1987 Ford E150 problems

Common 1987 Ford E150 problems

The 1987 Ford E150 is known for several common problems that have been reported by owners. These issues include transmission problems, alternator belt issues, automatic transmission faults, ball joint failures, hard starting, and suspension problems.

• Automatic Transmission: The TR/MLP sensor in the automatic transmission can be faulty, causing the transmission to fall out of alignment. This issue is most commonly reported in 1994-1995 model F-150s but can also occur in other models. The engine may flare as you shift the truck into fourth gear, and drivers have reported this problem when shifting between the second and third gears in 1990-1993 models.

• Ball Joints: The ball joints on 1990-1996 Ford F-150s, including the E150, are particularly vulnerable to water exposure. If exposed, the ball joints may expire prematurely, requiring replacement.

• Hard Starting: Drivers have reported complaints of hard-starting on 1990-1996 model F-150s, including the E150. Ford has attributed this issue to faulty harness wiring in the power control module. Symptoms of the problem include vehicular stalling, hesitation, and failure to start.

• Suspension Problems: Owners of 1991 to 1994 Ford trucks, including the E150, have reported problems with the front suspension system. The problem is due to weak leaf springs along the front of the vehicle. To fix the issue, get newer, stronger leaf springs.

• Engine Computer: The Engine Control Module (ECM) in the 1987 F150 is known to have issues with capacitors leaking, which can corrode the circuit board and potentially make it not rebuildable. This issue is common in this generation of PCMs found in the F150.

• Rough Idle and Won't Crank: A 1987 Ford F150 with a 5.0L 302 V8 engine can experience rough idle and may not crank. This issue can be due to a vacuum leak, intake problem, or a general tune-up (plugs, wires, ignition coil, etc.).

It is essential to address these issues promptly to ensure the longevity and reliability of the 1987 Ford E150. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these problems or detect them early, making repairs less costly and time-consuming.

Is the 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.

How many gallons of gas does a Ford E-150 hold?

35.0 gal. 286 lb-ft. 3,220 lbs.

Is the 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.

Why is my Ford E-150 not turning over?

The most common reasons a Ford E-150 won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.

1987 Ford E150 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford E150 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

• Electrical system problems
• Engine and engine cooling problems
• Fuel system problems
• Gasoline problems
• Tires problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1987 Ford E150 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.