Faults:

Throttle position sensor failed at purchase, and have no other problems.

General Comments:

Extremely reliable. Have traveled extensively across the U.S. with it, and drive it daily. All the power I need.

Faults:

Electrics at 49,000 miles, fuel gauge, no power when ignition switched to off/pwr setting, radio and power windows take long to activate after starting engine.

General Comments:

I purchased this van two years old with 36K miles, it was used as an airport shuttle bus (12 –passenger)in Florida and came with a clear title at reasonable price.

I purchased it to replace my previous 1994 E350 Club, which had developed a few major problems at the mileage of 100K, which included ABS not working (Ford dealer not able to repair), central locking computer failure (Ford dealer unable to find location) which was eventually disabled on my instructions, excessive oil consumption while towing a 4000 lb travel trailer (I would have to check oil and add 1 or 2 qts at the half empty fuel level). The van was still very presentable and had no visible rust, drove fine, but would no longer pass emissions.

I purchased the new van as a trailer tow vehicle and modified it as follows: removed the rear bus seats and installed a reclining bench seat, which folds to make a bed, making it perfect for weekend getaways for two. I also installed the 10k lb trailer hitch, installed running boards (necessary to save the paint job from road rocks) and a cow catcher in front. I also bought a Ford DRL light module, which my local mechanic was unable to install after charging me for two hours labour, because he could not find the socket. I installed a solar vent in the roof because these things tend to get hot when parked in the sun with that huge greenhouse.

I love driving these vans because Ford have finally installed decent seats, comfortable for long trips, the heat/AC works properly, your stuff is dry and safe from weather and robbers (unlike a pick-up) and the visibility is just great. I was not ready for the fact that Ford had raised these new versions about 3 inches, making them much more tippy than previous ones. (I suggest only buying the E150 unless you need a teeth jarring suspension and or huge trailer tow ability).

I have taken several long trips with this van without problems until the last one. I am now at 50K miles and on my latest trip from Buffalo to the Rockies, I encountered the electrical gremlins (I believe these are due to Ford using normal electrical equipment on a 1-ton rated truck). The problems started with the fuel gauge refusing to work properly after a fill-up. The other electrical problems are that the power does not work in the ignition off position, the radio and electric windows take forever before the computer is able to get them started. Currently, I am on a road trip so I really don’t want to take it in unless absolutely necessary. I think it may be due to a faulty ignition switch.