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Model-year record

2013 Ford Transit Connect
Image: Wikimedia Commons contributor · See source file

2013 Ford Transit Connect

See the complaints, recalls, crash rating, and fuel economy in the public record. Then check the mileage and history of the car you found.

This page shows records, not a buy or avoid call.

The same model year can include a well-kept car and a neglected one. Use these records to plan what to check. Use the specific-car check when you know the mileage.

Complaints filed

32

Reports to NHTSA, 2013

Safety recalls

4

NHTSA campaigns on record

NHTSA crash test

Overall NCAP rating

Combined MPG

23

EPA estimate

Known issues

Power Train issues lead owner complaints (22% of 32 reports), followed by engine (16%).

Power Train22% · 7 reports
Engine16% · 5 reports
Structure9% · 3 reports
Electrical System6% · 2 reports
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)6% · 2 reports
Exterior Lighting6% · 2 reports
Service Brakes6% · 2 reports
Unknown Or Other6% · 2 reports

+ 7 more component categories with fewer reports.

Share of all 32 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 11473581, ODI 11526579, ODI 11473987, ODI 11343405, ODI 11082033.

Individual complaint reports(32)

Showing the 32 most recent reports
SuspensionMar 2024 · ODI 11579235Details +

The Front Suspension Subframe Crossmember had rusted though and the front tires become out of alignment SUDDENLY causing the vehicle to veer of course. The vehicle is then disabled and must be towed and the Front Suspension Subframe Crossmember has to be replaced.

Reported
Mar 2024
Incident date
Mar 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11579235 at NHTSA →
Power TrainJun 2023 · ODI 11526579Details +

Power transmission failure due to electrical issues. 63k miles only.

Reported
Jun 2023
Incident date
Jun 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11526579 at NHTSA →
Power TrainJul 2022 · ODI 11473987Details +

Transmission. I was driving down the road in my Ford transit going 65 miles an hour I I started to have major transmission problems from traffic slow down so I slow down with it down to 30 miles an hour after doing so traffic sped back up and I could not get out of third gear when I realized how fast I was going in third gear and it would not shift, I tried to slow down and then re-accelerate to see if it would shift when it shifted in the fourth gear it never left fourth gear and revs back to 8000 RPMs at that point the check engine light came on with the gear light in with the transmission light and I lost all power and I could only drive in second gear so I drove in second gear to the shop. Problem with transmission confirmed by independent shop.

Reported
Jul 2022
Incident date
Jul 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11473987 at NHTSA →
Power TrainJul 2022 · ODI 11473581 · crashDetails +

The Transit was parked on a slope and was in "Park", but it rolled back down the slope and hit a parked car.

Reported
Jul 2022
Incident date
Jul 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash
Open ODI 11473581 at NHTSA →
Latches/Locks/LinkagesJun 2022 · ODI 11470635Details +

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Transit Connect. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, the front driver’s side door was unlatched independently. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact stated the front driver’s side door also failed to latch. The contact called the local dealer and made them aware of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact attempted to speak to the manufacturer but was unable to reach a representative. The failure mileage was unknown.

Reported
Jun 2022
Incident date
Jun 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11470635 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemApr 2022 · ODI 11461601Details +

The muffler split open most likely from a clog. Because of that, the exhaust was directed toward the floor of the truck instead of going out of the muffler. As a result, it burnt through the heat shield, the back of the truck, melted the wiring harness, and burned a hole straight through the fuel tank. A mechanic took out the fuel tank and when it was being dropped out fuel spilled everywhere and there was a hole in the side of the tank. Since the wiring harness was melted, there was no power and no fuel pump power. The safety of the driver was put at risk because the car could have easily started on fire, or the fuel tank could have blown up and injured the driver or worse.

Reported
Apr 2022
Incident date
Mar 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11461601 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherSep 2020 · ODI 11354374Details +

I TURNED ON MY REAR DEFROST THIS MORNING. LEFT MY DRIVEWAY AND GOT MAYBE A HALF MILE AND HEARD A LOUD POP NOISE. IT BLEW A HOLE OUT OF MY BACK DOOR ON PASSENGER SIDE. I MEAN IT BLEW A HOLE OUT OF IT. I HAVE SEEN ONLINE THAT THIS HAS HAPPENED TO SEVERAL PEOPLE WITH THIS VEHICLE.THE REAR DEFROST BLEW A HOLE IN MY WINDOW! I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD WHEN THIS HAPPENED. IT HAD BEEN ON FOR LIKE 2-3 MINUTES WHEN IT HAPPENED.

