Ford E-150 problems
The Ford E-Series (also known as the Ford Econoline, Ford Econovan or Ford Club Wagon) is a range of full-size vans manufactured and marketed by the Ford Motor Company. Introduced for 1961 as the replacement of the Ford F-Series panel van, four generations of the model line have been produced. Marketed for both cargo and passenger transport configurations, the E-Series has been designed with multiple design variations for both retail and commercial sale, including vans, and commercial-grade cutaway van chassis and stripped chassis (a chassis without bodywork).
With over 8.2 million units sold since 1961, the Ford E-Series is the third-best selling van line in history (outranked only by the Ford Transit and Volkswagen Transporter). Ford retired the E-Series passenger and cargo vans after 2014, replacing them with the Ford Transit. As of current production, the E-Series remains offered exclusively in cutaway and stripped-chassis configurations. In 2021, the model line entered its 60th year of production (becoming the second current Ford line to do so).
The E-Series (cutaway/stripped chassis) is assembled by Ford at its Ohio Assembly facility (Avon Lake, Ohio), which has produced the model line since 1975. Prior to its closure, Lorain Assembly (Lorain, Ohio) assembled the model line from 1961 to 2005.
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Ford E-150 model years
Common Ford E-150 problems
The Ford E-150 is a popular vehicle for commercial and personal use, but like any vehicle, it can experience various problems. Based on complaints from owners, the most common issues with the Ford E-150 are related to the engine, electrical system, and brakes.
- Engine Problems: Engine issues are the most frequently reported problems with the Ford E-150. These problems include misfiring cylinders due to worn spark plugs or faulty ignition coils, which can cause the engine to stall or run roughly. To diagnose these issues, it is essential to inspect all spark plugs visually for signs of wear and check ignition coils for corrosion. If these steps do not resolve the issue, professional assistance from a qualified mechanic may be necessary.
- Electrical System Malfunctions: Electrical problems are also common with the Ford E-150. These issues can range from blown fuses to wiring problems, which can affect various vehicle functions, such as the climate control system and ignition system. To diagnose and repair these issues, it is essential to inspect all components related to the electrical system thoroughly, including the cooling, lubrication, and ignition systems.
- Brake Issues: Brake problems are another common issue with the Ford E-150. These problems include worn brake pads, leaking brake fluid, warped rotors, and sticking calipers. To diagnose and repair these issues, it is essential to inspect all brake components thoroughly and replace any worn or damaged parts as necessary.
In conclusion, the Ford E-150 is a reliable vehicle, but like any vehicle, it can experience various problems. To ensure optimal performance and safety, it is essential to address these issues promptly and seek professional assistance when necessary. Regular maintenance and check-ups can also help prevent potential problems from occurring.
Are Ford E150 reliable?
The probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 19% for the Ford E-150, compared to an average of 16% for commercial vans and 12% for all vehicle models. The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of a vehicle.
How long do Ford Econoline vans last?
What is the realistic life expectancy for a well-maintained gasoline cargo van such as a Ford econoline? If it doesn't rust away, a well maintained van can last INDEFINITELY, compared to what it costs to buy a NEW van to replace your old one.
When did Ford stop making E150?
Ford retired the E-Series passenger and cargo vans after 2014, replacing them with the Ford Transit. As of current production, the E-Series remains offered exclusively in cutaway and stripped-chassis configurations.
What van lasts the longest?
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Percentage distribution of complaints by Ford E-150 years
We have researched Ford problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Ford E-150 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Ford E-150 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Ford E-150 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Ford E-150 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Ford E-150 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Ford E-150 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Structure problems
- Power train problems
- Service brakes problems
- Engine problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Ford E-150 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by E-150 model years
A total of 30 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by E-150 model years
There were a total of 4 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by E-150 model years
There were a total of 32 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 466 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Ford E-150 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Ford E-150 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Ford E-150 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-15
- VIN: 1FAHP35N58W
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I purchased a 2008 Ford Focus from my father (now deceased). The airbag warning light has been on. When I had the OBD read, it came back with code # B2294 indicating a fault in a control module. My research makes me believe this vehicle should be included in NHTSA# 07V541000 (Ford # 07C19); however, both NHTSA and Ford say it isn't. I would like to find out why this particular vehicle was excluded and is there something I can do at this point to have it included.
