1997 Ford F-150

Fatalities reported

Owners filed 2,758 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the engine. It has been recalled 26 times.

Avoid One of the Ford F-150 years to avoid: 3.3× the complaints of a typical F-150 year. Which Ford F-150 years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
107,400 milesMedian miles at failure

854 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 120,000–150,000 miles.

Most common 1997 Ford F-150 problems

515 of the 2,758 complaints (19%) are about the engine.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine · engine184
180
Structure › Body › Door · body and frame149
001
Fuel System, Gasoline · fuel system148
020
Tires142
602
Tires › Tread/Belt126
404
Engine and Engine Cooling · engine123
0190
Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine › Gasoline · engine116
052
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip · brakes92
1627
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration91
10205
Vehicle Speed Control › Cruise Control · throttle and acceleration82
0643

1997 Ford F-150 engine problems

19% of all complaints

515 of the 2,758 complaints are about the engine. This is what owners describe:

  • leaks oil or fluid32% · 167
  • knocks, grinds or clunks13% · 69
  • smokes or smells of burning6% · 29
  • turns on the check engine light4% · 20
  • burns oil or loses oil pressure3% · 18
  • stalls3% · 17

Share of the 515 engine complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
99,500 mi
median of 291 reports
Peak year of filing
2005
78 engine complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
2 · 42 · 3
in these complaints
Recalls on the engine
None
“I came home from work on 12/13 2014 and noticed I had a water puddle under my truck so on 12/14/2014 I pulled in the garage and did some searching only to find the outlet tube in the manifold was leaking I assumed it was the rubber hose and when I went to replace it the outlet tube broke off at the base of the intake manifold.”
Owner complaint, filed Dec 14, 2014 at 167,542 miles
“Truck has a 4.2 liter, v-6 engine. A week prior to incident the truck was driven then parked in a my garage. On the incident day I tried to start the truck but heard only a loud, hard knock when the starter engaged. The engine would not turn over. The battery voltage checked out ok. I had the truck towed to a local repair shop. The starter was removed and checked out ok electrically.”
Owner complaint, filed Apr 17, 2012 at 102,000 miles

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
1995: 1 complaints, 0 about the engine'951996: 58 complaints, 6 about the engine1997: 156 complaints, 9 about the engine1998: 253 complaints, 10 about the engine1999: 261 complaints, 32 about the engine'992000: 464 complaints, 25 about the engine2001: 284 complaints, 49 about the engine2002: 204 complaints, 52 about the engine2003: 175 complaints, 51 about the engine'032004: 110 complaints, 40 about the engine2005: 265 complaints, 78 about the engine2006: 83 complaints, 66 about the engine2007: 53 complaints, 28 about the engine'072008: 51 complaints, 18 about the engine2009: 22 complaints, 9 about the engine2010: 52 complaints, 15 about the engine2011: 162 complaints, 6 about the engine'112012: 33 complaints, 10 about the engine2013: 11 complaints, 0 about the engine2014: 13 complaints, 3 about the engine2015: 16 complaints, 6 about the engine'152016: 9 complaints, 2 about the engine2017: 4 complaints, 0 about the engine2018: 2 complaints, 0 about the engine2019: 0 complaints, 0 about the engine'192020: 7 complaints, 0 about the engine2021: 3 complaints, 0 about the engine2022: 1 complaints, 0 about the engine2023: 4 complaints, 0 about the engine'232024: 1 complaints, 0 about the engineRecall 96V161000 (equipment)Recall 96V184000 (brakes)Recall 97V147000 (transmission)Recall 97V171000 (transmission)Recall 98V007000 (throttle and acceleration)Recall 98V095000 (wheels)Recall 00V168000 (headlights)Recall 00V231000 (fuel system)Recall 01X001000 (tires)Recall 03V196000 (steering)Recall 05V388000 (throttle and acceleration)Recall 06E023000 (headlights)Recall 06E025000 (headlights)Recall 07E066000 (equipment)Recall 08E050000 (headlights)Recall 09E012000 (headlights)Recall 09E025000 (headlights)Recall 11V385000 (fuel system)NHTSA investigation EA11006NHTSA investigation PE10036NHTSA investigation DP05005NHTSA investigation EA02001NHTSA investigation PE01033
All complaintsAbout the engineRecall (red: the engine)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 1997 F-150 peaked in 2000, with 464 filed that year. No recall on file covers the engine, the subject of 19% of the complaints. In 2024 owners filed 1 so far.

26 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Fuel System, Gasoline › Storage › Tank Assembly › Mounting11V385000
Filed Jul 29, 20111,100,000 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN 1997 THROUGH 2003 MODEL YEAR FORD F-150, 2004 MODEL YEAR FORD F-150 HERITAGE, 1997 THROUGH 1999 MODEL YEAR F-250 LESS THAN 8,500 LBS. GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT RATING (GVWR), AND 2002 AND 2003 LINCOLN BLACKWOOD VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JUNE 20, 1995, THROUGH AUGUST 4, 2004, ORIGINALLY SOLD, OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN, CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, KENTUCKY, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN, AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. PROLONGED EXPOSURE TO ROAD DEICING CHEMICALS MAY CAUSE SEVERE CORROSION OF THE FUEL TANK STRAPS WHICH SECURE THE TANK TO THE VEHICLE.

Risk. AS A RESULT OF THE CORROSION, ONE OR BOTH STRAPS MAY FAIL ALLOWING THE FUEL LINES TO SEPARATE FROM THE TANK, OR IN SOME CASES, CAUSING THE TANK TO CONTACT THE GROUND. EITHER SCENARIO MAY RESULT IN A FUEL LEAK PRESENTING A FIRE HAZARD.

Remedy. FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND INSTRUCT THEM TO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO A FORD OR LINCOLN DEALER TO HAVE THE FUEL TANK STRAPS REPLACED WITH STRAPS THAT HAVE INCREASED CORROSION PROTECTION. EARLY IN THIS CAMPAIGN, IF REPLACEMENT STRAPS ARE NOT AVAILABLE, DEALERS MAY INSTALL A CABLE SUPPORT UNDER THE STRAP AS AN INTERIM REPAIR OR A STEEL REINFORCEMENT OVER THE EXISTING STRAP AS A PERMANENT REPAIR. ANY REPAIRS WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 16, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD MOTOR COMPANY CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP CENTER AT 1-866-436-7332. FORD'S RECALL CAMPAIGN NUMBER IS 11S21

Exterior Lighting › Headlights09E025000
Filed May 11, 200942,540 vehiclesDope, Inc.

Defect. DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.

Risk. DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.

Exterior Lighting09E012000
Filed Apr 7, 200916,270 vehiclesSabersport

Defect. SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.

Risk. DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.

Exterior Lighting › Headlights08E050000
Filed Aug 11, 20081,921 vehiclesK2 Motor Corporation

Defect. K2 MOTOR IS RECALLING 1,921 AFTERMARKET HEADLAMPS OF VARIOUS MODELS SOLD FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS ARE MISSING THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTOR WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."

Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTORS, THE LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY BE AFFECTED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. K2 MOTOR WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMEBER 17, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT K2 MOTOR AT 1-909-839-2992.

Equipment › Electrical07E066000
Filed Aug 28, 2007175 vehiclesCequent Electrical Products

Defect. CERTAIN CEQUENT 90 DEGREE 7-WAY RIGHT ANGLE ADAPTORS SOLD BY DISTRIBUTORS IN TOW PACKAGES FOR AFTERMARKET SALES TO TOW 5TH WHEEL RV TRAVEL TRAILERS. DUE TO INCORRECT WIRING OF THE HARNESS, THE TRAILER LIGHTS MAY NOT OPERATE PROPERLY.

Risk. IF THE TRAILER LIGHTS ARE NOT WORKING PROPERLY, A VEHICLE CRASH CAN OCCUR.

Remedy. ALL OF THE DEFECTIVE TOW PACKAGES ARE STILL AT THE DISTRIBUTOR LEVEL AND HAVE NOT BEEN SOLD TO ANY CONSUMERS.

Exterior Lighting › Headlights06E067000
Filed Aug 1, 200619,413 vehiclesMaxzone Auto Parts Corporation

Defect. CERTAIN MAXZONE HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLIES, DEPO BRAND, P/NOS. 331-1129L-ASN AND 331-1129R-ASN, SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE PHOTOMETRIC REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

Risk. DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. MAXZONE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER REIMBURSEMENT FOR ANY NONCOMPLIANT HEADLIGHTS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MAXZONE AT 909-822-3288.