Reported
Sep 2020
Incident date
Sep 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11354374 at NHTSA →
Seat BeltsSep 2020 · ODI 11354142Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PASSENGER'S SIDE SEAT BELT LOCKED IN PLACE WITH NO ROOM TO MOVE, MAKING IT FEEL LIKE THE PASSENGER WOULD BE STRANGLED. THE CONTACT CALLED HASSETT FORD LOCATED AT 3530 SUNRISE HWY, WANTAGH, NY 11793, (516) 785-7800, AND WAS INFORMED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL ON THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE FIVE-YEAR WARRANTY WAS EXPIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 30,000.

Reported
Sep 2020
Incident date
Jul 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11354142 at NHTSA →
Power TrainAug 2020 · ODI 11343405Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE GEAR SHIFTER FAILED TO SHIFT OUT OF PARK. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO DUVAL FORD (1616 CASSAT AVE, JACKSONVILLE, FL 32210) WHERE THE GEAR SHIFTER WAS REPLACED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE GEAR SHIFTER CAP CAME DETACHED ALLOWING HER TO PUT HER FINGER INSIDE THE SHIFTER AND SHIFT THE VEHICLE OUT OF PARK. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND REFERRED THE CONTACT TO NHTSA. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 43,000. *BF THE CONSUMER STATED THAT IN 2018, THEY WERE STOPPED AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT WHEN ANOTHER VEHICLE HAD COLLIDED WITH THE BUMPER OF THE CONSUMER'S VEHICLE. *AS

Reported
Aug 2020
Incident date
Jul 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11343405 at NHTSA →
StructureMay 2020 · ODI 11326431Details +

MY TRANSIT IS ONLY 7 YEAR OLD AND THE CHASIS LOOK REALLY BAD THERE IS A LOT OF RUST IN ALL CHASIS. *TR

Reported
May 2020
Incident date
May 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11326431 at NHTSA →
EngineSep 2019 · ODI 11253278Details +

TAKATA RECALL - COOLING SYSTEM, OVERHEATING , DANGER - COULD CAUSE FIRE DUE TO OVER HEATING ! COOLANT LEVEL KEEPS DROPPING , NO WARNING !! ALWAYS WHILE DRIVING ! CAN'T GO FAR ! CAN'T DRIVE VEHICLE !!

Reported
Sep 2019
Incident date
Nov 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11253278 at NHTSA →
EngineJul 2019 · ODI 11230758Details +

3/19 THE TEMPERATURE GAGE WENT HOT QUICKLY. CHECKED COOLANT, ALTHOUGH FULL IN 2/19 NOW EMPTY. GARAGE COULD NOT FIND THE PROBLEM AND CONTACTED DAVIDSON'S FORD WHO ADVISED TO INSTALL A NEW RADIATOR AND THERMOSTAT. IN 7/19 TRANSIT BEGAN TO STALL AFTER SHORT DRIVE, THEN ENGINE GOT SO HOT IT STALLED IN TRAFFIC AT A BUSY INTERSECTION AND WOULD NOT START. I KEPT TRYING TO START IT MANY TIMES. HAD TO BE TOWED TO DAVIDSON'S FORD WHO DID A DIAGNOSTIC TESTS AND FOUND THE COOLANT BOILS OUT OF RESERVOIR EVEN WHEN SITTING BEFORE FANS CAN COME ON. I BELIEVE THIS COULD HAVE CAUSED A FIRE AS THE ENGINE MAY CRACK AND LEAK OIL IF IT OVERHEATS. I HAVE ALREADY SPENT $700 ON RADIATOR AND THERMOSTAT AND NOW IT LOOKS LIKE THEY WILL INSTALL A WATER PUMP AND/OR HEAD GASKET. THIS PROBLEM IS VERY SIMILAR TO THE RECALL # 17V209000 - FORD RECALL # 17S09 WHICH INCLUDES 2013 TRANSIT CONNECT, BUT MY VIN # DOESN'T COME UP AS I HAVE A SMALLER ENGINE. WAS STUCK AT THE BUSY INTERSECTION FOR NEARLY AN HOUR. POLICE REPORT AVAILABLE AND INSURANCE FOR TOWING.

