1998 Ford E-350 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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Common 1998 Ford E-350 problems
The Ford E-350 from 1998 is known for a few common problems, primarily related to transmission issues, lack of heat, and exhaust leaks.
- Lack of Heat: The 1998 Ford E-350 can experience a lack of heat due to a broken blend door or gears stuck in the heater control motor assembly. This issue can be identified by checking the diverter door in the air box, which is located on the passenger side, under the dashboard.
- Exhaust Leak: The Ford E-350 has a common issue with exhaust leaks caused by broken manifold bolts. The exhaust manifold is responsible for collecting all of the engine's emissions, burning them up, and sending them out via the exhaust pipe. The area where the manifold is bolted to the engine can expand in size when exposed to extreme heat, which can cause the bolts to snap over time. This issue is more common in vans with the Ford Triton family of engines, which use aluminum heads instead of cast-iron.
These common problems with the 1998 Ford E-350 can help potential buyers or current owners identify and address potential issues with their vehicles.
How reliable are Ford E-350?
Ratings & reliability
RepairPal gave the Ford E-350 an overall reliability rating of 2 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Average. This rating ranks Ford E-350 21st out of 24 among Commercial Vans.
What is the gas mileage on a 1998 Ford E-350?
Fuel Economy
| City | 12 mpg |
|---|---|
| Highway | 16 mpg |
| Combined | 14 mpg |
What engine is in a Ford E-350?
Powertrain
| Engine | Configuration | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Ford Triton V8 | 5.4 L (330 cu in) SOHC 2V V8 | E-150, E-250, E-350 E-450 (2008–2016) |
| Ford Triton V10 | 6.8 L (413 cu in) SOHC 2V V10 | E-350, E-450, E-550 |
| Ford Boss V8 | 6.2 L (379 cu in) SOHC 2V V8 | E-350, E-450 |
| Ford Godzilla V8 | 7.3 L (445 cu in) OHV 2V V8 | E-350, E-450 |
What is the gas mileage on a 1988 Ford E-350 motorhome?
Based on data from 5 vehicles, 103 fuel-ups and 14,117 miles of driving, the 1988 Ford E-350 Econoline gets a combined Avg MPG of 6.60 with a 0.39 MPG margin of error. Below you can see a distribution of the fuel-ups with 13 outliers (11.21%) removed.
How reliable are Ford E-350?
Ratings & reliability
RepairPal gave the Ford E-350 an overall reliability rating of 2 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Average. This rating ranks Ford E-350 21st out of 24 among Commercial Vans.
What is the gas mileage on a 1998 Ford E-350?
Fuel Economy
| City | 12 mpg |
|---|---|
| Highway | 16 mpg |
| Combined | 14 mpg |
What engine is in a Ford E-350?
Powertrain
| Engine | Configuration | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Ford Triton V8 | 5.4 L (330 cu in) SOHC 2V V8 | E-150, E-250, E-350 E-450 (2008–2016) |
| Ford Triton V10 | 6.8 L (413 cu in) SOHC 2V V10 | E-350, E-450, E-550 |
| Ford Boss V8 | 6.2 L (379 cu in) SOHC 2V V8 | E-350, E-450 |
| Ford Godzilla V8 | 7.3 L (445 cu in) OHV 2V V8 | E-350, E-450 |
How much can a 1998 Ford E-350 tow?
Used 1998 Ford E-350 - Specs & Features
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Overall width without mirrors | 79.3 in. |
| Height | 84.1 in. |
| Wheelbase | 138.0 in. |
| Maximum towing capacity | 6,500 lbs. |
1998 Ford E-350 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford E-350 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Tires problems
- Service brakes problems
- Fuel system problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Ford E-350 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1998 Ford E-350
The NHTSA has received 64 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Ford E-350. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1998 Ford E-350 vehicles.
2022-08-13
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-12
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1ftss34l5wh
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: When braking hard, braking power declines after mid peddle range, resulting in crash. Had taken to dealer many years earlier for ABS recall fix.
2020-01-23
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-01
- VIN: 1FDWE30S3WH
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: SPARK PLUGS POTENTIALLY EJECT FROM CYLINDER HEADS DUE TO BAD ENGINEERING DESIGN USING ALUMINUM HEADS WITH INSUFFICIENT AMOUNT OF THREADS TO HOLD SPARK PLUGS WHEN IN MOTION. NEWER VEHICLES WERE RE-ENGINEERED TO ELIMINATE THIS HAPPENING. REQUEST RECALL AND REPAIR.
2018-10-15
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-10
- VIN: 1FTSS34L4WH
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD E-350 EQUIPPED WITH STARFIRE SF-510 TIRES, SIZE LT245-75-R16 (NA). WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS AT AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR A STATE INSPECTION, THE SIDEWALL OF THE REAR DRIVER'S SIDE TIRE WAS FOUND WITH INTERNAL INDENTATIONS. THE MECHANIC STATED THAT THE TIRE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE TIRE WAS NOT REPLACED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT CONTACTED. THE DOT NUMBER WAS UNKNOWN. THE TIRE AND VEHICLE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000.
