Which engine and transmission are best for a transit…?

Ford Models Forum Ford Transit Club
1

Hello everyone

I am planning to buy my first transit 350. I have mostly rented models from 2020 and newer. Now that I am looking for a used one, I see some models with diesel engines or 3.7 liter engines instead of the 3.5 ecoboost.

Ecoboost seems fine. I have the same engine in my expedition and I am comfortable with it.

Are there any specific years or setups that are better than others?

I run a small business and need something reliable. Buying new is an option, but I prefer buying used.

I will be using it to transport passengers.

Thanks for any advice.

2

The 3.7 engine with the 6r80 transmission from 2015 to 2019 is good. The 10r80 transmission from 2020 onwards is okay but not the most dependable. It’s best to avoid diesel options.

3

Nevada said:
The 3.7 engine with the 6r80 transmission from 2015 to 2019 is good. The 10r80 transmission from 2020 onwards is okay but not the most dependable. It’s best to avoid diesel options.

Is the Ecoboost not reliable on these models?

4

I have the 2016 model with the 3.7L engine. It has over 146,000 miles and has been very reliable.

5

Basil said:
I have the 2016 model with the 3.7L engine. It has over 146,000 miles and has been very reliable.

Low mileage. I have a 2020 3.5 non-turbo with a 10-speed transmission and 579,000 miles.

6

@Cameron
Really? Is this on the original engine and transmission? I have the same vehicle with only 51,000 miles.

7

@Cameron
I thought I was doing well with a 2016 3.7 engine at 360,000 miles.

8

The 3.2L diesel was stopped in North America after the 2019 model year. I like mine, but many people have had issues with emissions control parts.

They updated the model in 2020, replacing the 3.7L naturally aspirated engine with a 3.5L in 2020. The power remains the same at 275 hp. They also switched from a 6-speed automatic to a 10-speed transmission, which has had some problems. Ecoboost remains unchanged.

9

@Lewis
I have the 3.5 non-turbo 2020 model with a 10-speed transmission and the original engine lasted 579,000 miles. The first transmission lasted 225,000 miles and the second 360,000 miles. I always carried heavy loads through hills and mountains. I am a cross-country furniture mover.

10

I think no matter what you buy, you’re always taking a risk with the 2020-2022 years. I would consider models from before or after that period.

11

I have a 2015 3.7 with 190,000 miles. The only problem is the transmission is starting to shudder.

12

Emory said:
I have a 2015 3.7 with 190,000 miles. The only problem is the transmission is starting to shudder.

Someone mentioned that torque converter failure can cause this issue and it’s quite common.

13

I just replaced the engine on my 2020 transit extended high roof. The original engine lasted 579,000 miles. I have the 3.5 non-turbo with a 10-speed transmission. It’s the best combination for the transit. It’s the most reliable vehicle I have owned. Avoid the ecoboost and diesel as they have many problems.

14

@Cameron
What is the LSD? I have a 2022 with the same engine and transmission, non-turbo 3.5 with a 10-speed and 4.10 LSD. I bought it used at 66,000 miles and it now has 68,000 miles. It’s a project van for a minimalist RV conversion and as a toy hauler.

15

Don’t go with the diesel. I believe the 3.5 is the better choice. I own and use seven vehicles, all with either 3.7 or 3.5 engines. They are excellent engines. I would consider buying new now. Passenger vans are still expensive in the used market and usually have high mileage. A dealer friend of mine just had a new passenger van priced at $53,000. It has a medium roof.