Reported
Jul 2019
Incident date
Jul 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11230758 at NHTSA →
EngineMay 2019 · ODI 11205030Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE COOLING GAUGE WENT TO HOT WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT COOLANT NEEDED TO BE ADDED. THE CONTACT CALLED DAVIDSON FORD (18621 US-11, WATERTOWN, NY 13601, (315) 873-3388) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE RADIATOR AND THERMOSTAT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 30,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.

Reported
May 2019
Incident date
Mar 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11205030 at NHTSA →
EngineApr 2019 · ODI 11203892Details +

MY TRANSIT'S GAUGE WENT TO HOT VERY QUICKLY, I CHECKED THE COOLANT AND IT WAS EMPTY. IT WAS FULL A MONTH AGO. I ADDED COOLANT AND THE GAUGE STILL WENT TO HOT. I TOOK IT TO MY MECHANIC AND THEY COULD NOT FIND THE PROBLEM. THEY CALLED THE FORD DEALER AND TOLD THEM THE PROBLEM. THEY TOLD MY MECHANIC TO PUT IN A NEW RADIATOR AND THERMOSTAT. WHICH THEY DELIVERED TO MY MECHANIC. BUT THE GAUGE WOULD FLUCTUATE. MY MECHANIC FOUND RECALL #17S09 WHICH APPLIED TO MY PROBLEM BUT THE VIN # DOESN'T COME UP ON RECALL I THINK BECAUSE IT IS A DIFFERENT SIZE ENGINE. IT WAS ASSEMBLED AT THE SAME PLANT AS THE RECALL VEHICLES AND IT ONLY HAS 35,000 MILES ON IT.

Reported
Apr 2019
Incident date
Mar 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11203892 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesJan 2019 · ODI 11165789Details +

THE REAR WHEEL ADJUSTERS ARE NEEDING TO BE REPLACED EVERY 15 TO 20 THOUSAND MILES MAINLY ON THE RIGHT REAR WHEELS. WE HAVE ONLY BEEN USING MOTORCRAFT PARTS. THE DRIVER COMPLAINS THAT THERE IS A GRINDING, CLICKING NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR WHEELS. I HAVE CHECKED WITH THE DEALER TO SEE IF THEY HAVE HAD ANY OTHER COMPLAINTS ON THE ISSUE AND THEY TELL ME THAT THEY ONLY SELL A LOT OF THEM.

Reported
Jan 2019
Incident date
Jan 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11165789 at NHTSA →
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)Oct 2018 · ODI 11141969Details +

I FOUND PULLING ON TO A 55 MPH HIGHWAY STARTING FROM A GRAVEL LOT, I ALLOW PLENTY OF SPACE FROM TRAFFIC AND, IF I GET THE SLIGHTEST WHEN SPIN, THE POWER DROPS AND I AM HALF IN TRAFFIC AND CAN'T MOVE FOR A FEW SECONDS. I HAVE HAD CARS HONK AND WEAVE AROUND ME TO AVOID COLLISION. I MADE A GREAT DISTANCE TO BE SAFE AND I WAS ALMOST HIT BY STALLING IN THE LANE. 4 SECONDS AT 60 MPH IS 352 FEET. IT GOES AWAY QUICK. OTHERS REPORT THE SAME PROBLEM IN THE SNOW TRAPPING THE VAN IN PLACE. OTHERS HAVE PULLED FUSE 191 TO DISABLE ALL ABS AND TRACTION CONTROL FUNCTIONS. YOU CAN'T DO THAT IN TRAFFIC. HAS NO-ONE CRASHED, OR BEEN KILLED BY THIS? FORD OFFERS NO SOLUTION FOR THIS DEATH TRAP.

Reported
Oct 2018
Incident date
Oct 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11141969 at NHTSA →
Power TrainMar 2018 · ODI 11082033Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, THE TRANSMISSION SHIFTED GEARS INDEPENDENTLY. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING BUT WAS ABLE TO RESTART. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE TRANSMISSION AND TORQUE CONVERTER NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 55,000. *TT

Reported
Mar 2018
Incident date
Dec 2017
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11082033 at NHTSA →
EngineJan 2018 · ODI 11063731Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO START THE VEHICLE, THERE WAS A WHINING NOISE COMING FROM THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT TURNED THE HEATER ON AND IT BLEW COOL AIR. THE CONTACT TURNED OFF THE ENGINE, CHECKED UNDER THE HOOD, AND NOTICED THAT THE ENGINE OIL AND ANTIFREEZE WERE MIXING TOGETHER. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT WOULD NOT START THE VEHICLE BECAUSE HE WAS CONCERNED FOR HIS SAFETY. THE CONTACT HAD A MECHANIC DIAGNOSE THE VEHICLE AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE ENGINE OIL WAS MIXING WITH THE ANTIFREEZE AND NEEDED TO BE REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER INFORMED THE CONTACT TO CALL NHTSA. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 86,000.