2014-01-27
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-01-23
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FBSS31SXWH
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FOR E-350. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VAN WAS IDLE WHEN HE NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM THE INSTRUMENT PANEL AND VENTS. THE VEHICLE BECAME ENGULFED IN FLAMES. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FLAMES. A FIRE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 200,000.
2012-06-24
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-06-23
- VIN: 1FDSS34F6WH
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I RECENTLY HAD A PROBLEM AND STILL HAVE WITH THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR DOOR OF NOT BEING ABLE TO OPEN IT. I GOT OUT OF THE MY FORD VAN AND WENT AROUND TO THE SIDE DOOR TO OPEN IT UP TO GET MY DOGS OUT OF IT. I COULD NOT OPEN THE SIDE DOOR, I THOUGHT THE DOORS HAD SOMEHOW GOT LOCKED AND I WAS PANICING. IT WAS VERY HOT AND I KNEW I HAD TO GET MY DOGS OUT FAST. I WAS HUNTING FOR SOMETHING TO BREAK THE WINDOW OUT WITH BUT HAD NO LUCK FINDING ANYTHING. AFTER ABOUT 20 OR SO MINUTES I FINALLY NOTICED THAT THE FRONT DOOR LOCKS WERE IN THE UP POSITION INDICATING THAT THE DOORS WERE NOT LOCKED. I WAS ABLE TO OPEN THE FRONT DOOR SAVING ME FROM HAVING TOO BREAK OUT THE GLASS AND THEN I WAS ABLE TO GET INTO THE VAN AND OPEN THE REAR DOOR. I LOVE MY DOGS BUT WHAT IF THIS HAD BEEN A CHILD.AND COULDN'T OPEN THE DOORS IN TIME. LUCKLY I DISCOVERED THAT THE FRONT DOORS WERE NOT LOCKED AND THAT IT WAS A MALFUNCTION OF THE BACK DOOR MAKING IT IMPOSSIBLE TO OPEN THAT DOOR. THE RESULTS COULD HAVE BEEN DISTRASTROUS AND NOT TO MENTION THE COST OF REPAIRING THE WINDOW HAD I BEEN ABLE TO BREAK IT, THINGS TURNED OUT WELL THANK GOODNESS BUT IF IT SHOULD HAPPEN TO SOMEONE ELSE THE RESULTS COULD BE VERY DIFFERENT. THIS IS SUNDAY AND I NOW HAVE TO GET MY VAN TO A FORD DEALER TO FIX THE REAR DOOR SO I CAN OPEN IT UP AS I STILL CAN'T OPEN IT UP FROM THE OUTSIDE.. I THINK THE IS A SERIOUS SAFETY PROBLEM THAT SHOULD BE ADDRESSED. *TR
2011-03-23
FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-12-15
- VIN: 1FTSE34F8WH
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD E-350. WHILE DRIVING THE CONTACT EXPERIENCED A LOSS OF POWER AND THE ENGINE WOULD BEGAN TO MALFUNCTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WHO CONFIRMED THAT THE FUEL SYSTEM WAS DELAMINATING. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 198,910 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 202,300.
2011-03-03
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-13
- VIN: 1FTSS34F4WH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: 1998 FORD E 350 POWERSTROKE 7.3 DIESEL. THE CAMSHAFT POSITIONING SENSOR (CPS) FAILURE IS A SERIOUS PROBLEM THAT FORD WILL HAVE TO DEAL WITH. I HAVE HAD THREE INSTANCES OF THE UNIT FAILING ON ME SINCE THIS FIRST ONE ON DEC 13TH, 2007. IN THE FIRST CASE, I WAS TAKING MY SON TO SCHOOL. THE VAN WAS SPUTTERING THE WHOLE WAY AND I EVENTUALLY HAD TO HAVE IT TOWED TO A REPAIR SHOP AFTER A COMPLETE ENGINE FAILURE. FORD HAD JUST ISSUED THE RECALL ON DEC 6TH, 2007, AND THEY HONORED THE REPAIR. THE SECOND CPS INCIDENT HAPPENED ON FEB 23RD, 2010. THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START; I HAD IT TOWED TO A REPAIR SHOP AFTER GETTING A PARKING TICKET. I CANNOT FIND PROOF THAT FORD HONORED THE REPAIR. THE 3RD CPS INCIDENT HAPPENED ON SUNDAY FEB 27TH, 2011, ONE YEAR AFTER THE 2ND INCIDENT. I WAS IN FLAGSTAFF, AZ DURING A SNOWSTORM, AND THE VEHICLE WAS FAILING ON ME ON ROUTE 66. IT STALLED TWICE ON THE MAIN HIGHWAY AS THE SNOWPLOWS WHIPPED AROUND ME. I GOT BACK TO WHERE I WAS STAYING, AND WAITED UNTIL MONDAY MORNING WHEN I HAD IT TOWED TO A REPAIR SHOP AND HAD THE CPS UNIT REPLACED. THIS ENGINE IS UNSAFE AND UNRELIABLE. THE CPS UNIT CAN FAIL AT ANYTIME, ANYWHERE, AND MAYBE AT ANY SPEED, THOUGH MY ISSUES WERE AT LOW SPEED OR AT STARTUP. FORD WILL NOT HONOR THIS LATEST INCIDENT BECAUSE THEY SAY AFTER MY FIRST REPLACEMENT IN DEC 2007 THAT MY 'CASE WAS CLOSED'. *TR