Ford E-150 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2017-05-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-19
- VIN: 1FTNE14W77D
- Components: SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Front end camber toe in has been adjusted but keeps toeing in makes tires wear. Hard to keep going straight allways sways. Dashboard stops working and windows don't work. Started doing this at around 100,000 miles. Will turn back on and off. Sometimes gas pedal stops working Can't tell speed. There are a lot of these happening to this model
Ford E-150 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-20
- Components: SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Ford Focus. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle overheated. The coolant temperature warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with a coolant leak and a corroded subframe. The contact was informed that the subframe was significantly thin due to corrosion and that the vehicle was unsafe to drive. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 159,625. The VIN was unavailable.
Ford E-150 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-04
- Date Complaint: 2023-10-15
- VIN: 1FAHP35N68W
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: Steering began to wobble and vehicle pulling hard to the right. Took car to Tires Plus for alignment and inspection. Technician advised the drivers side front tire has advanced tread separation and the front passenger side tire is beginning to separate and is cupping. My daughter drives this car. 205/50R/16 87H, passenger tire is dot [XXX], drivers side is [XXX] . Tires rated for 65k, they only have 34k miles of wear on them. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Ford E-150 1989
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-09
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-10
- VIN: 1FDEE14NOKH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: Ignition control module fails due to excessive heat buildup, due to where the control module is located. The ignition control module needs to be relocated to a cooler area under the hood, and mounted on a large heat sink, and this new location should be where cooling airflow from front of van flows over the ignition control module and its connected heat sink. The ignition control module will fail without any warnings, no warning lamps, or any other symptoms. This problem leaves your vehicle and your passengers stranded until it cools down which can take an hour or more! Then will happen again, and again when it heats up. it has failed when I had just pulled into an intersection, when I was traveling down a city street and on the expressway! and when stopped at a stop sign or traffic light! Ford knows this problem exists in this model van and Ford's pickup truck lines, and other model Ford cars. has only addressed the problem happening to mustang models!
Ford E-150 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-27
- Date Complaint: 2023-08-27
- VIN: 1FTRE14W15H
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: After driving lightning, it loses power and a wrench appears, I already changed the gasoline pump, gasoline pump module, injection rail regulator, and it remains the same
Ford E-150 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-01
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-26
- VIN: 1FDNE1BW9CD
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Is making a grinding noise and will jerk to the right. Will flash cruise control and traction control lights.
Ford E-150 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-20
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-26
- VIN: 1FDNE1BW9CD
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SEAT BELTS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Passenger seat belt stopped working out of the blue. I've had tire sensor thing on my dash since I've bought it an I'm not sure what is happening. The horn stopped working recently. And the overhead dome light doesn't work.
Ford E-150 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-15
- Date Complaint: 2023-04-21
- VIN: 1FAHP35N58W
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The trunk when pulled open will drop down. I pulled my trunk door all they way up went to get something inside the trunk it came down and hit me on the head. This has happened before I was able to catch it before it hit me. This time it hit me on the top of the head hard and my left hand when I tried to catch it. It comes down fast and forcefully. Something is wrong and seriously injure someone. I had a cut on my hand and couldn’t see my head for laceration. But I was afraid I could have been knocked out or had a concussion. Please look into this.
