2020 FORD Transit

Recalls, Specs & Safety Report

Expert Verdict
🚨Requires Careful Review

This 2020 model shows critical reliability concerns, primarily driven by significant recall activity affecting seat belts and back over prevention.

Key Factor:multiple critical recalls

πŸ“‹Why This Matters

Understanding recall history helps predict future ownership costs. Each unaddressed issue represents potential repair expenses.

Insurance companies review vehicle reliability data when setting premiums. Models with elevated recall rates often see adjusted pricing.

Given this model year's elevated concern level, budget for a thorough pre-purchase inspection.

Focus Area:general reliability
πŸ“Š

Expert Analysis

The 2020 Transit analysis highlights key safety metrics.

Safety & Reliability Score

9/100

Score Breakdown

Recall Impact-72
Complaint Impact-3.85
Investigation Impact-15

Technical Specifications

Key specifications for the 2020 FORD Transit

Model Year2020
MakeFORD
ModelTransit
Fuel TypeGasoline
Body ClassPassenger Vehicle

Safety History Timeline

Scroll for more β†’
Jan20
NEWProduction
Jan20
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan20
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan20
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan20
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan20
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan20
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan20
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan20
ISSUEFirst Report
May20
RECALLRecall Issued
Nov21
RECALLRecall Issued
Apr23
INVInvestigation Opened
Apr23
INVInvestigation Opened
Apr23
INVInvestigation Opened

Consumer Complaint Analysis

⚠️

Most Reported Issue

33 complaints (43% of total)
➑️

Complaint Trend

Stable
No trend data
βœ…

Safety Incidents

No critical incidents

Complaint Severity Distribution

Breakdown of 77 consumer complaints by severity level.

🟠High
9(12%)
🟑Medium
7(9%)
🟒Low
61(79%)

Mileage Failure Analysis

βš™οΈEngineering Insight

Based on consumer reports, issues for this vehicle tend to peak around the 0-20k mileage range. The average reported failure mileage is 51,200 miles.

πŸ“Š Mileage data extracted from 16 of 77 complaints (21% coverage)
0-20k
6 reports (38%)
20k-40k
3 reports (19%)
40k-60k
0 reports (0%)
60k-80k
3 reports (19%)
80k-100k
1 reports (6%)
100k+
3 reports (19%)
* Analysis based on mileage data extracted from consumer complaint descriptions. Actual failure rates may vary.

πŸ› οΈ DIY Diagnosis Center

Experiencing an issue? Select a symptom to find official manufacturer solutions (TSBs).

Primary Risk Areas

POWER TRAINAIR BAGSSEAT BELTSBACK OVER PREVENTIONPARKING BRAKEFUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINEEQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

Official Safety Recalls (9)

Campaign: 21V978000

POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT

Summary

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Transit vehicles equipped with All Wheel Drive (AWD). The bolts that attach the rear driveshaft to the transfer case may become loose or damaged, which can result in separation of the driveshaft from the transfer case.

Consequence

Driveshaft separation can result in a loss of drive power, or unintended movement while parked if the parking brake is not engaged, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and replace the driveshaft bolts. If any loose bolts are found, the driveshaft, attachment hardware, transfer case flange kit, and seal will also be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 4, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S54.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

Campaign: 20V415000

AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW

Summary

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Escape and Transit vehicles. The affected vehicles may have an improperly crimped diffuser in the side curtain air bags which may result in the diffuser detaching from the inflator in the event of an air bag deployment.

Consequence

In the event of a crash, if the diffuser detaches from the inflator during air bag deployment, the curtain air bag may not inflate properly, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the side curtain air bag modules, free of charge. An interim letter notifying owners of the safety risk was mailed August 3, 2020. The recall began January 11, 2021. Owners may contact Ford's customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S35.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

Campaign: 20V250000

SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR

Summary

National Van Builders, Inc. (National Van Builders) is recalling certain vehicles based on 2019-2020 Ford Transit and 2019 Ram Promaster vans equipped with Freedman GO-ES foldaway seats. The seat belt retractor block out zone may have not been set correctly, potentially resulting in a seat belt that may not properly secure the occupant. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 209, "Seat Belt Assemblies."

Consequence

An unsecured occupant has an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.

Remedy

National Van Builders will notify owners, and dealers will replace the retractors, free of charge. The recall began May 19, 2020. Owners may contact Freedman customer service at 1-800-443-4540 or National Van Builders customer service at 1-800-527-7477.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Manufacturer: National Van Builders, Inc.

Campaign: 20V575000

BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA

Summary

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Ford F-150, F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, Explorer, Mustang, Transit, Expedition, Escape, Ranger and Edge, and Lincoln Nautilus and Corsair vehicles. Due to a poor electrical connection, the rearview camera may intermittently display a blank or distorted image. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Consequence

Reduced rearward visibility can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rearview camera, free of charge. The recall began November 17, 2020. Remedy became available on February 1, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on February 1, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20C19.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

Campaign: 21V631000

PARKING BRAKE:CONVENTIONAL:MECHANICAL:LINKAGE AND CABLE

Summary

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Transit vehicles. An incorrect driveshaft torsional damper service kit may have been installed, which can allow the damper shield to contact the parking brake cable, possibly resulting in parking brake failure.

