1990 Ford B-200

Introduction

The 1990 Ford B-200 is a full-size van that was produced from 1986 to 1992. It was offered with a variety of engine and transmission options, including a 4.9L inline-six, a 5.0L V8, and a 5.8L V8. The B-200 was a popular choice for families and businesses alike, due to its spacious interior and reliable performance. However, like all vehicles, the B-200 has its share of problems.

Engine

• 4.9L Inline-Six
  • Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: A leak in the intake manifold gasket can cause a loss of coolant, overheating, and poor engine performance.
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Timing Chain Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain can stretch or break over time, causing the engine to lose power and eventually fail.
    • Solution: Replace the timing chain and gears.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 5.0L V8
  • Head Gasket Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: A blown head gasket can cause a leak of coolant into the cylinders, overheating, and poor engine performance.
    • Solution: Replace the head gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Intake Manifold Runner Control (IMRC) Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The IMRC system controls the airflow into the engine and can fail, causing a loss of power and fuel economy.
    • Solution: Replace the IMRC system.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 5.8L V8
  • Valve Seat Recession
    • Description/Symptoms: Valve seat recession can occur over time, causing a loss of compression and power.
    • Solution: Machine the cylinder heads and install new valves.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 4-Speed Automatic
  • Slipping Gears
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may slip out of gear or fail to engage properly.
    • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 5-Speed Manual
  • Grinding Gears
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may grind when shifting gears.
    • Solution: Replace the clutch or transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension
  • Ball Joint Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The ball joints can wear out over time, causing a clunking noise when driving over bumps.
    • Solution: Replace the ball joints.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Suspension
  • Leaf Spring Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The leaf springs can break or sag over time, causing the rear of the vehicle to sag.
    • Solution: Replace the leaf springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Failure * Description/Symptoms: The battery may fail to hold a charge or may leak acid. * Solution: Replace the battery. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ * Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure * Description/Symptoms: The alternator may fail to charge the battery, causing the electrical system to fail. * Solution: Replace the alternator. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ * Recalls: None Found
• Wiring Harness Issues * Description/Symptoms: The wiring harness can become damaged or corroded over time, causing electrical problems. * Solution: Repair or replace the damaged wiring. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ * Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Failure * Description/Symptoms: The door locks may fail to lock or unlock properly. * Solution: Replace the door lock actuators. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ per door * Recalls: None Found
• Tailgate Hinge Failure * Description/Symptoms: The tailgate hinges can become damaged or corroded over time, causing the tailgate to sag or fall off. * Solution: Replace the tailgate hinges. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ * Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking * Description/Symptoms: The dashboard can crack or warp over time due to exposure to sunlight and heat. * Solution: Replace the dashboard. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ * Recalls: None Found
  • HVAC System Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The HVAC system may fail to blow air, or may blow hot or cold air intermittently.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the HVAC system components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1990 Ford B-200 is a reliable and spacious van, but it is not without its problems. The most common issues include intake manifold gasket failure, timing chain failure, and transmission problems. The severity of the issues can vary depending on the engine and transmission option, but the cost of repairs can be significant. Overall, the B-200 is a good choice for those who need a large and versatile van, but it is important to be aware of the potential problems before buying one.