1998 Ford F-150
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Ford › F-150 › 1998
These records cover every 1998 Ford F-150. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
18 recalls name the 1998 Ford F-150. Newest first.
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…
Risk and remedy
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
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…
Risk and remedy
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.
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…
Risk and remedy
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.
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 and remedy
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.
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 and remedy
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.
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 and remedy
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.
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 and remedy
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.
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 and remedy
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.
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 and remedy
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.
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 and remedy
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.
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 and remedy
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.
On certain pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles equipped with speed control, the speed control deactivation switch may overheat, smoke, or burn.
Risk and remedy
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)
Vehicle description: bi-fuel CNG pickup trucks and bi-fuel CNG vans, modified by cfi control systems, inc., fail to conform to the requirements of fmvss no. 303, "fuel system integrity of compressed natural gas vehicles." the label affixed to the fuel filler door by the vehicle modifier contains the inspection date and expiration date of the CNG tank.…
Risk and remedy
Risk
These vehicles do not comply with the requirements.
Remedy
Owners will be provided a label with the required statement, along with instructions for affixing the label at the fuel filler door. owner notification began november 2, 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.
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 and remedy
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.
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 and remedy
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.
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 and remedy
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 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…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Increased brake pedal efforts or some increase in stopping distance could result.
Remedy
Dealers will install a revised pcv system on these vehicles.
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…
Risk and remedy
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.
Owner complaints
1,381 complaints83 involved a crash91 involved a fire53 injuries1 deaths
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Structure › Body · Unknown or other
1998 Ford F150 S/N 1FTRX18L7WNB03063 Mechanic said the frame is rusting badly. Suggested I not pull a heavy trailer or haul heavy loads in the bed.
- Fuel/propulsion system · Vehicle speed control
Unknown
- Fuel/propulsion system · Seat belts · Unknown or other
My driver's side seat belt does not work at all for the past 6-8 months its been stuck and locked and it doesn't release the belt at all so I been driving without a seat belt for awhile now it needs to be repaired and as for the other issues unknown like bank-1 & bank-2 not working properly also evap-leaks and sensors not working
- Electrical system · Fuel/propulsion system · Structure › Body
I have multiple issues that hit all around same time. Body rusted and water leaks getting the bcm wet which causes the truck to go haywire, lights flashing, doors locking and unlocking, radio stays on, caused multiple things to stop working, fuel tank leaks when filling it up where the fuel tank…
I have multiple issues that hit all around same time. Body rusted and water leaks getting the bcm wet which causes the truck to go haywire, lights flashing, doors locking and unlocking, radio stays on, caused multiple things to stop working, fuel tank leaks when filling it up where the fuel tank fill hose rusted into the tank, causing multiple vacuum leaks and horrible running conditions and truck dies if not holding clutch, gas and brake at light. Rear trailer wiring plug when it's connected causes multiple lights to stay on even though vehicle not running and everything off. Also melted all wires on 2 trailers causing shorted out lights, replaced clutch 2 times since purchase on 3rd clutch and mechanics not sure why even after showing them I am properly using the clutch system, not pulling heavy loads, or driving it like a race truck. ABS system light won't shut off even though no codes or problems with abs system, multiple vacuum leaks and can't get rid of running lean and bad O2 sensors even after replacing them all.
- Unknown or other
TL* the contact owned a 1998 ford F-150. The contact stated that while parked with the vehicle running and inside for an extended period of time, the insulation on the roof melted causing a fire. The cause of the fire was unknown. The contact sustained third degree burns on the head. A police…
TL* the contact owned a 1998 ford F-150. The contact stated that while parked with the vehicle running and inside for an extended period of time, the insulation on the roof melted causing a fire. The cause of the fire was unknown. The contact sustained third degree burns on the head. A police report was made filed. Fire department was contacted and came out to extinguished the flames. Medical attention was contacted and took the contact to the hospital where he stayed hospitalized from april 4 2020 to may 8 2020 for his burns. The vehicle was deemed a loss. The dealer was not contacted. The manufacture was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000. The vin was not available.
