1997 Ford F-350 problems
The Ford Super Duty (also known as the Ford F-Series Super Duty) is a series of heavy-duty pickup trucks produced by the Ford Motor Company since the 1999 model year. Slotted above the consumer-oriented Ford F-150, the Super Duty trucks are an expansion of the Ford F-Series range, from F-250 to the F-600. The F-250 through F-450 are offered as pickup trucks, while the F-350 through F-600 are offered as chassis cabs.
Rather than adapting the lighter-duty F-150 truck for heavier use, Super Duty trucks have been designed as a dedicated variant of the Ford F-Series. The heavier-duty chassis components allow for heavier payloads and towing capabilities. With a GVWR over 8,500 lb (3,900 kg), Super Duty pickups are Class 2 and 3 trucks, while chassis-cab trucks are offered in Classes 3, 4, 5, and 6. The model line also offers Ford Power Stroke V8 diesel engines as an option.
Ford also offers a medium-duty version of the F-Series (F-650 and F-750), which is sometimes branded as the Super Duty, but is another chassis variant. The Super Duty pickup truck also served as the basis for the Ford Excursion full-sized SUV.
The Super Duty trucks and chassis-cabs are assembled at the Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville, Kentucky, and at Ohio Assembly in Avon Lake, Ohio. Prior to 2016, medium-duty trucks were assembled in Mexico under the Blue Diamond Truck joint venture with Navistar International.
Social links
Common 1997 Ford F-350 problems
Based on the information provided in the sources, here is a list of common problems with the Ford F-350 1997 based on complaints from owners:
- Swollen and Stuck Lug Nuts: Owners have reported issues with swollen and stuck lug nuts on the Ford F-350, which can cause difficulties during maintenance or tire changes.
- Death Wobble: The infamous "death wobble" is a common problem reported by Ford F-350 owners, particularly in models from 2009 to 2021. This issue occurs when driving over bumps or potholes, leading to steering instability.
- Steering Issues: Loose steering has been reported in several F-350 generations, affecting model years like 2011 to 2017. The cause is often attributed to a bad steering box, steering column, tie rods, pitman arms, or ball joints.
- PTO Pressure Oil Leaks: A frequent problem with the 6.8L gasoline engine in Ford F-350 models from 2009 to 2013 involves oil leaks through the PTO pressure switch, which can lead to serious issues like fires.
- Spark Plug Issues: Pre-2009 Ford F-350 models commonly experience spark plug issues where combustion pressure causes plugs to fire through the cylinder head. Repair may involve fixing threads, replacing the cylinder head, and gasket.
- Turbocharger Issues: Across several generations of the Ford F-350, turbocharger problems leading to a loud bang and loss of power have been reported. This issue, known as "turbocharger blow-off," can be resolved by replacing the plastic housing.
- Engine Block Heater Issues: Models from 2015 to 2019 have faced engine block heater problems, leading Ford to issue recalls.
- Squeaky Cabin: Some owners have reported squeaky cabins in the 2017 models, which can be a nuisance but not a critical issue.
These problems highlight common issues faced by Ford F-350 owners, ranging from steering and engine-related concerns to issues with lug nuts and turbochargers. Owners experiencing these problems are advised to seek professional inspection and repairs to ensure the safety and performance of their vehicles.
What is the fuel mileage for a 1997 Ford F350 7.3 Powerstroke?
Based on data from 102 vehicles, 4,678 fuel-ups and 1,232,122 miles of driving, the 1997 Ford F-350 gets a combined Avg MPG of 12.40 with a 0.12 MPG margin of error. Below you can see a distribution of the fuel-ups with 132 outliers (2.74%) removed.
What engine did the 1997 F350 have?
7.5L V-8 / 245 HP / 395 ft. lbs.
Is the 7.3 diesel good or bad?
Overall, the 7.3 Powerstroke is quite a reliable diesel engine, and even the issues listed here are generally easy to fix. As your engine gets older, it's always a good idea to replace stock parts with Powerstroke performance parts and upgrades for the best results.
What is the problem with the 7.3 Ford engine?
