moderate complaint volume (83 total) but a high number of recalls (9) addressing critical safety components like brakes, power train, and seat belts. NHTSA crash test ratings are not available, making a definitive safety assessment challenging without that data. Owners should ensure all recalls are addressed.

What are common problems with the 2019 Ford Transit?

The most reported issues for the 2019 Ford Transit are related to the POWER TRAIN (21 complaints), including transmission failures and harsh shifting, and SERVICE BRAKES (13 complaints), with issues like seized calipers and sticking brakes. Other problems include rearview camera malfunctions and seat belt defects, both covered by recalls.

Are there any recalls for the 2019 Ford Transit?

Yes, the 2019 Ford Transit has 9 recalls. These include issues with wheelchair restraints, rearview cameras, parking brake linkage, rear axle wheel mounting, seat belt retractors, glass roof hatches, and driveshaft failure. It is crucial to check if your specific vehicle is affected by these recalls and ensure all necessary repairs are completed.

What should I look out for when buying a used 2019 Ford Transit?

When buying a used 2019 Ford Transit, pay close attention to the transmission's performance (smooth shifting, no hesitation), brake operation (no sticking or pulling), and ensure all 9 recalls have been completed. Request service records and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic, especially focusing on the power train and braking systems.

Does the 2019 Ford Transit have good reliability?

With 83 complaints and 9 recalls, particularly concerning major components like the power train and brakes, the 2019 Ford Transit's reliability appears to be below average. The frequent reports of transmission and brake issues, some leading to significant repairs, suggest potential long-term reliability concerns.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Given the numerous critical recalls and common complaints regarding the power train and braking systems, thoroughly verify all recall repairs have been completed and obtain a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection before buying a 2019 Ford Transit.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2019 Ford Transit

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2019 Ford Transit. The data includes 83 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 9 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 4 reported crashes, 1 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.