Ford E-150 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-21
- Date Complaint: 2022-10-21
- VIN: 1fahp35n08w
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Ignition cylinder fails, leaving drivers stranded. Ford Focus online forums are plastered with numerous complaints about the focus ignition lock cylinder failure, and there are youtube videos showing how to repair it with tape or rigging a bypass push button ignition switch, but FORD should be fixing these issues so people are not stranded. Issue does not happen when driving, and only happens when key is off, and attempting to crank the car. Several people have complained about 500 dollar repairs that only last a few months before issue returns, and ford is very aware, but there are no recalls for the defect. I suppose a car that wont start is not considered dangerous, in itself, but the "hacks and fixes" for the issue can potentially be, and I think this deserves extreme scrutiny, as it affects several ford year models. drivers can suddenly be stranded miles from home and stuck with expensive repair costs that can render them without any transportation at all with no means of resolution.
Ford E-150 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-12
- Date Complaint: 2022-07-25
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Ford E-150. The contact stated when he exited his vehicle, the electronic running board functionality was not operating. As the contact attempted to step out of his vehicle onto the ground, he fell and injured his right knee. The contact also stated his grandson almost experienced an injury from the faulty running board. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact reported to the medical facility and received a shot in his right knee for the injury. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and diagnosed failure with a chip for the running board being inoperable. The vehicle remained at the dealer for a few days; however, was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 1,500.
Ford E-150 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-14
- Date Complaint: 2022-02-19
- VIN: 1FAHP35N38W
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Both Front Door latches have failed and will not open from the outside
Ford E-150 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-02
- Date Complaint: 2021-12-10
- VIN: 1FAHP35N08W
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Airbag light came on. The vehicle has 123,000 on it. It just recently came on the dash while driving. I see there is no recall for airbag light indicator.
Ford E-150 1990
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-17
- Date Complaint: 2021-05-19
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1fdee14h9lh
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Picked up vehicle from auto shop, work had been done on the front brakes, engine temp sensor, heater blower relay, map sensor, throttle control position sensor and ECM had been replaced. Shortly after I got on the freeway the vehicle started to accelerate very quickly W/O pushing the gas pedal hit the brakes but only slowed from 65 mph to 60. Gas pedal did not move from middle position up or down and brakes seamed mushy. Cruise control was not on, tried switching it on then off. Could not slow down, so went to great effort to avoid hitting any other vehicles. trying to slow down for an off ramp came close to crashing off the the edge into a ditch.Tried the emergency brake and downshifting. Finally turned off the key and started slowing down, car lurched forward and hit a crosswalk button pole. Utility pole was damaged also cars bumper, grill, hood, radiator, brakes, possibly transmission. State patrol arrived, vehicle towed to tow yard lot. No ticket was issued. Vehicle never had this issue prior to the auto shop updates, I notified the shop but they have not followed up on anything - they stated that they would contact their insurance provider but I do not believe they have done so. ECM computer, software, fuel system sensors were possibly not installed correctly. Vehicle is available for inspection upon request. Has not been inspected since the incident. My safety and the safety of any drivers or pedestrians in the vicinity was put at extreme risk by the vehicle operating at full throttle with no gas pedal control and no brake control.
Ford E-150 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2020-10-27
- Date Complaint: 2021-04-09
- VIN: 1FAHP35N68W
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR HANDLE NO LONGER WORKS FROM THE OUTSIDE. IT FEELS LIKE THE DOOR HANDLE ISN'T LATCHING ON TO THE MECHANISM INSIDE THE DOOR TO OPEN IT. I CAN OPEN MY DOOR FROM THE INSIDE THOUGH. I HAVE FOUND ONLINE THAT IT IS A COMMON PROBLEM AND AM CONFUSED TO WHY NO RECALLS HAVE BEEN ISSUED OUT FOR THE FAULTY DOOR HANDLE BRACKETS.
Latest 5 recalls Ford E-150
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 167 recalls for different components of the Ford E-150.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Ford E-150 2015
- Report Received Date: 2019-04-03
- Manufacturer: Mobility Specialists, Inc.