2011-03-03
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-13
- VIN: 1FTSS34F4WH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: POWERSTROKE 7.3 DIESEL. THE CAMSHAFT POSITIONING SENSOR (CPS) FAILURE IS A SERIOUS PROBLEM THAT FORD WILL HAVE TO DEAL WITH. I HAVE HAD THREE INSTANCES OF THE UNIT FAILING ON ME SINCE THIS FIRST ONE ON DEC 13TH, 2007. IN THE FIRST CASE, I WAS TAKING MY SON TO SCHOOL. THE VAN WAS SPUTTERING THE WHOLE WAY AND I EVENTUALLY HAD TO HAVE IT TOWED TO A REPAIR SHOP AFTER A COMPLETE ENGINE FAILURE. FORD HAD JUST ISSUED THE RECALL ON DEC 6TH, 2007, AND THEY HONORED THE REPAIR. THE SECOND CPS INCIDENT HAPPENED ON FEB 23RD, 2010. THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START; I HAD IT TOWED TO A REPAIR SHOP AFTER GETTING A PARKING TICKET. I CANNOT FIND PROOF THAT FORD HONORED THE REPAIR. THE 3RD CPS INCIDENT HAPPENED ON SUNDAY FEB 27TH, 2011, ONE YEAR AFTER THE 2ND INCIDENT. I WAS IN FLAGSTAFF, AZ DURING A SNOWSTORM, AND THE VEHICLE WAS FAILING ON ME ON ROUTE 66. IT STALLED TWICE ON THE MAIN HIGHWAY AS THE SNOWPLOWS WHIPPED AROUND ME. I GOT BACK TO WHERE I WAS STAYING, AND WAITED UNTIL MONDAY MORNING WHEN I HAD IT TOWED TO A REPAIR SHOP AND HAD THE CPS UNIT REPLACED. THIS ENGINE IS UNSAFE AND UNRELIABLE. THE CPS UNIT CAN FAIL AT ANYTIME, ANYWHERE, AND MAYBE AT ANY SPEED, THOUGH MY ISSUES WERE AT LOW SPEED OR AT STARTUP. FORD WILL NOT HONOR THIS LATEST INCIDENT BECAUSE THEY SAY AFTER MY FIRST REPLACEMENT IN DEC 2007 THAT MY "CASE WAS CLOSED IN 2007".
2010-08-06
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-08-05
- VIN: 1FBSS31S5WH
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: BRAKE LINE CORROSION THAT LET FLUID DRAIN AND CAUSED BRAKE FAILURE. *TR
2009-11-05
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-11-03
- VIN: 1FDKE30S5VH
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: I PURCHASED A TOTAL OF 7 MICHELIN LTX M/S TIRES LT225/75R16 E FOR MY MINI MOTORHOME. THEY ARE DRY-ROTTING RIGHT OFF THE RIMS. THIS IS AN ESTABLISHED PROBLEM. WHEN I WAS DIRECTED TO A DEALER (FORREST TIRE OF ARTESIA, NM) I WAS OFFERED A DISCOUNT ON BUYING MORE TIRES. I WAS EXTREMELY DISMAYED THAT MICHELIN WAS QUERYING THE TIRE DEALER ABOUT THE MAKE, MODEL, YEAR AND MILEAGE OF MY MOTORHOME! WHAT HAS THAT GOT TO DO WITH DEFECTIVE/DANGEROUS TIRES? I SPOKE WITH A MAN WHO HAD THE SAME PROBLEM WITH LTX M/S TIRES THAT CAME ON HIS NEW PICKUP AND THEY WERE REPLACED FOR MOUNTING AND BALANCING ONLY. I PURCHASED TWO FOR THE FRONT, BUT SIMPLY CAN'T BUY ALL 7 ON SOCIAL SECURITY, THEN SUE MICHELIN. THESE ARE LOT NUMBERS B3JH FBXX 0905, 0205, AND 4204. I CAN SCRAPE DRIED RUBBER OFF THE SIDEWALL WITH MY FINGERNAIL! THIS IS DANGEROUS, AND I AM SITTING HERE AFRAID TO DRIVE ON THE HIGHWAY, WAITING FOR SOMETHING TO HAPPEN. *TR
2008-12-23
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-10-10
- VIN: 1FTSS34S7WH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: BLOWN SPARK PLUG THREADS. REPAIRED BY SELF USING TIMESERT REPAIR KIT MANUFACTURED SPECIFICALLY FOR THIS ENGINE AND PROBLEM. *TR
2008-12-09
FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-12-08
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL
- Summary: FUEL TANK LINING DETERIORATING. I HAVE FOUND FLAKES IN MY LAST FOUR FUEL FILTERS. VEHICLE LOSS OF POWER, THEN ROUGH RUNNING. THE FLAKES ARE IN THE FILTER I HAVE ADDED BETWEEN TANK AND FUEL PUMP. THEY ARE SMALL PIECES OF GREY OR SILVER PAINT. I AM GOING TO HAVE TO REPLACE FUEL TANK IN ORDER TO RECTIFY THE PROBLEM. I REPLACED THE FILTER THIS MORNING, PUT APPROX. 90 MILES ON VAN AND FOUND SEVERAL OUNCES IN THE FILTER THIS EVENING. *TR
