1988 Ford E250 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 1988 Ford E250 problems
The Ford E-250 from 1988 is known for several common problems, primarily related to the transmission, idle control, and fuel system.
- Transmission Issues: Transmission problems are common in the 1988 Ford E-250, with issues such as shifting delays, grinding, car shaking, and whistling noises. These problems can lead to a decrease in fuel economy and even make the vehicle undriveable if left unattended.
- Random Fast Idle: Some 1988 Ford E-250 owners have reported a problem with random fast idle, where the engine idles at a high RPM even after the vehicle has warmed up. This issue can be caused by a vacuum leak or a mechanical sticking issue with the kick-down or throttle cable. Checking for vacuum leaks and examining the throttle linkage can help diagnose and fix this problem.
- Fuel Tank Problems: The 1988 Ford E-250 with dual fuel tanks can experience problems with the rear tank not working. This issue can be caused by a faulty selector valve, which is easier to remove and replace than the tank itself. Testing the sending unit with an ohm meter can help determine if it is the cause of the problem. Additionally, checking for rust and damage to the sending unit, as well as ensuring the float is not damaged, can help diagnose and fix the issue.
- Fuel System Issues: The 1988 Ford E-250 can experience fuel system problems, such as the engine stalling after starting and idling for a few minutes. This issue can be caused by low fuel pressure, which can be diagnosed using a fuel pressure gauge. Checking for spark at the spark plugs and ensuring both fuel and spark are present are also crucial in diagnosing and fixing this problem.
In conclusion, the 1988 Ford E-250 has several common problems, primarily related to the transmission, idle control, and fuel system. Regular inspection and maintenance, as well as prompt attention to any issues that arise, can help ensure the longevity and reliability of this vehicle.
What engine is in a Ford e250?
The Ford E-250 cargo vans are built on a rugged platform and offer large interiors with vast cargo capacities. The Ford E-250 comes with a standard 225-hp 4.6-liter Triton V8 with an optional 255-hp 5.4-liter Triton V8. Both engines are mated to a four-speed automatic transmission.
What is the difference between Econoline 150 and 250?
The Basic Difference:
The higher the number, the more weight the van can haul and the heavier duty it is. For example, in this case, the E-250 is more of a heavy-duty option than the E-150. This means that vans are all built with different parts, so they can accommodate different weights.
How much is a Ford e250?
Prices for a used Ford Econoline Cargo Van E-250 currently range from $2,995 to $36,999, with vehicle mileage ranging from 16,166 to 334,345.
How big is the tank on a Ford e250?
35.0 gal
Fuel & MPG
0/0 mi. 35.0 gal.
What engine is in a Ford E250?
4.6-liter Triton V8
The Ford E-250 cargo vans are built on a rugged platform and offer large interiors with vast cargo capacities. The Ford E-250 comes with a standard 225-hp 4.6-liter Triton V8 with an optional 255-hp 5.4-liter Triton V8. Both engines are mated to a four-speed automatic transmission.
What is the gas mileage on a Ford E250?
Find and Compare Cars
| 2014 Ford E250 Van FFV | |
|---|---|
| Personalize Find a car | Flex-Fuel Vehicle 8 cyl, 4.6 L, Automatic 4-spd Compare |
| Fuel Economy | |
| EPA MPG | Regular Gas 15 combined city/highway MPG 13 city 16 highway 6.7 gals/100 miles E85 11 combined city/highway MPG 10 city 12 highway 9.1 gal/100mi |
What is the difference between Econoline 150 and 250?
The Basic Difference:
The higher the number, the more weight the van can haul and the heavier duty it is. For example, in this case, the E-250 is more of a heavy-duty option than the E-150. This means that vans are all built with different parts, so they can accommodate different weights.
How big is the tank on a Ford E250?
35.0 gal
Fuel & MPG
0/0 mi. 35.0 gal.
1988 Ford E250 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford E250 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1988 Ford E250 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1988 Ford E250 complaints
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1988 Ford E250.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-06-01
- VIN: 1FDMF60HOJV
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: OIL PAN LEAKS.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-09-08
- Fire: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: EXPERIENCED AN ELECTRICAL FIRE IN VEHICLE. PLEASE GIVE MORE DETAILS. *AK
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1988 Ford E250 problems:
1988 E250 Dual Fuel Tank Problems - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums
Jul 21, 2021 ... 1968-Present E-Series Van/Cutaway/Chassis - 1988 E250 Dual Fuel Tank Problems - Hi Guys, I'm currently trying to troubleshoot why the rear ...
1988 Ford E250 Q&A: Troubleshooting Stalling Issues | JustAnswer
Dec 3, 2011 ... First look for cracks or rips or anywhere air can enter the engine that is not accounted for by the vane air flow sensor. Next comes the vane ...
Ford 4.9l reliability and problems| Grassroots Motorsports forum |
Looking at a 88 f150 5speed with efi and wondering if these engines are really reliable and if there are any common problems with them... Last ...
1988 Ford Econoline Van: Common Problems & Q&A
May 30, 2017 ... The problem you are describing sounds like you may have a weak fuel pump so I would start with checking the fuel pressure while the problem is ...
E250 1988 - can't clear to normal RPM. Need Help! - Ford Forum
Feb 11, 2015 ... Ford Econoline E Series - E250 1988 - random fast idle - can't clear to normal RPM. Need Help! - Hello Again... Most of my problems have ...
Other years of Ford E250
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