Overheating: Overheating in the 7.3 gas engine can be caused by a range of issues, including a faulty thermostat, clogged radiator, or water pump problems. Overheating should be treated as a serious concern, as it can lead to extensive engine damage.
What engine did the 1997 F350 have?
7.5L V-8 / 245 HP / 395 ft. lbs.
What is the fuel economy of a 1997 F350 diesel?
Based on data from 101 vehicles, 4,673 fuel-ups and 1,230,908 miles of driving, the 1997 Ford F-350 gets a combined Avg MPG of 12.40 with a 0.12 MPG margin of error.
Does a 1997 Ford F350 have a turbo?
Yes, the following 1997 F350 Regular Cab trims have turbo engines: Long Bed with a V8, Turbo Diesel, 7.3L. For a more detailed look at the 1997 F350 Regular Cab specs, features and options check out Kelley Blue Book's 1997 Ford F350 Regular Cab specs page.
How much can a 1997 F350 haul?
Used 1997 Ford F-350 - Specs & Features
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Overall width without mirrors | 79.0 in. |
| Wheelbase | 133.0 in. |
| Maximum towing capacity | 12,500 lbs. |
| Maximum payload | 4,155.0 lbs. |
1997 Ford F-350 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford F-350 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Tires problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Ford F-350 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Ford F-350
The NHTSA has received 163 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Ford F-350. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Ford F-350 vehicles.
2019-10-24
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-02
- VIN: 1FTHF36F8VE
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: ON THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE ENGINE PAN THE DIPSTICK ADAPTER WAS MANUFACTURED POORLY. THE OIL FROM THE CRANKCASE HAS CAUSED THE ORING TO SWELL AND LEAK OIL. THE OIL LEAK IS GETTING ON THE STARTER AND CLUTCH. THE OIL CAN CAUSE A SHORT IN THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. THIS CAN CAUSE AN ACCIDENT OR DEATH WHILE DRIVING. THE OIL ON THE CLUTCH CAN CAUSE LOSS OF CONTROL AND CAUSE AN ACCIDENT OR DEATH. THE ORING CAN SWELL AND FALL OFF THE ADAPTOR AND BECOME LODGED IN THE OIL PICKUP. THIS WILL STARVE THE MOTOR OF OIL AND CAUSE A CATASTROPHIC FAILURE OF THE MOTOR WHILE DRIVING. THIS CAN CAUSE AN ACCIDENT OR DEATH. DUE TO THE INHERENT POOR DESIGN THE ORING THAT IS SUBMERGED IN OIL SHOULD BE COMPATIBLE WITH OIL OR BE ABLE TO BE REPLACED. IT IS NOT POSSIBLE TO REPLACE THE ORING DUE TO DUE TO THE TERRIBLE DESIGN OF THE DIPSTICK ASSEMBLY. TO REPLACE THIS ORING WITH A PROPER OIL COMPATIBLE ONE REQUIRES THE DISASSEMBLY OF THE MOTOR AND THE REMOVAL OF THE MOTOR TO GAIN ACCESS TO THE DEFECTIVE PART. THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM ON ALL VEHICLES OF THE SAME MAKE AND MODEL FROM 1988-2006.
2017-08-08
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-06
- VIN: 1FTJW36H0VE
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD F-350. WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT RESTARTED THE VEHICLE AND IT STALLED A SECOND TIME. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE AND DRIVE HOME. GLADIAN REPAIR SHOP OF PITTSBURG, VIRGINIA WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND SUGGESTED A LIST OF UNKNOWN REPAIRS. CAMEL BROTHERS REPAIR SHOP OF PRINCE GEORGE, VIRGINIA REPLACED THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL POSITION SWITCH SENSOR, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 120,000.
2015-04-21
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-04-01
- VIN: 1FDKF38F6VE
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD F-350. WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE WOULD SUDDENLY STALL. AFTER RESTARTING THE ENGINE, THE VEHICLE OPERATED NORMALLY. THE CONTACT INDICATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS INTERMITTENT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE CAM SHAFT POSITION SENSOR WAS FAULTY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 07V553000 (ENGINE). THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED THE SAME FAILURE LISTED IN THE RECALL. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 92,000.