Reported
Jan 2018
Incident date
Jan 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11063731 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingAug 2017 · ODI 11012626Details +

FRONT TURN SIGNALS BURNING THROUGH CONTACT. BOTH SIDES, BOTH CONNECTS THAT I HAVE. GOING TO BE SECOND TIME REPLACING EACH OF THEM ON EACH VEHICLE.

Reported
Aug 2017
Incident date
Aug 2017
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11012626 at NHTSA →
StructureOct 2016 · ODI 10911394Details +

WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE, REGARDLESS OF WHETHER I AM GOING AT A SLOW OR FAST SPEED, THE DOOR-AJAR NOTIFICATION LIGHT MAY RANDOMLY TURN ON AND STAY ON. SOMETIMES IT WILL TURN ON WHEN FIRST STARTING THE VEHICLE. WHEN THIS CONDITION OCCURS, THE DOORS WILL NOT LOCK, EVEN AFTER THE VEHICLE IS TURNED OFF. THIS ISSUE BEGUN SIX MONTHS AGO AND HAS BEEN OCCURRING MORE AND MORE FREQUENTLY ON THIS PARTICULAR VEHICLE. OTHER VEHICLES OF THE SAME MODEL IN THE COMPANY'S FLEET HAVE REPORTED SIMILAR ISSUES INTERMITTENTLY AS WELL.

Reported
Oct 2016
Incident date
Oct 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10911394 at NHTSA →
Power TrainJan 2016 · ODI 10819869Details +

I PURCHASED A 2013 TRANSIT CONNECT FROM A FORD DEALER THIS FALL. STILL UNDER FORD WARRANTY AND PURCHASED EXTENDED WARRANTY THROUGH FORD. TODAY WE GOT OUR FIRST SNOW AND WHILE DRIVING THE TCS KICKED IN AND BASICALLY DISABLED THE VEHICLE. I WAS UNABLE TO MOVE, SO WHILE I HAD MY FOOT ON THE ACCELERATOR THE VEHICLES TVS LIGHT WAS ON BUT THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT MOVE. I OPENED THE OWNERS MANUAL AND LOOKED FOR THE TCS SHUT OFF BUTTON LISTED IN THE MANUAL AND MY VEHICLE DOES HAVE ONE. SO NOW I REALIZE I AM IN A DANGEROUS SITUATION BECAUSE I CANNOT MOVE AND OTHER VEHICLE INCLUDING TWO WHEEL DRIVE CARS ARE DRIVING AROUND ME. I JUST INVESTED $20,000 IN A VEHICLE FOR MY BUSINESS ( HEATING/COOLING/ELECTRIC) AND I CANNOT EVEN GET TO THE CUSTOMERS HOUSE WITH AND INCH OF SNOW ON THE GROUND. I WAS ABLE TO FINALLY REVERSE TO A DRIVEWAY AND AFTER 30 MINUTES GET THE VEHICLE TO MOVE DOWN THE SMALL GRADE. I LITERALLY WAS ABLE TO DRIVE A 14 YEAR OLD HONDA CIVIC THAT COST $3200 UP THE SLIGHT SLOPE THAT A LIKE NEW WITH ONLY 32K MILES ON IT TRANSIT CONNECT WOULD NOT GO. I FEEL THIS IS A SAFETY HAZARD AND I DO NOT FEEL COMFORTABLE DRIVING THIS VEHICLE. SO FAR THE LOCAL DEALERSHIP AND FORDS CUSTOMER CARE LINE HAVE NO ANSWERS FOR ME. WHY IN THE OWNERS MANUAL IS THERE A LISTED TCS SHUT OFF BUTTON AND A LOCATION ON MY DASHBOARD FOR IT BUT NO PART # OR OPTION TO ADD IT TO MY VEHICLE. I INVESTED IN THIS FORD FOR MY BUSINESS AND NOW I CANNOT EVEN GET TO CUSTOMERS HOMES. I AM AFRAID TO DRIVE IT NOW AND NOT SURE WHAT TO DO SINCE THE DEALER HAS NO ANSWERS AND FORD HAD NONE EITHER. I CANNOT BELIEVE THAT THE ENGINEERS AT FORD MOTOR COMPANY DID NOT THINK TO OUT THIS TCS OFF BUTTON ON ALL VEHICLE EQUIPPED WITH TCS AND THAT THE NHTSA HAS NOT FINED FORD MOTOR COMPANY THEY HAVE NOT ISSUED A RECALL. , HOW CAN ENGINEERS DESIGNE A VEHICLE FOR THE USA THAT WILL NOT MOVE IN AN INCH OF SNOW?

