1979 Ford F150 problems

General information about Ford-F150
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

The Ford F-Series is a series of light-duty trucks marketed and manufactured by Ford Motor Company since the 1948 model year. The F-Series is marketed as a range of full-sized pickup trucks positioned above the midsize Ranger but below the larger Super Duty in the Ford truck lineup. Alongside the F-150 (introduced in 1975), the F-Series also includes the Super Duty series (introduced in 1999), which includes the heavier-duty F-250 through F-450 pickups, F-450/F-550 chassis cabs, and F-600/F-650/F-750 Class 6–8 commercial trucks.

History

The F-Series was first introduced in 1948 as a replacement for a previous pickup model line based on car platforms.

The most popular version of the model line is the F-150 pickup truck, currently in its fourteenth generation (introduced for the 2021 model year). From 1953 to 1983, the entry-level F-Series pickup was the 1⁄2 ton F-100. Starting in 1984, the F-150 became the entry-level. The F-150 has a long-running high-performance off-road trim level introduced for 2010, the (SVT) Raptor currently consisting of three generations. Production of the F-150 SVT Raptor ended in 2014 and it was planned to be succeeded by a new F-150 Raptor, which is based on the thirteenth and fourteenth generation F-150.

The F-Series trucks have been developed into a wide range of design configurations. Alongside medium-duty trucks and "Big Job" conventional trucks (the forerunners of the Ford L-series), the model line has been marketed as a chassis-cab truck and a panel van (a predecessor of the Ford E-Series). The F-Series has served as the platform for various full-sized Ford SUVs, including the Ford Bronco, Ford Expedition/Lincoln Navigator, and Ford Excursion. The F-Series has been marketed by its three North American brands: by Mercury as the M-Series (in Canada from 1948 to 1968), and by Lincoln in the 2000s, as the Blackwood and the later Mark LT (2010s for the latter in Mexico only).

Since 1977, the F-Series has remained the best-selling pickup truck line in the United States; it has been the best-selling vehicle overall since 1981. The F-Series has been the best-selling truck in Canada for over fifty years. As of the 2018 model year, the F-Series generated $41 billion (~$49 billion in 2023) in annual revenue for Ford. By January 2022, the F-Series models have sold over 40 million units. Currently, Ford manufactures the F-Series in four facilities in the United States.

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Common 1979 Ford F150 problems

The 1979 Ford F-150 is a classic pickup truck that has been popular among car enthusiasts for its robust design and spacious interior. However, like any other vehicle, the 1979 Ford F-150 has its share of common problems that potential buyers should be aware of.

One of the most common problems with the 1979 Ford F-150 is electrical issues. These trucks are not too complex, but electrical problems can be challenging to diagnose and fix. Common electrical issues include lights in the dash staying on, which can be a sign of a wiring problem or a faulty component. To avoid electrical issues, potential buyers should thoroughly check the truck's electrical system and look for any signs of trouble, such as flickering lights or blown fuses.

Another common problem with the 1979 Ford F-150 is rust. Rust can be a significant issue with any vehicle, but it is especially problematic with older trucks like the 1979 F-150. Rust can weaken the truck's structure, making it unsafe to drive. Potential buyers should look for any signs of rust, particularly in areas where the truck is more likely to rust, such as the wheel wells, rocker panels, and frame rails. If rust is present, it's essential to determine the extent of the damage and whether it's worth repairing or if it's better to look for a different truck.

Missing parts and unnatural repairs are also common problems with the 1979 Ford F-150. It's essential to ensure that the truck is complete and not missing any parts. Additionally, potential buyers should look for any signs of fabrications or unnatural repairs, which can indicate that the truck has been wrecked and had the frame straightened and welded back. These types of repairs can be a red flag and may indicate that the truck has been poorly maintained or repaired.

The front cab mounts and frame over the rear axle are also areas that potential buyers should pay attention to. These areas can become weak and cause problems with the truck's structure and stability. If the front cab mounts or frame over the rear axle are not solid, it's essential to determine the extent of the damage and whether it's worth repairing or if it's better to look for a different truck.

In summary, the 1979 Ford F-150 is a classic pickup truck that has been popular among car enthusiasts for its robust design and spacious interior. However, potential buyers should be aware of common problems such as electrical issues, rust, missing parts, unnatural repairs, and weak front cab mounts and frame over the rear axle. By thoroughly checking the truck and looking for any signs of these common problems, potential buyers can make an informed decision and ensure that they are getting a reliable and safe vehicle.

Are old f150s reliable?

The Ford F-150 could have ended on a high note with Generation 10 (1997-2003). Trucks from these model years were generally reliable with few significant complaints. Then Ford introduced its worst generation in the truck's 57-year history (at that time)—Generation 11 (2004-2008).