2015-04-15
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-04
- VIN: 1FTJW35F3VE
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: WE WERE TRAVELLING 65 MPH ON THE 91 FREEWAY TOLL ROAD WHEN MY LEFT REAR TIRE TREAD COMPLETELY SEPARATED FROM THE CASING CAUSING MY VEHICLE TO SWERVE AND JUMP AND CAUSING SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE TO MY VEHICLE, INCLUDING DAMAGING THE FUEL FILL LINE. FORTUNATELY THERE WAS NO FUEL LEAKAGE. THE TIRE DID NOT DEFLATE SO THERE WAS NO PUNCTURE OR OTHER EXTERNALLY CAUSED DAMAGE TO THE TIRE OR VEHICLE. I TOOK THE TIRE TO A BF GOODRICH DEALER ON 10/19/14 FOR INSPECTION, THE TIRE WAS STILL FULLY INFLATED. THE DEALER DEFLATED THE TIRE OUT OF SAFETY CONCERNS. HAD THIS BEEN A FRONT TIRE THE POTENTIAL FOR DAMAGE AND INJURY WOULD HAVE SIGNIFICANTLY INCREASED. THE TIRE WAS PURCHASED IN JULY 2012 AND WAS JUST OVER 2 YEARS OLD. TIRE DOT# IS BFW8 0211 0712. *TR
2014-05-05
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-04-12
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FTJW36F1VE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING MY 1997 FORD F350 DIESEL PICKUP, PULLING A 36FT GOOSENECK HORSE TRAILER WITH MY TWO TEENAGE DAUGHTERS AND THEIR FOUR HORSES, THE ENGINE IN MY PICKUP SPONTANEOUSLY IGNITED. THERE WAS NO "CHECK ENGINE" WARNING LIGHT, AND THE ENGINE TEMPERATURE GAUGE SHOWED NORMAL. THE ONLY WARNING I HAD WAS SMOKE COMING UP FROM THE LEFT WHEEL WELL UPON SPEED DECREASE TO TURN A CORNER. I WAS TRAVELING A SHORT DISTANCE FROM HOME AND AT A LOW RATE OF SPEED (LESS THAN 40MPH) DURING THE TRAVEL FROM MY HOME TO THE LOCAL FAIRGROUNDS FOR RODEO PRACTICE. AS I TURNED THE CORNER, THE SMOKE BILLOWED. I IMMEDIATELY PULLED OVER AND SMOKE FILLED THE CAB OF THE PICKUP. MY TWO DAUGHTERS AND I QUICKLY EVACUATED THE VEHICLE AND CALLED 911. WE QUICKLY UNLOADED THE LIVESTOCK FROM THE TRAILER AND GOT FAR AWAY FROM THE SCENE. MY FIANCE, WHO WAS TRAVELING BEHIND US IN ANOTHER VEHICLE, TRIED PUTTING THE FIRE OUT WITH THE FIRE EXTINGUISHER I CARRIED IN MY PICKUP, BUT TO NO AVAIL. AS AN EMERGENCY RESPONDER HIMSELF, HE HAD THE PRESENCE OF MIND TO UNHOOK THE PICKUP FROM THE HORSE TRAILER AND PUSH IT AWAY AS IT BECAME ENGULFED IN FLAMES. BY THE TIME THE FIRE DEPARTMENT ARRIVED, THE VEHICLE WAS ENGULFED IN FLAMES AND A TOTAL LOSS. FROM THE TIME I NOTICED THE SMOKE UNTIL THE FIRE CONSUMED THE VEHICLE WAS LESS THAN 15 MINUTES. MY DAUGHTERS HAVE BEEN TRAUMATIZED BY THIS INCIDENT. WE HAVE SUFFERED SIGNIFICANT FINANCIAL AND ECONOMIC LOSS AS A RESULT OF THIS SPONTANEOUS FIRE. I NEED TO MAKE PEOPLE AWARE OF THIS TO PREVENT OTHERS FROM SUFFERING SIMILAR LOSS, INJURY OR EVEN DEATH. I AM AWARE THAT THERE ARE MULTIPLE ELECTRICAL ISSUES WITH THIS MAKE/MODEL VEHICLE. I RECEIVED NO RECALL NOTICES FROM FORD, OR WARNING OF ANY KIND THAT SOMETHING LIKE THIS COULD HAPPEN TO MY VEHICLE AS A RESULT OF A FAULTY PART (WHICH IS WHAT WE BELIEVED TO BE THE CAUSE OF THIS FIRE). *TR
2013-06-04
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-03-26
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS 1997 FORD F-350. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE NOTICED THAT THE FRAME WAS FRACTURED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 175,000. *TR
2011-10-01
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-10-27