Exterior Lighting06E065000
Filed Jul 17, 20063,593 vehiclesAj Motorsport

Defect. CERTAIN AJ MOTORSPORT COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

Risk. LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. AJ MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 31, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AJ MOTORSPORT AT 626-618-2026.

Exterior Lighting06E064000
Filed Jul 17, 20064,029 vehiclesTradesonic

Defect. CERTAIN TRADESONIC COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

Risk. LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. TRADESONIC WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JULY 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TRADESONIC AT 626-934-8884.

Exterior Lighting06E060000
Filed Jun 29, 200687,745 vehiclesAai Motorsports USA, LLC

Defect. CERTAIN AAI MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LIST PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."

Risk. LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH

Remedy. AAI MOTORSPORTS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AAI MOTORSPORTS AT 909-923-9188.

Exterior Lighting › Headlights06E052000
Filed Jun 12, 200614,616 vehiclesSabry Lee, Inc.

Defect. CERTAIN EAGLE EYES HEADLAMPS, P/NOS. FR208-B101R, FR208-B101L, FR208-B001R, AND FR208-B001L, SOLD FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE PHOTOMETRIC REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

Risk. DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. SABRY LEE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER FULL CREDIT FOR ANY NONCOMPLIANT HEADLAMP. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON JUNE 14, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABRY LEE ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE AT 1-866-467-2279.

Exterior Lighting › Headlights06E025000
Filed Mar 21, 20061,450 vehiclesPoli-Auto, Inc.

Defect. CERTAIN POLI-AUTO COMBINATION HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES, P/NOS. 11-728, 11-728D, 11-710, 11-419, 11-713, 11-703, 11-704, 11-708P, 11-735, 11-725, 11-726, 11-716 (P&C), 11-721-1, 11-733, 11-729, 11-730, AND 11-732, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."

Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Remedy. POLI-AUTO WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE HEADLAMPS AT ITS ORIGINAL PURCHASE PRICE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING APRIL 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT POLI-AUTO AT 305-477-1356.

Exterior Lighting › Headlights06E023000
Filed Mar 13, 2006292,000 vehiclesAnzo USA, Inc.

Defect. CERTAIN ANZO COMBINATION HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS WHICH FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."

Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. ANZO WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE HEADLAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN MAY 9, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT ANZO USA AT 909-468-3688.

Vehicle Speed Control05V388000
Filed Sep 7, 20054,500,000 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH SPEED CONTROL, THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH MAY OVERHEAT, SMOKE, OR BURN.

Risk. A FIRE AT THE SWITCH COULD OCCUR.

Remedy. BY LETTER DATED SEPTEMBER 12, 2005, OWNERS WERE INSTRUCTED TO RETURN THEIR VEHICLES TO THEIR DEALERS TO HAVE THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH DISCONNECTED. OWNERS WHO HAVE HAD THEIR SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATED ARE BEING NOTIFIED THAT PARTS WILL BE AVAILABLE AND ADVISED TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO RECONNECT THE SPEED CONTROL BEGINNING IN FEBRUARY 2006. OWNERS WHO DID NOT HAVE THEIR SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATED ARE BEING NOTIFIED TO HAVE THEIR SYSTEM REMEDIED BEGINNING IN FEBRUARY 2006. OWNERS ARE URGED TO AVAIL THEMSELVES OF THE FREE DISCONNECT SERVICE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE BECAUSE OF THE SIGNIFICANT RISK OF FIRE. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673. (NOTE: ALSO SEE RECALLS 05V017 AND 06V286)

Steering › Gear Box › Shaft Sector03V196000
Filed May 27, 2003171,446 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, IF THE INTERMEDIATE SHAFT YOKE SEPARATES FROM THE STEERING GEAR INPUT SHAFT, THE STEERING SYSTEM BECOMES DISCONNECTED.

Risk. THIS COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL, POTENTIALLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE STEERING INTERMEDIATE SHAFT YOKE TO DETERMINE IF THE YOKE IS FULLY SEATED ON THE STEERING GEAR INPUT SHAFT. IF THE YOKE IS FULLY SEATED NO SERVICE IS REQUIRED. IF THE YOKE IS NOT FULLY SEATED AND BOLT GROOVE AND SPLINE IS VISIBLE, THE INTERMEDIATE SHAFT AND BOLT WILL BE REPLACED AS WELL AS THE BOLT AT THE STEERING COLUMN CONNECTION. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON MAY 30, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.

Tires › Tread/Belt01X001000
Filed May 22, 200113,000,000 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. 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.

Risk. 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.

Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings00V231000
Filed Aug 17, 2000670,509 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: LIGHT DUTY PICKUP TRUCKS MANUFACTURED AT THE KANSAS CITY OR NORFOLK ASSEMBLY PLANTS. THE FRONT FUEL LINE ASSEMBLY COULD HAVE A HOLE RUBBED THROUGH IN ONE OF TWO LOCATIONS. THE FIRST LOCATION IS BELOW THE FUEL RAIL CONNECTION WHERE THE FLEXIBLE HOSE IS CRIMPED TO THE STEEL TUBE. THE BRACKET THAT ATTACHES THE FRONT FUEL LINE TO THE TRANSMISSION COULD HAVE BEEN BENT DURING ASSEMBLY. THE SECOND LOCATION IS AT THE REAR STEEL TUBE SECTION FORWARD OF THE REAR BRACKET. DURING INSTALLATION THE REAR STEEL TUBES OF THE FRONT FUEL LINE ASSEMBLY COULD HAVE BEEN BENT DOWNWARD. IN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A MANUAL 4XZ4 TRANSFER CASE SHIFTER, THE SHIFTER LINKAGE MAY CONTACT THE STEEL TUBES AS IT IS BEING SHIFTED BETWEEN 4H, 4L, 2L AND NEUTRAL.

Risk. THIS CONDITION COULD RESULT IN FUEL LEAKAGE. FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THESE LINES AND REPLACE THE FRONT FUEL LINE ASSEMBLY IF NECESSARY. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN OCTOBER 27, 2000. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.

Exterior Lighting00V168000
Filed Jun 19, 200020,637 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MINI VANS, LIGHT PICKUP TRUCKS, AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. OFF LEASE CANADIAN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHTS WHICH MEET CANADIAN REQUIREMENTS AND NOT THE PHOTOMETRIC REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." ACCORDING TO FORD, THE VEHICLES WERE IMPORTED INTO THE U.S. ERRONEOUSLY.

Risk. THE LIGHT GIVEN OFF FROM THE DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHTS IS BRIGHTER THAN ALLOWED BY U.S. STANDARDS.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL BE ADVISED TO DEACTIVATE THE RUNNING LIGHT FUNCTION AND TO COMPLETE ANY OUTSTANDING SAFETY RECALLS ON THESE VEHICLES.

Fuel System, Gasoline › Storage › Tank Assembly98V161000
Filed Jul 15, 1998202,000 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: LIGHT DUTY 4-WHEEL DRIVE PICKUP TRUCKS. IF THE VEHICLE IS OVERLOADED, THE REAR LEAF SPRINGS CAN BE OVERSTRESSED. A FATIGUE FRACTURE OF THE SPRING CAN OCCUR. THE CENTER LEAF OF THE SPRING CAN FRACTURE AT THE FORWARD EDGE OF THE SPRING SEAT AND, IN SOME CASES, CONTACT THE FUEL TANK.

Risk. FUEL TANK CONTACT CAN DAMAGE THE TANK AND RESULT IN FUEL LEAKAGE. FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE CAN RESULT IN A FIRE.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE REAR SPRINGS AND INSTALL AN ADDITIONAL CLIP ON THE FORWARD END OF THE REAR SPRINGS TO PREVENT FUEL TANK CONTACT IN THE EVENT OF A LEAF FRACTURE. ANY FRACTURED SPRINGS WILL BE REPLACED.

Wheels › Lugs/Nuts/Bolts/Studs98V095000
Filed May 13, 19981,520,000 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MULTI-PURPOSE VEHICLES AND LIGHT DUTY PICKUP TRUCKS. THE LUG NUTS ON THESE VEHICLES MAY NOT CREATE SUFFICIENT CLAMP LOAD ALLOWING WHEEL MOVEMENT IN RELATION TO THE HUB/ROTOR MOUNTING SURFACE.

