1997 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.
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Common 1997 Ford Econoline problems
The Ford Econoline, produced between 1960 and 2014, is known for its reliability, but like any vehicle, it has certain common problems. This article will focus on the 1997 model and its most frequently reported issues, based on owner complaints.
- Equipment Problems: With 28 recalls related to equipment, the 1997 Ford Econoline has had its fair share of equipment-related problems. These issues can include problems with the electrical system, airbags, seat belts, and other vehicle components. Equipment problems can lead to safety issues, reduced vehicle functionality, and even the risk of accidents. Regular inspections and maintenance of the vehicle's equipment can help prevent these issues.
- Lighting Problems: The 1997 Ford Econoline has had 26 recalls related to lighting issues. These problems can include issues with the headlights, taillights, brake lights, and other lighting components. Lighting problems can lead to safety issues, reduced visibility, and even the risk of accidents. Regular inspections and maintenance of the vehicle's lighting system can help prevent these issues.
- Transmission Problems: The 1997 Ford Econoline has had 18 recalls related to transmission problems. These issues can include problems with the transmission itself, the clutch, or the drivetrain. Transmission problems can lead to poor vehicle performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and even the risk of accidents. Regular maintenance and inspections of the transmission system can help prevent these issues.
- Engine Problems: The 1997 Ford Econoline has had 10 recalls related to engine problems. These issues can include problems with the engine itself, the engine mounts, or the engine management system. Engine problems can lead to poor vehicle performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and even the risk of accidents. Regular maintenance and inspections of the engine system can help prevent these issues.
- Brakes Problems: The 1997 Ford Econoline has had 8 recalls related to brake problems. These issues can include problems with the brake system, the brake lines, or the brake pads. Brake problems can lead to safety issues, reduced vehicle performance, and even the risk of accidents. Regular maintenance and inspections of the brake system can help prevent these issues.
- Wheels Problems: The 1997 Ford Econoline has had 5 recalls related to wheel problems. These issues can include problems with the wheels themselves, the wheel bearings, or the wheel lug nuts. Wheel problems can lead to safety issues, reduced vehicle performance, and even the risk of accidents. Regular maintenance and inspections of the wheel system can help prevent these issues.
- Steering Problems: The 1997 Ford Econoline has had 4 recalls related to steering problems. These issues can include problems with the power steering system, the steering gearbox, or the steering linkage. Steering problems can lead to safety issues, reduced vehicle performance, and even the risk of accidents. Regular maintenance and inspections of the steering system can help prevent these issues.
In conclusion, the 1997 Ford Econoline, like any vehicle, has its share of common problems. Regular maintenance and inspections of the vehicle's fuel system, equipment, lighting, transmission, engine, brakes, wheels, and steering system can help prevent these issues and ensure the vehicle's reliability and longevity.
How many miles per gallon does a 1997 Ford e350 Econoline get?
Fuel Economy
| City | 11 mpg |
|---|---|
| Highway | 16 mpg |
| Combined | 13 mpg |
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.
How long is a 1997 Ford Econoline van?
211.8 to 231.8″1997 Ford E-150 / Length
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 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.
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.
How many miles per gallon does a 1997 Ford e350 Econoline get?
Fuel Economy
| City | 11 mpg |
|---|---|
| Highway | 16 mpg |
| Combined | 13 mpg |
Are Ford Econolines good on gas?
I average 13 in city, sometimes towing. I get a solid 15-16 hwy as long as I keep my foot out of it. If you do plan to go 4wd in the future, I would recommend stepping up to the diesel or V10.
1997 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:
- Service brakes problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Tires problems
- Fuel system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Ford Econoline vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Ford Econoline
The NHTSA has received 323 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Ford Econoline. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Ford Econoline vehicles.