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FTHF36F8VE
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: REAR DRIVER SIDE TREAD SEPARATED FROM TIRE AT 75MPH IN THE STATE OF NEBRASKA.22HRS. LATER IN THE STATE OF OHIO THE PASSENGER REAR SEPARATED. CONTACTED FIRESTONE AND THEY WILL NOT TAKE ANY RESPONSIBILITY FOR INCIDENT. *TR
2011-08-08
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-02-01
- VIN: 1FDKF38F7VE
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD F-350. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE FUEL GAUGE METER SUDDENLY INDICATED THAT THE FUEL TANK WAS EMPTY. THE CONTACT ALSO DISCOVERED THAT THE PANEL FOR THE FUEL TANK WAS DETACHED, CAUSING THE FUEL TANK TO BE SEPARATED FROM THE CHASSIS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 115,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 146,823.
2010-10-07
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-17
- VIN: 1FTJW36F5VE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD F-350 TURBO DIESEL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE OIL GALLERY PLUGS IN THE ENGINE BLOCK WERE LEAKING OIL WHILE HE WAS DRIVING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WHERE THE DEALER STATED THAT THEY WOULD REPAIR THE VEHICLE FREE OF CHARGE. HOWEVER, THE DEALER CALLED HIM AND EXPLAINED THAT HIS VEHICLE WAS OUTSIDE THE WARRANTY. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED BUT THE CONTACT STOPPED DRIVING IT ON THE STREET. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER WHO STATED THAT THEY USED A NEW MATERIAL WHEN PRODUCING THOSE MODELS AND THE PLUGS WOULD LEAK, BUT REFUSED TO ASSIST IN REPAIR COSTS. THERE WERE PHOTOGRAPHS AVAILABLE. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 66,700. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 42,000.
2010-07-20
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-07-20
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 3FEHF35H4VM
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: WE DROVE THE TRUCK AND IT NEVER GOT HOT OR ACTED UP THEN WE PARKED IT AND A LITTLE BIT LATER IT WAS ON FIRE. *TR
2010-03-30
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-03-17
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FTJW35F1VE
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD F-350 WITH A DIESEL ENGINE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN HE STOPPED AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT, STOP, THE BRAKE PEDAL FELT UNUSUALLY WEAK AND THERE WAS A STRONG ODOR OF BRAKE FLUID IN THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT THEN ACCELERATED TO SPEEDS OF 10 MPH AND MADE A TURN. IN DOING SO, HE NOTICED FLAMES FROM UNDERNEATH THE HOOD NEAR THE MASTER CYLINDER. THE ENGINE WAS SHUT OFF AND THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CALLED TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. A FIRE REPORT WAS FILED ACCORDINGLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER; HOWEVER, THE DEALER DID NOT WANT THE VEHICLE ON THE PROPERTY AND THE CONTACT TO REMOVE IT IMMEDIATELY. THERE WERE NO REPAIRS MADE TO THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE WAS SOLD TO A LOCAL JUNKYARD. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 275,404 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 275,404.