Reported
Jan 2016
Incident date
Jan 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10819869 at NHTSA →
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)Jan 2016 · ODI 10818287Details +

AFTER LIGHT FREEZING RAIN, I WAS UNABLE TO GET TRACTION GOING UP A SLIGHT HILL THAT IS USUALLY NOT A PROBLEM. I WAS TRYING TO GO 20-25 MILES/ HOUR ON A TWO LANE STREET. I DOWN SHIFTED, I TRIED LESS GAS, I TRIED MORE GAS, NOTHING HELPED. I WAS PASSED BY APPROXIMATELY 50 CARS, 4 OF THEM WERE TOYOTA PRIUSES. NONE OF THEM HAD SIGNIFICANT DIFFICULTY GETTING TRACTION. I EVEN BEGAN TO SLIDE BACKWARDS AT ONE POINT. IT TOOK ME APPROXIMATELY 15 MINUTES TO GO APPROXIMATELY 1/8TH OF A MILE. I COULD NOT EVEN GET OUT OF THE WAY. I FINALLY MADE IT TO A DRIVEWAY WITH A COUPLE INCHES OF SNOW, AND WAS ABLE TO GAIN ENOUGH TRACTION TO PROCEED SLOWLY. I HAVE THE BEST STUDLESS SNOW TIRES AVAILABLE THROUGH A REPUTABLE TIRE COMPANY. THE PRESSURE WAS JUST CHECKED YESTERDAY TO ENSURE THAT THERE WAS NOT A TIRE ISSUE. I CALLED THE DEALER AFTER REVIEWING THE MANUAL, AND ASKED IS A SWITCH TO DISENGAGE THE TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM COULD BE ADDED. HE UNDERSTOOD IMMEDIATELY, AND STATED THEY WERE FAMILIAR WITH THE PROBLEM.... HE MADE SOME PHONE CALLS AND CONFIRMED THAT NOTHING COULD BE DONE. THIS IS A TERRIBLE SAFETY ISSUE. IF I HAD BEEN ON THE HIGHWAY, IN AN INTERSECTION, OR CROSSING A HIGHWAY, I WOULD HAVE BEEN A SITTING DUCK. I COULD HAVE BEEN KILLED, AND THOSE TRYING TO AVOID ME COULD HAVE BEEN KILLED.

Reported
Jan 2016
Incident date
Jan 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10818287 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingOct 2015 · ODI 10780902 · crashDetails +

MY SPOUSE REAR ENDED THE ABOVE VEHICLE. SHE SAYS THAT THE STOP LIGHTS WERE VERY DIFFICULT TO SEE WHEN IN FULL SUN. INCIDENT OCCURRED IN SLOW AND GO TRAFFIC ON A FREEWAY. WHEN EXCHANGING INFORMATION WITH THE DRIVER, HE STATED THAT HE HAD BEEN REAR ENDED JUST RECENTLY DUE TO THE SAME PROBLEM.

Reported
Oct 2015
Incident date
Oct 2015
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash
Open ODI 10780902 at NHTSA →
Power TrainSep 2015 · ODI 10765199Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 20 MPH, THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FAILED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TRANSMISSION FAILURE CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO MOVE FROM THE DRIVE GEAR TO NEUTRAL WITHOUT THE SHIFT INTERLOCK BUTTON BEING DEPRESSED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE THE MECHANIC WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 5,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.

