Ford F-53 problems
The medium-duty version of the Ford F-Series is a range of commercial trucks manufactured by Ford Motor Company since 1948. Derived from the smaller F-Series pickup trucks, the medium-duty range is currently in its eighth generation. Initially slotted between the F-Series pickup trucks and the "Big Job" conventionals, later generations were slotted below the L-Series "Louisville" trucks; the last two generations are the largest vehicles produced by Ford since its exit from the heavy-truck segment.
The medium-duty F-Series has been used for an extensive number of applications, offered as a straight (rigid) truck and a truck-tractor (for semitrailers) in multiple cab configurations. Prior to the production of the Ford C-Series, the model line was also offered in a cab-over engine (COE) configuration; a cowled-chassis variant (the Ford B-series) was used for bus production.
For the 2000 model year, the medium-duty F-Series has been branded as part of the Ford Super Duty range, consisting of the Class 6–7 Ford F-650 and F-750; Class 8 versions of the F-750 have been produced since 2011. The current generation of the medium-duty F-Series is manufactured by Ford in its Ohio Assembly facility (Avon Lake, Ohio), replacing a joint venture with Navistar International named Blue Diamond Truck Company LLC located in General Escobedo, Mexico.
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Ford F-53 model years
Common Ford F-53 problems
Based on the information gathered from the sources provided, here is a detailed list of common problems with Ford F-53 vehicles based on complaints from owners:
- Equipment Issues:
- Total Cars Affected: 3,600,000
- NHTSA Campaign: 07V336000
- Date of Problem: 03/08/2007
- Description: Equipment problems have affected a significant number of Ford F-53 vehicles. These issues can encompass a wide range of components, potentially impacting the overall functionality and safety of the vehicle.
- Transmission Problems:
- Number of Recalls: 3
- Description: Transmission issues have been reported by Ford F-53 owners, indicating potential challenges with the vehicle's transmission system. These problems can lead to difficulties in shifting gears, affecting the vehicle's performance.
- Brake Concerns:
- Number of Recalls: 2
- Description: Brake-related complaints have been raised by owners of Ford F-53 cars, highlighting issues that could compromise the braking efficiency and safety of the vehicle. Addressing brake problems promptly is crucial for ensuring safe driving conditions.
- Suspension Challenges:
- Number of Recalls: 2
- NHTSA Campaign: 21V202000
- Date of Problem: 24/03/2021
- Description: Suspension issues have been a common complaint among Ford F-53 owners, impacting the vehicle's stability and ride comfort. Addressing suspension problems is essential to maintain control and safety while driving.
- Steering Difficulties:
- Number of Recalls: 1
- Description: Steering problems have been reported by some Ford F-53 owners, indicating potential issues with the vehicle's steering mechanism. Addressing steering concerns is crucial for safe and precise handling of the vehicle.
These common problems reported by Ford F-53 owners underscore the importance of regular maintenance, prompt repairs, and thorough inspections to ensure the safety, performance, and longevity of these vehicles. Owners should stay vigilant for any signs of these issues and address them promptly to maintain the optimal functioning of their Ford F-53 cars.
What is the problem with the Ford F53 chassis?
The F53 problem stems from the long front parabolic suspension springs. What happens is they start to oscillate which then starts the steering wheel oscillatory which then transfers to the body.
What is the Ford F53 chassis used for?
The F-53 motorhome chassis is designed specifically for Class A motorhomes. Each is available in a range of wheelbases and GVWRs so they can be customized for a variety of uses. Both chassis feature the Ford 6.8-liter V10 engine that delivers 320 horsepower and 460 lb.
What transmission does the F53 have?
Chassis Specifications
| Chassis Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Transmission | TorqShift® 6-speed automatic overdrive with Tow/Haul Mode |
| Wheelbases | 158" / 178" / 190" / 208" / 228" / 242" / 252" |
| Over-all Lengths | 300.1" / 320.1" / 332.1" / 350.1" / 370.1" / 384.1" / 394.1" |
| Payloads | 9,650 - 18,720 lbs |
What is the warranty for a Ford F53 chassis?
The Ford Motorhome Chassis has a bumper-to-bumper limited warranty for 3 years or 36,000 miles and a Powertrain limited warranty for 5 years or 60,000 miles, whichever occurs first. 24/7 hotline. We're here to help keep your adventure on the move.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Ford F-53 years
We have researched Ford problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Ford F-53 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Ford F-53 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Ford F-53 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Ford F-53 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Ford F-53 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Ford F-53 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Suspension problems
- Service brakes problems
- Power train problems
- Structure problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Ford F-53 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by F-53 model years
A total of 2 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by F-53 model years
There were a total of 2 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by F-53 model years
There were a total of 3 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 106 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Ford F-53 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Ford F-53 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Ford F-53 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 1F65F5DN8N0
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2022 Ford F53. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal was depressed but failed to respond. The contact required to quickly and forcefully re-apply the brake pedal for the brakes to engage. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 17, 000.
