Last updated: 2026-03-06
2019 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon Reliability Report
The 2019 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon scores 65/100 ("Good"). With 8 recalls and 46 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
8
Complaints
46
Complaint Rate
11.1
per 10k sold
Est. Annual Cost
$775
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- POWER TRAIN (22)
- SERVICE BRAKES (13)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (3)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2019 received a 2019 facelift update for the Second generation (2012).
- Changes: Updated front fascia; Redesigned dashboard; New engine options.
- Year 6 in this generation (2014–2023).
- 2nd generation Transit-Connect-Wagon (US).
What this means for buyers
Refresh years bring updates but can also introduce new issues. Check early recall data before buying.
2014: Second generation (2012) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2019: This Model Year (Refresh)
2019 received a 2019 facelift update for the Second generation (2012).
Should You Buy the 2019 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon?
The 2019 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon scores 65/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory. 2019 received a 2019 facelift update for the Second generation (2012).
With 46 owner complaints, some reported issues may need attention, but we don't yet see evidence of a single dominant failure mode.
A pre-purchase inspection is recommended for used examples, with particular attention to power train (22). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.
Compared to the 2020 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon, which scored 2 points higher. See also the 2018 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +Complaint rate in line with Van segment average (early data)
- +Well-established generation
- +Only 46 complaints reported
Cons
- −Above-average recall count
- −POWER TRAIN: Frequent transmission failures in the 2019 Ford Transit Connect, often... (22 complaints)
- −SERVICE BRAKES issues reported (13 complaints)
Compare 2019 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon With
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 8 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- POWER TRAIN (22)
- SERVICE BRAKES (13)
Recall Overview
8
recalls on record
The 2019 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon has 8 recalls on record, which is above average. A higher recall count can indicate multiple component concerns. However, recalls also demonstrate that the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
11.1
per 10k soldSegment avg: 11.1
Safety Incidents
2
Crashes
0
Fires
1
Injuries
0
Deaths
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2019 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon Recall Details
8 recalls have been issued for the 2019 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
POWER TRAIN
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Edge, Transit Connect and Lincoln MKX and 2020 Escape and Lincoln Corsair vehicles. The start/stop accumulator endcap may have missing or loose bolts.
Consequence
Missing or loose bolts on the start stop accumulator endcap could result in a transmission fluid leak and may progress to a loss of transmission function. A transmission fluid leak in the presence of an ignition source may increase the risk of fire.
Remedy
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the start/stop accumulator, free of charge. The recall began September 23, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S49.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, POWER TRAIN
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Transit Connect vehicles equipped with 2.5L engines. The powertrain control module (PCM) software has fail-safe temperature threshold values higher than intended for the engine. This may delay the fail-safe cooling strategy in the event of coolant loss and result in engine overheating.
Consequence
If the engine overheats, it can result in engine damage and increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will update the PCM software, free of charge. The recall began November 10, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S60.
AIR BAGS
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 EcoSport and 2019-2020 Transit Connect vehicles. Depending on the model, either the driver side or passenger side frontal air bag modules are missing the first-stage booster propellant and sleeve. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Consequence
Air bag modules missing the first-stage booster propellant will not deploy as intended in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the affected air bag module on either the driver or passenger side, free of charge. This recall began February 18, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20C26.
2019 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon NHTSA Safety Ratings
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 17.9%
Safety Technologies
Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3Maintenance rating: 3 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$775
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
2019 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon Example Repair Prices
National average price ranges for common repairs. These are not model-year-specific failure predictions.
| Repair | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Door Lock Cylinder Replacement | $167 – $210 |
| Wheel Speed Sensor Replacement | $221 – $453 |
| Battery Cable Battery Terminal End Service | $37 – $54 |
| Oil Pressure Sensor Replacement | $137 – $178 |
| Engine Oil Filter Adapter Replacement | $443 – $520 |
| Brake System Inspect | $122 – $179 |
| AC Evaporator Replacement | $935 – $1,334 |
| Clutch Cable Replacement | $310 – $373 |
| Coolant Change | $249 – $278 |
| Variable Valve Timing Control Solenoid Replacement | $533 – $739 |
Estimates based on national average repair costs. Actual costs may vary by location and shop.
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2019 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon.
Inspect transmission for shifting issues and test drive to check for limp mode
Check ABS module and brake calipers for signs of seizing or overheating
Test backup camera and infotainment system for freezing or malfunctions
Verify windshield seal integrity to prevent water leaks
Ensure all electronic features, including pre-collision assist, function properly
Buying a 2019 Transit-Connect-Wagon? Check Its History First
Every 2019 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
2019 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon Common Problems by Component
46 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
POWER TRAIN
22 complaintsOwners report frequent transmission failures in the 2019 Ford Transit Connect, often occurring between 50,000 and 91,000 miles. Complaints frequently mention symptoms such as difficulty shifting into lower gears, unexpected vehicle stalling, and the inability to engage reverse or drive gears. Multiple owners describe the transmission going into "limp" mode, erratic gear shifting, and loss of power, which sometimes results in the vehicle stopping unexpectedly. While no crashes or fires are reported, the sudden loss of power and stalling pose potential safety risks, particularly at higher speeds or in traffic. Used car buyers should be aware of these issues and consider the potential costs and safety implications of transmission repairs or replacements.