What engine does a 1979 Ford F-150 have?

Engine Options: The 1979 F150 came with various engine options, including: 4.9L 300 Inline-6: A reliable workhorse known for its longevity. 5.0L 302 V8: Offered a balance of power and efficiency.

How many miles per gallon does a 1979 Ford F-150 get?

Based on data from 22 vehicles, 842 fuel-ups and 138,937 miles of driving, the 1979 Ford F-150 gets a combined Avg MPG of 9.38 with a 0.20 MPG margin of error. Below you can see a distribution of the fuel-ups with 8 outliers (0.94%) removed.

What year Ford f150s are the best?

We've done the homework for you; here are our 5 best used Ford F-150 trucks to buy on the market today.

2018 Ford F-150. The 2018 Ford F-150 is recognized as the most modern model on the market but comes with a heftier price tag. ...
2012 Ford F-150. ...
2019 Ford F-150. ...
2009 Ford F-150. ...
2015 Ford F-150.

Are old f150s reliable?

What engine does a 1979 Ford F-150 have?

Engine Options: The 1979 F150 came with various engine options, including: 4.9L 300 Inline-6: A reliable workhorse known for its longevity. 5.0L 302 V8: Offered a balance of power and efficiency.

What year Ford f150s are the best?

We've done the homework for you; here are our 5 best used Ford F-150 trucks to buy on the market today.

2018 Ford F-150. The 2018 Ford F-150 is recognized as the most modern model on the market but comes with a heftier price tag. ...
2012 Ford F-150. ...
2019 Ford F-150. ...
2009 Ford F-150. ...
2015 Ford F-150.

Is Ford F-150 a reliable car?

The 2023 Ford F-150 has a predicted reliability score of 86 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average, and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.

1979 Ford F150 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford F150 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Tires problems
Steering problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1979 Ford F150 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1979 Ford F150 complaints

The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1979 Ford F150.

2002-04-17

TIRES PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2002-04-17
Components: TIRES
Summary: WHILE WASHING THE VEHICLE HE NOTICED THAT THE FRONT TIRE HAS STRESS MARKS AND THE TIRE IS SPLIT ON THE SIDE. FIRESTONE FIREHAWKSS20 P25570R15 #DOT NUMBER VDM2F204100302L. NLM

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2000-09-11

STEERING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
VIN: 2FTDX176XVC
Components: STEERING
Summary: LOWER INNER TIE ROD HAS BROKEN, PREVENTING ANY/ AND ALL MOVEMENT OF STEERING WHEEL. DRIVER SIDE ROD CAME OUT THE SOCKET. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS. *AK

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1979 Ford F150 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 10 recalls for different components of the 1979 Ford F150.

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.

1979-09-17

Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Components: WHEELS
Summary: A NUMBER OF WHEEL ASSEMBLIES ON THE INVOLVED VEHICLES MAY HAVE SUBSTANDARD WELDS IN THE AREA WHERE THE DISC IS ATTACHED TO THE RIM. SUBSTANDARD WELDS CAN CAUSE CRACKS TO OCCUR IN THE WHEEL ASSEMBLY. RAPID LOSS OF AIR PRESSURE IN THE TIRE OR SEPARATION OF THE WHEEL RIM FROM THE DISC COULD RESULT.
Remedy: IF SEPARATION AND LOSS OF AIR OCCURS WHILE VEHICLE IS IN OPERATION, LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL AND AN ACCIDENT COULD OCCUR WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING. CORRECTIVE ACTION: THE DEALER WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE WHEELS WITHOUT CHARGE TO OWNER.

1979-08-07

Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Components: WHEELS
Summary: THE WHEEL ASSEMBLY MAY CONTAIN SUBSTANDARD WELDS IN THE AREA WHERE THE DISC IS ATTACHED TO THE RIM. AS A RESULT, CRACKS CAN FORM IN THE WHEEL ASSEMBLY, CAUSING AIR LOSS AND AN UNDERINFLATED TIRE.
Remedy: DEALER WILL INSPECT AND REPLACE ANY DEFECTIVE WHEELS WITHOUT CHARGE TO OWNER.

1979-05-15

Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:PEDALS AND LINKAGES
Summary: THE INVOLVED VEHICLES WERE PRODUCED WITH BRAKE PUSH-ROD TO BRAKE PEDAL RETAINING PINS WHICH WERE NOT HEAT-TREATED AS SPECIFIED. THIS COULD ALLOW THE BRAKE PEDAL TO BECOME DISENGAGED FROM THE PUSH-ROD.
Remedy: DEALER WILL REPLACE THE SUSPECT BRAKE RETAINING PIN.

