2012 Ford Transit Connect recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2012 Ford Transit Connect and 26 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are engine (6), visibility (5), electrical system (4). It earned a 2-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is about 23 mpg combined.
The 2012 ranks #4 of 11 Transit Connect model years for fewest complaints (2012–2022), with fewer complaints than the average year (46). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 6.7 per model year.
Recalls 1
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2012 Ford Transit Connect. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
Visibility · windshield wiper/washer
Problem: Ford Motor Company is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 Transit Connect vehicles. The wiper arms may not be adequately riveted resulting in incomplete or inconsistent clearing of the windshield and possible detachment of the wiper arm.
Risk: If the wiper arm detaches, the windshield wiper will fail and the driver's visibility may be reduced, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver and passenger side wiper arm and blade assemblies, free of charge. The safety recall began on August 15, 2012. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332.
Common problems
From complaints owners filed with NHTSA. Complaints aren't verified, but patterns across hundreds of owners point to known weak spots.
Most-reported problem areas
By the numbers
Recent owner reports
The contact owns a 2012 Ford Transit Connect. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the contact became aware that the front driver’s and front passenger’s seat belts were damp following a rainstorm. Upon inspection, the contact observed that the door seals on both front doors were allowing water to enter the vehicle, causing the seat belts to become damp. The ve…
1. The heat shielding around the exhaust system failed to protect the fuel tank from exhaust heat. Heat from the exhaust system melted holes in the fuel tank, causing fuel to leak from the tank. The parts are at the Ford dealer with the vehicle. 2. The fuel tank developed leaks when it melted, causing a risk of fire or explosion. 3. The dealer confirmed that the fuel tank mel…
The seat belt buckle/latch in the backseat is a dangerous defective design that can cause injury. It is available for inspection, see photos provided. Merely taking a seat can result in a bruised or broken coccyx. The car was parked when the incident occurred. No, the problem has not been reproduced by a dealer or independent service center. No, the component has not been inspe…
Safety ratings
2012 Ford Transit Connect VAN FWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2012 Ford Transit Connect.
Transit Connect Van
Auto 4-spd · 4 cyl · 2.0 L
Regular
Transit Connect Wagon FWD
Auto 4-spd · 4 cyl · 2.0 L
Regular
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2012 Ford Transit Connect have?
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2012 Ford Transit Connect, most recently for visibility · windshield wiper/washer (08/02/2012). Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer. Enter your VIN to check whether a recall applies to your vehicle.
What are the most common problems with the 2012 Ford Transit Connect?
Based on 26 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are engine (6), visibility (5), electrical system (4).
Is the 2012 Ford Transit Connect safe?
The 2012 Ford Transit Connect earned a 2-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.
Is the 2012 a good year for the Ford Transit Connect?
The 2012 ranks #4 of 11 Transit Connect model years for fewest complaints (2012–2022), with fewer complaints than the average year (46). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 6.7 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2012 Ford Transit Connect get?
The 2012 Ford Transit Connect is EPA-rated at about 23 mpg combined.
Own a 2012 Ford Transit Connect in South Carolina?
Our mobile mechanics diagnose and fix the problems above at your home, office or fleet lot in Lexington, Columbia and the Midlands, with dealer-grade scan tools.
Related vehicles
Sources: NHTSA recalls, complaints and 5-Star Safety Ratings APIs; EPA fueleconomy.gov. Data retrieved October 21, 2026. NHTSA model names used: TRANSIT CONNECT, Transit Connect.