1FBZX2ZM5JKB528102018 FORD Transit
Executive Summary
2018 FORD Transit was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 14 open recalls on record — these are safety-critical and should be addressed immediately. 53 owner complaints include 12 reported injuries, indicating real-world safety incidents beyond normal wear.
- ▸14 open recalls including safety-critical systems (Brake system recall; Structural/frame recall)
- ▸12 injuries reported across 53 owner complaints
- ▸Engine/Powertrain is flagged in both recalls and owner complaints — double-confirmed failure pattern
- ▸Component failure cascade detected — a known defect pattern that typically leads to more severe downstream damage
No auction records available. Title brand status could not be verified — request title history from seller or state DMV.
- Make
- FORD
- Model
- Transit
- Year
- 2018
- Trim / Series
- 350
- Body Style
- Van
- Vehicle Type
- BUS
- Fuel Type
- Gasoline
- Engine
- 6-cyl 3.7L 275 hp
- Manufacturer
- FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Assembly
- KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI, UNITED STATES (USA)
- GVWR
- Class 2G: 8,001 - 9,000 lb (3,629 - 4,082 kg)
Builds F-150 and Transit. Large-volume plant with solid quality metrics.
- ▸Brake system recall
- ▸Structural/frame recall
- ▸1 complaint(s) involved a fire
- ⚠10 recalls on same component: Exterior/Other
- ⚠12 injuries reported in complaints
- ⚠Safety system appears in both official recalls and owner complaints
Lemon law eligibility depends on state law, number of repair attempts, and days out of service. Consult an attorney for actual eligibility.
The same components appear in both official NHTSA recalls and owner-filed complaints — a double-confirmed failure signal.
Worn chain tensioners cause timing chain skip or snap — common on GM 5.3L/6.2L, Ford EcoBoost, VW/Audi EA888, BMW N47/N63. Listen for cold-start rattles.
Water pump failure causes rapid overheating. If the engine overheats even once, head gasket damage is likely — turning a $400 part into a $3,000+ repair.
Degraded transmission fluid destroys clutch packs and solenoids. CVT transmissions are especially sensitive — neglected fluid can result in a $4,000–$8,000 replacement.
Degraded coolant loses corrosion inhibitors and attacks aluminum engine components. Can cause head gasket failure and water pump corrosion.
Worn spark plugs cause misfires that can foul and crack catalytic converters. A $150 tune-up can prevent a $1,200 catalytic converter replacement.
Dirty or failing injectors cause rough idle, reduced fuel economy, and increased emissions. Cleaning costs $100–$200; replacement $800–$1,600.
One failed component has created stress on connected systems. Repair costs compound quickly — a $500 fix can become $3,000+ if cascade damage is ignored.
NHTSA VIN-specific recall lookup returned no data for this VIN. The 14 recalls below are model-wide and may or may not apply to this exact vehicle depending on production date. Verify at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
1 of 14 recalls has a low industry completion rate — statistically likely unrepaired.
Statistical model based on recall age, component type, and manufacturer. Not a repair confirmation. Demand dealer service records.
FORD completes recalls at a good rate (89%), averaging about 18 months to remedy. Most affected vehicles are fixed.
Avg time to remedy open recall: ~18 months · Source: NHTSA Recall Completion Rate Reports
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT
SummaryXL Hybrids, Inc (XL) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Ford Transit vehicles modified to be equipped with XL's electric hybrid system. The cardan (universal) joint on the front driveshaft may fail, possibly causing the front driveshaft to detach.Read full details...
~31% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
STRUCTURE:EMERGENCY:ESCAPE/EGRESS/EXIT
SummaryLA West Inc. (LA West) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Ford Transit vehicles modified to be equipped with glass roof hatches. Temperature and vibration stresses may cause the tempered glass roof hatch to shatter.Read full details...