1979-01-29

Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Components: STEERING:LINKAGES:KNUCKLE:SPINDLE:ARM
Summary: THE INVOLVED VEHICLES WERE ASSEMBLED WITH IMPROPERLY MANUFACTURED STEERING ARM KNUCKLES. SHOULD AN IMPROPERLY MANUFACTURED STEERING ARM KNUCKLE FRACTURE AND SEPARATE, THE STEERING LINKAGE TIE ROD MAY DISENGAGE FROM THE KNUCKLE.
Remedy: THE DEALER WILL INSPECT FOR CRACKING IN THE STEERING ARM KNUCKLES ON ALL VEHICLES AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THEM FREE OF CHARGE.

1979-01-26

Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:MOUNTING
Summary: THE INVOLVED VEHICLES WERE MANUFACTURED WITHOUT A FUEL TANK SHIELD AT THE FRONT RIGHT CORNER OF THE MIDSHIP FUEL TANK. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLES DO NOT CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 301, "FUEL SYSTEM INTEGRITY". IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE ACCIDENT, EXCESSIVE FUEL SPILLAGE COULD RESULT.
Remedy: THE DEALER WILL INSTALL THE REQUIRED FUEL TANK SHIELD WITHOUT CHARGE TO OWNER.

1979-01-15

Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Components: VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
Summary: THE INVOLVED VEHICLES DO NOT CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 212, "WINDSHIELD MOUNTING", IN THAT SOME OF THE VEHICLES WERE BUILT WITHOUT THE SPECIFIED WINDSHIELD WEATHERSTRIP RETAINING COMPONENTS.
Remedy: THE DEALER WILL INSTALL THE WINDSHIELD WEATHERSTRIP RETAINING COMPONENTS AT NO COST TO OWNER.

1978-11-27

Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Summary: THE INVOLVED VEHICLES WERE EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS IN WHICH THE PARKING PAWL WAS NOT HEAT-TREATED. DURING NORMAL VEHICLE OPERATION, A PARKING PAWL THAT HAS NOT BEEN HEAT-TREATED COULD BECOME DEFORMED OR WORN TO THE POINT THAT THE TRANSMISSION WILL NOT LOCK IN "PARK". AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE COULD ROLL FREE IF THE DRIVER DOES NOT SET THE PARKING BRAKE WHEN PARKING OR LEAVING VEHICLE UNATTENDED.
Remedy: DEALER WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE PARKING PAWL WITH ONE THAT HAS BEEN HEAT-TREATED.

1978-09-15

Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Summary: THESE TRANSMISSIONS MAY CONTAIN IMPROPERLY MANUFACTURED PARKING PAWL ACTUATING RODS. CONSEQUENTLY, THE UNHARDENED CAM SURFACE OF THESE RODS CAN ALLOW THE ROD TO DEFORM DURING USE WITH RESULTANT INCREASE IN SHIFT EFFORTS AND DIFFICULTY IN RELEASING THE PARKING PAWL AND ENGAGING THE PARKING GEAR.
Remedy: DEALER WILL REPLACE THE TRANSMISSION PARKING PAWL ACTUATING ROD WITHOUT CHARGE TO OWNER.

1978-09-11

Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:MOUNTING
Summary: THE INVOLVED VEHICLES DO NOT CONTAIN A FUEL TANK SHIELD AT THE FRONT RIGHT CORNER OF THE MID-SHIP FUEL TANK. IN THE EVENT OF A FRONTAL IMPACT, EXCESSIVE FUEL SPILLAGE FROM THE FUEL TANK MAY OCCUR. THIS FAILS TO COMPLY WITH FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 301, "FUEL SYSTEM INTEGRITY".
Remedy: DEALER WILL INSTALL THE NECESSARY FUEL TANK SHIELD WITHOUT CHARGE TO OWNER.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1979 Ford F150 problems:

79 F-150 Common Problems? | Pirate 4x4

https://www.pirate4x4.com/threads/79-f-150-common-problems.412669/

Nov 14, 2005 ... Any major common problems I should specifically look for? Anything in particular that cause problems with these trucks that might make me ...

1979 f-150... common problems? - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/814172-1979-f-150-common-problems.html

Jan 23, 2009 ... One of the most important things is rust. The next most important thing is to make sure the tuck is complete; mainly that it is not missing any ...

1978-79 Ford F100 problems, questions. | BeamNG

https://www.beamng.com/threads/1978-79-ford-f100-problems-questions.25601/

I was just looking to ask, are there any common problems that anyone has had with this type of truck that I should look out for? For anyone ...

Neutral Safety Switch Problems on 1979 Ford F150 - Ford Truck ...

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/633310-neutral-safety-switch-problems-on-1979-ford-f150.html

Jul 18, 2007 ... New Member Introductions - Neutral Safety Switch Problems on 1979 Ford F150 - I have an automatic 2 wheel drive that would start in any gear ...