Reported
Sep 2015
Incident date
Sep 2015
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10765199 at NHTSA →
StructureJan 2015 · ODI 10672926Details +

AS A BUSINESS WE OWN (2) FORD TRANSIT 2013 VEHICLES. BOTH THESE VEHICLES HAD LARGE CRACKS TO APPEAR IN WINDSHIELDS WITH NO REASON. WHEN THE LOCAL DEALERSHIP WAS CONTACTED, THEY ACKNOWLEDGED THEY HAD EXPERIENCED COMPLAINTS OF THIS TYPE BUT HAD NO RECALL ON FILE AND THEREFORE HAD NO OTHER RESPONSE. HAVING HAD (2) SUCH INCIDENTS, WE FEEL STRONGLY, THERE IS A DEFINITE DESIGN DEFECT WITH THESE WINDSHIELDS AND SOME COMPENSATION SHOULD BE MADE TO THE CONSUMER. THE MILEAGE ON THESE VEHICLES WAS BETWEEN 47,000 AND 50,000 MILES AT THE TIME THESE CRACKS APPEARED. THE VIN #'S FOR BOTH VEHICLES IS AS FOLLOWS: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

Reported
Jan 2015
Incident date
Dec 2013
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10672926 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesOct 2014 · ODI 10641589Details +

VEHICLE STOPS WHEN BRAKE PEDAL APPLIED, THEN MOVES FORWARD WHILE BRAKE PEDAL IS HELD DOWN. VEHICLE THEM MOVES FORWARD ON ITS OWN,AGAIN, REQUIRING ADDITIONAL PEDAL PRESSURE UNTIL PEDAL NEARLY AT FLOOR. NUMEROUS DRIVERS IN THE OFFICE HAVE EXPERIENCED SAME PROBLEM WITH THIS VEHICLE. VEHICLE WAS RETURNED TO DEALER (JONES FORD) WHO SAID NOTHING WAS WRONG - THIS IS IMPOSSIBLE SINCE AT LEAST FOUR DIFFERENT DRIVERS EXPERIENCED SAME PROBLEM. *TR

Reported
Oct 2014
Incident date
Sep 2014
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10641589 at NHTSA →
Vehicle Speed ControlMay 2014 · ODI 10588078Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50 MPH WITH THE CRUISE CONTROL ON, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED INDEPENDENTLY UP 70 MPH. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE DEFECT. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 54,905.

Reported
May 2014
Incident date
Nov 2013
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10588078 at NHTSA →
WheelsMar 2014 · ODI 10573741Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 50 MPH, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO SHAKE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION WHERE THEY STATED THAT THE TIRES NEEDED TO BE BALANCED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 4,100.

Reported
Mar 2014
Incident date
Jan 2014
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10573741 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperMar 2014 · ODI 10568679Details +

WINTER DRIVING VERY HAZARDOUS, WINDSHIELD WASHER FLUID RESERVOIR FLUID FREEZES IN COLD WEATHER. SALT BUILD-UP ON WINDSHIELD CAUSES VERY SERIOUS VISIBILITY PROBLEM, FORCING DRIVER OFF THE ROAD TO HAND WASH WINDSHIELD. LOCATION OF RESERVOIR IS THE PROBLEM I BELIEVE............ *TR

Reported
Mar 2014
Incident date
Jan 2013
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10568679 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherMar 2014 · ODI 10567284Details +

THE AUTOMATIC TRACTION CONTROL IS TOO SENSITIVE AT LOW SPEEDS AND CUTS ENGINE BACK AND BRAKES THE TIRE WHERE VEHICLE IS STUCK IN SNOW. NO OFF BUTTON EVEN THOUGH OPERATORS MANUAL INDICATES AN OFF BUTTON IF EQUIPPED IS NEEDED UNDER THESE VERY CONDITIONS. LOCAL FORD DEALER CLAIMS ALL NORTH AMERICAN VEHICLES COMES WITH NO OFF SWITCH. THE ELECTRONICS IS GREAT NORMALLY, BUT NOT SO UNDER THESE CONDITIONS. HAVE TO BE MORE AGGRESSIVE AS TO NOT CAUSE A TRAFFIC JAM IN INCLEMENT WEATHER. I DO NOT WANT TO BE MORE AGGRESSIVE!!!!!