~31% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
SEATS
SummaryNew England Wheels (New England) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Ford Transit and 2014-2019 Ram Promaster 2500 and 3500 vehicles modified to be equipped with Freedman Go-ES Foldaway seats. When the back seat cushion is rotated from the stowed position to the upright position, the seat cushion may not remain locked into place when under load, such as in a crash or a sudden stop.Read full details...
~37% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
SEATS
SummaryQuality Van Sales, Inc. (Quality Van) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Ford Transit and E-350 vehicles modified to be equipped with Freedman GO-ES Foldaway Seat back cushions. The seat cushion may not remain locked into place when under load, such as in a crash or a sudden stop. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 207, "Seating Systems."Read full details...
~37% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
SEATS
SummaryNational Van Builders, Inc. (National Van) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Ford Transit vehicles equipped with Freedman GO-ES Foldaway Seats, part numbers 43705, 45467, 48923, and 75719. When the back seat cushion is rotated from the stowed position to the upright position, the seat cushion may not remain locked into place when under load, such as in a crash or a sudden stop. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 207, "Seating Systems."Read full details...
~37% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
SEATS
SummaryPrime-Time Specialty Vehicles (Prime-Time) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Ram ProMaster and Ford Transit vehicles modified to be equipped with Freedman GO-ES Foldaway Seats. When the seat back cushion is rotated from the stowed position to the upright position, the seat cushion may not remain locked into place when under load, such as in a crash or a sudden stop.Read full details...
~37% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
SEATS
SummaryWaldoch Crafts, Inc. (Waldoch) is recalling certain 2018 Ford Transit shuttle vans modified to be equipped with Freedman GO-ES Foldaway Seats, part number 43705. When the back seat cushion is rotated from the stowed position to the upright position, the seat cushion may not remain locked into place when under load, such as in a crash or a sudden stop.Read full details...
~37% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
SEATS
SummaryFenton Mobility Products, Inc. (Fenton Mobility) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Ford Transit vehicles modified to be equipped with Freedman GO-ES Foldaway Seats, part numbers 43705, 45467, 48923, and 75719. When the back seat cushion is rotated from the stowed position to the upright position, the seat cushion may not remain locked into place when under load, such as in a crash or a sudden stop.Read full details...
~37% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
PARKING BRAKE:CONVENTIONAL:MECHANICAL:LINKAGE AND CABLE
SummaryFord 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.Read full details...
~24% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
SEATS
SummaryCabot Coach Builders, Inc. DBA Royale Limousine (Royale) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Ford Transit-based mini-coaches equipped with Freedman GO-ES foldaway seats recalled under 18E-076. When the back seat cushion is rotated from the stowed position to the upright position, the seat cushion may not remain locked into place when under load, such as in a crash or a sudden stop.Read full details...
~37% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
SEATS
SummaryMobility Transportation Services (MobilityTrans) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Ford Transit and Ram Promaster vehicles and 2014-2015 Ford Econoline vehicles modified to be equipped with Freedman GO-ES Foldaway Seats, part numbers 43705, 45467, 48923, and 75719. When the back seat cushion is rotated from the stowed position to the upright position, the seat cushion may not remain locked into place when under load, such as in a crash or a sudden stop.Read full details...
~37% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
SEATS
SummaryTransitWorks is recalling certain 2015-2018 Ford Transit, 2018 Ford Transit Connect, and 2016 Dodge Ram ProMaster vehicles modified to be equipped with Freedman Seating GO-ES seats. When the back seat cushion is rotated from the stowed position to the upright position, the seat cushion may not remain locked into place when under load, such as in a crash or a sudden stop.Read full details...
~37% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
SEATS
SummaryVantage Mobility International, LLC (Vantage) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Ford Transit Van, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, and 2007 Ford F-250-based shuttle vehicles equipped with Freedman GO-3S foldaway seats. When the back seat cushion is rotated from the stowed position to the upright position, the seat cushion may not remain locked into place when under load, such as in a crash or a sudden stop.Read full details...