Consequence

Parking brake failure can result in unintended vehicle movement, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the passenger side parking brake cable with a cable that provides sufficient clearance to the damper shield, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed on September 24, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 14, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S39.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

Campaign: 20V222000

SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR

Summary

TransitWorks is recalling certain Driverge vehicles based on 2019-2020 Ford Transit vans equipped with Freedman Seating Company (FSC) PT Foldaway and GO-ES 3-point Foldaway seats. The seat belt retractor block out zone may have not been set correctly, potentially resulting in a seat belt that may not properly secure the occupant. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 209, "Seat Belt Assemblies."

Consequence

An unsecured occupant has an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.

Remedy

TransitWorks will notify owners, and dealers will replace the retractors, free of charge. The recall began May 13, 2020. Dealers can contact Freedman Seating Company for parts and reimbursement information at 1-800-443-4540.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Manufacturer: TransitWorks

Campaign: 23V499000

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS

Summary

Quality Vans (Quality Vans) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Ford Transit vans equipped with Onan QG 2800i EVAP generators, part number 2.8HGLAA-8303A. The fuel hose between the inline fuel filter and the Injection Pump Module (IPM) may not be properly secured, which can cause a gas leak.

Consequence

A gasoline leak in the presence of an ignition source may increase the risk of fire.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and replace the fuel hose and clamps as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 4, 2023. Owners may contact Quality Vans customer service at 1-480-464-7007.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: QUALITY VANS

Campaign: 25V442000

BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE

Summary

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2022 Transit Connect, 2019-2020 MKZ, 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.

Consequence

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.

Remedy

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.

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

Campaign: 25V876000

EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY:WHEELCHAIR RESTRAINTS/SECUREMENT:LATCH/ANCHOR:

Summary

Rollx Vans (Rollx) is recalling certain GMC Yukon, Sierra, Chevrolet Express 2500, Ford Transit, E-250, Toyota Sienna, Sienna Hybrid, Honda Odyssey, Chrysler Town and Country, Voyager, Pacifica, Dodge Grand Caravan, and Ram Promaster vehicles equipped with QRT-Deluxe and QRT-Max wheelchair restraints. Please refer to Rollx's recall report for specific model year information. The retractors may not lock, preventing the wheelchair from being properly secured.

Consequence

An unsecured wheelchair can move during transit, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy

Rollx will work with Q'Straint to inspect and replace the retractors as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed January 19, 2026. Owners may contact Rollx's customer service at 1-800-956-6668.

Manufacturer: Rollx Vans

NHTSA Investigations

3 investigations

Official NHTSA safety investigations for 2020 Transit.

INV-2020-1000🟒 Closed

NHTSA opened investigation after receiving consumer complaints regarding Transit performance issues.

Opened: Affected Units: 24,460
INV-2020-1001🟒 Closed

NHTSA opened investigation after receiving consumer complaints regarding Transit performance issues.

Opened: Affected Units: 10,351
INV-2020-1002🟒 Closed

NHTSA opened investigation after receiving consumer complaints regarding Transit performance issues.

Opened: Affected Units: 12,880

Consumer Complaints

77 total complaints

Consumer-reported issues submitted to NHTSA for 2020 Transit.

Common Reported SymptomsAI Analysis

Warning43%
Acceleration Issues31%
Fire10%
Battery8%
Noise6%
Stall6%
Leak6%
Engine/PowertrainπŸ”΅ Low
POWER TRAIN

We started experiencing slight transmission shifting issues in early-mid 2024. More issues in December 2024/January 2025 - this time it was really hard and jerky shifting. It was sporadic at this time, but it was often. My wife and I have 7 children. This vehicle is usually driven by my wife to pick up kids from school, run errands, etc. At the beginning of March 2025, my wife was merging onto the highway, but it didn't want to shift. She stated that a big rig was coming behind her and the van was not shifting and picking up speed. She said the engine was revving but just was not shifting up. She said the big rig honked and had to change lanes or else he would have hit her and my kids. Several seconds after the big rig passed was when the transmission hard shifted and jerked and it began to pick up more speed, but from that point on, the transmission was not operating properly. We have not driven it since March 2025. I have been saving up to fix the transmission, but I read so many other Ford owners have the same issue with this particular transmission. The Ford dealer confirmed it had a TSB on this exact issue and that many other 10r80 transmissions were doing the same. The issue was reproduced by the Ford dealer. It states the CDF issue in the invoice. There were no warning lamps or messages prior to the experience merging on to the highway. I reached out to a local independent mechanic and he upgrades the parts in these Ford transmissions all the time - proving it is a very common issue. This is a huge safety risk for anyone operating or riding in a Ford with this transmission.

OtherπŸ”΅ Low
UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Back up camera image is reversed, distorted and goes black/blue from time to time.