Ford F-53 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-27
- VIN: 1F66F5DN7L0
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: See attached document for complaint.
Ford F-53 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-20
- VIN: 1F66F5DY6F0
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Ford F-53. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact stated the windshield wipers on both sides of the vehicle were not functioning properly. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the windshield wipers had completely stopped working. The vehicle was taken to the dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 23,000.
Ford F-53 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-04
- VIN: 1F66F5DN4P0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2023 Ford F53. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V510000 (Electrical System) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the contact noticed that the instrument panel had become inoperable. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the smart data link connectors (SDLC) module had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to the parts not being available. The manufacturer was made not aware of the failure. The failure mileage was not available. Parts distribution disconnect.
Ford F-53 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-04
- VIN: 1F65F5DN5M0
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: 22S62 - Loose Rear Stabilizer Bar Bracket Bolts. The rear stabilizer bar attachment brackets may break and separate from the vehicle during usage. NOTE: This is a safety risk that I do not want to take. Ford Pro has not been able to locate a Ford Repair in the local area(within 100 miles) that can do this repair. NOTE2: The offical notice was issued in Jult 2024 from Ford, P,O, Box 1904, Dearborn, MI 48212-1904.
Ford F-53 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-07
- VIN: 1F64F5DN9P0
- Components: STEERING,VISIBILITY,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2024 Coachmen Encore RV built on a 2023 Ford F-53 Motorhome Chassis. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the RV was swerving all over the roadway. The contact stated that it was extremely difficult to keep the RV driving in a straight line. The contact also stated that the windshield was leaking, causing a very loud noise inside the RV while driving. Additionally, the contact stated that the lock for the main door had fallen off. The RV was taken to a dealer; however, the contact was informed that the cause of the swerving while driving could not be determined. The RV was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 1,204.
Ford F-53 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-07
- VIN: 1F65F5DN8L0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: While driving the cruise control shut off, all dash lights came on - ABS brakes, traction control, etc. We stopped at the next service center and called tech support. Tech support felt it was a bad sensor which would correct itself after engine shut off for a little while. The motorhome would be safe to get to a repair center. Shutting the engine off did not correct the issue - the lights continued to come on. The repair center "found the wiring harness was loose at L/F rear of engine and was resting on the exhaust manifold flange. Verified severe wiring damage from laying on the flange - lots of wires were burnt up." "The possiblity of causing a severe fire."
Ford F-53 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-29
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-02
- VIN: 1F66F5DN2M0
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: Front bump stops for suspension fell of in first 5k miles. I had them replaced and less than 1k miles later one of them is falling off again. This is a common issue with ford F53 RV owners, regardless of final RV maker (mine is Tiffin, but Thor and Fleetwood owners all are having this issue). According to the service ticket this was a revised part. This is a real safety issue as the front springs are now steel on steel in a bump scenario and could cause an driver to loose control..
Ford F-53 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-25
- VIN: 1F66F5DY2K0
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: Wheel Bearing Failure - Ford F-53 Motorhome - Mileage 21,001 Wheel bearings failed while driving on [XXX] in Amarillo TX. I had an intermittent ABS Sensor warning light for some time. The vehicle was checked by a Ford service center prior to incident and no issue/fault could be found or duplicated. NO ABS concern found. I was driving the RV through Amarillo on [XXX] toward our stop for the night. While driving we felt a slight vibration that could have been from the road. A few miles from our stop the vibration got stronger and, at the time, I thought I might have a tire going flat. I pulled the vehicle over and exited to inspect the issue. I noticed tire rubber on the mud flap on the passenger side front tire and around the area and nursed the RV to the Truck Stop where I pulled in. After inspecting the right front tire area, I could see that the tie rod was digging into the tire and that the tire was out of skew. Since the failure occurred on the freeway at speeds between 60-65 mph we were extremely fortunate to avoid an accident. The tie rod had dug into the tire and the rubber was being spalled off so there was very little material left. The fact that the tire didn’t fail completely was purely luck. Additionally, the wheel bearing failure cause considerable additional damage including to the hub and we were lucky a total failure didn’t occur such as the wheel falling off at high speed. From the Truck and Trailer Repair Center’s repair report, it appears that the inner bearing race was spinning with the wheel bearings and that may have caused the early failure. As a precaution, I had them check the driver’s side front wheel and they observed the same issue and they were replaced as well. I would note that it is my understanding that the front wheel bearings are not on the service schedule to be checked and repacked until 60,000 miles. Mileage on the vehicle at the time of the incident was 21,001. Total damage and repair costs exceeded $6000.00 INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Ford F-53 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-28
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-09
- VIN: 1F66F5DN5L0
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: See attached document for complaint
Ford F-53 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-11
- VIN: 1F66F5DY3F0
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Bounder Class A RV built on a 2015 Ford F-53 Chassis. The contact stated while driving 60 MPH, the engine made an abnormal ticking sound. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to continue driving. The RV was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the camshaft needed to be replaced. The RV was not repaired. The contact related the failure to Ford Campaign Number: 17B30. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 29,000.
