2021 Ford Transit Connect recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 4 recalls for the 2021 Ford Transit Connect and 11 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are service brakes (5), power train (5), unknown or other (3). It earned a 4-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is 22–25 mpg combined, depending on engine.
The 2021 ranks #2 of 11 Transit Connect model years for fewest complaints (2012–2022), with fewer complaints than the average year (46). It has 4 recalls vs. an average of 6.7 per model year.
Recalls 4
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2021 Ford Transit Connect. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
Back over prevention · software
Problem: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Transit Connect, 2019-2020 MKZ, MKX, Edge, Continental, F-150, Nautilus, Fusion, 2019-2023 Ranger, Mustang, 2020-2021 EcoSport, Expedition, Navigator, 2020-2022 Escape, F-250 SD, Corsair, 2020-2023 Aviator, Transit, 2020-2024 Explorer, 2021-2024 Bronco Sport, and 2022-2024 Maverick vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera to display a blank image, or the image may remain on the display after the backing event has ended.
Risk: A rearview camera that displays a blank image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle. A rearview image that continues to be displayed after the vehicle is shifted out of reverse may distract the driver. Both of these situations can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 4, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S72.
Power train · automatic transmission · gear position indication (prndl)
Problem: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2019 Escape, 2013-2018 C-Max, 2013-2016 Fusion, 2013-2021 Transit Connect, and 2015-2018 Edge vehicles. The bushing that attaches the shifter cable to the transmission may degrade or detach.
Risk: A damaged or missing bushing may prevent the vehicle from shifting into the intended gear, and cause the vehicle to move in an unexpected direction. Additionally, the vehicle may roll after the driver selects the 'Park' position. Either scenario increases the risk of a crash or injury.
Fix: Dealers will replace the under hood shift bushing and add a protective cap over the shift cable bushing, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters, informing owners of the safety risk, were mailed July 1, 2022. Remedy parts are expected to be available in 4th Quarter 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed October 27, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S43.
Seat belts · front · retractor
Problem: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Transit and 2021 Transit Connect vehicles. The front passenger seat belt automatic locking retractor (ALR) may deactivate early, which can prevent the child restraint system from securing properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Risk: An unsecured child restraint system can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
Fix: Dealers will inspect the front passenger seat belt assembly, and replace the assembly as necessary, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed on September 14, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on December 30, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21C18.
Power train · automatic transmission · gear position indication (prndl)
Problem: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2021 Transit Connect vehicles equipped with 2.5L engines. The bushing that attaches the shifter cable to the transmission may degrade or detach.
Risk: A damaged or missing bushing may prevent the vehicle from shifting into the intended gear, causing the vehicle to move in an unexpected direction. Additionally, the vehicle may roll after the driver selects the 'Park' position. Either scenario increases the risk of a crash or injury.
Fix: Dealers will replace the underhood shifter cable bushing, and add a protective cap, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 29, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S24.
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
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…
While driving down the road the ABS brakes (front driver and passenger rear) started tightening up then they temporarily released for a few miles. Then started tightening up again it continued to tighted and not release until it was completely locked down. Immediately pulled off road and brakes visibly caught on fire and damaged all components in the wheels. This could have bee…
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 d…
Safety ratings
2021 Ford Transit Connect WAGON FWD
2021 Ford Transit Connect VAN FWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2021 Ford Transit Connect.
Transit Connect USPS
Auto (S6) · 4 cyl · 2.5 L
Regular
Transit Connect Van FFV
Auto (S8) · 4 cyl · 2.0 L
Gasoline or E85
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2021 Ford Transit Connect have?
NHTSA lists 4 recalls for the 2021 Ford Transit Connect, most recently for back over prevention · software (06/27/2025). 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 2021 Ford Transit Connect?
Based on 11 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are service brakes (5), power train (5), unknown or other (3).
Is the 2021 Ford Transit Connect safe?
The 2021 Ford Transit Connect earned a 4-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.
Is the 2021 a good year for the Ford Transit Connect?
The 2021 ranks #2 of 11 Transit Connect model years for fewest complaints (2012–2022), with fewer complaints than the average year (46). It has 4 recalls vs. an average of 6.7 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2021 Ford Transit Connect get?
EPA ratings for the 2021 Ford Transit Connect range from 22 to 25 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain.
Own a 2021 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.