2008-08-02
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-05-15
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: SEVERE CRACKING OF SIDEWALLS OF MOTORHOME TIRES THAT ARE ONLY 3 YEARS OLD. CRACKING BEGAN IN LESS THAN ONE YEAR. *TR
2008-05-10
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-04-15
- VIN: 1FTSS34LXWH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: E-350 WITH 68,000 MILES #1 SPARKPLUG BLOWOUT FROM CYLINDER HEAD MARCH 2002 SAME MOTOR WITH 183,000 #7 SPARKPLUG BLOWOUT FROM CYLINDER HEAD SAME MOTOR WITH 288,849 #3 SPARKPLUG BLOWOUT FROM CYLINDER HEAD. *TR
2008-03-03
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-11-24
- VIN: 1FDWE30S8WH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I BELIEVE THE EVENTS LEADING TO THE FAILURE IN MY MOTOR HOME STARTED WITH THE FIRST RECALL (SEPT. 2007)THAT SAID THAT A FUSE-ABLE LINK HAD TO BE INSTALLED IN THE BRAKE SYSTEM TO PREVENT A POSSIBLE FIRE HAZARD. I COMPLIED. SHORTLY THERE AFTER MY ABS LIGHT STARTED BLINKING ON AND OFF IRREGULARLY. THEN AFTER A VERY FEW MILES IT STAYED ON ALL THE TIME THE ENGINE WAS RUNNING. I CALLED THE DEALER WHERE THE RECALL WAS PERFORMED AND THEY SAID THAT THE ABS HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH THE RECALL ISSUE . THAT MY BRAKES WOULD STILL WORK, THAT THE ABS JUST EFFECTS THE NONE SKID PREVENTION IN SLIPPERY CONDITIONS. WE TOOK THE MOTOR HOME ON A TRIP TO BIRMINGHAM, (ABOUT 100 MILES) DURING THE THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY. ON 11-24-07 WHILE LEAVING THE CAMPGROUNDS AT ABOUT 20 MPH THE ENGINE QUIT LIKE YOU TURNED OFF THE KEY. A MINOR INSPECTION INDICATED THE MAIN POWER FUSE TO THE COMPUTER HAD BLOWN. . I HAD A WRECKER TOW THE MOTOR HOME TO A DEALERSHIP. THE FOLLOWING MONDAY MORNING I CONTACTED THE SERVICE CENTER AND TOLD THEM WHAT HAD HAPPENED, THEY CHECKED IT OUT AND CALLED ME AND SAID THAT A VERY EXPENSIVE WIRING HARNESS HAD WAS SHORTED OUT BY A O2 SENSOR AND IT WOULD COST AROUND $1750.00 TO FIX IT. I SAID OK, FIX IT. AFTER THE REPAIRS WERE DONE I BROUGHT IT HOME AND HAVEN'T USED IT SENSE. IN FEBRUARY 2008 I GOT ANOTHER RECALL NOTICE THAT THE PART THEY PUT IN MY MOTOR HOME IN THE PREVIOUS RECALL WAS NOT COMPATIBLE WITH MY SYSTEM AND COULD CAUSE A FIRE AT ANY TIME AND IT WAS IMPORTANT THAT IT BE CHANGED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. I COMPLIED. MY QUESTION AND CONCERN IS CAN I TRUST THIS 1998 FORD F350 ON THE ROAD. ALSO I AM RETIRED ON A FIXED INCOME AND I DON'T THINK I SHOULDN'T BE EXPECTED TO BARE THE COST OF AN OBVIOUS AUTOMOBILE MANUFACTURE SCREW UP. MY MOTOR HOME HAD AROUND 25,000 MILES ON IT WHEN ALL THIS HAPPENED. *TR
2005-11-23
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-03-10
- VIN: 1FBSS31S0WH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ORIGINAL OWNER OF 1998 FORD E350 EXTENDED-LENGTH XLT. AT THE TIME OF THE INCIDENT, THE CAR HAD ABOUT 98,000 MILES. I WAS AT A STOP LIGHT, THE LIGHT TURNED GREEN AND I PROCEEDED THROUGH THE INTERSECTION. I COULDN'T HAVE BEEN DOING MORE THAN 15 MPH. I HEARD A LOUD BANG AND THEN THE VAN STARTED TO MAKE A LOUD NOISE. I PUT THE VAN IN NEUTRAL AND COASTED THROUGH THE INTERSECTION. I HAD THE VAN TOWED TO BUTTERFIELD FORD. THEY TOLD ME THAT THE SPARK PLUG HAD BLOWN OUT OF THE CYLINDER, PLUG COIL BROKE IN HALF, CRACKED THE HEAD. FORD WOULD REPAIR THE VAN BUT WOULD NOT OFFER ME A WARRANTY FOR THE WORK DONE. SO, I HAD THE VAN TOWED TO A LOCAL MECHANIC WHO REPAIRED THE VAN (REFURBISHED ENGINE) FOR $4,500 AND THEY GAVE ME A 100,000 MILE WARRANTY ON THE ENGINE. *JB
2005-04-22
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1901-01-01
