Ford Transit Problems & Known Issues

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.

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.

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.

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.