1986 Ford Econoline 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.
Social links
Common 1986 Ford Econoline problems
Based on the information provided in the sources, here is a list of common problems with the Ford Econoline 1986 based on complaints from owners:
- Fuel System Issues:
- The Ford Econoline 1986 has had numerous complaints related to the fuel system, with a total of 34 recalls. This problem can affect the vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency.
- Equipment Malfunctions:
- Owners have reported 28 recalls related to equipment issues. These problems can range from electrical components to mechanical parts, impacting the overall functionality of the vehicle.
- Lighting Problems:
- Lighting issues have been a concern for Econoline owners, with 26 recalls related to lighting malfunctions. Proper lighting is crucial for safety on the road, making this a significant problem.
- Transmission Troubles:
- Transmission problems, with 18 recalls, can lead to difficulties in shifting gears, affecting the vehicle's drivability and overall performance.
- Engine Challenges:
- The engine has been a source of complaints, with 10 recalls reported. Engine issues can impact the power and efficiency of the vehicle, requiring timely maintenance and repairs.
- Braking Concerns:
- Owners have raised concerns about the brakes, leading to 8 recalls. Brake issues can compromise the safety of the vehicle and its occupants, necessitating immediate attention.
- Wheel Problems:
- The Econoline has faced 5 recalls related to wheel issues. Problems with the wheels can affect the vehicle's handling and stability, posing a safety risk.
- Steering Difficulties:
- Steering problems, with 4 recalls, can impact the driver's ability to control the vehicle safely. Proper steering functionality is crucial for safe driving.
- Seats, Suspension, Doors, Electrical, and Frame Concerns:
- These additional problems, each with a varying number of recalls, highlight various issues that owners have faced with the Ford Econoline 1986. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to ensure the vehicle's safety and performance.
By addressing these common problems with the Ford Econoline 1986, owners can take proactive measures to maintain their vehicle's reliability and safety on the road. Regular maintenance, timely repairs, and adherence to safety guidelines can help mitigate these issues and ensure a smoother driving experience.
How many miles per gallon does a 1986 Ford Econoline 350 get?
Based on data from 1 vehicles, 22 fuel-ups and 4,402 miles of driving, the 1986 Ford E-350 Econoline Club Wagon gets a combined Avg MPG of 6.55 with a 0.35 MPG margin of error.
Why was Ford Econoline discontinued?
In June 2014, production of E-Series passenger and cargo vans was discontinued as sales of the Ford Transit began in North America; at the time of its retirement, the model line had been the best-selling full-size van line in the United States since 1980.
What was the last year of Econoline?
The E-series vans were the top-selling models in the United States between 1980 and 2015 with the model line's discontinuation. This represents nearly 80 percent of the share of the market segment during that time. The Ford Transit replaced the Econoline cargo and passenger vans for 2015's models.
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.
How many miles per gallon does a 1986 Ford Econoline 350 get?
Based on data from 1 vehicles, 22 fuel-ups and 4,402 miles of driving, the 1986 Ford E-350 Econoline Club Wagon gets a combined Avg MPG of 6.55 with a 0.35 MPG margin of error.
Why was Ford Econoline discontinued?
In June 2014, production of E-Series passenger and cargo vans was discontinued as sales of the Ford Transit began in North America; at the time of its retirement, the model line had been the best-selling full-size van line in the United States since 1980.
What was the last year of Econoline?
The E-series vans were the top-selling models in the United States between 1980 and 2015 with the model line's discontinuation. This represents nearly 80 percent of the share of the market segment during that time. The Ford Transit replaced the Econoline cargo and passenger vans for 2015's models.
How long do Ford E450 engines last?
These engines will last a few hundred thousand miles if taken care of. We have a 2005 E450 V10 with a 113,000 miles, the last 60K towing a car. Burns no oil, quiet as a mouse at idle. But I change oil every 5-6000 miles, change transmission fluid every 30,000 and follow the maintenance schedule as best I can.
1986 Ford Econoline car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford Econoline problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Tires problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1986 Ford Econoline vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1986 Ford Econoline complaints
The NHTSA has received 8 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1986 Ford Econoline.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-03-13
- Fire: 1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVER WAS CHECKING OIL, THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE UNDER THE HOOD AND THE GAS STATION ATTENDANT GOT THE FIRE OUT (OHIO POLICE REPORT 310-90-116)). *YD
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-08-15
- VIN: 1FDJE3417GH
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TIRES WERE PURCHSASED AS REPLACEMENTS FOR ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT. (DOT NUMBER: VN11 83A 0 TIRESIZE: LT245/75R1)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-04-13
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FDEE14N6GH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: IGNITION SWITCH FAILED CAUSING VEHICLE FIRE.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Fire: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING TRUCK SHUT DOWN. TRUCK STARTED SMOKING FROM DASH, SHOWING REDNESS UNDERNEATH CONSOLE. PLEASE DESCRIBE DETAILS. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-03-01
- VIN: 1FTDE15N7GH
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL INJECTION REGULATOR FAILED. *SD
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1990-01-01
- VIN: 1FSKE30L2GH
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: BRAKES FAILED 2 TIMES PRIOR TO RECALL ( 86V174). *SD
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-07-12
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FTJE35L9GH
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FAILURE, THE TRANSMISSION SLIPPED OUT OF PARK INTO REVERSE. TT
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-10-06
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FDEE14H5GH
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: AUXILIARY TANK SELECTOR SWITCH FAILED, RESULTING IN A FIRE, ALSO FOREIGN MATTER IN FUEL TANK CAUSED ENGINE TO MISS. *AK
