1979 Ford F250 problems

General information about Ford-F250
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

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.

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Common 1979 Ford F250 problems

Based on the complaints from owners of the Ford F-250 1979, several common problems have been reported. Here is a detailed list of these issues:

Steering System Issues: Another common problem with the 1973 F250 was related to the steering system, causing the truck to veer to one side or the other at high speeds. This issue persisted in later models as well, impacting the driving stability and safety of the vehicle.

Carburetor and Fuel System Problems: Some 1974 models experienced problems with the carburetor and fuel system, leading to poor fuel economy and reduced engine performance. Issues with the transmission were also reported in 1974 models, causing slipping or shifting problems.

Power Steering System Failure: The 1975 F250 was prone to issues with the power steering system, which could fail and make it difficult to turn the wheel. Additionally, ignition system problems were common in the 1975 models, causing engine stalling or failure to start.

Transmission and Steering System Concerns: The 1978 and 1979 F250 models had issues with the transmission, including failures and shifting problems. Steering system problems were also reported, leading to the truck pulling to one side while driving. In some cases, the brakes in the 1979 models could fail or become less responsive over time.

These common problems reported by owners of the Ford F-250 1979 highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to any issues that arise to ensure the safety and optimal performance of the vehicle. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent more significant and costly problems in the future.

What years of F-250 to avoid?

The worst years for used Ford F-250 include:

2002 Ford F-250.
2006 Ford F-250.
2008 Ford F-250.
2011 Ford F-250.
2017 Ford F-250.

What years of F-250 are most reliable?

The 2000, 2001, 2002, and 2005 Ford F-250 models are still talked about to this day. They offered excellent performance and great reliability. However, they are probably too old for you to buy one now. The most popular model year for the Ford F-250 is currently the 2016.

How many miles per gallon does a 1979 Ford F-250 get?

Based on data from 10 vehicles, 168 fuel-ups and 29,065 miles of driving, the 1979 Ford F-250 gets a combined Avg MPG of 8.14 with a 0.27 MPG margin of error.

What years did the F-250 have the death wobble?

According to a recent class-action lawsuit filed in 2019, Ford F250 and F350 super duty trucks from 2005 to 2019 can experience the death wobble.

What years of F250 to avoid?

The worst years for used Ford F-250 include:

2002 Ford F-250.
2006 Ford F-250.
2008 Ford F-250.
2011 Ford F-250.
2017 Ford F-250.

What years of F250 are most reliable?

What is the gas mileage on a 1979 Ford F-250?

Based on data from 10 vehicles, 168 fuel-ups and 29,065 miles of driving, the 1979 Ford F-250 gets a combined Avg MPG of 8.14 with a 0.27 MPG margin of error.

Is the Ford F-250 reliable?

Ford F-250 is a great choice for hauling and pickup. They are reliable, tough, and trusted on any terrain. However, some of its model years were a great failure. With multiple complaints, they did not impress their buyers.

1979 Ford F250 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford F250 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Fuel system problems
Gasoline problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1979 Ford F250 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1979 Ford F250 complaints

The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1979 Ford F250.

2011-05-26

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2010-05-26
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1979 FORD F250. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE WAS EQUIPPED WITH DUAL FUEL TANKS, AND BOTH WERE LEAKING EXCESSIVE FUEL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THEY WERE UNABLE TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE SINCE THE PART WAS NO LONGER BEING MANUFACTURED FOR THAT SPECIFIC MODEL YEAR. THE TECHNICIAN DISENGAGED ONE OF THE FUEL TANKS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE AND VIN WERE UNAVAILABLE.

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1979 Ford F250 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 9 recalls for different components of the 1979 Ford F250.

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.

1979-11-02

Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:ROTOR
Summary: DIMENSIONAL DIFFERENCES IN THE 1980 VERSUS THE 1979 ASSEMBLIES MAY ALLOW THE INNER BRAKE LINING/SHOE TO MOVE OUTWARD TO A POSITION WHERE IT IS NO LONGER RETAINED IN THE SHOE SLOT WHEN THE FRONT BRAKE INNER LININGS BECOME WORN TO THE POINT OF NEEDING REPLACEMENT. THE INNER BRAKE SHOE COULD THEN WEDGE BETWEEN THE ROTOR AND SPINDLE, POSSIBLY CAUSING A SUDDEN LOCK-UP OF ONE FRONT WHEEL. THIS CAN OCCUR WITHOUT BRAKE APPLICATION AND WOULD ADVERSELY AFFECT STEERING CONTROL. THESE DIMENSIONAL DIFFERENCES COULD ALSO ALLOW ADDITIONAL TRAVEL OF THE BRAKE PISTON SUCH THAT A LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID FROM THE FRONT BRAKE SYSTEM MAY OCCUR. THIS WOULD RESULT IN INCREASED STOPPING DISTANCES.
Remedy: THE DEALER WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE HUB AND ROTOR ASSEMBLIES AND SPINDLE SEALS.

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 F250 problems:

1979 F250 fuel problem - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1504582-1979-f250-fuel-problem.html

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https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1424043-1979-f250-weird-ignition-problem-solved.html

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