Ford Transit Courier Problems: Are They Reliable?

The Ford Transit Courier is the smallest in Ford’s Transit line of vans. It made its debut on the market in 2014 and found instant success with consumers and businesses looking for a cheaper, more compact option. It’s one of the most popular vans on the market and has continued to sell in big numbers for years. In recent years, the Courier has upgraded its features to include more technology for a better driving experience.

Low upfront costs and low maintenance costs make it a great choice for businesses, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s always reliable. Like most vehicles, it has its weaknesses. Most of the problems are fairly common so, if you know what to look out for, it is easier to maintain and to fix these problems when they do happen.

Ford Transit Courier common problems

Ford Transit Courier

The Ford Transit Courier is pretty economical both in price and maintenance costs, but there have been a few common problems reported with the Courier. Ford has even had to repair or recall certain parts because of significant issues. Some will say, despite its common problems, the Courier gets far fewer complaints than many other vehicles. Still, it isn’t some perfect shining star without faults. There are a few key issues to be aware of if you own a Courier or are looking to buy. Take a look at the Courier’s most common problems and if it’s as reliable as some may claim.

1.0 EcoBoost engine problems

There have been many issues with the 1.0 EcoBoost engines across Ford models that led to widespread repairs by Ford in 2015 and a number of recalls in 2018. The primary issue causing the recall was the cooling system, which stopped working if the engine reached a certain temperature. This led to multiple issues including engine fires.

While Ford worked on the cooling system issue, a few common issues remain. Many 1.0 EcoBoost engines experience a carbon build-up in the fuel intake valve because the valve has no cleaning mechanism. The carbon residue can obstruct the flow of petrol and cause damage to the valve, leading to numerous misfires when idling and a difficultly starting the engine.

Gearbox problems

Some of the most common problems reported with Ford Transit Couriers are issues with the gear shift not working, getting stuck in one gear, being unable to shift to certain gears, or not shifting into gear at all. Gearbox issues are so common one owner reported calling a couple of gearbox places and them laughing because they’d hear the same thing so often.

Issues shifting gears can mean one of numerous parts needs to be repaired or replaced including the gear selector or gear shift cable. Many have had to replace parts within the gearbox or replace the entire box itself, which is expensive and costly.

Turbo problems

Turbo problems are common in Ford Transit Couriers but usually it isn’t the turbo itself that needs repair or replacement. It’s often something like an oil pump problem or faulty air flow from the hoses causing the problem. It’s important to check to make sure the van had sufficient oil and no foreign bodies in the turbo. These types of issues are common and can cause turbo problems.

Cooling fan problems

Many have reported that their Ford Transit Courier’s cooling system won’t cool below 27 degrees. It can be caused by something simple to fix like debris buildup in the vent or something technical like and electrical short circuit. There are several different possible causes for cooling problems so check your air filters first and then, if that’s not the issue, you might want to take it to a mechanic. You may not experience any cooling issue at all if you have a newer model. It’s a more common problem in the 2015 models.

What is the best year for the Ford Transit Courier in terms of reliability? What years should you avoid?

By far, the Ford Transit Courier with the most reported issue is the 2015 model. The 2016 model is a close second. Those two years should be avoided. Most of the vans manufactured between 2011-2013 that needed part replacements were fixed, however a small percentage remained broken so be wary of models in those years that may overheat easily.

Any Ford Transit Courier models 2019 and later are good options in terms of reliability. Some will say that any Courier 2017 or later is fine because the complaints for 2017 and 2018 models are far fewer than the older models. This is completely true, so if you are looking to save a little money with a slightly older model these aren’t bad options. However, 2019 and newer models have received almost no complaints on popular car complaint websites. Plus, the newer models have increased functionality and tech, which can be a nice bonus.

How many miles will a Ford Transit Courier last?

When Ford released the Transit Couriers, it was estimated to last 150,000 miles. Users have said that with good maintenance, they will last anywhere between 160,000 to 300,000 miles. Of course, the van will require some minor repairs when it reached such high mileage, but some light maintenance should keep it running for quite a while.