Ford F100 problems

ford logo

The fifth generation of the Ford F-Series is a line of pickup trucks and commercial trucks that were produced by Ford from the 1967 to 1972 model years. Built on the same platform as the fourth generation F-Series, the fifth generation had sharper styling lines, a larger cab, and expanded engine options.

Three trim levels were available during the production of the fifth generation F-Series, though the names were changed in 1970. The "Base" trim became the "Custom" and the "Custom Cab" became the "Sport Custom" joining "Ranger" as optional levels of equipment and trim. Late in production the Ranger trim level was upgraded with the additional "Ranger XLT" option.

Year by year changes

  • 1967: Introduction of fifth-generation F-Series in 1966 for the 1967 model year
  • 1968: As federal regulations required all automotive manufacturers to install side marker reflectors or lights, Ford redesigned the hood emblems to incorporate reflectors as well as added reflectors to the rear of the bed
  • 1969: New grille design, new 302 Windsor V8 engine option
  • 1970: Mid-cycle update with many detail changes including a completely new grille including wraparound front turn signals, exterior trim changes, and new side marker lights

Argentina

A new engine choice to the local market is introduced in that year: the diesel engine, which was a Perkins 3.3 L (203 cu in) l4 engine with 120 hp SAE at 3,000 RPM. Also, another change is the alternator, replacing the dynamo.

photo of Ford F100 car production

Social links

Ford F100 model years

ford f100 1996 photo
F100 1996
Ford

2

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford f100 1990 photo
F100 1990
Ford

2

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford f100 1988 photo
F100 1988
Ford

1

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford f100 1985 photo
F100 1985
Ford

3

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford f100 1984 photo
F100 1984
Ford

1

1

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford f100 1983 photo
F100 1983
Ford

2

2

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford f100 1980 photo
F100 1980
Ford

1

3

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford f100 1979 photo
F100 1979
Ford

2

9

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford f100 1974 photo
F100 1974
Ford

3

2

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford f100 1969 photo
F100 1969
Ford

1

1

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Ford F100 problems

Based on the information gathered from various sources about the Ford F100 trucks, here is a list of common problems reported by owners of these vehicles:

  1. Rust Issues:
    • The Ford F100 trucks are known to be prone to rust, especially at the base of the B pillar, front of the bed, and wheel wells. Rust in these areas can significantly affect the structural integrity of the truck.
  2. Alignment Problems:
    • Owners have reported issues with the alignment of the twin I-beam front end, which can lead to uneven tire wear. Checking the condition of the front tires can help identify alignment issues that may require adjustments.
  3. Rust Around Windshield:
    • Another common problem is rust around the windshield, particularly at the top, bottom, and sides. Water trapped in the seal can cause hidden rust, which may not be visible but can impact the truck's longevity.
  4. Engine Concerns:
    • While the Ford F100 trucks are generally reliable, some owners have experienced engine issues such as low compression levels, uneven cylinder performance, and potential power loss. These problems can indicate internal engine wear and may require engine replacement or repairs.
  5. Paint and Bodywork:
    • Many Ford F100 trucks from this era suffer from paint issues like orange peel, peeling clear coat, and oxidation, particularly on certain colors like silver and maroon. Addressing these cosmetic problems may be necessary for aesthetic reasons and to prevent further deterioration.
  6. Parts Availability:
    • While parts for the Ford F100 are generally interchangeable and available online, some specific components, especially those unique to low-volume trim levels, can be challenging to source. Owners may face difficulties finding certain parts for restoration or repairs.
  7. Transmission Concerns:
    • Some owners have reported transmission issues, including potential wear and tear on the automatic or manual transmissions. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify early signs of transmission problems and prevent costly repairs.
  8. Interior Wear:
    • Due to the utilitarian nature of the Ford F100 trucks, the interior is often basic and prone to wear over time. Upholstery, dashboard components, and other interior features may show signs of aging and require restoration or replacement to maintain the truck's comfort and aesthetics.

By addressing these common problems proactively and conducting thorough inspections before purchasing a Ford F100 truck, owners can better understand the condition of the vehicle and plan for necessary maintenance or repairs to ensure the longevity and reliability of their classic pickup truck.

Ford F100

What is the most sought after Ford F100?

The 1965 Ford F-100 is a highly sought-after classic truck that boasts: A unique design. A range of robust engine options. A widened front that seamlessly integrates the cab and front fenders.

What is a Ford F100 worth?

The Ford F100 is available from $7,480 to $15,730 for the 1987 range of models in Single Cab body types. Interested in a Ford F100?