2023-12-01
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-01
- VIN: 1FTJE34LXVH
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The rear passenger compartment outside and inside door handles broke such that rear seating passengers cannot exit the vehicle and are trapped inside. In case of an accident, the emergency responders will have to resort to drastic time consuming measures such as ripping the doors off to save the trapped passengers. Apparently all years of Ford Econoline vans have this dangerous problem because there are numerous fix it videos all over the internet showing how to replace the cheap handle-latch failure prone plastic parts with non-breakable METAL parts.
2021-09-28
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-06
- VIN: 1FDJS34F4VH
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: This vehicle was made by Ford as a partially complete vehicle and converted to 4 wheel drive by Quigley Motor Company Inc. The Quigley torque arms installed appear to commonly fail from some of the earlier years and a design change has been made (from C-channel arms to tubular). The design and construction of the C-channel torque arm (connecting the front axle to the frame of the vehicle) is prone to failure from low cycle fatigue near the welds. Upon failure, the structural integrity of the vehicle is compromised which results could range from handling issues to loss of control of the vehicle (if more than one torque arm fails or failure of one leads to cascading failures in other components, the front axle could become disconnected from the vehicle while in motion leading to an accident.
2021-07-06
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-23
- VIN: 1FDEE14L6VH
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: The contact owns a 1997 Ford E-150 equipped with Milestar Tires, Tire Line: Grantland, Tire Size: 235/75/R15, DOT number: TB20R028. The contact stated while driving approximately 45-50 mph, the tires were bouncing. The contact stated upon checking the tires, his son noticed that the tires were cracked and had holes. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who informed the contact that the tires were defective. The tires were not replaced. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate vehicle mileage was 150,258. The approximate tire failure mileage was 800.
2020-08-02
AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-04-03
- VIN: 1FDKE30S7VH
- Components: AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: AIR BAG LIGHT CAME ON AND BRAKE LIGHT CAME ON
2020-03-31
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-12-11
- VIN: 1FDKE30L1VH
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: 12/11/2019
2019-02-11
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-02-11
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1FTEE1420VH
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: MY HUSBAND HAD JUST STARTED UP HIS E150 ECONOLINE VAN PULLING OUT OF THE DRIVEWAY AND THE AIRBAG JUST DEPLOYED. THERE WAS NO REASON HE WAS NOT IN ANY ACCIDENT HE DID NOT RUN OVER ANYTHING HE DIDN'T HIT ANYTHING. AND NO ONE CAN TELL ME WHY THIS HAPPENED. IF HE HAD BEEN ON THE INTERSTATE THAT HE DRIVES EVERY DAY HE COULD HAVE DIED OR KILLED SOMEONE.
2018-05-24
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-01-31