~37% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
SummaryFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Lincoln MKC, Mustang, F-350 SD, F-250 SD, F-450 SD, 2015-2017 Lincoln Navigator, Expedition, 2015-2018 Edge, Transit Connect, 2016-2019 F-550 SD, Transit, 2017-2019 Econoline, and 2019 Ranger vehicles. The rearview camera may display a distorted, inverted, or blank image when the vehicle is in reverse.Read full details...
~65% of these vehicles are statistically unrepaired
High RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
⚠ One or more recalls have been open for over 5 years — may never have been repaired on this vehicle.
50% of complaints about "STRUCTURE:EMERGENCY:ESCAPE/EGRESS/EXIT" were filed AFTER recall campaign 19V439000 (2019-11-06) — the recall remedy may not have fully resolved the issue.
Continuing complaints after a recall may indicate an inadequate fix, a new failure mode, or that many vehicles never had the recall performed. Verify recall completion status directly with NHTSA.
1 in 4 complaints involved an injury — significantly above average, indicating real-world safety incidents.
▸ Head gasket failure and engine overheating — EGR cooler failure is the leading cause of catastrophic engine failure on diesel engines
▸ Loss of brake assist and ABS in emergency — can significantly extend stopping distances
The blue line shows 53 total NHTSA complaints filed over 9 years, with the worst year being 2023 (10 complaints).
The amber reliability line is declining — recent years score around 53/100, lower than earlier in the vehicle's life. This pattern indicates issues are accumulating over time rather than being resolved, which is a concern for used buyers.
The recalls (red dashed lines) were issued in the same year or before complaints peaked, suggesting the manufacturer identified and acted on the defect relatively quickly.
Red dots on the amber line flag 2025, a year when complaints included crash events — these are the highest-severity incidents in the dataset.
1.5L and 1.6L EcoBoost engines in select Ford vehicles develop a cylinder head crack that allows coolant to enter the combustion chamber without visible external leak. This can cause engine stalling, misfires, and severe damage. Ford extended coverage under Customer Satisfaction Program 15B22 and related programs.
Coverage eligibility depends on your VIN, original sale date, and current mileage. Always verify with an authorized dealer or manufacturer customer service — programs may have been updated since this database was compiled.
Estimated 5-year cost of ownership: $41,114 (~$685/mo). Repair risk buffer is standard due to vehicle risk profile.
15% baseline recall probability — no strong indicators of an imminent recall.
- ▸Multiple prior recalls — pattern of safety issues on this model
Maintenance intervals vary significantly by make, model, year, engine, and driving conditions. Always follow the manufacturer's official schedule — not generic industry estimates.
Tip: Request the seller's service records and compare against the manufacturer schedule. Missing intervals are a negotiation point.
Based on 2024 national avg ($2,011/yr full coverage). Individual rates vary by driver, location & insurer. Always compare 3+ quotes.
FORD has been fined $17M+ by NHTSA. Most recently in 2015: Failure to timely file Early Warning Reports on defect data.
Select your state to see what consumer protection laws, lemon law coverage, and title disclosure requirements apply to this vehicle purchase.
Vehicle Identity
| VIN | 1FBZX2ZM5JKB52810 |
| Model Year | 2018 |
| Make | FORD |
| Model | Transit |
| Series | 350 |
| Vehicle Type | BUS |
Body & Configuration
| Body Style | Van |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
Engine
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Displacement (L) | 3.7 |
| Horsepower | 275 |
Manufacturer
| Manufacturer | FORD MOTOR COMPANY |
| Assembly City | KANSAS CITY |
| Assembly Country | UNITED STATES (USA) |
VIN Structure
| WMI (Chars 1–3) | 1FB |
| Check Digit (Char 9) | 5 |
| Model Year Code (Char 10) | J |
| Plant Code (Char 11) | K |
| Sequence (Chars 12–17) | B52810 |
Safety Data
| NHTSA Recall Count | 14 |
| NHTSA Complaint Count | 53 |
Disclaimer: Data sourced from NHTSA public APIs and scraped auction listings. For informational purposes only. Not a substitute for a paid vehicle history report. Retrieved: 5/4/2026, 3:29:54 PM.