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Ford Transit Problems & Known Issues

The most common Ford Transit problems ranked by severity — what to watch for, what it costs to fix, and what happens if you ignore it.

Generations

Mk6 — Sixth Generation
2000–2013
2.0 TDCi, 2.2 TDCi, 2.4 TDCi, 2.3 Duratec
Mk7 — Seventh Generation
2014–2024
2.0 EcoBlue, 1.5 EcoBlue, 1.6 TDCi

Top issues to watch for

The most serious Ford Transit problems ranked by severity. We track 9 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.

Dangerous
Subframe corrosion (Mk6/Mk7)
Mk6, Mk72000–202460k–200k miles
The rear subframe and suspension mounting points are prone to severe corrosion that compromises structural integrity. MOT data shows Transit fails at 866x the national average for load-bearing structure defects within 30cm of suspension mounting points. The problem affects all engine variants and is particularly severe on high-mileage commercial vehicles exposed to road salt. Corrosion typically begins around the leaf spring hangers and spreads to the main chassis rails.
What happens if ignoredComplete structural failure is possible if the subframe separates from the chassis. This creates an immediate danger to occupants and other road users. Repair requires extensive welding or subframe replacement costing £2,000-£5,000. The vehicle is not safe to drive with severe subframe corrosion.
Independent garage
£1,500–£3,000
Specialist
£2,000–£4,000
Main dealer
£3,000–£5,000
Parts only
£800–£1,500
Major
Driveshaft bearing wear (Mk6/Mk7)
Mk6, Mk72000–202480k–200k miles
The transmission shaft bearings wear prematurely on Transit vans, with MOT data showing 848x higher failure rates than the national average. This affects the intermediate shaft bearings in the gearbox and the CV joint bearings in the driveshafts. High commercial loading and frequent stop-start driving accelerate wear. The problem is universal across all engine variants and generations.
What happens if ignoredComplete bearing failure will immobilise the vehicle and may cause collateral damage to gearbox internals. CV joint failure creates a safety risk as drive to the wheels can be lost suddenly. Repair typically requires gearbox removal and costs £800-£2,000 depending on which bearings have failed.
Independent garage
£600–£1,200
Specialist
£800–£1,600
Main dealer
£1,200–£2,000
Parts only
£200–£600
Major
Leaf spring failure (Mk6/Mk7)
Mk6, Mk72000–202480k–200k miles
The rear leaf springs fracture at significantly higher rates than other commercial vehicles, with MOT data showing 182x-296x higher failure rates than the fleet average. The main leaf typically cracks near the centre bolt or at the spring eye where stress concentrates. Heavy loading and corrosion accelerate failure. This is distinct from the subframe corrosion issue but the two problems often occur together on high-mileage vans.
What happens if ignoredA completely fractured leaf spring will cause severe handling instability and may allow the axle to shift position dangerously. The vehicle should not be driven with a broken main leaf. Repair requires spring replacement and typically costs £300-£800 per side including labour.
Independent garage
£250–£500
Specialist
£300–£600
Main dealer
£400–£800
Parts only
£150–£300
Major
Turbo failure (Mk7)
Mk7Duratorq2014–2024100k–250k miles
The turbocharger on Duratorq diesel engines fails due to oil starvation, carbon build-up, or actuator problems. The variable geometry turbo system is particularly vulnerable to poor oil maintenance and short journey driving patterns common in commercial use. Symptoms typically develop gradually with loss of boost pressure and increased exhaust smoke. The failure rate increases significantly above 100,000 miles on vehicles with irregular oil change intervals.
What happens if ignoredComplete turbo failure will result in severe power loss and potential engine damage from oil contamination or metal debris. A failed turbo can scatter metal fragments into the intercooler and engine, requiring extensive additional repairs. The vehicle remains driveable but with significantly reduced performance and economy.
Specialist
£600–£1,200
Main dealer
£800–£1,500
Parts only
£300–£800

5 more known issues tracked

Including further major faults, wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems. Check a specific car to see which issues apply to its age and mileage.

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MOT failure hotspots

Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Ford Transit fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.

Coil springs broken
Suspension · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 4371x the fleet average
Sample: 279 tests
Axle or kingpin wear
Suspension · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 1468x the fleet average
Sample: 1,726 tests
Emissions failure
Exhaust & Emissions · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 736x the fleet average
Sample: 470 tests
Towbar fault
Bodywork · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 713x the fleet average
Sample: 1,299 tests
Main load-bearing structural member modified or...
Bodywork · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 654x the fleet average
Sample: 1,797 tests
ABS fault
Bodywork · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 405x the fleet average
Sample: 7,843 tests

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Related

Ford Transit reliability FAQs

What are the most common problems with the Ford Transit?

The Ford Transit has 9 known issues across 3 severity levels. The most serious are: Subframe corrosion (Mk6/Mk7).

Is the Ford Transit reliable?

The Ford Transit has 1 dangerous and 7 major known issues. Most can be avoided with a thorough pre-purchase check and full service history.

How much does it cost to fix Ford Transit problems?

Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Subframe corrosion (Mk6/Mk7)) costs £1,500–£3,000 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.

Which Ford Transit generation is most reliable?

The Mk6 (2000–2013) has the fewest dangerous issues (1). However, condition and service history matter more than generation — a well-maintained earlier car can be more reliable than a neglected newer one.