SERVICE BRAKES
13 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Ford Transit Connect Wagon frequently report issues with the ABS module and brake calipers, leading to brakes seizing or sticking. Symptoms often include the vehicle pulling to one side, brakes overheating, and unexpected deceleration, sometimes accompanied by smoke or burning smells. These problems typically arise around 25,000 to 34,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with reports of sudden braking, loss of control, and potential for accidents, though no actual crashes are documented. Used car buyers should be aware of these recurring brake system issues, which may require costly repairs outside of warranty coverage.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
4 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon report issues primarily related to water leaks and electronic malfunctions. Water intrusion is noted around the top driver's side windshield and interior light, especially during rain, with no associated recall for some vehicles. Electronic issues include repeated failures of the backup camera and problems with the vehicle's computer modules, AC, transmission, and emissions system, with one owner experiencing over 10 weeks of repair time within a year. A safety-related incident involves a vehicle rolling into a fence when not properly secured in park, though no injuries were reported. These problems typically emerge around 38,000 miles, and buyers should be aware of potential repair needs and associated downtime.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (3 complaints)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
3 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Ford Transit Connect Wagon report several electrical system issues. Complaints frequently mention spontaneous engagement of the pre-collision assist feature, accompanied by an abnormal buzzing noise, without any apparent collision threat. Additionally, owners describe various electronic malfunctions, such as screen freezes, rear backup camera activation while stationary, and issues with Bluetooth and radio functions. Some reports indicate these problems occur at low mileage, around 300 miles. Safety implications include unexpected vehicle surging and misfiring, although no crashes or fires are reported. Potential buyers should be aware of these electrical issues and their impact on vehicle functionality and safety features.
BACK OVER PREVENTION (1 complaints)
BACK OVER PREVENTION
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2019 Ford Transit Connect. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V572000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure.
AIR BAGS (1 complaints)
AIR BAGS
1 complaintSafety-relatedOn May 17 2022, I was involved in a multi vehicle accident in which my vehicle was hit on the side and ended up with a right frontal impact into a concrete barrier. Despite the severity of the impact, None of the airbags deployed. The onboard collision sensor was triggered and dialed 911. I was injured, but not to a catastrophic Degree. I have cuts and bruises as would be expected. My concern is that an airbag should have deployed and would have been beneficial in this instance, since My shoulder did impact the steering wheel. There is a recall for this particular vehicle, but my VIN Is not listed and should be.
VISIBILITY (1 complaints)
VISIBILITY
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2019 Ford Transit Connect. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, wind noises were heard coming from the front windshield. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the front windshield had detached and needed to be reinstalled. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V192000 (Visibility) however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000.
VISIBILITY/WIPER (1 complaints)
VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaintON GOING, I HAVE PICTURES OF MULTIPLE STAGES WITH THE MILEAGE. THE WIPERS CONTINUE TO MALFUNCTION. THE CAR HAS GONE IN MULTIPLE TIMES FOR THIS. THE HOSE CONTINUES TO DISCONNECT. THE REAR CAMERA, SENSORS, CHARGING MECHANISMS MALFUNCTION. IT ACTIVATES THE REAR CAMERA IT ALSO SAYS PARKING ISSUE AND BACK UP CAMERA MALFUNCTION. IT WILL HAPPEN WHILE IN MOTION.
When Do 2019 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon year is 2023 with a reliability score of 78/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2022 (72/100) and 2021 (69/100).
Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon Years to Avoid
No Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon years are statistical outliers in our data.
All model years score consistently well. The Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.
Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon Reliability Score Trend
Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 73/100 compared to 67/100 for older years.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 68/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 65/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 67/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 69/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 72/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 78/100 | Good |
Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon Reliability Compared to Other Years
2019 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon Common Questions
10 questions from 2019 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon owners.
Charging
My very dead battery is on charger and the parking lights are flashing quickly - why?
Heater wont turn off
Heater wont turn off/display blank Started today
Oil on the spark plugs underneath the boot
I went to change my spark plugs and there was oil on them when I removed the boot! 1 no oil 2 a little oil 3 more oil & 4 had about half full?! From left to rightist i First time I looked Started today
Antifreeze leak
My antifreeze keeps leaking out after buying the car 30 day Antifreeze A few days
2019 ford Explorer
Rough idle when stopping at light More than a month
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2019 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2019 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon?
How many recalls does the 2019 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon have?
Is the 2019 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2019 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
Look Up a VIN →How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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