- VIN: 1FBNE31L2WH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 1998 FORD XLT E350 SPARK PLUGS BLEW OUT ON ENGINE.*MR UPON STARTING THE CAR IT MADE A HORRIBLE ROCKET. IT BLEW THE SPARK PLUG OUT OF THE HOOD. CONSUMER SENT A FEW INTERNET ARTICLES CONCERNING THIS PROBLEM. FORD ENGINE-SPARK PLUG DEFECT. *BF
2005-01-19
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-10-13
- VIN: 1FTSE34F8WH
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THE VEHICLE HAD A CRACKED FUEL TANK. CURRENTLY, THE MANUFACTURER IS CONDUCTING A RECALL FOR THIS DEFECT. HOWEVER, BASED ON THE INFORMATION PROVIDED BY THE CONSUMER, THE MANUFACTURER DID NOT INCLUDE THIS VEHICLE IN THE RECALL ALTHOUGH IT HAS ALL THE SYMPTOMS AS THOSE WHICH ARE INCLUDED. PROVIDE FURTHER DETAILS. *JB RECALL CAMPAIGN; NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER : 01V114000. THE CONSUMER STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS REPAIRED AT HER EXPENSE. *TC
2003-12-24
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-08-11
- Crash: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: BRAKE FAILURE RESULTED IN VEHICLE REAR ENDING ANOTHER VEHICLE.*MR WHILE ATTEMPTING TO STOP THE VEHICLE'S BRAKES FAILED AND AS A RESULT THE VEHICLE REAR ENDED A STOPPED VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS RENTED FROM UHAUL. A UHAUL TECHNICIAN CAME AND INSPECTD THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN TOWED IN FOR REPAIRS ( OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT). *NM
2003-07-11
FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1FDSS34F6WH
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL
- Summary: WHEN THE CONSUMER FILLED THE GAS TANK, HE SMELLED A STRONG ODOR OF GAS, WHEN THE CONSUMER LOOKED UNDER THE VEHICLE, HE NOTICED FUEL DRIPPING OFF THE BOTTOM OF THE FUEL TANK*AK . THE CONSUMER STATED WHEN THE TANK WAS FULL IT LEAKED VERY BAD AND ONLY WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS MOVING. AS THE FUEL IN THE TANK BECAME LOW THE LEAK SLOWED DOWN, THE CONSUMER LEARNED OF A RECALL, HOWEVER THE CONSUMER WAS INFORMED NO RECALL HAD BEEN ISSUED FOR THE VEHICLE. PH *JB
2003-05-14
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-05-10
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: HELLO, I'VE BEEN READING ABOUT THE SAFETY ISSUE WITH THESE 15 PASSENGER VANS. HAS ANY ONE CONSIDERED THE ADDITION OF DUAL REAL TIRES ON THESE VEHICLES? IT HAS BEEN NOTED THAT THE LARGER MINI BUSES ARE SAFER, AND I NOTICED THAT THEY ALL HAVE DUAL REAR TIRES. AND THE E-350 VAN I KNOW IS BUILT ON THE SUPER DUTY FORD 250/350 CHASSIS WHICH CAN BE ORDERED WITH DUAL REAR TIRES? WOULDN'T THESE MAKE THE CHANCE OF ROLLOVERS LESS? THANKS TOM. *NLM
2002-12-20
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-11-25
- VIN: 1FBSS31L1WH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: 1998 FORD E350 VAN 5.4L V8 BLEW A SPARK PLUG WHEN STARTING ENGINE. SPARK PLUGS WAS CHANGED BY FORD DEALER AT 90,000 MILES PLUG BLEW WITH 122,000 MILES. FORD DEALER REMOVED HEAD, INSTALLED SPARK PLUG INSERT AND CHARGED ME $1700.00 . I BELIEVE SPARK PLUGS SHOULD NEVER BLOW OUT OF CYLINDER HEAD WHEN INSTALLED BY A FORD TRAINED MECHANIC. THE SPARK PLUG FORD USES HAS ONLY 6 THREADS ON IT. THAT IS NOT ENOUGH THREADS FOR A ALUMINUM HEAD. THIS IS A ENGINE DESIGN ERROR.TS
2002-08-27
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-08-25
- VIN: 1FBSS31L9WH
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHILE PARKED IN DRIVEWAY AND I WAS LOADING MY KIDS IN THE VAN, MY 2 YEAR OLD CHILD JUMPED INTO FRONT SEAT, AND SHIFTED THE AUTMATIC TRANSMISSION INTO REVERSE OR NEUTRAL (NOT SURE), ALLOWING VAN TO START ROLLING FORWARD (IT WAS BACKED INTO DRIVEWAY, SO THE FRONT OF THE VAN WAS DOWNHILL) I WAS STANDING IN FRONT OF THE VAN, AND IT WAS JUST STARTING TO ROLL SO IT WAS GOING SLOWING SO I AND A COUPLE OF OTHER GUYS WHO WERE STANDING THERE WITH ME WERE ABLE TO JUMP IN FRONT OF THE FAN AND STOP IT, I THEN JUMPED IN AND APPLIED THE PARKING BRAKE AND SHIFTED IT BACK INTO PARK. THERE WAS NO WAY THE BRAKE COULD HAVE BEEN PUSHED WHILE THE VAN WAS SHIFTED, AS THE 2 YEAR OLD COULD NOT REACH THE BRAKE.*AK