Risk. THIS CAN RESULT IN THE LOOSENING OF LUG NUTS, STUD FATIGUE FAILURE, AND THE POTENTIAL FOR A WHEEL SEPARATION FROM THE VEHICLE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. OWNERS OF THESE VEHICLES WILL BE RECEIVING TWO NOTIFICATIONS. THE FIRST NOTIFICATION, WHICH BEGAN IN MAY 1998, WILL PROVIDE AN INTERIM REPAIR PROCEDURE UNTIL PARTS BECOME AVAILABLE. THIS INTERIM PROCEDURE CAN BE COMPLETED BY OWNERS OR THEIR DEALERS. IT SPECIFIES THAT THE LUG NUT TORQUE MUST BE VERIFIED TO BE 100 LBS. THEN THE LUG NUTS NEED TO BE TIGHTENED AN ADDITIONAL 1/8 TO 1/4 TURN MORE. THERE WILL BE A SECOND OWNER NOTIFICATION, WHICH IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN JULY 20, 1998, UNDER WHICH DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE WHEEL STUDS AND REPLACE THE WHEEL LUG NUTS.

Vehicle Speed Control › Accelerator Pedal98V007000
Filed Jan 21, 199845,000 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: LIGHT DUTY PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH A 4.2L ENGINE AND ORIGINALLY SOLD OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN ONE OF THE FOLLOWING STATES: ALASKA, MONTANA, NORTH DAKOTA, MINNESOTA, WISCONSIN, NEW YORK, VERMONT, NEW HAMPSHIRE, MAINE, MICHIGAN, IDAHO, WYOMING, SOUTH DAKOTA, COLORADO, NEBRASKA, KANSAS, IOWA, MISSOURI, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, AND MASSACHUSETTS. THE THROTTLE IS UNABLE TO RETURN TO IDLE DUE TO ICE FORMING IN THE THROTTLE BODY WHEN THE TEMPERATURE RANGES FROM -10 TO -40 DEGREES FAHRENHEIT.

Risk. INCREASED BRAKE PEDAL EFFORTS OR SOME INCREASE IN STOPPING DISTANCE COULD RESULT.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSTALL A REVISED PCV SYSTEM ON THESE VEHICLES.

Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Gear Position Indication (prndl)97V171000
Filed Oct 7, 1997866,000 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: LIGHT DUTY PICKUP TRUCKS AND MULTI-PURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLES. IF THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SHIFT CABLE ASSEMBLY WAS NOT FULLY ATTACHED TO THE STEERING COLUMN BRACKET, THE SHIFT CABLE ASSEMBLY CAN COME OUT OF THE BRACKET. THE VEHICLE OPERATOR WOULD THEN NOT BE ABLE TO SHIFT THE TRANSMISSION FROM ONE OF THE DRIVE GEAR POSITIONS INTO THE PARK POSITION EVEN THOUGH THE GEAR SHIFT SELECTOR WOULD INDICATE "PARK."

Risk. THE CONDITION WOULD NOT ALLOW A DISENGAGEMENT OF THE TRANSMISSION FROM THE PARK POSITION OR AFFECT PROPER NEUTRAL START SWITCH OPERATION. UNINTENDED VEHICLE MOVEMENT COULD OCCUR IF THE PARKING BRAKE WAS NOT SET.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL MAKE THE PROPER ATTACHMENT OF THE TRANSMISSION SHIFT CONTROL CABLE TO THE STEERING COLUMN BRACKET AND ADD A TIE STRAP TO THAT CONNECTION.

Power Train › Automatic Transmission97V147000
Filed Sep 9, 199715,500 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: LIGHT DUTY PICKUP TRUCKS. THE TRANSMISSION BRACKET END FITTING CAN SEPARATE FROM THE SHIFT CABLE ASSEMBLY RESULTING IN OPERATOR INABILITY TO SHIFT THE TRANSMISSION FROM ONE OF THE DRIVE GEAR POSITIONS INTO THE PARK POSITION.

Risk. THIS CONDITION CAN RESULT IN UNINTENDED VEHICLE MOVEMENT IF THE PARKING BRAKE IS NOT SET.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW TRANSMISSION SHIFT CONTROL CABLE.

Seat Belts › Front › Anchorage96V256000
Filed Dec 27, 1996133,000 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. THE SEAT ELT ANCHORAGE ATTACHMENTS ARE MISSING OR MISINSTALLED ON THESE VEHICLES.

Risk. A LOOSE FASTENER CAN EVENTUALLY DETACH AND WOULD NOT PROPERLY RESTRAIN AN OCCUPANT IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, AS NECESSARY, REPAIR THE SEAT BELT ANCHORAGE ATTACHMENTS.

Vehicle Speed Control96V251000
Filed Dec 18, 199622,000 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE FOLLOWING STATES: ALASKA, MONTANA, NORTH DAKOTA, MINNESOTA, WISCONSIN, MICHIGAN (UPPER PENINSULA), NEW YORK, MAINE, VERMONT, AND NEW HAMPSHIRE. OPERATION AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS DURING EXTREME COLD, NORTHERN CLIMATE WINTER CONDITIONS, CAN RESULT IN ICE FORMING IN THE THROTTLE BODY OF THE ENGINE.

Risk. THIS ICE CAN CAUSE THE THROTTLE PLATE TO REMAIN IN THE HIGHWAY CRUISING POSITION AFTER THE ACCELERATOR IS RELEASED OR THE SPEED CONTROL IS DEACTIVATED. UNDER SUCH CONDITIONS, THE VEHICLE STOPPING DISTANCES WOULD BE INCREASED POSSIBLY RESULTING IN AN ACCIDENT.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSTALL A FOAM INSULATING SLEEVE ON THE LINE FROM THE PCV TO THE HOSE FITTING ON THE THROTTLE PLATE.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Master Cylinder96V184000
Filed Sep 25, 19961,200 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. THE RETAINER CLIP THAT HOLDS THE MASTER CYLINDER PUSH ROD TO THE BRAKE PEDAL ARM IS MISSING.

Risk. 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.

Equipment › Other › Labels96V161000
Filed Aug 29, 1996134,770 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. THE CERTIFICATION LABELS ON THE INVOLVED VEHICLES HAS INCORRECT REAR TIRE INFLATION PRESSURE DESIGNATIONS. THIS DOES NOT COMPLY WITH FMVSS NO. 120, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS FOR MOTOR VEHICLES OTHER THAN PASSENGER CARS."

Risk. INCORRECT INFLATION PRESSURES COULD CAUSE PREMATURE WEAR OF THE REAR TIRES. .

Remedy. OWNERS WILL BE PROVIDED WITH CORRECT CERTIFICATION LABELS AND INSTRUCTIONS FOR INSTALLING THESE LABELS. DEALERS CAN INSTALL THIS LABEL IF THE OWNER SO DESIRES.

All 26 campaigns on file, newest first.

NHTSA investigations

Office of Defects Investigation

Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 18 name the 1997 F-150.

Fuel Tank Strap Failure Due to CorrosionEngineering analysis EA11006Closed
Opened May 4, 2011Closed Aug 19, 2011Led to recall 11V385000fuel system

One or both of the steel straps holding up the fuel tank and attaching it to the truck frame can corrode and fail (break or separate).If one strap fails, the tank may tilt and drop and possibly contact the road surface.If both straps break, the entire tank may drop to the road.If either failure occurs while the vehicle is being driven, contact with the road can abrade the tank and create a hole from which gasoline can spill.When the tank drops, it remains attached to the vehicle only by the fuel filler hose and/or supply lines, or in rare instances, by the skid plate, if present.In some cases …

Fuel Tank Strap Corrosion/RustPreliminary evaluation PE10036Closed
Opened Sep 7, 2010Closed May 23, 2011fuel system

One or both of the steel straps holding up the fuel tank and attaching it to the truck frame can corrode and break.If one strap breaks, the tank may tilt and drop and possibly contact the road surface.If both straps break, the entire tank may drop to the road.If either failure occurs while the vehicle is being driven, contact with the road can abrade the tank and create a hole from which gasoline can spill.When the tank drops, it remains attached to the vehicle only by the fuel filler hose and/or supply lines, or in rare instances, by the skid plate, if present.This raises the possibility …

SPARK PLUG EJECTION FROM CYLINDER HEADDefect petition DP05005Closed
Opened Sep 22, 2005Closed Jan 4, 2006engine

