2013 Ford Transit Connect: common problems and reliability

The 2013 Ford Transit Connect has 32 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 4 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are power train and engine. Owners most often flag transmission reliability problems — very frequent reports of failures, rough shifting, and concerns, particularly in first-generation models (pre-2014). frequency: very frequent.

Safety record for the 2013 model year

32
Owner complaints
4
Recalls
3
Crash reports
0
Fire reports

Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2013 Ford Transit Connect vehicles (US, public record).

Where owners report problems

power train
7
engine
5
structure
4
electrical system
3
service brakes
3

Recalls affecting the 2013 Transit Connect

power train:automatic transmission:gear position indication (prndl)

Campaign 21V376000

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2021 Transit Connect vehicles equipped with 2.5L engines. The bushing that attaches the shifter cable to the transmission may degrade or detach.

engine and engine cooling:engine

Campaign 17V209000

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014 Escape, 2014-2015 Fiesta ST, 2013-2014 Fusion and 2013-2015 Transit Connect vehicles equipped with 1.6L GTDI engines. If the vehicle is started and driven with an insuf…

equipment adaptive/mobility

Campaign 14V706000

Cummings Mobility Conversion & Supply (Cummings) is recalling certain model year 2006-2014 Ford E-150, E-250, E-350, Chevrolet Express, 2006-2008 Dodge Sprinter, and 2009-2014 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, and 2013 Ford Transi…

power train:automatic transmission:gear position indication (prndl)

Campaign 22V413000

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2019 Escape, 2013-2018 C-Max, 2013-2016 Fusion, 2013-2021 Transit Connect, and 2015-2018 Edge vehicles. The bushing that attaches the shifter cable to the transmission …

What owners say across generations

Mixed sentiment with a clear generational divide. The first-generation model (approximately 2010-2013) is frequently criticized for significant transmission reliability issues, poor driving dynamics, and a cheap, unrefined feel, particularly on long journeys.

  • Transmission reliability problems — very frequent reports of failures, rough shifting, and concerns, particularly in first-generation models (pre-2014). Frequency: very frequent.
  • Underpowered engine performance — described as gutless, sluggish, and struggling with acceleration, especially when loaded. Frequency: very frequent.
  • Erratic transmission behavior in newer models — rough shifts, surging acceleration, RPM fluctuation at constant throttle (noted in 2019-2020 models with 8-speed automatic). Frequency: recurrent.
  • Electronic/sensor failures — issues with Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) systems, output shaft speed sensors, and other fault codes causing drivability problems like shuddering and loss of power. Frequency: recurrent.
  • Unrefined driving experience — criticized for excessive road noise, cheap interior materials, and a general feeling of being poorly assembled or "junky," especially on long drives. Frequency: recurrent.

Owner insights cover all generations of the Transit Connect.

Typical used price

Used Transit Connect listings typically run $12,995–$20,297 across 2010 to 2023 model years.

Other Transit Connect model years

2018 Transit Connect2015 Transit Connect2011 Transit Connect2010 Transit Connect
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