- Fuel/propulsion system
My vehicle has a recall on the fuel straps I took it into the dealer they looked at it they said they cannot fix it because the strap call through the bed rail frame what's the strap IS what caused the corrosion and rust to the bed rail frame .they will not proceed with the repairs even though the…
My vehicle has a recall on the fuel straps I took it into the dealer they looked at it they said they cannot fix it because the strap call through the bed rail frame what's the strap IS what caused the corrosion and rust to the bed rail frame .they will not proceed with the repairs even though the recall states that the straps rust and are known to corrode and if the gas thing falls it shall be replaced. Our gas tank fell and was rocking around on the skid plates and it punctured the gas.
- Fuel/propulsion system
I was filling my fuel tank and another customer pointed out there appeared to be something dripping from my truck. I found that as I filled there was a steady stream coming down what appears to be the framework holding up the fuel tank and dripping to the ground a couple of feet forward of the…
I was filling my fuel tank and another customer pointed out there appeared to be something dripping from my truck. I found that as I filled there was a steady stream coming down what appears to be the framework holding up the fuel tank and dripping to the ground a couple of feet forward of the filling point. as the tank filled it appeared to also drip directly under the filling point. I did find there was a recall for the fuel strap which I was never notified of even though I have had this truck registered in ohio for about 18 years and thus registered in the rust belt states. we did not notice any dripping at our home, only on filling the tank.
- Fuel/propulsion system
TL* the contact owns a 1998 ford F-150. The contact stated that the fuel tank was leaking fuel and the fuel tank straps were deteriorating. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer or an independent mechanic for diagnostic testing. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 231,000.
- Electrical system · Exterior lighting · Vehicle speed control
Since purchase 6/24/1998 riverside ford sumner wa non tire size not calibrated 22570r16 caused accelerated odometer miles by 100,144 miles unaware tacomaspeedometer I paid $55.14 on april 13, 2013 june 11, 2013 at titus will dealership receipt 203,997 was involved in mva may 13, 2019 other…
Since purchase 6/24/1998 riverside ford sumner wa non tire size not calibrated 22570r16 caused accelerated odometer miles by 100,144 miles unaware tacomaspeedometer I paid $55.14 on april 13, 2013 june 11, 2013 at titus will dealership receipt 203,997 was involved in mva may 13, 2019 other person cited 'failing to yield right of way' the mileage indicates 232,350 even though I showed my receipt 6/11/2013 at 203,997 commerce west deceitful appraiser willful intent to defraud only have 28,353 miles in which they're trying to total vehicle? carfax collecting data IS as incorrect as words used not have original receipt/pacific coast ford indicates a bad odometer march 6, 2008 r&r axles on june 6, 2008 exp bad torque converter replaced w trans assembly on receipt bad odometer carfax collected data IS incorrect not have original receipts' carfax contradicts own policy on report 'not all accidents reported' inconsistent collection of data I have all receipts carfax disseminating false info carfax cannot explain how 2010 odo mileage 238,624 but in 2013 indicates 208,438? No odometer tampering on report carfax never sent allstate any report may 21, 2019 the recent may 13, 2019 IS commerce west reckless driver 100% liable claiming trucks a total loss? Same as allstate except 28,353 in 6 years at 4,725 miles for 6 years from the receipt that I paid $5589.36 at titus will dealership promised to reset odometer to zero I've accounted of all odometer mileages from receipt on 6/11/2013 states 203,997 I have a major problem (xxxxxx) IS (xxxxxx) I'm not gonna lose my-custom truck I invested added $30,000 into and have receipts includercw42.20.040 adding life-threatening injuries based on allstate & commerce west criminal intent carfax for slander parts of this document have been redacted to protect personally identifiable information pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(B)(6)
- Engine
Faulty intake manifold gasket leaking coolant in piston bore hydrolocked motor over night
- Unknown or other
I have contacted myself the bf goodrich company and the dealership that sells bf goodrich tires. I have contacted the company two times. I have not heard anything from these people and it has been two to three months. I am writing you hoping that I can get some results. I bought tires on line thru…