1986 Ford Econoline recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the 1986 Ford Econoline.
- Manufacturer: FEDERAL-MOGUL CORPORATION
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: CERTAIN FEDERAL-MOGUL AFTERMARKET FUEL PUMPS SOLD UNDER THE BRAND NAMES OF CARTER, ACCUFLOW, NAPA, TRUFLOW, PARTS DEPO, AND PARTS MASTER, SHIPPED BETWEEN AUGUST 2006 AND JULY 2007 FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE FUEL PUMP DIAPHRAGM IN CERTAIN PRODUCTION RUNS MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY INSTALLED OR INADEQUATELY TESTED WHICH MAY CAUSE THE FUEL PUMP TO LEAK.
- Consequence: A LEAKING FUEL PUMP COULD CREATE A VEHICLE FIRE HAZARD.
- Remedy: FEDERAL-MOGUL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 15, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FEDERAL-MOGUL AT 248-354-7700.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL
- Summary: VEHICLES ARE SUBJECT TO EXCESSIVE UNDERHOOD TEMPERATURES AND FUEL SYSTEM PRESSURES IN SEVERE DUTY APPLICATIONS.
- Consequence: THIS CREATES POTENTIAL FOR FUEL EXPULSION FROM THE FUELFILLER PIPE WHICH IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN AFIRE.
- Remedy: INSTALL MODIFICATION KITS TO MINIMIZE POSSIBILITY OF FUEL EXPULSION AND TO SHIELD UNDERBODY COMPONENTS FROM EXHAUST SYSTEM HEAT.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: SPRING LOCK FUEL LINE COUPLING MAY NOT BE PROPERLY ENGAGED.
- Consequence: COUPLING COULD DISENGAGE DUE TO FUEL PRESSURE,VIBRATION, AND ENGINE MOVEMENTS; THIS WOULD CAUSE LOSS OF FUEL WHICH, INPRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, CREATES A FIRE RISK.
- Remedy: INSTALL RETAINER CLIPS OVER THE COUPLINGS TO PREVENT COUPLING SEPARATION AND FUEL LEAKAGE.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL
- Summary: EXPULSION OF FUEL DUE TO OVERPRESSURIZATION.
- Consequence: FUEL OR FUEL VAPORS IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITIONSOURCE CAN CAUSE A FIRE.
- Remedy: MODIFICATION OF THE BASE FUEL VENTING AND EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM TO REDUCE OPERATING TEMPERATURES AND FUEL SYSTEM PRESSURES.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:MOUNTING
- Summary: FUEL LEAK AT THE TOP OF THE FRONT FUEL TANK IN THE AREA OF THE VAPOR VALVE GROMMET. GROMMET MAY SPLIT DUE TO COMPRESSIVE LOAD WHEN INSTALLED IN THE FUEL TANK.
- Consequence: FUEL MAY LEAK FROM VAPOR VALVE AND BECOME THE SOURCE OFFUEL FOR A FIRE.
- Remedy: INSTALLATION OF A NEWLY DESIGNED VAPOR VALVE GROMMET.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: STEERING:LINKAGES:DRAG:LINK:CONNECTION
- Summary: THE RUBBER THAT ENCASES BALL STUD AND SOCKET JOINT (CONNECTS STEERING DRAG LINK AND PITMAN ARM) MAY DETERIORATE, CAUSING METAL TO METAL CONTACT, AND MAY EVENTUALLY RESULT IN COMPLETE SEPARATION. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: COMPLETE SEPARATION OF THE DRAG LINK TO PITMAN ARM CONNECTION RESULTS IN LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL WHICH MAY LEAD TO AN ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: INSTALL NEW DRAG LINK ASSEMBLIES WITH STEEL BALL AND SOCKET JOINTS AT THE PITMAN ARM CONNECTIONS.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1986 Ford Econoline problems:
Q&A: 1986 Ford Econoline Van with 305 Engine | JustAnswer
Sep 21, 2007 ... If the check engine light does not come on, you have a problem with the eec power relay circuit or relay itself.If it comes on and doesnt go off ...
1986 E350 460 Winnebago Problems - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums
Sep 12, 2017 ... Big Block V8 - 385 Series (6.1/370, 7.0/429, 7.5/460) - 1986 E350 460 Winnebago Problems - Hello, First off I recently picked up a 1986 ...
1988 Ford Econoline Van: Common Problems & Q&A
May 30, 2017 ... I bought a 1988 ford econoline van with a 302 engine and it has only 55000 miles on it. the problem is it boggs down - Answered by a ...
What/how to inspect a used 1986 Ford E-350 Class C motorhome ...
Aug 1, 2020 ... Being that your motorhome is built on a E350 chassis, you might be better off finding a shop that works on trucks. Did you get any manuals with ...
1986 Ford that's been sitting since 2008 -- what to expect ...
Apr 2, 2017 ... Hey guys/gals, there's a local camper van for sale with the cabin over the roof. "95k miles, has clean title, all working parts & tires + ...
Other years of Ford Econoline
Are you having problems with your 1986 Ford Econoline?
Leave your review of 1986 Ford Econoline