On september 6, 2005, odi received a petition requesting that the agency investigate allegations of engine spark plug ejection in certain model year 1997 through 2004 FORD vehicles with triton v-8 and v-10 engines.odi received a total of 474 non-duplicative complaints on the subject vehicles where the complainant, or the dealer repairing the vehicle, reported that a spark plug detached from the cylinder and/or ejected from the engine.as of december 8, 2005, odi is not aware of any allegations where the alleged defect resulted in a loss of vehicle control, a crash, an injury, or a fatality in …

ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRESEngineering analysis EA05005Closed
Opened Mar 22, 2005Closed Aug 2, 2006Led to recall 05V388000electrical system

Ea05-005 is closed with FORD?s actions in recalls 05v-017, 05v-388, and 06v-286, recalling approximately 6.7 million vehicles equipped with texas instruments speed control deactivation switches (scds).the brake systems in these recalled vehicles generate a vacuum that can potentially cause the scds to fail and, in certain switch installation orientations, catch fire.FORD is also including the entire population of 1998 explorers.FORD has informed odi that testing to determine the cause of failures in the 1998 explorers will continue after this investigation is closed.odi believes that the …

STEERING SHAFT SEPARATIONEngineering analysis EA02001Closed
Opened Feb 6, 2002Closed May 29, 2003Led to recall 03V196000steering

See attached summary for technical details

STEERING COLUMNPreliminary evaluation PE01033Closed
Opened Sep 17, 2001Closed Feb 6, 2002steering
REAR SUSPENSION SPRING BREAKAGERecall query RQ98022Open
Opened Nov 13, 1998Led to recall 98V161000suspension

In july 1998, FORD submitted a part 573 notification to NHTSA concerning broken rear springs on certain 1997-98 FORD f150 trucks, with four-wheel drive.FORD stated that fatigue fracture of the rear springs may occur if the spring are over stresses(sic) by vehicle overloading.the broken piece of the spring leaf may splay inward, damaging the fuel tank and causing fuel leakage.FORD also stated that a broken spring would cause vehicle sag and loss in load carring capability.FORD had 43 reports of fuel tank damage.FORD will install a clip on the forward end (only) of the rear springs to prevent …

ALLEGED LOSS OF THROTTLE CONTROLEngineering analysis EA98018Closed
Opened Aug 31, 1998Closed Sep 30, 1999throttle and acceleration

The details of information and data evaluated during this investigation are stated in the engineering analysis closing report, dated september 30, 1999.a safety-related defect trend resulting from interference by the floor mat with proper operation of the throttle in the subject vehicles was not identified during the course of the ea, and the invrestigation has been closed.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding that no safety-related defect exists.the agency will continue to monitor future complaints on this issue to identify any increasing trend of occurrence, and …

TIE ROD END FAILURESPreliminary evaluation PE98024Closed
Opened Apr 21, 1998Closed Jul 21, 1998steering

There is no summary currently available

LOSS OF THROTTLE CONTROLPreliminary evaluation PE98021Closed
Opened Apr 1, 1998Closed Aug 31, 1998throttle and acceleration

There is no summary currently available

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION CONTROLRecall query RQ98005Closed
Opened Mar 13, 1998Closed Aug 27, 1998Led to recall 97V147000transmission

On september 4, 1997, FORD filed a defect information report concerning approximately 15,000 1997 model year f-150 trucks, manufactured from february 16 through march 4, 1996, and built at the norfolk or kansas city assembly plants.these vehicles could have incorrectly manufactured automatic transmission control cables installed which can result in a separation of the cable end fitting from the cable conduit at the transmission end of the cable.if the transmisssion end fitting were to separate from the shift cable assembly, theoperator would not be able to shift the transmission from one of …

ICE FORMATION IN THE THROTTLE BODYRecall query RQ98003Closed
Opened Mar 6, 1998Closed May 22, 2000Led to recall 96V251000throttle and acceleration

There is no summary currently available

INDEPENDENT FRONT SUSPENSION TORSION BARPreliminary evaluation PE98009Closed
Opened Feb 13, 1998Closed Jun 30, 1998suspension

Three consumers have reported failure of one of the two front suspension torsion bars in the subject vehicles.in one case the failure occurred while the vehicle was in operation, and the vehicles were parked when the other two failures occurred.no crashes have been reported.torsion bar failures are considered to be fairly uncommon and in each of the reported cases, the failures occurred at relatively low mileages.the failures are also reported to have occurred in a common location, approximately six inches from the control arm.a preliminary evaluation has been opened to evaluate the scope and …

WHEEL SEPARATIONEngineering analysis EA97027Closed
Opened Dec 24, 1997Closed May 29, 1998Led to recall 98V095000wheels

By letter dated may 6, 1998, the manufacturer advised NHTSA of its decision to initiate a safety recall of approximately 1,520,000 of the subject vehicles, including f-250 light duty trucks, and navigator vehicles built at the norfolk, michigan truck, kansas city, and ontario truck assembly plants between december 1, 1995 and mid-april 1998.NHTSA has designated this recall action as campaign number 98v-095.

WHEEL SEPARATION FROM VEHICLEPreliminary evaluation PE97033Closed
Opened Jul 14, 1997Closed Dec 24, 1997wheels

In addition to the a failure report tabulations given above, the manufacturer reported that an additional 33 owner and field reports have been filed which refer to problems (lug not torque loss, lug bolt fracture) that did not involve actual wheel separation, but which may be potentially relevant events.the manufacturer also reported that a total of 815 warranty claims have been filed for repairs potentially related to the matter by purchasing the vehicles back from owners as a goodwill measure.the wheel separations cited in this pe include many which occurred with the vehicle being driven; …

FAILURE TRANSMISSION PARK ENGAGEMENT/LOCPreliminary evaluation PE97019Closed
Opened May 6, 1997Closed Sep 16, 1997Led to recall 97V147000transmission

By letter dated september 4, 1997, the manufacturer advised NHTSA that a safety-related recall action would be initiated to correct a potential failure of the transmission shift cable in approximately 15,000 of the subject vehicles.the suspect cables were supplied to FORD by teleflex automotive and installed in the subject f-150 trucks built at FORD's norforlk and kansas city assembly plants between february 16, 1996 and march 4, 1996.a copy of the FORD's letter to NHTSA regarding this recall action is attached.based on the pending safety recall (97v-147), this preliminary evaluation has been …

SEAT BELT ANCHORAGE SEPARATIONEngineering analysis EA96020Closed
Opened Aug 30, 1996Closed Dec 24, 1996Led to recall 96V256000seat belts

Ford notified odi that they are conducting a recall to inspect and, as necessary, repair the seat belt anchorage attachments on 1997 FORD f150 vehicles built from the beginning of production through april of 1996.odi's database contains one complaint alleging the center front seat belt anchorage was not bolted to the floor.FORD has located 60 additional field reports and warranty claims that appear to be the result of improper assembly of or missing seat belt components on vehicles built at both the kansas city and norfolk assembly plants.complaints allege that a seat belt was not bolted to …

SEAT BELT ANCHORAGE SEPARATIONPreliminary evaluation PE96030Closed
Opened Apr 18, 1996Closed Aug 30, 1996Led to recall 96V256000seat belts

Odi's database contains one complaint alleging the center front seat belt anchorage was not bolted to the floor.FORD submitted 28 additional field reports and warrant claims alleging that a seat belt was not bolted to the floor, not attached, not hooked up, or the owner complainted that the seat belt was loose.the causes have included a missing bolt, missing nut, bolt hole not threaded, weld nut missing, or bolt not completely tightened into mounting hole.FORD states that factors that may have caused the non-attachment of the seat belt anchorage include improper assembly of or missing …

Technical service bulletins

325 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 1997 F-150. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

engine 66transmission 65body and frame 33electrical system 25fuel system 19visibility 17suspension 13steering 13
07212Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsOct 1, 2007engine

SOME 1997-2008 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A 4.6L 2V, 5.4L 2V, OR 6.8L 2V ENGINE--SPARK PLUG THREAD REPAIR PROCEDURE--NOT COVERED UNDER NEW VEHICLE LIMITED WARRANTY. *NJ THIS INCLUDES F-53 MOTORHOME CHASSIS. UPDATED 2/23/10. *PE

041601Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsNov 14, 2005engine

WDS COP KIT DIAGNOSTIC TIP - COIL ON PLUG (COP) IGNITION SYSTEMS - ENGINE MISFIRE OR ROUGH RUNNING. *TT

0554Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMar 21, 2005engine

USE OF STAINLESS STEEL EXHAUST STUDS IN SERVICE FOR 5.4L 2V ENGINE. *TT

05417Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMar 7, 2005engine

INTERMITTENT ROUGH IDLE - NON-COMMANDED EGR (EXHAUST GAS RECIRCULATION VALVE) FLOW. *TT

031404Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsAug 23, 2004engine

ENGINE MISFIRE OR RUNNING - COIL ON PLUG (COP) IGNITION SYSTEMS - WDS COP KIT DIAGNOSTIC TIPS. TO INCLUDE VARIOUS 2005 MODELS. * AR THIS ARTICLE 04161 SUPERSEDES TSB 03-14-04.