I have contacted myself the bf goodrich company and the dealership that sells bf goodrich tires. I have contacted the company two times. I have not heard anything from these people and it has been two to three months. I am writing you hoping that I can get some results. I bought tires on line thru mandan walmart. The date was march 26, 2016. It was for 4 tires. The size was p235/70r16. I had a flat rear 3-5-2019. I took the tire in to be repair on 3-7-2019. Mandan walmart would not repair the tire because it had dry rot. The mileage at that time was 149312. When I purchased the tire from mandan walmart I did not know that the tires were gotten from a third party called dotcom tire. They sent the tires to the store and they put on and balanced with new valve stems. What I did not know IS that the tire had a manufacture date of 04/13. They were sold as new tires and the warranty only had 3 years on it. Mandan walmart said they do not fix flats with rot and that did not sell the tires, the third party did. I bought new tires not three year old tires and mandan walmart should told me that the tires were that old. Mandan walmart told me also "customer neglect" on my vehicle what nonsense IS this? Also, mandan walmart also said "customer neglect" and not taking proper care of your vehicle IS the other comment they made and this IS why they will not fix my truck, they should not tell customers bluntly there IS no neglect on this vehicle. The mileage on the truck now IS 156828. I took the tire to ok tire and they fixed it. What will I do about the other tires which have the same problem? Please call me at area code [xxx] about this problem. information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(B)(6).”
- Electrical system · Vehicle speed control
TL* the contact owned a 1998 ford F-150. The contact was not notified by the manufacturer that nhtsa campaign number: 05v017000 (vehicle speed control) was issued on january 27, 2005. The speed control function failed to properly shut off pertaining to the speed control deactivation switch and the…
TL* the contact owned a 1998 ford F-150. The contact was not notified by the manufacturer that nhtsa campaign number: 05v017000 (vehicle speed control) was issued on january 27, 2005. The speed control function failed to properly shut off pertaining to the speed control deactivation switch and the contact was unaware that the vehicle could overheat, smoke, or burn because of the failure. While the vehicle was parked and unoccupied, it caught fire. The fire department extinguished the fire and filed a report. The vehicle was destroyed and towed to the contact's residence. The manufacturer was notified and provided a case number. The dealer was not contacted. The approximate failure mileage was 225,000. .*Bf consumer stated when engaging speed control, the engine would missfire so bad, that I would cut the speed control off before the engine would stall. 'parts of this document have been redacted to protect personally identifiable information pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(B)(6).'*jb - (recall related incident) ts
- Wheels
October 13,2018 entire wheel assembly driver front wheel came off while driving on hwy 64 rocky mount north carolina, cause my truck to hit guard rail, the air bag did not deploy which cause me serious injury to my neck, I did not have the protection of the air bag.
- Air bags
Both front seat air bags deployed while traveling down the highway. there was no collision. Horn came on, white substance throughout the cab of the truck, had to get out, thumb was hurt but not broken. I had to cut into the inflatable air bags and disengage the horn and drove the vehicle home.
- Steering · Suspension
Vehicle experiences a violent shaking in the steering and front suspension called "the death wobble". occurs as speeds between 40 and 70 mph. occurs if road IS somewhat bumpy. occurs often and could result in loss of control. it requires that I slow down to about 5 mph before it stops. this immediate need to slow down if dangerous if someone IS following me (especially a large truck.)
- Fuel/propulsion system
TL* the contact owns a 1998 ford F-150. While driving, the contact heard a rattling noise coming from the engine. The contact noticed that the fuel tank was partially detached. The contact inspected the vehicle and found that the fuel tank strap had fractured. The vehicle was not taken to the…
TL* the contact owns a 1998 ford F-150. While driving, the contact heard a rattling noise coming from the engine. The contact noticed that the fuel tank was partially detached. The contact inspected the vehicle and found that the fuel tank strap had fractured. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer to be diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that the vin was not included in nhtsa campaign number: 11v385000 (fuel system, gasoline). The approximate failure mileage was 165,000.