2008-06-10
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-06-09
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FTJW35F6VE
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: A STEEL BRAKE LINE ON MY TRUCK RUSTED AND RUPTURED CAUSING A COMPLETE BRAKE FAILURE. THIS IS THE SECOND OCCURRENCE OF THIS PROBLEM ON THIS VEHICLE. THE BRAKE LINE HAD RUSTED AND HAD A PARTIAL FAILURE, CAUSING A LEAK. THE RUSTED SECTION WAS REPLACED ABOUT 5 YEARS AGO. THE RECENT LINE FAILURE CAUSED AN ACCIDENT. *TR
2007-10-12
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-05-28
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FDJF37F0VE
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: VEHICLE FIRE 1997 FORD F350, CAUSED BY FIRE STARTING IN BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER. *JB
2007-05-19
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-05-18
- VIN: 1FTJW35F9VE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: STOPPED AT A STOP SIGNAL AND ENGINE QUIT. CRANKED OKAY, BUT WOULD NOT START. GOT IT TOWED TO MY HOUSE. AFTER LOTS OF TROUBLE SHOOTING FOR NOT STARTING, NOTICED THAT THE ENGINE TACHOMETER WAS NOT WORKING WHEN TRYING TO START. REPLACED THE CAM POSITION SENSOR, F7TZ-12K073-B. THE TRUCK STARTED RIGHT UP.*AK
2007-05-12
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-05-11
- VIN: 1FTJW36F6VE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CAM SHAFT POSITION SENSOR IN TRUCK HAS GONE OUT SUDDENLY AND COULD BE VERY DANGEROUS WHEN MOVING - LOSS OF POWER STEERING AND BRAKES. EVIDENTLY ALMOST ALL ENGINES HAVE THIS PART FAIL AT SOME POINT AND HAVE DONE NOTHING TO HELP THE CONSUMER.*AK
2007-03-11
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-12-15
- VIN: 1FTJW36F7VE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I HAVE HAD TWO CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR FAILURES ON MY 97' F350 7.3L DIESEL IN A MATTER OF ONE YEAR. THIS LEFT ME STRANDED ON BOTH OCCASIONS. I DISCOVERED ON SEVERAL FORD TRUCK DISCUSSION FORUMS THAT THIS IS ONE THE MOST COMMON FAILURES ON THESE TRUCKS THROUGH A VARIETY OF YEARS. I COULD NOT FIND ANY PERSON WHO OWNED A SIMILAR YEAR TRUCK AND DID NOT HAVE THIS COMPONENT FAIL ON THEM. PLEASE TAKE ACTION ON THIS ISSUE. *JB
2006-10-23
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-10-11
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FTJW36G4VE
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED FOR SEVERAL HOURS WHEN FIRE AND SMOKE WAS NOTICED COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD NEAR THE WINDSHIELD. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CONTACT AND AFTER THE FIRE WAS PUT OUT, IT WAS DETERMINED THE VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL MODULE WAS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE FIRE. A FIRE REPORT WAS TAKEN BY THE FIRE DEPARTMENT AND PHOTOS WERE AVAILABLE. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT TAKEN. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE INSURERS LOT FOR FURTHER INVESTIGATION. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT YET NOTIFIED.