17448Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsDec 1, 2003engine

REMOTE OIL FILTER ADAPTOR REPLACEMENT - NEW SERVICE PART. *TT

Showing the newest 6 of 66 bulletins about the engine, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Power Train
Filed Apr 11, 2024245,000 milesTX

The contact owns a 1997 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds, the transmission hesitated while shifting gears. The contact stated that when the gear changed, the vehicle would jerk. The contact replaced the control sensor however, the failure recurred. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 245,000.

Service Brakes
Filed Oct 30, 2023WV

On two occasions now while traversing a slight downgrade (approx 8-10mph) applied brake (per pedal) and vehicle failed to stop! (felt as though it was sliding) which it wasn't. continued to roll! after re-gaining composer and control of the vehicle (avoiding any collision) brake system returned to normal !!!!!!!!! different circumstances could have resulted in collision damage,injury perhaps loss of life!! would appreciate any feedback your engineers have to offer in the matter!! i purchased the vehicle in 1998 and currently displays 87!!! k miles.

Power Train
Filed Aug 30, 202340,000 milesVT

The contact owns a 1997 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while attempting to park the vehicle, the vehicle failed to shift into park(P). The contact stated that when he attempted to shift the vehicle into reverse(R), the vehicle shifted instead shifted into drive(D) and vice versa. Additionally, the contact stated that he had to turn the vehicle off and turn the steering wheel towards the direction of the curb in case the vehicle rolled away, increasing the risk of a crash or an injury. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the shifter cable assembly had detached from the bracket and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 97V171000 (Power Train). The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the VIN was not included in the recall and advised the contact to call the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000.

Service Brakes
Filed Apr 17, 2023TX

1997 Ford F150, had recall 25527072 05S28 performed in March of 2006. The switch installed as part of the recall has failed and brake fluid has leaked from the switched and the harness. It is not apparent that the switch is leaking until the harness connector is removed from the switch. The integrity of the brake system is compromised and the previous recall was for fires because of brake fluid in the wire harness. UPDATE 5/11/23 BRAKE SWITCH HARMESS RECALL 05S28 WAS REPLACED WITH A MITORCRAFT PART SW6350 AND CONSUMER IS REQUESTUING REFUND FOR PARTS FROM FORD.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Mar 16, 2023205,383 milesIL

I filled the fuel tank and let the vehicle set in my drive over night. In the morning as I was approaching the vehicle in preparation to drive to work, I smelled a strong odor of gasoline. I looked under the vehicle and saw a wet spot about 3 feet in diameter. The wet spot was gasoline. As i was investigating the leak, I noticed the front fuel tank retaining band rusted in two and fuel tank hanging low. Further investigation revealed there was a leak from the fuel pump access seal and hose connecting the filler neck to the tank. I had just driven the vehicle 130 miles the day before filling the fuel tank. If it hadn't been for the leaking fuel, I would have not have discovered that the tank was only secured by one badly rusted retaining band and would have continued to operate the vehicle normally and probably ultimately the second band would have broken allowing the fuel tank to fall from the vehicle. Ford informed there was a recall and the vehicle had been repaired in 2011. I purchased the vehicle in Jan. 30, 2012 and drive it daily.

Electrical SystemFire
Filed Jun 3, 2022200,000 milesFL

The contact owned a 1997 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked at the residence, the contact noticed smoke coming from the driver's side from the bottom of the front tire. The vehicle then caught on fire. The fire department came to extinguish the fire. A fire report was filed. The cause of the fire was an electrical engine component. There were no injuries and no medical attention needed. The vehicle remained at the residence and was not repaired. The vehicle was deemed a total loss. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 200,000.

Structure › Body
Filed Oct 1, 2021134,788 milesOH

The contact owns a 1997 Ford F-150. The contact stated that the rear passenger’s side subframe near the axle of the vehicle was severely corroded. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 134,788.

Electrical System
Filed Jan 20, 202184,980 milesAL

MY INTERIOR AND BACK EXTERIOR LIGHTS COME ON AND GO OFF RANDOMLY SOMETIMES WHILE DRIVING ON THE ROADS. THE LIGHT IN THE BACK ABOVE THE TRUCK BED IS BOTHERSOME BECAUSE IT COULD CAUSE ATTENTION OF ANOTHER DRIVER CAUSING A ACCIDENT. MY MOTHER ALSO HAS A FORD F150 THAT DOES THE SAME, HOWEVER HER TRUCK ISN'T THE SAME YEAR.

Structure › BodyFire
Filed Jan 9, 2021SC

DECEMBER 3, 2020...MY HUSBAND DROVE THE TRUCK OVER TO A FRIENDS HOUSE. AFTER BEING THERE FOR APPROXIMATELY 2 HOURS HIS FRIEND WALKED IN THE BUILDING WHERE HE WAS AND SAID, 'HEY MAN, YOUR TRUCK IS ON FIRE!' EVERYONE RUSHED OUTSIDE TO SEE THE TRUCK WAS IN FACT ON FIRE. THEY CALLED THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WHO CAME AND FINISHED EXTINGUISHING THE FIRE. IT APPEARS THE FIRE STARTED ON THE DRIVERS SIDE NEAR THE TIRE, OR BEHIND THE DASH. I DID NOT EVEN THINK TO CHECK FOR A RECALL, BUT A FRIEND TOLD ME TO CHECK BECAUSE HE WAS AWARE THERE WAS A RECALL. SURE ENOUGH, THERE IS A RECALL AND IT DESCRIBES WHAT HAPPENED TO MY TRUCK EXACTLY. NHTSA RECALL NUMBER: 05V017000 DATE: JAN 27, 2005 FORD RECALL NUMBER: 05528

Service Brakes
Filed Oct 25, 2020184,000 milesMS

1. SPONTANEOUS BRAKE FAILURE. PEDAL WENT TO FLOOR. 10-20-2020 2. SPONTANEOUS SKIDDING ON WET PAVEMENT AND LOSS OF BRAKING CONTROL. 2ND INCIDENT 0N 10-23-20.

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Aug 20, 2020154,000 milesWA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD F-150. THE CONTACT HAD TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO HAVE HIS BRAKES SERVICED. WHILE THERE, HE WAS INFORMED OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 00V231000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO VANCOUVER FORD, INC. (6801 NE 40TH ST, VANCOUVER, WA 98661) WHERE HE WAS INFORMED BY THE MECHANIC THAT THE RECALL REQUIRED FOR HIM TO CHECK THE PVC VALVE AND THE FUEL LINE. AS PER THE MECHANIC, THERE WERE NO ISSUES WITH THE VEHICLE AND NO REPAIRS WERE PERFORMED ON THE VEHICLE. THE RECALL WAS THEN REMOVED FROM HIS VIN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE AT A COMPLETE STOP, THE VEHICLE STALLED AND SHUTOFF WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT WHILE AT A COMPLETE STOP WHILE DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED FORWARD WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT REPLACED THE PCV VALVE AND THE PCV HOSE HIMSELF HOWEVER, THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD BEEN NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND THE PREVIOUS RECALL ON HIS VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER INFORMED HIM THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS ON HIS VEHICLE AND OFFERED HIM NO FURTHER ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE HAD YET TO BE REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 154,000.