2002-08-15
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: IFDWE30SXWH
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: ALWAYS PULLS TO THE LEFT WHEN BRAKING. LEFT FRONT LOCKS UP AND SKIDS WHIN BRAKING FOR A SOTP ON WET PAVEMENT OR ON UNPAVED SURFACES. SAME OCCURS WHEN LOOSE MATERIAL IS ON PAVED SURFACE. BRAKE COMPONENTS (SHOES, CALIPERS, ETC ) HAVE BEEN REPLACED BY THE DEALER AT CONSIDERABLE EXPENSE WITH NO IMPROVEMENT. THERE WAS A BLUE RING ON THE LEFT FRONT ROTOR WHEN WORK WAS DONE. WHEN THE LEFT FRONT SKIDS THERE IS NO BRAKING. FORTUNATELY IT ONLY HAPPENS UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS (AT LOW SPEEDS) RESULTING IN ONLY 20-30 OCCURRENCES IN 94,00 MILES. THE PULL IS COMPENSATED FOR ON DRY CONDITIONS BY INCREASED STEERING EFFORT AND BY THE STEERING STABILIZER. THE DEALER (GILMORE FORD) HAS BEEN ABLE TO VERIFY THE CONDITION BUT UNABLE TO CORRECT. I HAVE BEEN UNABLE TO CONTACT A FOCTORY TECH. REPRESENTATIVE. I UNDERSTAND THAT THERE ARE OTHERS WITH THIS SAME PROBLEM BUT NOT MANY DRIVE AS MUCH AS I AND MAY CONSIDER THE INDIVIDUAL OCCURRENCE UNIQUE. IT IS ALSO POSSIBLE THAT LOW SPEED ACCIDENTS HAVE OCCURRED AND JUST BEEN CONSIDERED "OVER DRIVING". I HAD TO RECENTLY CANCEL USE OF THIS VEHICLE ON A TRIP BECAUSE MECH OF THE TRAVEL WAS IN THE MOUNTAINS ON UNPAVED ROADS AND WOULD HAVE BEEN UNSAFE!*AK
2002-05-20
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TIRE TREAD SEPARATION. *AK
1998 Ford E-350 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 7 recalls for different components of the 1998 Ford E-350.
2014-04-16
- Manufacturer: Cummings Mobility Conversion & Supply, I
- Components: EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
- Summary: Cummings Mobility Conversion & Supply, Inc. (Cummings) is recalling various model year 1994-2011 Ford and Chevrolet vans equipped with Braun NCL-2, and NVL-2 wheel chair lifts manufactured November 20, 2006, through September 10, 2010. Over time, and with frequent use, the roll stop latches on the outer barrier of the lifts in these vans may become bent or misaligned.
- Consequence: A wheelchair occupant may defeat or ride over the insufficiently latched roll stop. If this occurs when the lift platform is in an elevated position, the wheelchair's occupant could fall and sustain injury.
- Remedy: Braun Corporation notified all the vehicle owners, and Cummings Mobility replaced the recalled parts with new parts, free of charge. The recall was completed as of April 10, 2014. Owners may contact Cummings customer service at 1-800-639-5438.
2009-10-13
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: FORD IS RECALLING MODEL YEARS 1995-2003 WINDSTAR, 2000-2003 EXCURSION DIESEL, 1993-1997 AND 1999-2003 F-250 SD THROUGH F-550 SD DIESEL, 1992-2003 E-150 THROUGH E-550, 1995-2002 EXPLORER, 1997 AND 2002 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER, 1995-1997 AND 2001-2003 RANGER, AND 1994 F53 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE TEXAS INSTRUMENTS SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH (SCDS). THE SCDS MAY LEAK INTERNALLY AND THEN OVERHEAT, SMOKE, OR BURN.
- Consequence: A VEHICLE FIRE COULD OCCUR WITH OR WITHOUT THE ENGINE RUNNING.
- Remedy: FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS THAT DEALERS WILL INSTALL A FUSED WIRING HARNESS IN LINE WITH THE SCDS. ON 1999-2003 WINDSTAR VEHICLES WITH A LEAKING SCDS, DEALERS WILL ALSO INSPECT THE ABS CONTROL MODULE CONNECTOR AND REPAIR AS NECESSARY. REPAIRS WILL BE COMPLETED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 27, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-888-222-2751.