2006-08-29
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-08-29
- VIN: 1FTJX35F1VE
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME VERY DIFFICULT TO TURN WHILE BACKING UP. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP WHO DETERMINED THE POWER STEERING HOSE CAME LOOSE, WHICH CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO LEAK POWER STEERING FLUID AND LOSE ALL POWER STEERING. THE DEALERSHIP INFORMED THE CONTACT THE DIESEL ENGINE VIBRATION CAUSED THE RUBBER SEAL THAT HELD THE POWER STEERING HOSE ON TO COME LOOSE. UPDATED 9/18/2006 - *NM
2005-12-14
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-11-26
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FTJW36F7VE
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: DT: THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT. UPON IMPACT, THE AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY. THIS ACCIDENT WAS A FRONTAL IMPACT COLLISION. THE DRIVER WAS WEARING A SEAT BELT. NO INJURIES WERE SUSTAINED. THE VEHICLE HAD EXTENSIVE DAMAGE. THE INSURANCE COMPANY IS HAVING THE VEHICLE REPAIRED. *AK THE CONSUMER WAS INFORMED BY THE REPAIR SHOP THAT HIS VEHICLE WAS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AIR BAGS. UPDATED 01/23/06. *JB
2005-11-18
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-08-21
- Fire: 1
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHY HAS FORD RECALLED ONLY LATER MODEL TRUCKS FOR THE CRIUSE CONTROL FIRE ISSUE. IT IS NOT A PROBLEM LIMITED TO THOSE YEARS. I EXPERIENCED THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM WITH MY 1997 F-350. *JB
2005-10-26
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-10-20
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: DT: THE CONTACT STATED THE INSIDE PASSENGER SIDE DOOR WILL NOT OPEN. WHEN TRYING TO OPEN THE DOOR THE HANDLE WOULD BREAK. THE DOOR HANDLE WAS REPLACED TWICE BY A LOCAL MECHANIC. THE MECHANIC DID NOT KNOW WHY THIS WAS HAPPENING. *AK
2005-10-17
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-09-12
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: (1) VEHICLE RANDOMLY DYING WHILE DRIVING IN TRAFFIC (2) CAM POSTION SENSOR, ENGINE DIES , LOSS OF POWER STEERING, LOSS OF POWER BRAKES (BOTH A NESSESITY WITH A DIESEL PICK UP TO BE ABLE TO MAINTAIN CONTROL DUE TO THIER WEIGHT) (3) REPLACE THE CAM POSITION SENSOR AT APPOXIMATELY $140.00. *JB
2005-08-01
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-05-09
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FTJW35F8VE
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: DT: THE ENGINE CAUGHT FIRE ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE OF THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THE CONSUMER'S CARPORT (PORT-A COUCHE) CAUGHT ON FIRE ALONG WITH THEIR HOME. THE HOUSE WAS A TOTAL LOSS. *NM THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN STARTED OR DRIVEN FOR 8 DAYS PRIOR TO THE FIRE. THE CONSUMER'S 1997 FORD F350 WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL ALTHOUGH IT HAD THE SAME CRUISE CONTROL SWITCH AS THE RECALLED VEHICLE'S. *NM
2005-06-28
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-28
- VIN: 1FTJW36FXVE
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: DT: CONSUMER WAS CONCERNED OF ABOUT REAR LEAF SPRINGS SPRING HANGER AND SHACKLE. CONSUMERS VEHICLE HAS EXTENSIVE RUST ON THE SPRING HANGER CONSUMER WAS TOLD BY MECHANIC THAT IT WOULD NOT BE SAFE TO HAUL ANY AMOUNT OF WEIGHT UNTIL PROBLEM WAS FIXED. CONSUMER PURCHASED THE PARTS TO FIX THE VEHICLE TODAY. FORD DEALER TOLD CONSUMER THAT THEY SELL A LARGE AMOUNT OF THESE PARTS, THIS WAS A COMMON PROBLEM ACCORDING TO THE FORD DEALER PARTS DEPARTMENT. CONSUMER STATED THAT THIS WAS A MAJOR STRUCTURAL ITEM, IT WAS RIVETED ON, NOT BOLTED. CONSUMER LOOKED AT SEVERAL OTHER VEHICLES LIKE HIS OWN, AND THEY HAD THE SAME PROBLEM. CONSUMER CALLED FORD TO ISSUE A COMPLAINT WITH THEM. CONSUMER ESTIMATED THAT IT WAS TO COST $500 TO FIX PROBLEM.*AK
2005-06-21
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-20
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: FIRESTONE STEELTEX FAILURE ON A 1997 FORD F350. ON JUNE 20, 2005, THE LEFT FRONT OEM FIRESTONE STEELTEX TIRE FAILED AT SPPED ON I-95S BETWEEN AVBERDEEN AND CHURCHVILLE MARYLAND. SINCE THE TRUCK IS DRIVEN VERY LITTLE, ALL TIRES HAVE 40,000 MILES ON THEM AND HAVE SUBSTANTIAL TREAD REMAINING. ALSO, I METICOULSLY MAINTAIN PRESURES. WITHOUT WARNING AND AT ABOUT 65MPH, THE TREAD SEPERATED FROM THE TIRE CARCASS CAUSING VEHCILE TO BE DIFFICULT TO CONTROL. NONETHELESS, I WAS ABLE TO PULL OFF-ROAD WITHOUT INCIDENT. TIRE CLEARLY SHOWS THAT THE TREAD SEPERATED FROM THE BODY OF THE TIRE CAUSING INSTANT PRESSURE LOSS AND SIDEWALL FAILURE. JUST ANOTHER EXAMPLE WHY PROBLEMS WITH THESE TIRES ARE NOT LIMITED TO SUVS OR THE LIMITED BATCHES THAT WERE RECALLED.