- VIN: 1FBJS31S2VH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THIS YEAR BOTH THE AIRBAGS IN MY 1997 FORD E350 VAN HAVE SPONTANEOUSLY DEPLOYED ON TWO SEPARATE OCCASIONS--EACH OCCURRING WHILE THE VAN WAS IN 'PARK'. ON 1/31/18 THE DRIVER'S BAG DEPLOYED WHEN THE VAN WAS WARMING UP IN A PARKING LOT. MY ADULT DAUGHTER STARTED THE VAN, PLUGGED HER PHONE INTO THE TOP CAR ADAPTER, AND ABOUT A MINUTE LATER (THE VAN WAS STILL PARKED) THERE WAS A BIG 'BOOM' FROM UNDER HER SEAT AND HER SEATBELT TIGHTENED. WITH THE SEATBELT STILL ON, SHE LEANED TO HER RIGHT TO SEE WHAT WAS CAUSING THE SMOKE FROM UNDER HER SEAT WHEN SUDDENLY THE DRIVER'S STEERING WHEEL AIRBAG DEPLOYED. THANKFULLY SHE WAS SPARED ANY INJURY. SHE HAD THE VAN TOWED TO A FORD DEALERSHIP, BUT THEY COULD NOT DIAGNOSE THE ROOT OF THE PROBLEM SO I DID NOT HAVE THEM DO ANY WORK ON IT [THEY WANTED TO REPLACE THE AIRBAG AND A FEW OTHER THINGS WHICH I FELT WAS A 'BAND-AID' SOLUTION SINCE THEY ADMITTED THEY WERE GUESSING]. WE DROVE THE CAR HOME. ON 4/13/18 MY ADULT DAUGHTER WAS SITTING IN THE FIRST BENCH ROW IN THE VAN TO HAVE A QUIET PLACE TO TALK ON THE PHONE. AFTER A WHILE ON THE PHONE, SHE PLUGGED HER PHONE INTO THE SAME CHARGER AND LESS THAN A MINUTE LATER THE PASSENGER AIRBAG EXPLODED. THIS OCCURRED IN MY DRIVEWAY WHEN THERE WAS NO KEY IN THE IGNITION AND NO ONE WAS SITTING IN EITHER FRONT SEAT! AGAIN, MY DAUGHTER ESCAPED INJURY, BUT NOW THE VAN WILL NOT EVEN START. AT THIS POINT, MY LOCAL FORD DEALERSHIP (A DIFFERENT ONE) AND MY PERSONAL REPAIR SHOP ARE REFUSING TO TOUCH THE VAN BECAUSE OF POTENTIAL LIABILITY REGARDING THIS KIND OF MALFUNCTION. MY INSURANCE CAN'T HELP BECAUSE THE VAN WAS NOT IN AN ACCIDENT WHEN THE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED AND "ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL MALFUNCTIONS ARE EXCLUDED FROM COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGE." FORD CUSTOMER CARE SERVICE HAS TOLD ME REPEATEDLY THAT THEY DON'T HAVE A PROTOCOL FOR THIS AND THERE IS NOTHING THEY CAN DO TO HELP ME.
2017-10-09
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-05
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1FDKE30S8VH
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: MY VEHICLE HAD BEEN PARKED FOR ABOUT THREE OR FOUR WEEKS AND I WENT TO START IT UP TO RUN THE ENGINE AND CHARGE THE BATTERIES AS I DID NOT PLAN TO USE IT FOR ANOTHER FEW WEEKS. WHEN I TURNED THE KEY THE DRIVER SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYED AND HIT ME HARD. ALSO THE PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BELT BUCKLE PRETENSIONER FIRED OFF BREAKING THE HOUSING. THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY BEFORE, DURING, AND AFTER THE INCIDENT. THERE HAS NEVER BEEN AN ACCIDENT AND I CAN SEE NO DAMAGE TO THE OUTSIDE AT ALL. I HAVE CONTACTED FORD AND THEY WILL NOT ASSIGN A CASE NUMBER UNTIL IT IS INSPECTED AND CHECKED BY A FORD DEALER. THE CLOSEST FORD DEALER THAT SAID THEY WERE CAPABLE OF DOING THIS IS BOOKED UP AND CAN NOT LOOK AT IT FOR TWO WEEKS AND THEY DID MAKE AN APPOINTMENT FOR 10/25/17. THE DEALERSHIP IS ABOUT 35 MILES AND I WILL HAVE TO DRIVE IT THERE WITH THE AIRBAG HANGING OUT OF THE STEERING WHEEL. I AM SO THANKFUL THIS HAPPENED WHILE PARKED IN STORAGE AND NOT ON THE HIGHWAY AS I THE RESULT MAY HAVE BEEN FATAL TO MY SELF AND/OR OTHERS. MY INJURIES ARE SOME BRUISING, HEADACHES, AND A SORE NECK. THE MILES I ENTERED ARE APPROXIMATE, I WILL VERIFY THE EXACT NUMBER LATER. *TT CONSUMER'S STATEMENT "MY UNDERSTANDING IS THE SENSORS CHECK GOOD WITH NO OPEN CIRCUITS. THE ONLY OPEN CIRCUITS ARE THE ITEMS THAT DEPLOYED, THE DRIVER SIDE AIRBAG AND THE PASSENGER SIDE BELT TENSIONER. UPDATED 7/25/18*JB