Why was the F-100 discontinued?

Ford F-100: Discontinued in 1983 as Ford Shuffles their Truck Line-Up. The Ford F-100 was discontinued in 1983 (at least for the U.S. market) as it started to look a bit redundant next to the F-150 which offered everything its predecessor had, plus a bit more.

What was the top speed of the F-100?

Its maximum speed was 822 miles per hour (1,323 km/h) at 35,000 feet (11,000 metres), and its ceiling was over 50,000 feet (15,000 metres). The Super Sabre was armed with four 20-millimetre cannons.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Ford F100 years

We have researched Ford problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Ford F100 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Ford F100 model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Ford F100 model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Ford F100 years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Ford F100 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Ford F100 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Tires problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Structure problems
  • Suspension problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Ford F100 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by F100 model years

A total of 1 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 F100 model years

There were a total of 3 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 F100 model years

There were a total of 1 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 18 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Ford F100 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Ford F100 vehicles.

List of Ford F100 complaints

Ford F100 1974
  • Date Of Incident: 2007-11-06
  • Date Complaint: 2007-12-27
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1974 FORD F-100. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH SHE HEARD A LOUD NOISE COMING FROM THE PASSENGER REAR TIRE THEN THE VEHICLE INCREASED IN SPEED AND SHIFTED FROM THE LEFT TO THE RIGHT CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO LOSE CONTROL AND COLLIDE INTO A TREE. AFTER INSPECTING THE VEHICLE SHE NOTICED THAT THE SIDEWALL OF THE TIRE WAS SHREDDED. PRIOR TO OPERATING THE VEHICLE SHE NOTICED THAT THE TREAD WAS NORMAL AND THE TIRE PRESSURE WAS NORMAL. SHE HAS A COPY OF THE POLICE REPORT. SHE HAS NOT FILED A FORMAL COMPLAINT WITH THE MANUFACTURER. THE CONTACT HAS PHOTOS. THE MILEAGE OF THE TIRE WAS UNKNOWN. THE CONTACT DID NOT HAVE THE DOT NUMBER. THE MANUFACTURER IS MARSHAL THE MODEL LINE IS TOURING THE TIRE LINE IS P/235/75/R15 . THE VIN NUMBER WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
Ford F100 1979
  • Date Of Incident: 2004-08-30
  • Date Complaint: 2004-08-31
  • Fire: 1
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING AND TURNING TO THE LEFT CARBURETOR OVERFLOWED AND W VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE. DEALER WAS NOTIFIED. *AK
Ford F100 1980
  • Date Of Incident: 2003-08-02
  • Date Complaint: 2003-12-17
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: RADIUS ARM BROKE WHILE DRIVING. AS RESULT, DRIVER'S SIDE WHEEL CAME OFF WITHOUT WARNING. *AK
Ford F100 1996
  • Date Of Incident: 2001-10-20
  • Date Complaint: 2002-01-14
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1FTEF15Y2TL
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: WHILE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IT CAUGHT ON FIRE, FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CALLED TO DISTINGUISH FIRE. FIREMAN INDICATED POSSIBLE ELECTRICAL FIRE.*AK *YD
Ford F100 1979
  • Date Of Incident: 1988-07-20
  • Date Complaint: 2001-09-10
  • VIN: F10GRFE4864
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK
Ford F100 1990
  • Date Of Incident: 2001-01-17
  • Date Complaint: 2001-01-17
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: NOT KNOWING WHERE ELSE TO PLACE THIS, I CHOSE THE VEHICLE TYPE ONLY TO PROCEED TO THIS POINT. JUST AN IDEA TO SUGGEST CONCERNING VEHICLE DESIGN THAT AFFECTS SAFETY: I HAVE BEEN BEHIND VEHICLES TRAVELING WEST IN THE EARLY AM OR EAST AROUND SUNSET AND IF A VEHICLES REAR WINDOW IS DESIGNED FLAT, IT PERFECTLY REFLECTS THE BRIGHT SUN INTO THE FACE OF THE DRIVER FOLLOWING SUCH A VEHICLE CAUSING A SERIOUS SAFETY HAZARD IN THAT BLINDS THE FOLLOWING DRIVER. I DO NOT KNOW IF YOUR AGENCY HAS THE AUTHORITY TO DO WHAT I WILL SUGGEST BUT IF YOU DO, IT WOULD BE IN THE PUBLICS INTEREST TO REQUIRE NEW CAR DESIGNS TO NOT INCLUDE FLAT SURFACES THAT ARE POSITIONED IN A MANNER TO REFLECT NATURAL SUNLIGHT INTO THE FACE OF A DRIVER BEHIND SUCH A VEHICLE. I OFFER THIS SUGGESTION IN SINCERITY FOR SAFETY. SINCERELY, [XXX]. *AK PARTS OF THIS DOCUMENT HAVE BEEN REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Ford F100 1974