- Components: EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
- Summary: Mobility Specialists, Inc. (Mobility Specialists) is recalling certain 2014-2017 Ford E-150 and Transit vans modified to be equipped with Ricon S-Series and K-Series wheel chair lifts. The wheelchair lift positioning input cam may fail while the lift is in use, allowing the platform to travel higher than the vehicle's floor height.
- Consequence: If the wheelchair lift platform stops above the vehicle floor, the wheelchair user can tip inwards toward the vehicle when exiting the lift, increasing their risk of injury.
- Remedy: Mobility Specialists, working with Ricon, has notified the owners. Ricon will provide instructions and materials for replacing defective parts. Owners may contact Ricon customer service at 1-800-322-2884.
- Model: Ford E-150 2014
- Report Received Date: 2019-04-03
- Manufacturer: Mobility Specialists, Inc.
- Components: EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
- Summary: Mobility Specialists, Inc. (Mobility Specialists) is recalling certain 2014-2017 Ford E-150 and Transit vans modified to be equipped with Ricon S-Series and K-Series wheel chair lifts. The wheelchair lift positioning input cam may fail while the lift is in use, allowing the platform to travel higher than the vehicle's floor height.
- Consequence: If the wheelchair lift platform stops above the vehicle floor, the wheelchair user can tip inwards toward the vehicle when exiting the lift, increasing their risk of injury.
- Remedy: Mobility Specialists, working with Ricon, has notified the owners. Ricon will provide instructions and materials for replacing defective parts. Owners may contact Ricon customer service at 1-800-322-2884.
- Model: Ford E-150 2016
- Report Received Date: 2019-04-03
- Manufacturer: Mobility Specialists, Inc.
- Components: EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
- Summary: Mobility Specialists, Inc. (Mobility Specialists) is recalling certain 2014-2017 Ford E-150 and Transit vans modified to be equipped with Ricon S-Series and K-Series wheel chair lifts. The wheelchair lift positioning input cam may fail while the lift is in use, allowing the platform to travel higher than the vehicle's floor height.
- Consequence: If the wheelchair lift platform stops above the vehicle floor, the wheelchair user can tip inwards toward the vehicle when exiting the lift, increasing their risk of injury.
- Remedy: Mobility Specialists, working with Ricon, has notified the owners. Ricon will provide instructions and materials for replacing defective parts. Owners may contact Ricon customer service at 1-800-322-2884.
- Model: Ford E-150 2012
- Report Received Date: 2015-11-04
- Manufacturer: Mobility Works (WMK Inc.)
- Components: EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
- Summary: MobilityWorks (WMK Inc.) is recalling certain model year 2006-2014 Ford E-150, E-250, and E-350 vans modified by MobilityWorks to be equipped with certain model S2005, S2010, S5005, S5010, S5505, and S5510 wheelchair lifts manufactured by Ricon Corporation. The affected lifts are equipped with folding link arms that may have pivot holes that are too big, allowing the bearings to move out of position.
- Consequence: If the bearings move out of position, the stowed platform may have excessive movement resulting in failure of the platform mounting. This failure could cause the wheel chair lift platform to fall out of the vehicle when the doors are opened, increasing the risk of injury for the lift operator.
- Remedy: MobilityWorks will notify owners, and Ricon dealers will inspect the link arms for damage or for displaced bearings. The platform will be inspected for cracks. Any damaged parts will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began on December 15, 2015. Owners may contact MobilityWorks customer service at 1-800-769-8267, or Ricon Customer Service at 1-800-322-2884. Note: These vehicles and wheelchair lifts were subject to a similar recall in 2014. All vehicles that received that recall remedy are still affected by this recall as well.
- Model: Ford E-150 2013
- Report Received Date: 2015-11-04
- Manufacturer: Mobility Works (WMK Inc.)
- Components: EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
- Summary: MobilityWorks (WMK Inc.) is recalling certain model year 2006-2014 Ford E-150, E-250, and E-350 vans modified by MobilityWorks to be equipped with certain model S2005, S2010, S5005, S5010, S5505, and S5510 wheelchair lifts manufactured by Ricon Corporation. The affected lifts are equipped with folding link arms that may have pivot holes that are too big, allowing the bearings to move out of position.
