1983 Ford F150 review from North America
"A pure reliable workhorse"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Replaced the steering gear box at 400,000 miles.
Rebuilt the Carb at 350,000 miles.
Rebuilt the engine at 250,000 miles.
Rebuilt the Transmission at 540,000 miles.
Replaced rear differential and axle at 500,000.
Overhauled the AC system at 385,000 miles.
The vehicle is in need of paint and the fenders are rusting out.
General comments?
This has been a great vehicle. I bought it new in 1983 for $5,800. I have spent over the years probably in the neighborhood of $8,000 in repairs (excludes normal maintenance and service). I have had nothing but good experiences with Ford trucks. I also have a 1988 full size Bronco (in excellent shape) and a 2001 F-150 (my wife drives it). But the old 1983 F150 just keeps on trucking and I use it now for hauling, fishing, camping and just plain fun.
Recommended reviews
![]() ![]() | A good truck for anyone who needs a REAL truck.. |
![]() ![]() | 1982 - F150 XLT Standard Cab 2WD 7.5L 460 V8 Bulletproof workhorse! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1983 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 351w Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 5/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 100 miles |
| Most recent distance | 546000 miles |
| Previous car | Ford F100 |
| Date of Entry | 11th October, 2002 |