SteeringCrash
Filed Jun 17, 2020157,000 milesTX

STEERING WHEEL FRAME IS CRACKED AND ALLOWS FOR LARGE MOVEMENT BEFORE THE VEHICLE MAY RESPOND. ALUMINUM APPEARS TO HAVE SEVERAL HAIRLINE CRACKS AND WARPING AROUND THE COLLAR HOLDING THE STEERING COLUMN AND YOU MAY LOOSE CONTROL WHILE TURNING OR WHEN THE ROAD SURFACE IS UNEVEN AT MID TO HIGH SPEEDS. LOST CONTROL WHILE TRAVELING ON AN S SHAPED CURVE DUE TO LACK OF STEERING AND THEN OVER-STEERING. THIS HAPPENED ON A HIGHWAY IN NIGHT CONDITIONS, NO RAIN. VIDEO FOOTAGE IS AVAILABLE VIA A DASHCAM. *TR

Exterior LightingCrash
Filed Mar 10, 2020MA

LIGHTS DO NOT WORK

Structure › Body
Filed Jan 13, 2020198,000 milesLA

MY 3RD DOOR WON'T OPEN AND IT'S A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE. I HAVE KIDS AND IT'S THE ONLY VEHICLE I HAVE TO TRANSPORT THEM AROUND. I WENT TO YOUTUBE AND FOUND THAT SOME CHEAP PLASTIC RETAINERS THAT'S CLIPPED TO CABLES ARE BROKEN. THE RETAINERS OPEN THE TOP AND BOTTOM OF THE DOOR. PLEASE HELP. THANKS

Structure › Body
Filed Jan 12, 2020198,000 milesLA

I WENT TO OPEN MY 3RD DOOR ON THE LEFT SIDE OF MY F 150 AND IT WOULD NOT OPEN. I TRIED BOTH LATCHES ON THE OUTSIDE AND IN INNER DOOR FRAME BUT NO LUCK. I WAS PARKED AT THE TIME WHEN I WAS TRYING TO GET SOME ITEMS OUT OF MY BACK SEAT. I HAVE NOTHING TO UPLOAD AT THIS TIME.

Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Jan 6, 2020104,000 milesFL

I WAS ON MY WAY TO WORK THE MORNING BEFORE THANKSGIVING. I SHIFTED FROM 2ND TO 3RD GEAR AND THE BACK TIRES HIT A PATCH OF WATER AND I STARTED FISHTAILING. I WENT OFF THE ROAD AND HIT A PATCH OF OAK TREES. ONE HEAD ON. ON IMPACT, THE SEATBELT DID NOT RETRACT AND I HIT THE STEERING WHEEL, THE DASH BROKE APART AND THE ENTIRE STEERING COLUMN MOVED WITH ME AND I HIT THE WINDSHIELD. AFTER HITTING THE WINDSHIELD, THEN THE AIRBAG DEPLOYED. WHEN THE DASH BROKE APART FROM THE STEERING COLUMN MOVING, IT CUT MY SHIN WHICH REQUIRED STITCHES. MY KNEE HIT AROUND THE EMERGENCY BRAKE RELEASE WHICH DROVE MY FEMUR INTO MY HIP FRACTURING IT IN 3 PLACES WHICH REQUIRED 3 TITANIUM PLATES AND SCREWS. I HAD AN OPEN FRACTURE ON MY ARM WHICH WAS THE HEAD OF MY RADIUS (ELBOW) BROKEN OFF WHICH HAD TO BE REPLACED WITH MORE TITANIUM PLATES AND SCREWS. I BROKE THE ORBIT OVER MY LEFT EYE AND SINUS CAVITIES BEHIND IT. I HAD STITCHES AND STAPLES IN MY FOREHEAD THAT WILL NOW LEAVE ME A SCAR FOR LIFE. I SPENT 15 DAYS IN THE HOSPITAL, I'VE MISSED A MONTH AND A HALF FROM WORK AND DON'T KNOW WHEN I CAN GO BACK, ACCUMULATED OVER$80,000.00 IN MEDICAL BILLS, AND I'M STILL IN A WHEELCHAIR. ALL OF THESE INJURIES ARE DUE TO FAULTY SEATBELTS AND AIRBAGS IN A FORD MOTOR COMPANY'S VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS BOUGHT BRAND NEW BY MY FATHER AND HAS BEEN GARAGE KEPT SINCE IT WAS BOUGHT IN 1997. I WORK AS A RECEPTIONIST AND OFFICE MANAGER FOR A DOCTOR'S OFFICE. MY FACE IS THE FIRST ONE SEEN WHEN PATIENTS COME THROUGH THE DOOR. NOW,

Structure › Body
Filed Sep 18, 2018OH

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD F-150. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT TO REAR FUEL STRAPS FRACTURED ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE WITHOUT WARNING. THE FAILURE CAUSED THE FUEL LINES AND FUEL TANK TO FRACTURE. THE CONTACT REPLACED THE FUEL STRAPS, FUEL LINES, AND FUEL TANK DUE TO THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V385000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE); HOWEVER, THE VIN WAS INCLUDED. THE DEALER (REINEKE FORD LINCOLN OF LIMA, 419-223-3673, 1360 GREELY CHAPEL RD, LIMA, OH 45804) WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE VEHICLE NEEDED TO BE RESTORED TO ITS ORIGINAL CONDITION TO PERFORM THE RECALL REPAIR. THE DEALER REFUSED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE, INDICATING THAT THE CONTACT WELDED THE DRIVER'S SIDE REAR FUEL STRAP. THE RECALL REPAIR WAS NOT PERFORMED. THE MANUFACTURER ALSO INDICATED THAT THE VEHICLE NEEDED TO BE RESTORED TO ITS ORIGINAL CONDITION TO PERFORM THE RECALL REPAIR. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.

Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Jun 22, 2018158,608 milesOR

I WAS IN A WRECK TRAVELING 25 MO MAKING A TURN TO HEAD WEST AND I COLLIDED WITH A SIMI AND MY AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AT ALL I WAS TOLD BUT EMTS THAT THE WERE SHOCK THAT THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLY THEY TOLD ME THAT THEY SHOULD HAVE.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jun 14, 2017258,000 milesVA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD F-150. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, THERE WAS A STRONG ODOR OF FUEL COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. IN ADDITION, FUEL LEAKED FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND CONFIRMED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V385000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 258,000.

Steering
Filed Mar 1, 2017207,000 milesMO

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD F-150. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE AT A STOP SIGN AND ATTEMPTED TO MAKE A RIGHT TURN, THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME HARD AND A POP SOUND EMERGED FROM THE STEERING COLUMN. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN FOR APPROXIMATELY A HALF A BLOCK THEN THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACTS RESIDENCE AND THEN THE CONTACT CALLED THE DEALER THAT ADVISED HIM THAT THE VIN WAS NOT PART OF THE RECALL. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BUT THE PARTS REPLACED WERE UNKNOWN. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 207,000.

Electrical System
Filed Jan 24, 2017189,000 milesMI

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD F-150. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 68 MPH, THE CRUISE CONTROL AND WINDSHIELD WIPER BLADES STOP OPERATING, ALONG WITH THE DRIVER SIDE WINDOW INADVERTENTLY OPENING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE COMPUTER THAT CONTROLS THE CAB NEEDED REPLACEMENT. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE FAILURES PERSISTED AND THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO ANOTHER DEALER WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE NEW COMPUTER WAS NOT OPERABLE AND WAS TOLD THAT THE COMPUTER WAS ON BACK ORDER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 189,000.

Steering
Filed Jan 19, 2017169,500 milesCA

I JUST STARTED HAVING ISSUES WITH MY STEERING. I WAS TURNING RIGHT AND MY STEERING WHEEL LOCKED UP AND I HAD TO TUG HARD TO UNBIND AND REGAIN CONTROL OF MY TRUCK. I HAVE NOT HAD AN ACCIDENT, BUT THIS JUST STARTED HAPPENING AND HAS HAPPENED SEVERAL TIMES WHILE DRIVING AND TURNING. *TR

Power Train
Filed Nov 14, 2016OR

LINKAGE BRACKET BROKE WONT SHIFT COMPLETELY INTO PARK WONT STRART I HAVE LOOKED THIS UP AND ALSO THE CRUSE CONTROL SWITCH LEAKS BRAKE FLUID BOTH OF THESE HAVE BEEN RECALLED BY FORD BUT THE DEALERSHIP WHERE I TOO IT SAID MY VIN # WASNT ON RECALL LIST EVEN THOUGH THESE ARE BOTH ADMITTED TO BE FAULTY BY FORD HOW CAN I GET MINE REPAIRED.