2017-09-07
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-09-01
- VIN: 1FDEE14L5VH
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHILE BACKING OUT OF TIGHT PARKING SPOT 9/1/17, WITH MULTIPLE TURNS OF THE WHEEL, TURNED WHEEL ONE LAST TIME TO PULL FORWARD INTO PARKING SPOT DRIVE AREA BUT AT THAT POINT, HEARD A CLUNK AND ALL STEERING CONTROL WAS GONE. CALLED FOR A TOW. TOW TRUCK DRIVE ASSISTED IN THE DIAGNOSIS NOTING THAT THE STEERING BOX HAD DISCONNECTED FROM VAN FRAME RENDERING STEERING WHEEL CONNECTION LINES USELESS. HAD VAN TOWED HOME. AFTER ONLINE READ, LOOKED AT FRAME THROUGH LEFT FRONT TIRE ACCESS AND SAW THE 3 BOLTS WE READ ABOUT. GRABBED THE TOP BOLT AND IT CAME RIGHT OUT. SAME WITH SECOND BOLT. LAST (THIRD) BOLT WAS A BIT JAMMED DUE TO THE STEERING BOX DROP, BUT ALL 3 BOLTS HAD SHEARED AND ALL STEERING WAS LOST. HAD WE NOT STOPPED AT A STORE FOR LABOR DAY HOLIDAY SUPPLIES ON OUR WAY TO CAMPSITE, WOULD HAVE LOST STEERING SOMEWHERE ELSE, LIKE ON THE FREEWAY, POSSIBLY DURING A SIMILAR TURN SITUATION. WE COULD HAVE KILLED OTHERS OR OURSELVES. FOUND THAT THIS FORD E150 STEERING BOLT ISSUE HAS ALREADY BEEN DOCUMENTED. WHY WHEN WE HAD THE VAN SERVICED AND SAID THE STEERING HAD FELT "LOOSE", WHY DIDN'T ANY MECHANIC FIND THIS POTENTIAL?? UN-EXCUSABLE SITUATION. OUR PARENTS, CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN ARE CURRENTLY DEPENDENT ON US. HAD WE DIED DUE TO LOSS OF STEERING, WHAT A NIGHTMARE THAT WOULD HAVE BEEN. GRANTED, THE 20-YR-OLD VAN IS RUSTY, BUT WE DIDN'T KNOW TO LOOK UNDER THE LEFT FRONT TIRE AREA AND APPARENTLY, MULTIPLE (NON-FORD DEALERSHIPS) MECHANICS DIDN'T EITHER !!
2016-12-08
STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-12-06
- VIN: 1FDEE1466VH
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: DRIVING ON BESTBUY PARKING LOT, WENT OVER A SPEED BUMPER HEARD A LOUD CLUNK COMING FROM DRIVER SIDE FRONT TIRE. DROVE HOME, STOPPED VAN, GOT HELP, WHILE TURNING THE STEERING TO LEFT, LOUD METAL CLUNK FROM THAT DRIVER SIDE, HELPER ON FLOOR NOTICED THAT BOTTOM BOLT HOLDING POWER STEERING BOX IS GOING IN AND OUT, RUSTED ON FRONT AND BACK OF FRAME, THIS BOX SHOULD BE MOUNTED ON REINFORCED BRACKETS FRONT AND BACK OF FRAME THEN WELDED TO FRAME TO PROTECT OCCUPANTS FROM POSSIBLE SEPARATION OF BOX AND FRAME WITH CONSEQUENT LOSS OF CONTROL AND POSSIBLE ACCIDENT (COULD BE FATAL WHEN DRIVING THE VEHICLE). SO, WITH THE ENGINE ON, IN PARK, IF THE STEERING IS TURN TO THE LEFT, DRIVER WILL FEEL AND HEAR THE CLUNK. *TR
2015-07-07
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-28
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FTHE24L7VH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD E-250. WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH, THE FAN SWITCH THAT CONTROLS THE FAN SPEED MELTED AND BURNED. THE CONTACT COASTED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD, PULLED THE COVER FOR THE DASHBOARD, AND REMOVED THE WIRES THAT WERE CONNECTED TO THE SWITCH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THE BURNED WIRES SWITCH NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 236,092.
