2021 Ford Transit Safety Report

The 2021 Ford Transit presents a mixed safety picture, with a relatively low number of total complaints (26) for its age, but several critical issues highlighted in recalls and individual reports. While NHTSA crash test ratings are not available for this specific model, the complaint data indicates 2 crashes and 2 injuries, suggesting that when incidents occur, they can be severe. A significant concern is the recall history, with 4 recalls addressing serious safety defects. These include issues with wheelchair restraints, rearview camera functionality, potential fuel leaks increasing fire risk, and front passenger seat belt retractor deactivation, which could compromise child restraint safety. The fuel leak recall (Quality Vans) is particularly alarming due to the fire risk. Common complaint patterns revolve around the power train and tires/wheels. The 'POWER TRAIN' component accounts for 4 complaints, with specific reports mentioning loss of motive power, issues shifting gears, and complete transmission replacement at relatively low mileage (e.g., 87,000 miles for a 2021 model). Tire and wheel issues are also prominent, with 3 complaints for 'WHEELS' and 2 for 'TIRES', plus additional related reports. These include tires locking up, belts shifting/separating, and even a rear passenger's side tire detaching from the axle, which is a severe safety hazard. The 'EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY:WHEELCHAIR RESTRAINTS/SECUREMENT:LATCH/ANCHOR' recall also points to potential issues with vehicle modifications. Despite the lack of formal crash test ratings, the presence of 2 reported crashes and 2 injuries among only 26 complaints suggests that when failures occur, they can have significant consequences. The recall for 'BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE' regarding a blank rearview camera image is also a notable safety concern, as it directly impacts driver visibility and the ability to prevent backing accidents. The overall safety picture is one where specific component failures, particularly related to the powertrain and wheels/tires, pose a risk, compounded by critical recall-related defects that Ford has identified and is addressing.

Our recommendation: Given the critical recalls and reports of significant powertrain and tire failures, potential buyers should ensure all recall repairs are completed and consider a pre-purchase inspection focusing on the transmission, wheels, and tires.