1997 Ford F-350 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 1997 Ford F-350.
2006-08-01
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: ON CERTAIN TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH SPEED CONTROL, GASOLINE OR NATURAL GAS ENGINES, THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH MAY OVERHEAT.
- Consequence: OVERHEATING COULD RESULT IN SMOKE OR BURN AND AN UNDERHOOD FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A FUSED WIRING HARNESS INTO THE SPEED CONTROL SYSTEM FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 7, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332. (NOTE: ALSO SEE RECALLS 05V017 AND 05V388)
2001-05-22
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: TIRES:TREAD/BELT
- Summary: THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SAFETY ACT. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION: FORD IS REPLACING ALL FIRESTONE WILDERNESS AT 15, 16, AND 17 INCH TIRES MOUNTED ON FORD TRUCKS AND SUVS. FORD REPORTS TREAD SEPARATION CAN OCCUR DUE TO A COMBINATION OF THE SENSITIVITY OF THE TIRE DESIGN TO STRESS, AGING, AND MANUFACTURING DIFFERENCES BETWEEN PLANTS. FORD IS REPLACING THESE TIRES TO PREVENT POSSIBLE PREMATURE TIRE FAILURE. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: THE VEHICLES LISTED BELOW MAY HAVE BEEN ORIGINALLY EQUIPPED WITH FIRESTONE WILDERNESS AT TIRES OR MAY HAVE HAD WILDERNESS AT TIRES INSTALLED DURING THE FIRESTONE RECALL LAUNCHED IN AUGUST 2000. CERTAIN 1991 THROUGHT 2002 FORD EXPLORER CERTAIN 2001 THROUGHT 2002 EXPLORER SPORT, AND SPORT TRAC CERTAIN 1997 THROUGH 2002 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER CERTAIN 1991 THROUGH 2001 RANGER CERTAIN 1999 THROUGH 2001 EXPEDITION CERTAIN 1991 THROUGH 1994, AND 1997 MODEL YEAR F-SERIES CERTAIN 1991 THROUGH 1994 BRONCO NOTE: BOTH ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT AND REPLACEMENT TIRES ARE AFFECTED.
- Consequence: SHOULD THE TREAD SEPARATE AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS, A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.
- Remedy: THE REPLACEMENT/REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAM FOR THIS CAMPAIGN EXPIRED ON MARCH 31, 2002. HOWEVER, CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT FORD AT 1-877-917-3673 OR GO ON-LINE TO WWW.FORD.COM FOR POSSIBLE ASSISTANCE.
1997-10-29
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: TIRES:BEAD
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: LIGHT DUTY PICKUP TRUCKS AND CHASSIS. THE TIRES ON THESE VEHICLES WERE DAMAGED DURING MOUNTING ONTO THE WHEELS. ONLY TRUCKS PRODUCED AT THE CUAUTITLAN, MEXICO PLANT BETWEEN SEPTEMBER 1, 1996, AND JULY 17, 1997, WERE AFFECTED BY THE DEFECT.
- Consequence: THE BEAD AREA OF THE TIRE WAS CUT WHICH COULD RESULT IN AIR LOSS. SUDDEN AIR LOSS COULD OCCUR RESULTING IN A LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL.
