1997 Ford F150 XLT Super Cab review from North America
"Ford Trucks -- Built to Break!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Replaced engine at 74,000 miles with a rebuilt one from Ford.
Blew second engine at 147,000 miles.
Replaced rear brake sensor.
Replaced front end steering linkage.
Replaced front brake rotors.
Replaced shocks.
General comments?
Overall the truck has served its purpose of transporting kids, my painting tools, and camping equipment. However, there is this small thing about the engine blowing up... twice! And before you accuse me of not changing the oil -- forget it -- ALWAYS between 3,000-5,000 miles. Kept up on other maintenance too. And again, I have NEVER hauled anything with it.
Face it, the 4.2L V-6 engine is a piece of crap, so apparently agrees Ford who would only agree to warranty the rebuild for a meager 40,000 miles -- as much as a pair of tires. Amazingly it lasted 75,000. There is no way I will spend $4000+ to put another one in, though. I am tired of my kids complaining about how uncomfortable the rear bench seat is, and tired of how underpowered and under braked it is. Instead, I'll use the money as a down payment on a Toyota, the best truck I have ever owed.
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| Would be Great if the Dealers did their Jobs! |
|
| 1996 - F150 XL 4.9 (300) 6 cylinder This truck is a very reliable workhorse |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Model year | 1997 |
| Year of manufacture | 1997 |
| First year of ownership | 1997 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2009 |
| Engine and transmission | 4.2L V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 6 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 1 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 6 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 1 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 17 miles |
| Most recent distance | 14700 miles |
| Previous car | Toyota Truck |
| Date of Entry | 15th May, 2009 |