2021 Ford Transit ConnectRecalls, problems, MPG & safety

“Was driving on the highway. Thought there was a smell of something burning. Stopped didn't see anything. When I arrived at my location the smell was much stronger. When I stopped I saw smoke and fire coming from the left front tire. Fire Department was called because the vehicle was parked next to a building. I used three fire extinguishers to put the fire out. The fire department arrived and put water on the area to lower the heat. It turns out the ABS system malfunctioned locking up the right rear and left front brakes. Turns out to be a common issue with the Transit Connects. Ford dealership said the issue is a faulty ABS controller that would cost a minimum of $3000 to replace and program. If we didn't have the fire extinguishers we would have lost the vehicle and most likely the building it was parked next to according to the fire department.”

“On going problem that's getting worse and have totally stopped driving the van. Transmission Severe Slipping, harsh and hard shifting, abrupt Highway deceleration & violent downshift while on the Hwy. Pauses sometimes to accelerate from a stop and sometimes lunges forward. Occasional "thumping" sound when driving at a consistent speed. Has not been inspected yet at the Ford dealership as we are trying to make an appointment. No warning lights or messages have come on ever. Have discovered that the 2019-2021 Transit Connections with the 8 speed transmission have had this problem documented and Ford has issued internal bulletins to their service departments about this common problem with this transmission. NHTSA ID# 10253889 and NHTSA ID# 10200744”

“My husband was driving the vehicle and I was the passenger. We got on the highway and were going 67 mph when we smelled something burning. The vehicle speed dropped from 67 mph to 30 mph. No warning lights on the dashboard alerted to anything. We got off the highway and to a place of safety. We got out of the vehicle and both front rotors were glowing red and flames were coming out from behind the driver's side wheel. We had to use an ABC fire extinguisher (which we had in the vehicle) on both front wheels. Once we let everything cool down, we tried to start the vehicle again. The brake pedal went all the way to the floor and flames shot out again from behind the driver's side wheel. The fire extinguisher was used once again to put out the flames. We then had it towed to the closest car repair business that was opened on a Saturday. We have contacted Ford customer service, and a case has been started.”