2015-03-02
STEERING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-02-14
- VIN: 1FDEE14L9VH
- Components: STEERING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: GEARBOX BOLTS BROKE AWAY FROM FRAME CAUSING LOSS OF STEERING. *TR
2015-01-09
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-02-23
- VIN: 2FTDX18W5VC
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: I HAVE JUST RECENTLY LOST THE REAR SHOCK MOUNT DUE TO TOO EXTREME RUST OF THE FRAME, FORD DOES NOT MAKE A REPLACEMENT PART FOR THIS. AND THE FRAME IS NOW CRACKING IN TWO. CONTACTED THE DEALER AND WAS TOLD TO BUY A NEW FRAME REALLY. WELL IT WILL NOT BE LONG TILL THE OTHER SIDE GOES. OR MY FRAME BREAKS IN TWO AND CAUSES SERIOUS INJURY TO ME OR OTHERS. THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS YEAR TRUCK AND FORD DON'T SEEM TO CARE. IF THE FRAME NEEDS REPLACED IT SHOULD BE AT THEIR EXPENSE NOT MINE RECALL TIME. THEIR ARE HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS STILL ON THE ROAD I AM NOT THE ONLY ONE. *TR
2014-11-12
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-04-19
- VIN: 1FMEE11L4VH
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: 1997 FORD ECONOLINE. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO TIRE ISSUES AND REPAIR REIMBURSEMENT.* LD THE CONSUMER DISCOVERED THE TIRES ON HER VEHICLE WERE RECALLED. HOWEVER, SHE WAS NEVER NOTIFIED. RECALL #12T007000. *JB
2013-11-20
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-11-15
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD E150 VAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, THE SPARK PLUG BECAME DISENGAGED FROM THE ENGINE. THE VEHICLE STARTED MAKING A LOUD NOISE WITHOUT WARNING. THE FAILURE WAS RECURRING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE ENGINE HEAD NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 280,000.
2013-10-31
STEERING,SUSPENSION,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-10-29
- VIN: 1FDKE30SVHA
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: CRUISE CONTROL STUCK ON WHEN TURNED OFF, THEN WOULD WORK ONLY SOMETIMES & STEERING VIBRATED. *TR
2013-05-15
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-05-09
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD E-350 EQUIPPED WITH COOPER ADVENTURE HT TIRES (N/A), SIZE 265/75/16R. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE TIRE TREAD SEPARATED ON THE REAR DRIVER SIDE TIRE. THE FAILURE HAD OCCURRED PREVIOUSLY WITH FOUR OTHER TIRES, WHICH HAD BEEN REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE TIRE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 15,000. THE VEHICLE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 76,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE TIRE #8 WENT BAD. THE CONSUMER STATED THE TIRE REPLACEMENT ALSO WENT BAD.
