How reliable are Ford Transits?

[Sparker]

How mechanically reliable are Ford Transit vans?  Specifically, I am considering buying a 2013 Ford Transit connect cargo XL FWD.  It has 114,000 miles on it.  Also, how many miles can I expect, on average, to get on this thing before it goes kaput?

Further parameters: 
1) I am NOT a mechanic, I will be bringing the thing into the shop for every fix.
2) I am new to the vanlife, I have never driven a van or lived in one (i.e, is this a good entry-level vehicle).
3) I don't have a large budget for anything.

Please help, I am considering my options.

 

[MrNoodly]

You have me confused. Are you asking about the large Transit or the small Transit Connect?

 

[Sparker]

That's the description from CarGuru.  looks like the shorter wheelbase. I'd put in a link to the vehicle, but a lot of forums don't like people to put in exterior links (can lead to fraud, etc.)  2013 ford Transit connect cargo xl FWD is all they gave as description.

 

[Sparker]

in other words, yes the small connect.  It's called cargo in the description because it's not finished in the bay nor are there any seats.  Kinda like a mini van size without the stuff in the bay/back area.

 

[rvwandering]

Welcome to the CRVL forums Sparker! You may include a link to the van you're considering. We do not allow spam links or links that are obviously self-promoting but links to vehicles our members are considering buying are fine. More experienced members are able to spot problems and give better advice after seeing photos and reading descriptions. Good luck with your search!

To help you learn the ins and outs of these forums, this "Tips, Tricks and Rules" post lists some helpful information to get you started.

Most of our rules boil down to two simple over-riding principles: 1) What you post should provide good information (like your introductory post), and 2) Any response to someone else's post should make them feel glad they are part of this forum community.

We look forward to hearing more from you.

 

[highdesertranger]

since you are asking,

I feel it's very important to at least learn basic mechanical systems and how they work. this is so when you take it in for repairs you can understand what they are trying to tell you and you can get a idea of cost.

IMO front wheel drive vehicles are throw away vehicles. use once and throw away. if that's your thing I can't say much, but I would never recommend a FWD for long term reliability.

highdesertranger

 

[MrNoodly]

The Transit Connect is based on the Escort compact car, which has been around many years. And versions of what we know as the Transit Connect had been selling in Europe long before Ford brought them here. If you google "Transit Connect problems" you'll find several discussions, some with actual facts.

High Desert Ranger needs very rugged vehicles for the way he lives and drives. Most others don't need that level of toughness. Sure, we all want vehicles that give us many trouble-free years of service when used the way they were intended, and car sellers would like you to think you need to replace your ride every two or three years, but a well cared for vehicle can keep rolling a long time.

 

[crofter]

You will also want to find out about the previous use. Actual cargo vans are used pretty hard with hauling the cargo plus driving conditions if a delivery van. If it was a personal vehicle and not in a fleet, then could have been mostly highway miles and more life left in it. 

Previous owners are listed in the ad.
-crofter

 

[deryk_the_gypsy]

I have a 2010 Ford Transit Connect, but have about 49kmiles on it now, I can't speak of longevity, but fully loaded for traveling I am about 700 lbs below max weight (sorry don't remember the numbers) It is pretty peppy for a 2.0 liter engine. I average 24 mpg mixed useage. I don't live in mine but do some trips in it. First van, and am really happy with it. For long term living, travel light and anything is doable if you maintain a minimalist life style. My Hobby/side gig is leather working... so my van would be too small for me without a trailer lol.