1990 Ford E-250 Econoline

Introduction:

The 1990 Ford E-250 Econoline is a full-size van available with a variety of engine and transmission options. Its popularity stems from its spacious interior, reliability, and affordability. However, like any vehicle, the E-250 Econoline has its share of reported issues.

Engine

5.0L V8

• Blown head gasket:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine overheating, white smoke from exhaust, coolant leaks
  • Solution: Replace head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake manifold gasket failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine coolant leaks, overheating, rough idling
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

7.3L Power Stroke Diesel V8

• Fuel injector failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, reduced power
  • Solution: Replace fuel injectors
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, excessive smoke from exhaust, whistling or whining noises
  • Solution: Replace turbocharger
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-speed Manual

• Clutch failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping clutch
  • Solution: Replace clutch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

4-speed Automatic

• Overdrive failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle won’t shift into overdrive, loss of gears
  • Solution: Replace overdrive solenoid or transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front ball joint failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or grinding noises, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace ball joints
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear leaf spring failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Saggy rear end, difficulty handling loads
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, dead battery, electrical system not working
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine won’t start, clicking noises when starting
  • Solution: Replace starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust and corrosion:
  • Description/Symptoms: Body panels rusting, especially in areas like fender wells and rockers
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted parts, apply anti-rust treatments
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dashboard develops cracks or splits
  • Solution: Replace dashboard or cover with a dash pad
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• A/C system failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: No cool air from A/C vents, compressor not engaging
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair A/C components, recharge system
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ depending on issue
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 1990 Ford E-250 Econoline is a reliable and affordable full-size van, but it is not without its issues. While some issues, such as head gasket and intake manifold gasket failure, can be expensive to fix, others, such as suspension and electrical issues, are relatively minor. Overall, the severity of the issues and the cost of repairs vary, so it is important to have any problems diagnosed and fixed promptly to prevent more costly repairs down the road.