2013-04-29
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-04-24
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FTDX1724VK
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE VEHICLE HAD BEEN PARKED FOR ABOUT 1 HOUR WHEN AN EXPLOSION INCURRED WHICH RESULTED IN THE TRUCK BURNING UP. THE MOTOR AREA, FRONT WHEELS AND COMPLETED CAB WERE DESTROYED. GAS TANK DID NOT BLOW UP. *TR
2013-03-12
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-03-12
- VIN: 1FDEE14H3TH
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: THIS IS THE EXACT SAME SITUATION OTHERS HAVE EXPERIENCED ON NHTSA RECALL CAMPAIGN NUMBER 01V114000 RELATING TO CRACKS/LEAKS TO THE 'MID SHIP' STYLE FUEL TANK. MY VAN IS A 1997 E-150 CONVERSION VAN. UNFORTUNATELY, I AM IN THE SAME SITUATION AS MANY OTHERS IN THE FACT THAT FORD MOTOR COMPANY DOES NOT ACKNOWLEDGE MY PARTICULAR VIN NUMBER IS AFFECTED IN THIS RECALL. THERE HAVE BEEN A NUMBER OF OTHER INCIDENTS REPORTED WITH VEHICLES MYSTERIOUSLY CATCHING ON FIRE FOR UNKNOWN REASONS. VERY DISTURBING THAT A MANUFACTURER WOULD NOT AGREE TO REPLACE A LEAKING/DAMAGED FUEL TANK. *TR
2012-08-27
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-08-25
- VIN: 1FDJE34S7VH
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT 52 MPH (PULLING A SMALL U-HAUL TRAILER) THE LEFT REAR TIRE ON MY VAN SUFFERED COMPLETE TREAD SEPARATION. THE TREAD SUBSEQUENTLY WRAPPED AROUND THE AXLE AND HAD TO BE PRIED LOOSE. THE TREAD WAS WHOLE AND INTACT (A COMPLETE CIRCLE), BUT THE CARCASS OF THE TIRE SHREDDED. THE TIRE IS (WAS( A UNIROYAL LT 245/75 R16 APPROXIMATELY 4 YEARS OLD. I MANAGED TO PULL TO THE SIDE OF THE FREEWAY ON MY RIM. THIS OCCURRED ON SATURDAY, AUGUST 25. *TR
2012-07-10
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-07-07
- VIN: 1FDEE14L6VH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: WHILE TRAVELING ON VACATION 600 MILES FROM HOME I EXPERIENCED A WELL KNOWN FAILURE TO FORD TRITON ENGINE OWNERS KNOWN AS A SPARK PLUG EJECTION FAILURE. I WAS TRAVELING @ 65 MPH AND UP TO THE FAILURE THE ENGINE WAS RUNNING NORMAL THERE WERE NO ABNORMAL SOUNDS. AT THE TIME OF THE FAILURE IT SOUNDED AS IF THE EXHAUST OR THE INTAKE WAS COMING APART. I PULLED OVER ON THE SIDE OF THE HIGHWAY AND REMOVED THE DOGHOUSE AT THE REAR OF THE ENGINE TO DISCOVER THE RIGHT BANK AND 2ND CYLINDER FROM THE REAR HAD EJECTED THE SPARK PLUG AND DESTROYED THE IGNITION COIL. I UNPLUGGED THE IGNITION COIL AND THE POWER CABLE FROM THE FUEL INJECTOR FROM THAT CYLINDER AND NURSED THE VAN TO A FRIENDS HOUSE 40 MILES AWAY WHICH TOOK OVER 3 HOURS. I CALLED SEVERAL FORD DEALERS TO EXPLAIN WHAT HAPPENED AND THEY FINISHED THE STORY FOR ME, THEY SAID THEY HAVE SEEN THIS PROBLEM SEVERAL HUNDRED TIMES AND THE FIX WOULD COST $1000.00 PER CYLINDER NEEDING REPAIRED. THIS IS A KNOWN FORD TRITON FLAW AND SHOULD BE ADDRESSED BY FORD WITH A RECALL. THIS COULD BE A SAFETY ISSUE BECAUSE WHEN THE SPARK PLUG LET GO THERE WAS A EXTREME LOSS OF POWER IF IN HEAVY TRAFFIC THIS COULD CAUSE A ACCIDENT, AND THE RAW FUEL COMING FROM THE CYLINDER ALONG WITH SPARK FROM A LIVE IGNITION COIL IS A FIRE HAZARD. *TR
2012-04-09
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-03-24
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FDEE1468VH
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD E-150. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 5 MPH WHEN THE BRAKES WERE DEPRESSED AND THE VEHICLE FAILED TO STOP PROPERLY, CAUSING THE CONTACT TO CRASH INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DESTROYED AND THE CRASH CAUSED NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC. THE MECHANIC CONFIRMED THAT THE ABS CONTROLLER FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 172,000.