Structure › Body
Filed Sep 14, 2016177,582 milesNC

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD F-150. WHILE LOOKING UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT NOTICED SECTIONS THAT WERE RUSTED ALL THE WAY THROUGH. THE BUMPER AND STEPS NEAR THE DOORS WERE ALSO RUSTED AND SLIGHTLY DETACHED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 177,582.

Electrical SystemFire
Filed Sep 8, 2016200,000 milesLA

MY TRUCK WAS TURNED OFF IN MY DRIVEWAY FOR ABOUT AN HOUR AND IT CAUGHT ON FIRE UNDER THE HOOD. A NEIGHBOR CAME TO TELL US AND THE FIRE DEPARTMENT HAD TO COME PUT OUT THE FIRE.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Aug 24, 2016126,000 milesMO

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD F-150. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT ONE OF THE FUEL TANK STRAPS FAILED DUE TO EXCESSIVE CORROSION. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED BECAUSE THE VEHICLE WAS NOT MANUFACTURED WITHIN THE STATE. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V385000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 126,000.

Engine
Filed Jul 9, 2016146,000 milesIL

STARTED THE VEHICLE IN A PARKING LOT. THE SPARK PLUG BLEW OUT OF THE HEAD ON THE PASSENGER REAR OF THE MOTOR. TRIED THE APPROPRIATE HELICOIL REPAIR KIT BUT THERE WERE NO THREADS TO TAP INTO.

Engine
Filed Jun 27, 2016WA

MY FORD F150 SOMEHOW GOT WATER IN THE CYLINDER AND BENT A CONNECTING ROD AT111000 MILES.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Apr 6, 2016120,000 milesAK

FUEL TANK STRAPS BROKE AND FUEL TANK FELL TO THE GROUND WHILE IN MOTION AT SLOW SPEED. FUEL FILLER NECK CRACKED AND FUEL CONNECTION AND FUEL PUMP DO NOT WORK. VEHICLE IS DRIVABLE AND TEMPORARILY SUPPORTED BY STRAPS. ON MY OWN I DISCOVERED THERE WAS A RECALL FOR 1997-2004 FORD TRUCKS AND CONTACTED FORD WHO INFORMED, TO MY DISBELIEF, THAT MY VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. FORD COULD OFFER ME NO HELP.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Mar 16, 2016OH

FUEL TANK STRAPS ARE UNDER RECALL FOR RUST AND HAVE BEEN REPLACED TO HAVE THE FUEL TANK TO START TO LEAK. THE WHOLE FUEL TANK IS RUSTED UP AND IS DANGEROUS. FORD WILL NOT REPLACE THE FUEL TANK. THERE IS A DANGER THAT THE FUEL WILL CATCH ON FIRE AND WILL BE HAZARD TO THE DRIVER AS WELL AS OTHER MOTORISTS.

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Mar 7, 2016200,000 milesGA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD F-150. WHILE DRIVING AT 60 MPH, THE WINDSHIELD WASHER INDEPENDENTLY ACTIVATED AND OBSTRUCTED THE CONTACT'S VISIBILITY. IN ADDITION, THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS WERE ACTIVATED, BUT FAILED TO FUNCTION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 200,000.

Structure
Filed Nov 24, 2015190,000 milesGA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD F-150. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 3 MPH, THE SPARE TIRE DETACHED FROM UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. UPON INSPECTION, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE CABLE THAT STRAPPED THE SPARE TIRE UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE HAD FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 190,000. UPDATED 04/07/16*LJ

Air Bags
Filed Nov 16, 2015186,000 milesKY

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD F-150. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE HORN ON THE VEHICLE DID NOT SOUND AND THE AIR BAG LIGHT REMAINED ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 186,000.

EngineFire
Filed Nov 9, 2015132,000 milesNC

TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1997 FORD F-150. WHILE PARKED, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY BURST INTO FLAMES. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. A FIRE REPORT WAS FILED AND NO INJURIES WERE SUSTAINED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 132,000. UPDATED 02/02/16*LJ *TR

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Sep 2, 201578,000 milesMI

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD F-150. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V385000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). AFTER THE REPAIR WAS PERFORMED, THE CONTACT SMELLED FUEL AND NOTICE A LEAK. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE STRAPS HAD BEEN REPLACED AND THE FUEL TANK HAD A PINHOLE FRACTURE, WHICH WAS LEAKING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 78,000.

Vehicle Speed ControlFire
Filed Sep 2, 2015134,530 milesCA

ON AUGUST 16, 2015, MY 1997 FORD F150 TRUCK CAUGHT FIRE IN MY SON'S DRIVEWAY WHILE PARKED. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CALLED AND CAME OUT, HOWEVER MY SON MANAGED TO PUT OUT THE FIRE WITH A GARDEN HOSE. ONE OF THE FIREMEN SAID IT APPEARS TO HAVE STARTED WITH THE CRUISE CONTROL SWITCH. THE ENTIRE CAB IS BURNED UP; OPERATOR AND PASSENGER SIDE, DASH, STEERING WHEEL, SEATS, WINDOWS BLOWN OUT, ETC. IT IS UNREPAIRABLE. SINCE THIS IS AN OLDER TRUCK, I HAD LIABILITY INSURANCE ONLY, NO COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGE. RESEARCH ON THE INTERNET TELLS ME THIS HAS HAPPENED TO MANY FORD OWNERS. FORD SHOULD BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE, AND I AM SEEKING REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE TRUCK. I HAVE CONTACTED FORD CORPORATION, AND THEY HAVE TOLD ME THEY FORWARDED THE INFORMATION TO THE FORD'S OFFICE OF THE GENERAL COUNSEL. THE "AFFECTED PARTS" ARE MANY MORE THAN IS LISTED. THE ENTIRE CAB WAS AFFECTED BY THE FIRE.

Engine
Filed Aug 19, 2015150,000 milesVA

WHILE DRIVING HOME FROM VACATION, WITH ABOUT 150 MILES TO GO, THE #2 SPARK PLUG BLEW OUT OF THE ENGINE. WITH ABOUT 30 MILES LEFT THE #3 SPARK PLUG BLEW OUT. CURSE OF THE FORD TRITON ENGINE

Suspension
Filed Jul 19, 2015147,535 milesOH

WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AT 35 MPH WITH NO LOAD AND NOTHING IN TOW THE SUB-FRAME CRACKED ON BOTH THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE. ON THE DRIVER SIDE IT CRACKED BEHIND THE REAR TIRE. ON THE PASSENGER SIDE IT CRACKED IN FRONT OF THE REAR TIRE. THE VEHICLE BOWED AND SMASHED THE TOP OF THE BED INTO THE BACK OF THE CAB. MECHANIC ADVISED THE FRAME DETERIORATED AND COST OF FRAME REPLACEMENT WOULD EXCEED THE REPLACEMENT OF THE VEHICLE.

Air BagsCrash
Filed Jul 16, 2015300,000 milesFL

TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1997 FORD F-150. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED AT NIGHT, ANOTHER VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE DRIVER SIDE OF THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED AND NO INJURIES WERE REPORTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 300,000. UPDATED 09/21/15*LJ UPDATED 11/27/2017*CN

Power TrainCrash
Filed May 28, 2015300,000 milesOK

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD F-150. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT SHIFT INTO PARK AND CRASHED INTO THE NEIGHBOR'S FENCE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AND A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. WHEN THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO SHIFT THE VEHICLE INTO PARK, THE VEHICLE WOULD GO INTO DRIVE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 300,000.