  • Date Of Incident: 1988-06-15
  • Date Complaint: 2000-12-07
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: THESE TIRES WERE NEW FROM A FIRESTONE DEALER IN TEMPLE TEXAS , THEY BOTH BLEW WITH IN 200 MILES OF BEING INSTALLED AND FOLDED BOTH SIDES OF THE BED OF MY TRUCK . THIS IS NOT A RECENT PROBLEM WITH FIRESTONE TIRES . BEFORE THIS I HAD 4 NEW FIRESTONE 721 RADIALS SHUCK THE TREAD ALSO . THANK GOD I WAS IN AN OLDER FULL SIZED TRUCK BOTH TIMES . PLEASW LOOK FATHER BACK THAN 1991 , HOW MANY PEOPLE DIED BECAUSE OF FIRESTONES LACK OF QUALITY CONTROL AS WELL AS THE POCKET BOOK BEING MORE IMPORTANT THAN THIER CUSTOMERS . I WAS TOLD WITH THESE TIRES I MUST HACE RUN OVER SOMETHING IN THE ROAD AND DIDN NOT HAVE ROAD HAZZARD WARRANTY SO I WAS OUT THE MONEY FOR 6 TIRES AND THE PRICE OF REPAIRS TO MY TRUCKS . I KNOW BETTER , THESE TIRES DID JUST WHAT THEY DO NOW , THE TREAD SEPERATING AND BLOWING OUT . FEEL FREE TO CALL ME IF YOU NEED ANY FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK (TIRESIZE: P235/75R15)( DOT NUMBER: TIRE SIZE: P235/75R15 )
Ford F100 1974
  • Date Of Incident: 1988-06-15
  • Date Complaint: 2000-12-07
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: THESE TIRES WERE NEW FROM A FIRESTONE DEALER IN TEMPLE TEXAS , THEY BOTH BLEW WITH IN 200 MILES OF BEING INSTALLED AND FOLDED BOTH SIDES OF THE BED OF MY TRUCK . THIS IS NOT A RECENT PROBLEM WITH FIRESTONE TIRES . BEFORE THIS I HAD 4 NEW FIRESTONE 721 RADIALS SHUCK THE TREAD ALSO . THANK GOD I WAS IN AN OLDER FULL SIZED TRUCK BOTH TIMES . PLEASW LOOK FATHER BACK THAN 1991 , HOW MANY PEOPLE DIED BECAUSE OF FIRESTONES LACK OF QUALITY CONTROL AS WELL AS THE POCKET BOOK BEING MORE IMPORTANT THAN THIER CUSTOMERS . I WAS TOLD WITH THESE TIRES I MUST HACE RUN OVER SOMETHING IN THE ROAD AND DIDN NOT HAVE ROAD HAZZARD WARRANTY SO I WAS OUT THE MONEY FOR 6 TIRES AND THE PRICE OF REPAIRS TO MY TRUCKS . I KNOW BETTER , THESE TIRES DID JUST WHAT THEY DO NOW , THE TREAD SEPERATING AND BLOWING OUT . FEEL FREE TO CALL ME IF YOU NEED ANY FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK( DOT NUMBER: TIRE SIZE: P235/75R15 )
Ford F100 1969
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Date Complaint: 2000-10-22
  • VIN: 1969 FORD F
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: INFORMAL/FORMAL DISERTATION ON DIFFERENT OIL FILTERS,WAS LISTED 61-79 FORD DISCUSSION LIST.
Ford F100 1983
  • Date Of Incident: 1996-04-01
  • Date Complaint: 2000-09-06
  • VIN: 1FDEE14FXDH
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: TREAD SEPARATED ON HOT CALIF (I-10) HWAY; CONTROLLED BLOWOUTW/O COLLISION; LOOSE TREAD-STEEL DAMAGED BODY; TOOK 3 CHP PATROL CARS TO BLOCK ENTIRE I-10 TO MOVE VEHICLE TO BREAKDOWN LANE (04/96). *AK( DOT NUMBER: TIRE SIZE: P23575R16 )
Ford F100 1983
  • Date Of Incident: 1996-04-01
  • Date Complaint: 2000-09-06
  • VIN: 1FDEE14FXDH
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: TREAD SEPARATED ON HOT CALIF (I-10) HWAY; CONTROLLED BLOWOUTW/O COLLISION; LOOSE TREAD-STEEL DAMAGED BODY; TOOK 3 CHP PATROL CARS TO BLOCK ENTIRE I-10 TO MOVE VEHICLE TO BREAKDOWN LANE (04/96). *AK( DOT NUMBER: TIRE SIZE: P23575R16 )
Ford F100 1984
  • Date Of Incident: 1999-03-01
  • Date Complaint: 1999-08-30
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: FIREWALL CONSTRUCTED OF METAL THAT WAS TOO THIN RESULTING IN THE CLUTCH MASTER CYLINDER PULLING THROUGH THE WALL, INSTALLATION OF A BRACKET NECESSARY TO REINFORCE FIREWALL AREA. MJS
Ford F100 1996
  • Date Of Incident: 1999-05-23
  • Date Complaint: 1999-06-23
  • VIN:
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: EXPERIENCING ON-GOING PROBLEM WITH ENGINE CHECK LIGHT STAYING ON; VEHICLE WAS TAKEN IN ON TWO OCCASION TO DEALER SHOP AND INFORMED THAT THEY COULD NOT FIND ANY THING AND EVERY THING WOULD BE ALRIGHT. CONSUMER TOOK VEHICLE TO ANOTHER DEALER AND LEARND THAT THE SENOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACE AT COST OF $90.00 BUT ENGINE CHECK LIGTH WENT OUT. CAN NHTSA HELP IN THIS MATTER.
Ford F100 1985
  • Date Of Incident: 1997-08-22
  • Date Complaint: 1997-10-07
  • VIN: 1FTCF15N9FP
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: DISTRIBUTOR FAILED.
Ford F100 1985
  • Date Of Incident: 1997-08-22
  • Date Complaint: 1997-10-07
  • VIN: 1FTCF15N9FP
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: IGNITION COIL FAILED.