- Consequence: If the bearings move out of position, the stowed platform may have excessive movement resulting in failure of the platform mounting. This failure could cause the wheel chair lift platform to fall out of the vehicle when the doors are opened, increasing the risk of injury for the lift operator.
- Remedy: MobilityWorks will notify owners, and Ricon dealers will inspect the link arms for damage or for displaced bearings. The platform will be inspected for cracks. Any damaged parts will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began on December 15, 2015. Owners may contact MobilityWorks customer service at 1-800-769-8267, or Ricon Customer Service at 1-800-322-2884. Note: These vehicles and wheelchair lifts were subject to a similar recall in 2014. All vehicles that received that recall remedy are still affected by this recall as well.
Latest negative Ford E-150 car reviews
Latest positive Ford E-150 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 1996
Your vehicle has been incredibly reliable and has required very little service. In fact, people often mistake it for a new car even though it's been 7 years since you got it. It might even become a collector's item!
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Vehicle year: 1998
This vehicle provided many reliable years of service and was our workhorse. It was even better than I expected. I would definitely recommend it to anyone. The mileage was also better than expected.
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Vehicle year: 1996
I bought this van as a MARK VIII conversion to tow my antique car and trailer. It did a great job for 13 years. Other than standard maintenance and a blown rear end and fuel pump at 150K, it has been trouble-free. I can't say enough high praises. I can see why so many contractors choose this van.
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Vehicle year: 1998
I can understand your concern about the body roll caused by the large steel shell. The current mileage of 211,985 and fuel consumption can also be challenging. However, with proper maintenance, this vehicle can still provide a satisfying experience overall.
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Vehicle year: 1998
I bought this custom E 150 Van with 4.6/V8 to pull my boat and take my family on longer trips. It's a great vehicle with lots of space, and the TV/VCR keeps things quiet with the kids. It beats the SUV I had before the Van. The engine is strong enough, and the gas mileage is around 15-16 MPG on the highway. I've never had any mechanical problems, and winter tires make it drivable in the snow. I would definitely buy it again!
Are you having problems with your Ford E-150?
Dan Swaniawski 2024-11-29
Vehicle year: 1997
This van was a great work van, except for the transmission. I put 250,000 miles on it, but unfortunately had to replace the transmission three times. However, I did a lot of stop and go driving, which may have contributed to the issue.
Winston Bernhard 2024-11-23
Vehicle year: 1997
The ownership experience of this vehicle has been frustrating due to the need for frequent repairs and maintenance. Despite spending $1000 to fix the issue, the vehicle still stalls upon backing. Upon further investigation, it was discovered that the customization package overloads the chassis, causing these problems. As a result, I have decided not to purchase a Ford vehicle again.
Jaylin Barrows 2024-11-12
Vehicle year: 1997
This van is excellent and has proven to be very reliable, with no major failures and only a few minor ones after 107,000 miles. However, the quality of the conversion package was not great (Imperial). It has a gas mileage of 12-14mpg due to the 5.7L engine with towing package. Overall, it's a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable van.
Clemens Klein 2024-11-07
Vehicle year: 1994
This van is excellent and has proven to be very reliable, with no major failures and only a few minor ones after 107,000 miles. However, the quality of the conversion package was not great (Imperial). It has a gas mileage of 12-14mpg due to the 5.7L engine with towing package. Overall, it's a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable van.
Leon Batz 2024-10-16
Vehicle year: 1998
The ownership experience of this vehicle has been frustrating due to the need for frequent repairs and maintenance. Despite spending $1000 to fix the issue, the vehicle still stalls upon backing. Upon further investigation, it was discovered that the customization package overloads the chassis, causing these problems. As a result, I have decided not to purchase a Ford vehicle again.