Ford F-53 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-15
- Date Complaint: 2023-11-17
- VIN: 1F66F5DN9N0
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: UNKNOWN issue causes safety features Anti-Lock Brake System, Traction Control, and braking feature Hill Start assist to be inoperable. In addition, cruise control system is inoperable.
Ford F-53 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-21
- Date Complaint: 2023-11-03
- VIN: 1F66F5DN4P0
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2023 Ford F-53. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V510000 (Electrical System) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Ford F-53 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-31
- Date Complaint: 2023-08-28
- VIN: 1F66F5DN0N0
- Components: STRUCTURE,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: The contact owns a 2022 Jayco Precept 36C built on a 2022 Ford F-53 chassis. The contact stated that while her husband was driving 60 MPH, the front shade suddenly unfurled, preventing front-view visibility. No warning lights were illuminated. The RV was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the shade unfurling motor. The RV was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but was unable to assist. The failure mileage was 7,220.
Ford F-53 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-20
- Date Complaint: 2023-05-16
- VIN: 1F66F5DN6L0
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2022 Tiffan Open Raod. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22v731000 (Suspension) however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Latest 5 recalls Ford F-53
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 17 recalls for different components of the Ford F-53.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Ford F-53 2023
- Report Received Date: 2023-07-21
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2023 F-53 recreational stripped chassis and F-59 commercial stripped chassis vehicles. Corrosion in the Smart Data Link Connector (SDLC) may interfere with the Controller Area Network (CAN) communication, resulting in an inoperative instrument panel. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 101, "Control and Displays" and 105, "Hydraulic and Electric Brake Systems."
- Consequence: An inoperative instrument panel cannot show critical safety information, such as the speedometer or warning lights, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will install a wire harness connector, and inspect and replace the SDLC module, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 26, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23C24.
- Model: Ford F-53 2022
- Report Received Date: 2023-03-10
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022 F-53 and F-59 vehicles. The rear brake caliper attachment bolts may not be tightened correctly, which can allow the caliper to loosen and possibly damage the wheel or brake lines.
- Consequence: A damaged wheel can result in a loss of tire pressure. A damaged brake line can cause a brake fluid leak and reduce brake performance. Either condition increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and tighten the rear caliper bolts, as necessary, free of charge. In addition, any damaged bolts will be replaced, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 27, 2023. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S11.
- Model: Ford F-53 2022
- Report Received Date: 2022-07-22
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022 F-53 Motorhome Stripped Chassis, and F-59 Commercial Stripped Chassis vehicles. The steering wheel attachment bolt may loosen and separate from the steering column, resulting in a loose or detached steering wheel.
- Consequence: A loose or detached steering wheel can result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Ford will work with the final stage vehicle manufacturers to replace and tighten the steering wheel attachment bolt, free of charge. As of August 10, 2022, all 692 vehicles included in this recall have been remedied. No owner notification letters will be mailed. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S50.
- Model: Ford F-53 2020
- Report Received Date: 2021-03-24
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 F-53 Motorhome Stripped Chassis and F-59 Commercial Stripped Chassis vehicles. An inadequate amount of rear axle lubricant may cause rear wheel bearing damage and bearing seizure, and rear axle or driveshaft failure.
- Consequence: Failure of the rear axle or driveshaft may cause the loss of motive power, failure of the parking brake, and the inability to shift the transmission into "PARK," increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, replace the rear wheel bearings, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 12, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S17.
- Model: Ford F-53 2021
- Report Received Date: 2021-03-24
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2021 F-53 Motorhome Stripped Chassis and F-59 Commercial Stripped Chassis vehicles. An inadequate amount of rear axle lubricant may cause rear wheel bearing damage and bearing seizure, and rear axle or driveshaft failure.
- Consequence: Failure of the rear axle or driveshaft may cause the loss of motive power, failure of the parking brake, and the inability to shift the transmission into "PARK," increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, replace the rear wheel bearings, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 12, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S17.
Are you having problems with your Ford F-53?
