1996 Ford F250 XL review from North America
"A good workhorse with a few pesky problems"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Cam position sensor failed at 83000 miles.
Injector seals failed at approximately 100,000 miles, resulting in high oil consumption.
Throw out bearing went dry and failed at approx 90,000 miles, ended up replacing the entire clutch at the time.
General comments?
HAs been a good truck, but had its share of problems. Dealers in the area are not very well versed at fixing diesels.
I would consider purchasing another but, would seriously consider another engine manufacturer (ie: Cummins/Dodge) as I am not overly impressed with the design of the Powerstroke. Parts are expensive, as well as repairs.
The glow plug relay is about to go bad at approximately 112,000 miles, resulting in difficult cold starts... These little nuisance items add up. My 15 year old Toyota Pickup is still running strong with nearly 250000 miles, due to its simple design.
For a truck that produces 210 HP and 450 ft-lbs, it runs well, and tows well in the mountains. I average approx 19 MPG on the highway @ 75MPH - truck has 3.73:1 rear and and the 5 speed manual.
Recommended reviews
| 1996 - F250 XLT 7.3L Powerstroke diesel Powerful workhorse offset by high maintenance costs and endemic glow plug problems |
| 1994 - F250 XLT Extended Cab 7.3 IDI turbo diesel (Not Powerstroke) Best Truck accompanied by a GREAT engine |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Year of manufacture | 1996 |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2001 |
| Engine and transmission | 7.3L Powerstroke diesel Manual |
| Performance marks | 9 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 7 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 7 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 70000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 112000 miles |
| Previous car | Toyota Pickup |
| Date of Entry | 19th December, 2001 |