Latest 5 recalls Ford F100

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 18 recalls for different components of the Ford F100.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Ford F100 1983
  • Report Received Date: 2007-08-27
  • 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.
  • Model: Ford F100 1979
  • Report Received Date: 2007-08-27
  • 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.
  • Model: Ford F100 1984
  • Report Received Date: 1984-10-02
  • Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:CARBURETOR SYSTEM
  • Summary: THE SECONDARY THROTTLE SHAFT MAY, WITH ACCUMULATED MILEAGE, BECOME CONTAMINATED AND MAY STICK IN A PARTIALLY OPEN POSITION WHILE DRIVING.
  • Consequence: CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: THIS STICKING COULD RESULT IN A FASTER SPEED THAN INTENDED, POSSIBLY RESUTLING IN AN ACCIDENT.
  • Remedy: THE PRIMARY TO SECONDARY THROTTLE CLOSURE LINK ON THE CARBURETOR WILL BE REPLACED FREE OF CHARGE.
  • Model: Ford F100 1983
  • Report Received Date: 1983-03-07
  • Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  • Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
  • Summary: THE PARKING GEAR MAY NOT ENGAGE, EVEN THOUGH THE GEAR SHIFT LEVER IS PLACED IN THE "PARK" POSITION. THIS OCCURS IF THE LINKAGE INSIDE THE TRANSMISSION THAT ACTUATES THE PARK GEAR WAS IMPROPERLY MANUFACTURED. A PIN THAT RETAINS COMPONENTS ON A LINKAGE (ACTUATING) ROD COULD BREAK AND THE LINKAGE MAY NOT ENGAGE THE PARKING GEAR.
  • Remedy: DEALER WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE PARKING PAWL ACTUATING ROD ASSEMBLY.
  • Model: Ford F100 1980
  • Report Received Date: 1982-03-15
  • Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  • Components: EQUIPMENT:MECHANICAL:CARRIER/RACK
  • Summary: THE REINFORCEMENT FOR THE IN-BOX SPARE TIRE CARRIER MAY HAVE BEEN ATTACHED USING INCORRECT HEX HEAD BOLTS. IF THE CARRIER AND REINFORCEMENT ATTACHING BOLTS ARE INCORRECT, THE POTENTIAL EXISTS FOR THE TIRE SIDEWALL TO BE DAMAGED OR WEAKENED BY EXTENDED CONTACT WITH THE SHARP EDGES OF THE BOLT HEADS.
  • Remedy: DEALER WILL REPLACE BOLTS AND ANY DAMAGED SPARE TIRES AT NO COST TO OWNER.

Are you having problems with your Ford F100?

Add car complaint
Ford F100 photo