2011-10-25
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-10-21
- VIN: 1FMEE1162VH
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD E-150. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STEERING BOX DETACHED FROM THE FRAME OF THE VEHICLE WHILE THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED, BUT DENIED ANY ASSISTANCE WITH REPAIRS TO THE DEFECT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 162,000.
2011-09-01
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-08-25
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FDEE1467VH
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING MY VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE IN THE REAR END OF THE VEHICLE. WE PULLED OVER AND IMMEDIATELY GOT THE CHILDREN OUT OF THE CAR. LESS THAN A MINUTE LATER, THE ENTIRE VEHICLE WAS BLAZING. *TR
2011-08-14
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-08-14
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 1997 FORD ECONOLINE VAN. THE SPARK-PLUG BLEW OUT OF THE ALUMINUM TRITON ENGINE DESTROYING THE EXISTING THREADS. FIRE HAZARD. EXPOSED FUEL TO ENGINE COMPARTMENT. *TR
1997 Ford Econoline recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 1997 Ford Econoline.
2009-05-11
- Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
2009-04-07
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
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.
1996-10-02
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY:CABLES
- Summary: THE BATTERY CABLE HARNESS DOES NOT HAVE ADEQUATE PROTECTION FROM CONTACTING AND BEING DAMAGED BY THE RIGHT ENGINE MOUNT.
- Consequence: IF THE BATTERY CABLE OR STARTER WIRE INSULATION IS DAMAGED BY SUCH CONTACT, A SHORT TO GROUND CAN OCCUR RESULTING IN OVERHEATING OF THE WIRING AND POSSIBLE IGNITION OF SURROUNDING COMPONENTS.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT FOR CHAFING OF THE CABLE AND WILL ADD INSULATION AND A TIE STRAP TO THE BATTERY CABLE HARNESS.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Ford Econoline problems:
Q&A: Troubleshooting 1997 Ford Econoline E150 Van | JustAnswer
https://www.justanswer.com/ford/6ng31-ford-e-150-econoline-problem-ford-1997-econoline-facinating.html
May 10, 2012 ... Your 1997 4.2 has known issues with the EGR passeges getting plugged up and when thei happens it will usually cause on the #5 and or #6 cylinder ...
1997 Ford E-150 Econoline Problems and Complaints - 9 Issues
https://repairpal.com/1997-ford-e-150-econoline/problems
Top 1997 Ford E-150 Econoline Problems · Rough Running Engine and Possible Check Engine Light · Loud Popping Noise and Misfire Experienced · Front End May Make ...
Ford Econoline 1992: Common Problems, Q&A, and Solutions
https://www.justanswer.com/ford/4w428-ford-e-150-econoline-need-help-1992-ford-econoline.html
Apr 20, 2011 ... What causes a 1992 Ford Econoline Van E-150 to stop? - Answered by a verified Ford Mechanic.
Ford E-Series Questions - Intermittant electrical problem - CarGurus
https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/Discussion-t92418_ds530682
Oct 10, 2012 ... Common problem with fords in that time frame. ... Oil pressure problem: I have a 1998 e150 econoline van ... My 1997 ford econoline 150 is giving me ...
Q&A: 1997 Ford E350 V10 Econoline Van - Gear Shifter Issues
https://www.justanswer.com/ford/3jpnm-1997-ford-e350-v10-econoline-van-309-500-my-gear-shifter.html
May 25, 2010 ... If you look under the dash on the steering column, you will see the shift cable that is attached to a lever coming off the right side of the ...
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