16th Jan 2002, 18:15

My V-8 lasted 260k miles, excellent 4WD however bad transmission. early, and also the universal brake lock up in initial cold starts, after they warmed up, OK. Overall, mostly satisfied.

17th Mar 2003, 15:24

I have 189,796 Miles on my clock, it's a 95 4x4 super-cab, I bought it used with 96,000 miles on it 3 years ago, I am just getting ready to replace the clutch for the first time now. The only other things were routine maintenance. I love my truck, it still looks like new, even after trailering may cars with it, it has the 5.0 motor. and a few character dings.

I would never give up my truck! still runs like new, it's quiet, strong and safe..

Guess all you have to do is properly maintain it.

Thank you,

25th Apr 2003, 10:18

Never again. I own a 1997 F150 with the dreaded V6. To this date I have replaced the transmission, the tie rods (scary) and have had numerous leaks and problems, which have added up to thousands of dollars. When the transmission was replaced at 80000 km, the shop said it was more than common, it was almost expected. Too bad Ford sold so many F150s, or maybe a recall would be in order.

I also have problems such as poor welds in the door panels, leaking rear window, broken lumbar control, and the list goes on. The 1997 Ford F150 V6 must make the manufacturer, and owners, pine for the days of the PINTO and the EDSEL.

27th Aug 2003, 14:40

I can empathize...

I have (had) a '96 F150XLT that had to have the manual transmission bearings, synchros, replaced at 85K miles. While I had it out I replaced the clutch assembly which was about 70% worn out. I have had warped front brake rotors and consistent rear brake lockup. Even after rebuilding brakes. I have to back up the truck a couple of feet to release the brakes so I can drive forward.

The oil pan gasket is bulging out from the flange and leaks constantly. Rear engine seal leaks oil all over my drive. I have replaced a broken universal joint. Now the darn thing hesitates during acceleration, and I can only get it to respond if I press the pedal to the metal. On top of all that the inline 300/6 only gets 13 to 13.5 miles per gallon. I had a check engine light come on the day I drove it off the lot. (probably should have got it checked, but that was the least of my worries)

The tailgate springs never work and I have to push them back into place every time I close the tailgate (which also has broken cable stays).

I just traded the piece of crap for a Silverado with a V8 which I will be picking up in two days. I say good riddance to Ford!!

8th Sep 2003, 14:27

I own a 1997 F150 XL with a V6. Overall the truck is fine, but when a tie rod snapped for no apparent reason, I was a bit upset. Neither the tow truck driver, nor the mechanic at a local garage, was the least bit surprised. They both commented that they see 1997 and up F150s with broken tie rods on a weekly basis. I contacted Ford of Canada, and they said they had never heard of the problem. Has anyone else heard of broken tie rods as being a regular occurrance?

Robert.

26th May 2006, 10:20

Fords are very good vehicles for the most part. Most people should know not to buy a first year vehicle.

9th Nov 2006, 19:32

I own a 1996 F-150, It just turned 85,000 miles. It's got a 4.9 (300) I-6,with a five speed trans, and 2wd.I bought it new and I wouldn't trade it anything. I live in upstate NY and taking it to west virginia a number of times, and other trips as well. I've never had to do anything, but regular tune ups and oil changes. The oil pan has just started leaking, I've got a new pan and am going to get a molded gasket with steel reinforced sides. so there won't be any change of having to replace it again. I had a 1993 F-150 I bought new before This one. It had a 4.9 I-6 also. My son was hit head on by a guy on the wrong side of the road. Ford trucks are strong and hold up well. Thanks.