- Fuel/propulsion system
Tank selector dfr failed causing fuel to pour out of front tank and along side of truck while waiting at stoplight.
- Fuel/propulsion system
TL* the contact owns a 1998 ford F-150. While driving approximately 25 mph, the fuel tank detached from the vehicle. The vehicle caught fire and was towed to the contact's residence. The vehicle was not repaired. A fire report was filed. There were no injuries sustained. The vin was included in…
TL* the contact owns a 1998 ford F-150. While driving approximately 25 mph, the fuel tank detached from the vehicle. The vehicle caught fire and was towed to the contact's residence. The vehicle was not repaired. A fire report was filed. There were no injuries sustained. The vin was included in nhtsa campaign number: 11v385000 (fuel system, gasoline). The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
- Air bags
When deployed the air bags driver and passenger side did not fully open when I was moving and rear ended another car.
- Electrical system · Suspension
Report receipt date: jul 15, 1998 nhtsa campaign number: 98v161000 component(s): fuel system, gasoline , suspension my rear suspension IS bad - has this been taken care of on my vehicle? gem module IS having trouble. I have been reading this part has caused a lot of trouble for this ford model.
- Engine · Seat belts · Structure › Body
Was parking truck and before I even knew it the whole truck was on fire ! No not know what cause it.
- Engine
TL* the contact owns a 1998 ford F-150. While driving 30 mph, the vehicle lost power and the check engine warning light illuminated. The failure recurred on numerous occasions. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the passenger side cylinder head needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 60,000.
- Structure › Body
Frame so rusted can't get a sticker, original paint on truck. Ford was factory undercoated with rubber type undercoating. Which pealed off and left lots of rust on entire frame. Not safe for inspection. Told by garage, to junk it. Bought new in 1998.
- Fuel/propulsion system
TL* the contact owns a 1998 ford F-150. The contact stated that the fuel tank straps fractured without warning. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic. The technician diagnosed that the straps fractured due to corrosion and punctured a hole on the fuel tank, which resulted in a fuel leak.…
TL* the contact owns a 1998 ford F-150. The contact stated that the fuel tank straps fractured without warning. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic. The technician diagnosed that the straps fractured due to corrosion and punctured a hole on the fuel tank, which resulted in a fuel leak. The vehicle was then towed to the dealer, who offered to replaced the straps free of charge, but refused to replace the fuel tank under nhtsa campaign number: 11v385000 (fuel system, gasoline). The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The vin was not available. The failure mileage was 170,000.
- Electrical system · Suspension · Unknown or other
Shock upper mount simply fell off causing driver side rear shock to drag ground. After further inspection also noticed at the location of the rusted out mount location that the rear wiring for the tail light were severed causing truck to now be stuck in park. Also while inspecting noticed rear…
Shock upper mount simply fell off causing driver side rear shock to drag ground. After further inspection also noticed at the location of the rusted out mount location that the rear wiring for the tail light were severed causing truck to now be stuck in park. Also while inspecting noticed rear frame IS simply falling apart and other areas throughout the frame are weak as well. This IS a huge safety concern after doing research I am finding many accounts of the same issue online but no manufacture recalls. Why isn't ford doing anything about this issue? I've never seen frames do this. Truck needs full frame replacement.
