Is the Ford Transit a safe vehicle?

Across its various configurations, the Ford Transit is generally regarded as a safe option among full-size vans, particularly in newer model years that bundle comprehensive driver-assistance features. The level of safety you get depends on the year, body style (cargo versus passenger variant), and the safety packages you choose.

This article examines what makes the Transit safe, what official crash-test data exist for different markets, and what buyers should consider when evaluating safety in this popular van.

Key safety features in recent Ford Transit models

The following features are commonly available or standard on many newer Transit trims and play a central role in occupant protection and crash avoidance.

• Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) and Pedestrian Detection


• Lane-Keeping System with Lane Departure Warning


• Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert


• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop-and-Go on many configurations


• Trailer Sway Control and electronic stability measures


• Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Roll Stability Control


• Multiple airbags (front, side, and curtain) and reinforced cabin structures


• Rearview camera; optional 360-degree view or parking aids on higher trims


• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and other routine safety checks


• Automatic high-beam headlights and other lighting aids on modern variants

These features contribute to both active safety (preventing crashes) and passive safety (protecting occupants in a crash). Availability and exact specifications vary by model year, trim level, and market.

Official crash-testing results and safety ratings

Crash-test results for the Ford Transit are not uniform across all configurations, and different markets test the van under different protocols. The following general points apply when evaluating safety ratings for the Transit.

• NHTSA safety ratings in the United States depend on the specific wheelbase, roof height, and year; there is no single overall score that applies to every Transit variant. Check SaferCar.gov for the exact ratings by VIN and configuration.


• IIHS testing has not consistently produced a single, universal Top Safety Pick status for all Transit variants; results, when available, vary by test type and trim, and may change with new model-year updates.


• In Europe, Euro NCAP has tested recent Transit generations, generally reflecting strong occupant protection and modern safety-assistance features, though performance can vary by model year and equipment level.

Because crash-test results are configuration-specific, buyers should verify the exact ratings for the precise Transit variant they are considering (year, wheelbase, roof, trim, and safety packages). Official sources such as NHTSA, IIHS, and Euro NCAP provide the most reliable, up-to-date data.

Choosing a Transit with safety in mind

Prioritize newer generations and robust safety packages

If safety is a priority, focus on newer model years that offer Ford’s comprehensive driver-assistance suites. Look for trims or option packages that include Pre-Collision Assist with AEB, BLIS with Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane-Keeping System, and Adaptive Cruise Control. For cargo and passenger variants that tow or haul heavy loads, ensure trailer-sway control and appropriate stability features are included.

When evaluating a used Transit, consider the availability of safety features in that particular vehicle’s spec, confirm the presence of active safety tech, and verify maintenance records. A hands-on test drive can help you assess how well the driver-assistance systems function in real-world driving, including how the systems respond to lane markings, traffic, and trailers.

What to check before buying a Transit for safety

Before purchasing, use the following checklist to assess safety in a specific Transit:

• Confirm presence of Pre-Collision Assist with AEB and Pedestrian Detection on the exact model year and trim.


• Verify BLIS with Cross-Traffic Alert and its operational status during a demonstration.


• Ensure Lane-Keeping System and Adaptive Cruise Control are available and functional, if desired.


• Ask about airbag coverage, including knee and curtain airbags, and the cabin structural reinforcement for occupant protection.


• Check for a rearview camera and any additional parking or surround-view aids.


• Confirm TPMS is working and that tires are in good condition, as tires significantly affect safety performance.


• Review the vehicle’s crash-test documentation for your exact configuration (year, wheelbase, roof, trim).

Buying with these checks in mind helps ensure the Transit you choose delivers the safety features you expect in daily use, especially for families or fleet operations requiring reliable protection and avoidance technologies.

Summary

The Ford Transit offers a strong safety proposition in the full-size van segment, particularly in newer generations that include a broad set of driver-assistance features. While official crash-test ratings vary by year and configuration, the common safety tech—AEB with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and robust airbag protection—supports both crash avoidance and occupant protection. Prospective buyers should verify the exact safety equipment and test results for their specific model year and trim, and consider selecting newer versions or packages that maximize safety capabilities. For the latest, always consult NHTSA, IIHS, and Euro NCAP ratings for the exact configuration you’re evaluating.

What are the disadvantages of the Ford Transit?

What Are the Disadvantages of the Ford Transit?

• Fuel Economy: Due to its size and weight, the Ford Transit generally has lower fuel economy than smaller vans or cars.
• Ride Quality: Due to its commercial nature, the Transit's ride can be stiff and less comfortable than that of other passenger vans.

What is the most common problem with Ford Transit?

Common problems for the Ford Transit include transmission issues like slipping or rough shifting, engine troubles such as turbocharger failure, electrical system faults like faulty sensors and wiring, and suspension and brake concerns. These issues can vary by model year, with some earlier versions being more prone to certain problems than newer ones. 
Engine and turbocharger problems 

• Turbocharger failure: A common issue that can lead to a loss of power, an illuminated check engine light, and strange noises. 
• General engine issues: Some models can experience engine problems, especially after around 100,000 km. 
• Ignition coil problems: Sometimes linked to worn spark plugs or oil leaks. 

Transmission and driveline issues

• Shifting problems: Transmissions may experience rough shifting or slipping. 
• Clutch and flywheel wear: Premature wear of the clutch and dual mass flywheel can occur, particularly in models with frequent stop-start driving. 
• Gearbox problems: Difficulty shifting gears can happen due to linkage issues or internal wear. 

Electrical and sensor problems 

• Faulty sensors: Intermittent faults can be caused by failing sensors or corrosion in the wiring harness. 
• Dashboard glitches: Some owners report issues with the dashboard electronics. 
• Alternator failures: These can affect the van's lighting and other electronic systems. 

Suspension and braking 

• Suspension concerns: The suspension system is a noted area for potential issues.
• Brake wear: Brakes can be a concern requiring regular maintenance. 

How safe is the Ford Transit?

We estimate that the 2021 Ford Transit has a vehicle lifetime fatality chance of 0.0477% and a vehicle lifetime injury chance of 5.4471%, meaning the average driver has a 0.0477% chance of dying in an accident if they drive the car under regular conditions for fifteen years, and a 5.4471% chance of being injured.

Why is Ford discontinuing the Transit?

Ford is not discontinuing the large Transit van, but it is ending sales of the smaller Transit Connect in North America after the 2023 model year due to decreased demand and a strategic focus on reducing costs and complexity. The Transit Connect will continue to be sold in Europe. Additionally, the specialized Transit Trail package was recently discontinued because of supply chain issues and a lack of demand, though this is separate from the discontinuation of the base Transit Connect in North America. 
North America discontinuation (Transit Connect)

• Declining demand: Sales for the compact van segment, including the Transit Connect, have fallen significantly, making it unprofitable for Ford to continue. 
• Strategic shift: Ford is prioritizing cost-saving, efficiency, and its electric vehicle (EV) offerings as part of its global restructuring plan. 
• Other manufacturers followed suit: Other companies, like Ram with the ProMaster City, have also discontinued their small vans in the U.S. 
• Larger Transit remains: The larger Ford Transit van, which is built in the U.S., will continue to be sold. 

Transit Trail package discontinuation

• Supply chain issues: Ongoing supply chain challenges and part availability constraints made it difficult to produce the Transit Trail package.
• Prioritizing parts: Ford decided to remove the package for the 2025 model year to prioritize delivering parts and service for vehicles that already have it.