Reported
Mar 2014
Incident date
Jan 2013
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10567284 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemFeb 2014 · ODI 10564659Details +

THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN IN THE SHOP FOR OVER A MONTH WITH A BAD WIRING HARNESS, THE DEALER CLAIMS THIS IS A KNOWN SERVICE ISSUE YET FORD DOES NOT HAVE PARTS AVAILABLE FOR FIXING IT. THE DEALER HAS NO IDEA WHEN THEY MAY GET THE REQUIRED PART. *TR

Reported
Feb 2014
Incident date
Jan 2014
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 10564659 at NHTSA →
Air BagsJan 2014 · ODI 10561361 · crashDetails +

IN 45 MPH HIGHWAY THE BRAKES WENT TO THE FLOOR AT THE STOP SIGN AND CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO CROSS THE ROAD AND INTO A TREE SECTION TOTLING THE VEHICLE AND THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. *TR

Reported
Jan 2014
Incident date
Jan 2014
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash
Open ODI 10561361 at NHTSA →

Recalls(4)

Open a recall to read what NHTSA says is wrong, what can happen, and how it gets fixed. Check the VIN and remedy eligibility with a dealer; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though a manufacturer may offer more coverage.

Power TrainOct 2022 · 22V413000Details +

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 may degrade or detach.

Risk: A damaged or missing bushing may prevent the vehicle from shifting into the intended gear, and cause the vehicle to move in an unexpected direction. Additionally, the vehicle may roll after the driver selects the 'Park' position. Either scenario increases the risk of a crash or injury.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the under hood shift bushing and add a protective cap over the shift cable bushing, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters, informing owners of the safety risk, were mailed July 1, 2022. Remedy parts are expected to be available in 4th Quarter 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed October 27, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S43.

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Equipment Adaptive/MobilityMay 2014 · 14V706000Details +

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 Transit Connect vehicles manufactured January 1, 2006, to October 8, 2014, equipped with certain model S2005, S2010, S5005, S5010, S5505, and S5510 wheelchair lifts manufactured by Ricon Corporation after January 1, 2006. The platform side plate of the affected wheelchair lifts may crack.

Risk: If the platform side plates crack, the lift platform can separate from the lift and come to rest against the vehicle's lift door. When the doors are opened, the platform may fall out, increasing the risk of injury to the lift operator.

Remedy: Cummings will notify owners to take buses to a Ricon dealer or service center who will install supplemental platform support bumpers. Any platform that has already started cracking will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began January 13, 2015. Owners may contact Cumming's customer service at 1-800-639-5438 or Ricon customer service at 1-800-322-2884. Cumming's number for this recall is 14E-041.

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Engine And Engine Cooling · 17V209000Details +

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 insufficient level of coolant within the engine cooling system, the engine cylinder head may overheat, crack and leak oil.

Risk: If the cylinder head cracks and leaks oil, the oil may contact a hot engine or exhaust component, increasing the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will install a coolant level sensor and the supporting hardware and software, free of charge. Interim notices informing owners of the safety risk were mailed April 21, 2017. The recall began on January 5, 2018. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 17S09.

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Power Train · 21V376000Details +

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.

Risk: A damaged or missing bushing may prevent the vehicle from shifting into the intended gear, causing the vehicle to move in an unexpected direction. Additionally, the vehicle may roll after the driver selects the 'Park' position. Either scenario increases the risk of a crash or injury.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the underhood shifter cable bushing, and add a protective cap, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 29, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S24.

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A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.

Investigations

0 NHTSA investigations on record

No investigations are on record as of Jul 2026. An empty record is not a clean bill of health.

Crash-test ratings

2013 Ford Transit Connect VAN FWD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).

Fuel economy by trim

TrimEngineDrivetrainCityHwyCombined
Transit Connect Wagon FWD2.0L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive222623
Transit Connect Van2.0L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive212723

EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.

Before you buy

Useful next checks

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Compare the year-by-year record

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2013 Ford Transit Connect: frequently asked

What does the complaint record show for the 2013 Ford Transit Connect?

Owners filed 32 NHTSA complaints about the 2013 Ford Transit Connect. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.

What are the most common problems on the 2013 Ford Transit Connect?

The most-reported problem areas are Power Train (22% of complaints) and engine (16%).

How many recalls does the 2013 Ford Transit Connect have?

4 recalls have been issued that affect the 2013 Ford Transit Connect, covering components such as power train. Check the VIN with NHTSA and ask a dealer to confirm remedy eligibility; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though manufacturers may offer more coverage.

What gas mileage does the 2013 Ford Transit Connect get?

The EPA rates the 2013 Ford Transit Connect at 23 mpg combined.