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Fuel Tank Strap Failure Due to Corrosion
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…
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 the weight of the tank sufficiently strained the hoses and fittings and caused separation and subsequent fuel leaks from those connections.The fire hazard created by leaking gasoline is increased by the possible presence of sparks created by the metal tank being dragged along the road.Corrosion of the straps appears to be caused by prolonged exposure to road deicers, frequently road salt, used to treat snow or ice covered roads.States in which large quantities of deicers are applied to roads during the winter season (salt belt states) account for the predominant portion of strap failures.Vehicles in these salt belt states are prone to experience corrosion related failures more frequently and earlier in a vehicle?s life cycle.Ford reports approximately 97 percent of reports it received relating to strap failure involve vehicles that were operated in these high corrosion areas, and 95 percent of the reports to NHTSA involved such vehicles.Approximately one-third of F-150 U.S. production was sold in salt belt states.ODI has included in the above counts reports it has received from consumers and reports it has received from Ford in which either the complaint involved confirmed strap corrosion or ODI's assessment of available information suggests corrosion caused the reported problem.Among the incidents reported to NHTSA, 441 involved one or both straps failing due to corrosion, 353 involved the fuel tank dropping and/or dragging on the ground, and 180 involved fuel leakage.ODI has received four reports of strap failure in which the leaking fuel ignited but self-extinguished, and one incident in which fire destroyed the vehicle and injured its driver.Ford reported the same injury incident and three other unique fire incidents, including two in which the leaking fuel ignited and fire destroyed the vehicle.There were no injuries associated with the three unique Ford incidents.Ford has agreed to conduct a recall to repair the subject vehicles.The recall will cover vehicles that were originally sold or are currently registered in salt belt states (regardless of vehicle age).The vehiclesincluded in the recall are those subject vehicles that are, or have ever been, registered in Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, or the District of Columbia.Ford's recall action appears to adequately address the problem at this time.The above vehicle population (1,340,349) includes subject vehicles originally delivered or sold in salt belt states.ODI does not know the current or historical locations of all subject vehicles.According to Ford approximately 73% of the recall population is currently registered (a 27% attrition rate).Ford is also recalling certain MY 1997-1999 F-250 vehicles (under 8,500 GVWR), and MY2002-2003 Lincoln Blackwood vehicles for the same condition, resulting in an estimated 1.1 million total vehicles
- Fuel Tank Strap Corrosion/Rust
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…
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 that the weight of the dropped tank could sufficiently strain the hoses and fittings to cause separation and fuel leaks between those components.The fire hazard created by the leaking gasoline is increased by the possible presence of sparks created by the metal tank being dragged along the road.The sparks could ignite the escaped fuel.ODI has included in its incident counts reports it has received from consumers and reports provided by Ford in which either the complaint involved confirmed strap corrosion or ODI's investigation yielded information that strongly suggests the subject defect as the cause of the reported problem.Among the incidents reported to NHTSA or Ford, 243 involved the fuel tank dropping below the vehicle and/or dragging on the ground, 95 involved fuel leakage, and nine included reports of sparks from the tank being dragged on the road.ODI has received one report of strap failure in which the leaking fuel ignited but self-extinguished.Ford reported another incident in which the leaking fuel ignited and the resultant fire destroyed the vehicle.There have been no injuries associated with these incidents.ODI has received reports of corrosion induced tank strap failures with other model year F-150 vehicles.ODI is upgrading this investigation to further investigate the frequency, severity and scope of this problem.