EngineFire
Filed Apr 12, 2015207,667 milesSC

DRIVING AT NORMAL SPEED (45 MPH), NO ABNORMAL NOISES OR VIBRATIONS PRESENT. LOUD BANG NOISE CAME FROM WITHIN ENGINE BAY, AND TRUCK BEGAN TO SPUTTER AND STUMBLE VERY BADLY. CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AND PRECEDED TO FLASH, PUT TRUCK INTO NEUTRAL AND ROLLED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WHERE TRUCK WAS SHUT OFF. EXCESSIVE FUEL WAS FOUND ON TOP OF THE ENGINE AT THE THIRD CYLINDER FROM THE FRONT ON THE PASSENGER SIDE (4.6L V8 ENGINE). SPARK PLUG WAS SEPARATED FROM THE WIRE AND LYING ON TOP OF ENGINE. SPARK PLUG BOOT WAS MELTED AND SMOKING SUGGESTING IT WAS PREVIOUSLY BURNING. SPARK PLUG WAS %100 COVERED BY BURNT SOOTY MATERIAL. *TR

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Apr 5, 2015140,523 milesPA

CONTACTED RECALL HOTLINE AND THEY STATED MULTIPLE LETTERS WERE SENT OUT FOR THIS PROGRAM SO THEY ARE NOT ELIGIBLE FOR RELATED DAMAGES. I RECEIVED SAFETY RECALL NOTICE OCTOBER 2014 AND TOOK TRUCK TO GET RECALL FIXED WITHIN 2 MONTHS FROM WHEN I GOT A NOTICE OF RECALL . *TR

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Mar 20, 2015121,424 milesMN

HAD FUEL TANK STRAP RECALL DONE ON 3/16/2015 ON MY 1997 FORD F150. PICKED TRUCK UP FROM DEALER ON 3/20/2015 AND TOOK IT TO MY HOME AND PARKED IT BY THE HOUSE. I LEFT MY HOUSE WITH MY OTHER CAR FOR A COUPLE OF HOURS AND WHEN I RETURNED HOME I COULD SMELL A STRONG ODOR A GAS. UPON INSPECTION OF MY TRUCK I FOUND GAS LEAKING FROM THE FUEL TANK AT THE LOCATION OF THE FUEL TANK STRAPS. I CONTACTED FORD AND THEY SAD THEY ARE NOT GOING TO DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT. MY TRUCK WAS FINE WHEN I TOOK IT IN FOR THE RECALL AND NOW AFTER THE RECALL THE TANK IS LEAKING BECAUSE THE OLD STRAPS CORRODED AND DAMAGED THE TANK. TRUCK GOES IN FOR SAFETY RECALL AND COMES BACK UNDRIVABLE BECAUSE OF A FIRE SAFETY ISSUE ( LEAKING FUEL TANK ) HOW CAN THIS BE ACCEPTABLE OR SAFE. *TR

Engine
Filed Mar 13, 2015155,000 milesTN

I HAVE BEEN HAVING PROBLEMS WITH ENGINE OVERHEATING, HEATER TEMPERATURE WORKING INTERMITTENTLY INSIDE, MISFIRE ON ONE CYLINDER. I HAVE REPLACED THERMOSTAT, SPARK PLUGS AND WIRES, AND COILS. DIAGNOTIC CODE STILL READS MISFIRE ON ONE CYLINDER. MISFIRE IS NOT CONSTANT. AFTER RESEARCHING I FOUND OTHERS STATING THERE IS A RECALL... "RECALL # 99B20". I CAN NOT FIND A RECALL 99B20. I DID NOTICE THERE HAVE BEEN 545 OTHER COMPLAINTS CONCERNING ENGINE COOLING AND MANIFOLD O RINGS, BLOWN HEAD GASKETS ETC DUE TO FAULTY COMPONENTS. I AM ADDING MY COMPLAINT AS WELL FOR FURTHER INVESTIGATIVE ACTION, AS I FEEL THERE SHOULD BE A REAL RECALL TO FIX THIS PROBLEM/COMPLAINTS. *TR

Engine
Filed Feb 24, 2015112,000 milesTX

WHILE STARTING FROM A RED LIGHT, THE ENGINE BLEW A SPARK PLUG! I HAVE THE 5.4 V-8 ENGINE. FORTUNATELY THE ENGINE WAS NOT DAMAGED OR ANYTHING ELSE. I IMMEDIATELY PULLED OFF ROAD AND HAD TRUCK TOWED TO THE LOCAL FORD DEALERSHIP. REPAIRS WERE $600.00. *JS

Electrical SystemFire
Filed Feb 23, 2015CA

THE TRUCK WAS PARKED FOR AT LEAST 6 HOURS AND OUR NEIGHBORS COME KNOCKING ON OUR DOOR BECAUSE OUR TRUCK WAS ON FIRE UNDER THE HOOD. IT MELTED UP EVERYTHING UNDER THE HOOD. WE GOT THE FIRE OUT AND THE FIRE DEPARTMENT CAME AND MADE A REPORT. THE FIRE STARTED ON THE DRIVER SIDE UNDER THE HOOD. *TR

EngineFire
Filed Jan 27, 2015100,000 milesCA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD F-150. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, IT CAUGHT FIRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WERE FLAMES COMING FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THE CONTACT DID NOT DISCLOSE IF A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED OR NOT AND WHO EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.

Structure › Frame and Members
Filed Dec 15, 2014180,303 milesOH

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD F-150. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRAME WAS COMPLETELY RUSTED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE FRAMEWORK NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 180,303.

Engine
Filed Dec 14, 2014167,542 milesKY

I CAME HOME FROM WORK ON 12/13 2014 AND NOTICED I HAD A WATER PUDDLE UNDER MY TRUCK SO ON 12/14/2014 I PULLED IN THE GARAGE AND DID SOME SEARCHING ONLY TO FIND THE OUTLET TUBE IN THE MANIFOLD WAS LEAKING I ASSUMED IT WAS THE RUBBER HOSE AND WHEN I WENT TO REPLACE IT THE OUTLET TUBE BROKE OFF AT THE BASE OF THE INTAKE MANIFOLD. UPON DOING SOME RESEARCH I FOUND THAT THE ONLY WAY TO REPLACE IT IS TO BUY A NEW INTAKE MANIFOLD SO AT THIS POINT MY TRUCK IS STUCK IN THE GARAGE . I CHECKED THE OUTLET TUBE AND FOUND 2 PINHOLES IN IT.THIS IS A CRATE MOTOR REPLACED BY FORD AT 88000 MILES I CAN'T AFFORD THE 500.00 THAT A NEW ONE WILL COSTS SO I'M OUT A VEHICLE AT THIS TIME. *TR

Steering
Filed Nov 13, 2014200,000 milesMO

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD F-150. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING OVER A BUMP, THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED AND EXTREME FORCE WAS REQUIRED IN ORDER TO CONTROL THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE OCCURRED ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE WHERE AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC DIAGNOSED THAT THE STEERING SHAFT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT REPAIRED THE VEHICLE BY WELDING THE STEERING SHAFT BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 200,000.

Complaints 1-50 of 2,758, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2013
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20270300Routine
202612800Routine
20251091440Routine
20241951140Routine
20234181340Above average
20226042370Above average
20211,0422940Do not drive
20207421140Above average
20191,345970Above average
20182,32719333Fatalities reported
20171,46518210High concern
20162,09314250High concern
20151,74614133Fatalities reported
20141,5398161Do not drive
20132,9943354Fatalities reported
20121,7844142Fatalities reported
20112,1946190Above average
20108431350High concern
2009324280Above average
20083691122Fatalities reported
20074887131Fatalities reported
200658514181Fatalities reported
20051,11214292Fatalities reported
20042,02916406Fatalities reported
200342311371Fatalities reported
200282110950High concern
20011,236192487Fatalities reported
20001,075173431Fatalities reported
19991,044186911Fatalities reported
19981,38118911Fatalities reported
1997 — this page2,7582626214Fatalities reported
19963247752Fatalities reported
199562671142Fatalities reported
1994676131010High concern
199358613211Fatalities reported
19924709395Fatalities reported
19913046410High concern
19902755320High concern

Compare every F-150 year →

1997 Ford F-150: questions buyers ask

Is the 1997 Ford F-150 a good car?

Going by the federal record, it is one of the F-150 years to avoid: owners filed 2,758 complaints, 3.3 times as many as a typical F-150 year. The most common complaint is about the engine (19%).

What is the most common problem with the 1997 Ford F-150?

The engine: 515 of the 2,758 complaints (19%) are about it. Owners most often say it leaks oil or fluid (32%), knocks, grinds or clunks (13%) and smokes or smells of burning (6%). The typical report comes at 99,500 miles.

How many recalls does the 1997 Ford F-150 have?

26 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Jul 29, 2011. The largest, 01X001000, covered 13,000,000 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 1997 Ford F-150 problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 107,400 miles. For the engine the midpoint is 99,500 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 1997 Ford F-150?

Yes, 18 times. The latest, EA11006 ("Fuel Tank Strap Failure Due to Corrosion"), was opened May 4, 2011 and closed Aug 19, 2011.

Are there service bulletins for the 1997 Ford F-150?

The manufacturer filed 325 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the engine (66), the transmission (65) and the body and frame (33). A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

14 deaths reported in complaints filed with NHTSA.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Jul 29, 2011. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.