Safety SystemsπŸ”΅ Low
BACK OVER PREVENTION

The rear back up camera stopped working completely I took it to Faricy boys Ford in Canon City Co Waited 45 days for them to get the part and then they told me they weren’t comfortable changing the camera out so I have been with out back up camera on this 22 foot van needing assistance for almost every single move Please help me get this vin on the recall Thank you [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Engine/PowertrainπŸ”΅ Low
POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Transit. The contact stated that whenever the vehicle was started, the contact stated that several unknown warning lights and the ABS warning light were illuminated. The contact stated that the right front wheel activated, and the ABS activated while making a hard right turn. The contact was not depressing the brake pedal during the failure. In addition, the contact was informed that the brake lights remained activated. The contact stated that several functions were deactivated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was advised to take the vehicle to the dealer for diagnostic testing. The failure mileage was approximately 33,000.

Engine/PowertrainπŸ”΅ Low
POWER TRAIN

Only I have 88,000 k on 2020 transit the transmission have problems with shifting while driving on highway start with delay on 2nd gear now fault code for gear 10

Engine/PowertrainπŸ”΅ Low
POWER TRAIN

Driveshaft both front and rear failed as pieces broke off while driving at different times requiring tow and repair

Engine/PowertrainπŸ”Ά Medium
POWER TRAIN

Loss of power while driving with no warning. Almost crashed. Shifting violently. After a few months it wasn't safe for anyone and was happening all the time . It's at the dealer getting the transmission rebuilt with re engineered parts . That's what the dealer told me . He said this will resolve the problem for good . 8000$$ 67k miles ford is not helping with cost. Ford had to re engineer the parts that are going in my van , isn't that them admitting they have a transmission that was no good from the start

OtherπŸ”΅ Low
UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Mid 2023 the backup camera would sporadically stop working and produce a blue screen and a message "camera is unavailable contact your dealership". I would check for an update and then it would start working. This has happened 8 times since 2023- 2024, in August 2024 it has quit working completely.

OtherπŸ”΅ Low
UNKNOWN OR OTHER

While I driving my 4-year-old Ford Transit Connect with 65,000 miles, I noticed a transmission issue. At low speeds, the vehicle struggled to accelerate, which caused me significant stress and felt very unsafe. However, once on the highway, the transmission gradually returned to normal. In March, I took it to a Ford dealership, where it was diagnosed with a faulty transmission. After discussing this issue with others, I found that many people have also complained about serious safety concerns with Ford’s transmissions.

Engine/PowertrainπŸ”΅ Low
POWER TRAIN

A few months ago, my 2020 Ford Transit had a transmission issue, and the dealer replaced the torque converter. Now, at 101,300 miles, I’m experiencing loss of power, jerking, and rough shifting, and I have to replace the entire transmission. After researching online, I’ve found that many others have experienced the same issue.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any recalls for the 2020 FORD Transit?

Yes, the 2020 FORD Transit has 9 recorded recalls from NHTSA. These recalls cover various components including POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT, AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW, SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR.

Is the 2020 FORD Transit safe to drive?

The 2020 FORD Transit has 9 recalls. If you own this vehicle, check with your dealer to ensure all recall repairs have been completed. Most recalls have free remedies available.

Where can I check if my 2020 FORD Transit has open recalls?

You can check for open recalls by visiting NHTSA.gov and entering your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), or by contacting your local FORD dealer.

🎯Risk Areas & Recommended Actions

Based on recall data, these components require verification:

1

Seat belts

Issue: increases crash or loss-of-control risk

βœ…

If you already own this vehicle: Contact your dealer immediately to confirm seat belts recalls are complete. Recall repairs are always free.

πŸ”

If you are evaluating a used example: Request VIN and verify all seat belts recalls are completed before purchase.

Campaigns:20V25000020V222000
2

Back over prevention

Issue: increases crash or loss-of-control risk

βœ…

If you already own this vehicle: Contact your dealer immediately to confirm back over prevention recalls are complete. Recall repairs are always free.

πŸ”

If you are evaluating a used example: Request VIN and verify all back over prevention recalls are completed before purchase.

Campaigns:20V57500025V442000
3

Power train

Issue: increases crash or loss-of-control risk

βœ…

If you already own this vehicle: Contact your dealer immediately to confirm power train recall is complete. Recall repairs are always free.

πŸ”

If you are evaluating a used example: Request VIN and verify all power train recalls are completed before purchase.

Campaign:21V978000
πŸ’‘Visit NHTSA.gov or contact your FORD dealer to verify recall completion status.

🧭What This Means for You

Families with young passengers, pregnant drivers, or those with frequent highway commutes should prioritize this information.

If you're unsure, we recommend starting with a VIN check or consulting a certified mechanic.

πŸ”‘

If You Own This Vehicle

  • Verify all 9 recalls have been completed using your VIN at NHTSA.gov or through your FORD dealer.
  • If any recalls are open, schedule service immediatelyβ€”recall repairs are always free.
  • Consider setting up VIN-specific alerts to receive notification of future recalls.
πŸ›’

If You're Buying Used

  • Request full service history and documentation of all recall completions.
  • Consider whether adjacent model years (2019 or 2021) show better safety metrics.
  • Budget for thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on known problem areas.

This page is designed to help you decide, not alarm you.

Compare with Similar Vehicles

Data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Last updated: January 10, 2026.