- Spark plug ejection from cylinder head
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…
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 any of the 10,319,810 subject vehicles.in addition, odi IS aware of only two incidents where the vehicle stalled without restart.information contained in the odi consumer complaints and obtained from 72 telephone interviews with complainants showed the following:(1) 99% of the complaints were on my 1997 to 2002 subject vehicles.(2) most the complainants reported hearing a loud pop while driving or upon starting up the vehicle followed by a loud, repetitive clicking or popping sound.(3) many of the complainants reported that the popping sound was accompanied by some loss of vehicle power; however, in 99% of the incidents reported, the vehicle did not stall.in the very few incidents where the vehicle did stall, most vehicles could be restarted.(4) only a small percentage of the complainants cited that they smelled gas or a slight burning smell when the incident occurred.(5) in all but a very few incidents, vehicle damage was limited to the engine.in one incident, the complaint reported that the fuel rail was damaged and replaced after one of the spark plugs ejected from the engine; however, the complainant reported that the damage did not result in any type of fuel leak or fire.in another incident, the only incident where a fire was alleged, the complainant reported that no fluid leak was observed, but that a fire resulted after the spark plug had ejected from the engine and he had restarted the vehicle and driven to another location.none of the complainants reported any damage to the vehicle hood.(6) only two complainants reported that they observed what appeared to be some drops of fuel coming from the cylinder where the spark plug had failed or on the spark plug itself; however, each of these complainants reported that there was no smoke or flames as a result of his incident.as the petitioner noted, and odi?s analysis showed, it IS possible for a spark plug to detach from the engine cylinder threads in the subject vehicles.however, odi?s analysis of 474 complaints describing such incidents found only a very few alleged any safety-related consequences.none of these showed any evidence of a serious safety consequence.given the large population and relatively long exposure time of the subject vehicles, the complaint analysis indicates that the risk to motor vehicle safety from the alleged defect IS very low.in view of the foregoing, it IS unlikely that nhtsa would issue an order for the notification and remedy of the alleged defect at the conclusion of the investigation requested in the petition.therefore, in view of the need to allocate and prioritize nhtsa?s limited resources to best accomplish the agency?s safety mission, the petition IS denied.
- Engine compartment fires
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…
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 vehicles exhibiting the factors causing scds failure described in this report correlate well with the observed failure rates on these vehicles by model and model year.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that a safety-related defect does not exist in the non-recalled vehicles manufactured with scds that are not included in ford?s recalls.odi will continue to monitor the non-recalled population for incidence of engine compartment fires.the agency reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances.see attached closing report for details.
- Steering column
- Blow back during refueling
There is no summary currently available
- Spare tire wear
- Spare tire mounting
The national highway traffic safety administration was petitioned to commence a defect investigation of the subject vehicles by a letter signed by william f. Allard and dated 15-feb-98.the petition alleges that the spare tire mounting places the tire sidewall directly in contact with the metal undercarriage causing…
The national highway traffic safety administration was petitioned to commence a defect investigation of the subject vehicles by a letter signed by william f. Allard and dated 15-feb-98.the petition alleges that the spare tire mounting places the tire sidewall directly in contact with the metal undercarriage causing wear and damage of the sidewall.the petition further alleges that when the damaged tire IS used, blowout could result on an interstate placing vehicle occupants and others at risk.
- Rear suspension spring breakage
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…
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 fuel tank contact in the event of a leaf fracture.only broken springs will be replaced.odi has received three reports of broken rear springs on 1997-98 F150 trucks;two of them have two-wheel drive.a tire puncture occurred on a four-wheel drive truck in which the broken middle spring leaf splayed outward at the rear of the spring assembly.eight other reports describe rear springs that have moved out of position or became loose; three of these reported some loss of vehicle control.closing note: while there isn't any strong evidence that the rear springs are only breaking under conditions of overload and severe use, the recall remedy to prevent fuel tank damage may be adequate and there IS not a significant spring failure rate outside the recall population.thi rq should be closed, subject to future failure occurances.
- Alleged loss of throttle control
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…
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 reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances.
- Tie rod end failures
There is no summary currently available
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 10205038Safety recall 11S21 - Fuel tank strap fracture - requests for recall service action
- 10183774For 1997-2003 F-150, 2004 F-150 Heritage, 1997-1999 F-250 Light Duty, or 2002-2003 Blackwood vehicles Safety Recall 11S21 has been issued for vehicles that are operated in high corrosion areas for an extended period, where one or both fuel tank straps could potentially fracture. Strap fracture may result in the fuel tank contacting the ground. If the fuel tank contacts the ground and develops a leak while driving, there is a potential for fire.
- 10058101Ford/lincoln: safety recall regarding high corrosion areas for operating, for an extended time, vehicles where both or one strap of fuel tank can fracture, after contacting ground. Model 1997-99 F250 ld, 1997-03 F150, 2004 F150 heritage, 2002-03 blackwood.