2009-01-14
- Manufacturer: ONENESS MOBILITY SERVICES, LLC
- Components: EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
- Summary: ONENESS MOBILITY IS RECALLING 19 MY 1998, AND 2005-2006 E-350 VANS BUILT ON FORD CHASSIS AND EQUIPPED WITH RICON PLATFORM STYLE WHEELCHAIR LIFTS. THESE LIFTS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 403, "PLATFORM LIFT SYSTEM ACCESSIBLE FOR MOTOR VEHICLES." THE ANTI-STOW INTERLOCK MAY NOT DETECT THE PRESENCE OF A WHEELCHAIR OR MOBILITY AID USER. THE PRESSURE SENSING SWITCH THAT DETECTS THE PRESENCE OF WEIGHT ON THE PLATFORM WAS NOT ADJUSTED TO THE NECESSARY SENSITIVITY LEVEL. THE LIFT COULD STOW EVEN THOUGH SOMEONE OR SOMETHING IS STILL ON THE LIFT.
- Consequence: A LIFT OCCUPANT CAN BE INJURED SHOULD THE LIFT BEGIN TO STOW UNINTENTIONALLY.
- Remedy: ONENESS MOBILITY IS WORKING WITH RICON TO CORRECT THE WHEELCHAIR LIFTS FREE OF CHARGE (PLEASE SEE 07E097). OWNERS MAY CONTACT RICON AT 1-818-267-3000 OR ONENESS MOBILITY AT 1-818-267-3000.
2008-02-04
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CRUISE CONTROL
- Summary: FORD IS RECALLING 225,000 MY 1992-2003 ECONOLINE, MY 1993-1995 TAURUS SHO, MY 1992-1998 CROWN VICTORIA, MY 1993 BRONCO, F-SERIES, MY 1995-1997 F-SERIES SUPER DUTY STRIPPED CHASSIS, MY 1992-1998 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS, AND MY 1992-1995 LINCOLN TOWN CAR VEHICLES. THE AFFECTED VEHICLES WERE PREVIOUSLY REPAIRED USING A WIRING HARNESS THAT IS NOT COMPATIBLE WITH THE VEHICLE CIRCUIT POLARITY.
- Consequence: AS A RESULT, THE FUSE IS LOCATED IN THE OUTPUT CIRCUIT RATHER THAN IN THE INTENDED INPUT POWER FEED CIRCUIT, AND MAY NOT OFFER THE INTENDED PROTECTION IN THE EVENT OF AN ELECTRICAL SHORT TO GROUND.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW WIRING HARNESS, OR REPLACE THE MATING ELECTRICAL COMPONENT. THE RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 18, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
2007-08-03
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS, PASSENGER VEHICLES, SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, AND MOTOR HOMES CHASSIS, THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH MAY, UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, LEAK INTERNALLY AND THEN OVERHEAT, SMOKE, OR BURN.
- Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT IN AN UNDERHOOD FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A FUSED WIRING HARNESS. OWNERS OF THE PASSENGER CARS INCLUDED IN THIS CAMPAIGN WILL BE INSTRUCTED TO RETURN THEIR VEHICLES TO THEIR DEALERS TO HAVE THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH DISCONNECTED AS AN INTERIM REPAIR. AS SOON AS REPAIR PARTS ARE AVAILABLE (EXPECTED OCTOBER 2007), OWNERS WILL BE INSTRUCTED TO RETURN TO THE DEALERS FOR INSTALLATION OF A FUSED WIRING HARNESS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 13, 2007, AND MAILING COMPLETED BY SEPTEMBER 19, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-888-222-2751.
2001-04-05
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: ON CERTAIN VANS WITH AMBULANCE PREP PACKAGES OR OTHER SEVERE-DUTY APPLICATIONS INVOLVING OPERATION AT OR NEAR THE GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT WITH FREQUENT TWISTING OF THE VEHICLE BODY, SUCH AS OFF-ROAD, ROUGH ROAD OR SPEED BUMP EVENTS, THE 35 GALLON MID-SHIP FUEL TANK COULD DEVELOP A CRACK WHERE IT CONTACTS THE FRAME CROSS MEMBER. IF THE FUEL TANK CRACKS, FUEL LEAKAGE COULD OCCUR.
- Consequence: FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE FUEL TANK AND, IF CRACKED, WILL REPLACE THE TANK. INSULATOR PADS WILL BE INSTALLED ON ALL VEHICLES TO REDUCE THE STRESS LEVELS IN THE FUEL TANK. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN APRIL 19, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
2000-09-21
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: BI-FUEL CNG PICKUP TRUCKS AND BI-FUEL CNG VANS, MODIFIED BY CFI CONTROL SYSTEMS, INC., FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 303, "FUEL SYSTEM INTEGRITY OF COMPRESSED NATURAL GAS VEHICLES." THE LABEL AFFIXED TO THE FUEL FILLER DOOR BY THE VEHICLE MODIFIER CONTAINS THE INSPECTION DATE AND EXPIRATION DATE OF THE CNG TANK. HOWEVER, IT DOES NOT CONTAIN THE STATEMENT "SEE INSTRUCTIONS ON THE FUEL CONTAINER FOR INSPECTION AND SERVICE LIFE."