- Remedy: DUE TO THE AGE OF THE VEHICLES AND THIS RECALL AFFECTING ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT TIRES ONLY, FORD WILL NO LONGER ACCEPT CLAIMS FOR THIS CAMPAIGN.
1996-09-25
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
- Summary: THE RETAINER CLIP THAT HOLDS THE MASTER CYLINDER PUSH ROD TO THE BRAKE PEDAL ARM IS MISSING.
- Consequence: A LOSS OF SERVICE BRAKING CAN OCCUR INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT TO VERIFY THAT THE RETAINER CLIPS ARE INSTALLED AND IF CLIPS ARE MISSING WILL INSTALL CLIPS.
Negative 1997 Ford F-350 car reviews
Positive 1997 Ford F-350 car reviews
-
The best truck I have ever owned. It's strong, tough, and built to last!
-
This is the best truck I have ever had, and I would never trade or get rid of it for anything else. It's built to last forever!
-
This is a great truck! It's very reliable, clean, and looks and runs excellent. It has been well maintained.
-
I have no complaints about my truck. It has been a reliable workhorse, with 318k miles on the clock before I had to swap out the motor. Even when it lost three cylinders, it kept going. I have pushed this truck to its limits, and it has never let me down. I will never sell it, even though parts are becoming harder to find. While I suspect the steering column will be the next big job, I know that nobody builds trucks like this anymore. Not even Ford.
-
This is a wonderful truck you can do anything you want.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Ford F-350 problems:
1997 Ford F-350 Problems and Complaints - 5 Issues
https://repairpal.com/1997-ford-f-350/problems
Problem with your 1997 Ford F-350? Our list of 5 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1997 Ford F-350.
97 F350 7.3 Issues | Ford Powerstroke Diesel Forum
https://www.powerstroke.org/threads/97-f350-7-3-issues.1377445/
Apr 20, 2020 ... here's the symptoms: White smoke a start up, a lot of it for a couple minutes! Random misfire at idle and between 1200-1600 RPMs, bucks and ...
1997 7.3L problems | The Diesel Stop
https://www.thedieselstop.com/threads/1997-7-3l-problems.178308/
Nov 21, 2007 ... All, I had a problem with my 2002 F-350 7.3L Diesel this morning. I was driving when the engine suddenly began to hesitate and the engine light ...
Common Problems for 100,000 Mile Plus Trucks | Ford Powerstroke ...
https://www.powerstroke.org/threads/common-problems-for-100-000-mile-plus-trucks.164983/
Aug 25, 2010 ... Then again, most of this stuff will happen on any vehicle...you won't get away from having to replace parts eventually. 1997 Ford F-350 4x4 SRW ...
1997 F350 7.5 Gas Issues? - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1395425-1997-f350-7-5-gas-issues.html
Aug 31, 2015 ... The new IAC may be fine, but 300k+ wires and connections can go bad just by moving them around. Check for codes even if your light is not on.
Other years of Ford F-350
Are you having problems with your 1997 Ford F-350?
Rodrigo Orn 2024-09-18
It's great to have a truck, but unfortunately, I didn't have the opportunity to have it checked out before purchasing it. It seems like it was put together in a hurry and may have been salvaged before being sold by the dealership. I'm sure it would have been a good truck if it wasn't abused. It's important to be cautious when doing business with others!
Vincent Erdman 2024-03-11
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with this amazing truck I bought a year ago in Fairbanks Alaska. It only had 800 miles on it! I made some modifications to it, like changing the antifreeze to handle -60 and colder temperatures and adding some synthetic oils, and it has never let me down in the coldest and hottest temperatures. Even when I overloaded and over-towed it, it still held up like a champ! I haven't even considered looking at another truck because of its reliability and dependability. For diesel mileage, I'm getting about 16mpg, which is pretty impressive for a 1 ton. It's a simple truck, but that's what makes it so great. It's exactly what you need in a truck, not a car. Thanks for listening!
Lon Tremblay 2024-02-22
This older F350 diesel is actually pretty good! It works really well for towing our smaller 5th wheel, providing both power and economy. While the interior may not be as refined as the newer trucks, it still works perfectly for us.