- 10056624Ford/lincoln: safety recall issued due to one or both fuel tank straps fracturing due to being in high corrosion areas for an extended period and dislodging fuel tank. Model 1997-99 F250, 1997-03 F150, 2004 F150 heritage, 2002-2003 blackwood.
- 10023943Some 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. This includes F-53 motorhome chassis. Updated 2/23/10.
- 10018745Wds cop kit diagnostic tip - coil on plug (cop) ignition systems - engine misfire or rough running.
- 10017892Rear axle noise repair.
- 10016789Rear axle noise repair.
- 10014685Use of stainless steel exhaust studs in service for 5.4L 2V engine.
- 10014666Intermittent rough idle - non-commanded egr (exhaust gas recirculation valve) flow.
- 10014659Axle whine howl. This includes 1997-05 ford vehicles.
- 10014275A driveline clunk or bump when starting from a stop.
- 10014086General (pcm) power train control module programming procedures.
- 10013369General power train control module (pcm) programming procedures.
- 10011162Engine 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.
- 10010001Customer maintenance reminder - literature program 04l19 - tie rod inspection procedure.
- 10008588Driveability-idle-high idle speeds-throttle sticks after steady state driving in extreme cold ambient temperatures-vehicles built through 12/31/01 equipped with 4.6L engine.
- 10008572Power steering leak - service tip.
- 10008552Rear leaf spring noise.
- 10008542Pop/thump noise at end of window movement and/or driver's window bounce back and reverse to mid-position.
- 10008345No/hard start in cold ambients / new two-piece block heater cord released.
- 10008304Engine-gear driven synchronizers-incorrect installation-camshaft position synchronizer (cmp) installation tool correct application.
- 10008301Remote oil filter adaptor replacement - new service part.
- 10008232Whine from power steering.
- 10008169Broken exhaust manifold studs.
- 10007359Driveline clunking/grunting noise or shudder sensation during light to moderate accelreation and/or braking.
- 10004889Some dedicated CNG vehicles may exhibit various driveability conditions due to a loss of injector performance, resulting from fuel quality. Loss of power at heavy load, diagnostic trouble codes (dtcs) for lean fuel, rough idle, hard start, plugged catalytic converter and no start condition.
- 10004029Dedicated compressed natural gas (CNG) rough idle or no start when cold vehicles equipped with dedicated 4.6L or 5.4L CNG engine only.
- 10003845Damaged rear license plate lamps due to rocks and/or gravel hitting the lamp assemblies.
- 10003748New transmission cooler flusher - service tips. 2003 escort and super duty f series included.
- 10003744Engine misfire or rough running condition with coil on plug (cop) ignition systems may be more accurately diagnosed using the optional worldwide diagnostic system (wds) coil on plug (cop) kit. 2003 super duty f series included.
- 10003192Tie rod end inspection procedure.
- 10003149Malfunction indicator lamp (mil) illumination with no hard fault.
- 10002781Tie rod end inspection procedure.
- 10002780Malfunction indicator lamp (mil) illumination with diagnostic trouble codes p0442, p0455, p0456, p0457, p1442 or check fuel cap lamp illuminated with diagnostic trouble code p0457.
- 10002768Bi-fuel lpg vehicles (with coolant lock off) may exhibit a no start condition.
- 10002767Vehicles without the coolant lock-off may exhibit a no start condition.
- 10002766Compressed natural gas (CNG). Rough idle or no start when cold. Vehicles equipped with CNG bi-fuel engine only.
- 10002759Tailgate locking by itself when slammed shut or when the vehicle IS being driven over rough roads.
- 10002639Various intermittent electrical concerns including but not limited to some accessories remaining powered up with the key out of the ignition, multiple system warning lights with short to power or low battery voltage diagnostic trouble codes.
Every Ford F-150 model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.