- Consequence: THESE VEHICLES DO NOT COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS.
- Remedy: OWNERS WILL BE PROVIDED A LABEL WITH THE REQUIRED STATEMENT, ALONG WITH INSTRUCTIONS FOR AFFIXING THE LABEL AT THE FUEL FILLER DOOR. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN NOVEMBER 2, 2000. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
Negative 1998 Ford E-350 car reviews
Positive 1998 Ford E-350 car reviews
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It sounds like you have a great family vehicle! The captain's chairs with a fold-down sofa in the back make it perfect for long trips. Even with a full load of passengers and gear, it handles towing 8500 lbs with ease. The E4OD has worked flawlessly and the factory tow package is impressive. It's built on a much heavier suspension than the E150, so it will last the life of the vehicle. The radiator size and cooling are also impressive. The only issue you mentioned is a lifter or rocker noise, but it doesn't seem to affect performance and can be helped with some Rislone. Overall, it sounds like a reliable and capable vehicle!
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The van is great overall, but I have had some trouble with the transmission. Unfortunately, I've had to replace it twice and it looks like I may need to do so again soon (the second replacement was due to AAMCO's less than skilled mechanics). Additionally, the front wheels are difficult to keep aligned and can be expensive to maintain due to tire wear. However, I am excited to convert it to 4x4 and use it as a camper!
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Your vehicle has been outstanding! It is incredibly dependable, gets great gas mileage for a one ton chassis, and is quite comfortable. While it may not be the sportiest option out there, who cares?
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Great vehicle! It has already clocked 220,000 miles and is still going strong. I only had to change the fuel pump at 80,000 miles, and at 215,000 miles, the alternator and air pump needed replacement. That's pretty impressive, don't you think? It has a 6-cylinder engine and a 3-speed automatic transmission (C6). Although it started at 19 MPG, I am now getting 13-15 MPG.
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Very reliable vehicle. It sounds like this automobile can do it all! It can carry your family and friends, haul lumber of almost any size, pull your boat or trailer, and drive the highways like it's a breeze. It can even cross dry lake beds with very little modification.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1998 Ford E-350 problems:
Q&A: 1998 Ford E350 - Common Issues, Troubleshooting & Expert ...
https://www.justanswer.com/ford/cmrs8-ron-1998-ford-e350-starkly-coachman-rv-no.html
Jul 14, 2019 ... Was this answer helpful? up Yes. down No. Finish.
Ford E-Series Questions - Intermittant electrical problem - CarGurus
https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/Discussion-t92418_ds530682
Oct 10, 2012 ... ... Ford E-Series E-350 Super Duty Cargo Van. -. Maintenance & Repair. Oil pressure problem 3 Answers. Oil pressure problem: I have a 1998 e150 ...
Q&A: Ford E350 7.5 460 Engine - Common Problems & Motor Details
https://www.justanswer.com/ford/868ko-1990-ford-350-ford-e350-460-7-5l-engine.html
Dec 16, 2013 ... I have a Ford E350 with a 460 7.5l engine. I am having problems with the engine shutting down after overheating during - Answered by a ...
What should I fix on this 1998 E350 Club Wagon? - Ford Forum ...
https://www.fordforum.com/forum/ford-econoline-e-series-18/what-should-i-fix-1998-e350-club-wagon-30057/
Jun 16, 2013 ... Anything that is gonna cause big long-term problems or be a safety issue for now, I want to fix. I'd really appreciate the help! Here are my ...
I bought a 1998 E-350 Motor Home with a V-10 Engine has anyone ...
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1589343-i-bought-a-1998-e-350-motor-home-with-a-v-10-engine-has-anyone-had-any-problems.html
Jul 8, 2019 ... I don't have enough experience to comment on reliability or maintenance issues. But I had a 5.7L V8 in a 2008 F-250 and now have the V10 in my ...
Other years of Ford E-350
Are you having problems with your 1998 Ford E-350?
Paris Witting 2025-01-01
I recently traded in my '98 E150 with a 4.6L V8 engine and 143,000 miles for a '98 E350 Chateau with a V10 and only 53,000 miles. I must say, the 350 drives much better and the interior is far nicer. The V10 engine has great torque and is surprisingly quieter than the V8. However, the gas mileage ranges from 11 City to 16 Highway, so it's not the most fuel-efficient option. It's important to note that this van is primarily designed for towing, not for good gas mileage. Only time will tell how the V10 holds up, but I'm excited to see what it can do!
Jettie Effertz 2024-10-27
Great local kid hauler
Dedrick Stokes 2024-08-10
Great van for a family and business.
Julian Wehner 2024-04-02
From the day I purchased this vehicle, the idiot lights have malfunctioned and once a year I have to replace the windshield due to a defect in design. However, it still has a lot of pep at over 300,000 miles and I use it daily. To date, there have been no major problems other than regular maintenance.
Danny Stracke 2024-03-05
Hey there! I got this van specifically for long trips. I live in Florida and often travel back to my hometown in Michigan. This van has a lot of power and was even used to move my brother to Florida, pulling a loaded 5x8 enclosed trailer several times.