1990 Ford F-250

1990 Ford F-250

The 1990 Ford F-250 is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its durability and capabilities. It was available with several engine and transmission options, including a 7.5L V8 (230 hp/420 lb-ft), 7.3L diesel V8 (170 hp/330 lb-ft), and a 4.9L inline-six (145 hp/265 lb-ft). Transmission options included a 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic, and 3-speed automatic.

People who own the 1990 Ford F-250 appreciate its powerful engines, sturdy frame, and spacious cabin. However, there are some common issues that have been reported with this vehicle.

Engine

• 7.5L V8
  • Intake manifold gasket failure: Can lead to coolant leaks, overheating, and engine damage. Symptoms include white smoke from the exhaust, coolant loss, and rough idling. Replacement of the intake manifold gaskets is necessary. $600 - $1,200+
  • Timing chain failure: Can result in engine damage. Symptoms include rattling noises from the engine, loss of power, and difficulty starting. Replacement of the timing chain and related components is required. $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Oil pump failure: Can cause loss of oil pressure and engine damage. Symptoms include low oil pressure warning light, noisy engine, and metal shavings in the oil. Replacement of the oil pump is necessary. $500 - $1,000+
• 7.3L Diesel V8
  • Fuel injector failure: Can lead to poor engine performance, reduced fuel economy, and black smoke from the exhaust. Replacement of the faulty fuel injectors is necessary. $800 - $1,500+
  • Turbocharger failure: Can result in loss of power and increased exhaust emissions. Symptoms include black smoke from the exhaust, whistling noise, and reduced boost pressure. Replacement of the turbocharger is required. $1,200 - $2,000+
• 4.9L Inline-Six
  • Head gasket failure: Can lead to coolant leaks, overheating, and engine damage. Symptoms include white smoke from the exhaust, coolant loss, and rough idling. Replacement of the head gaskets is necessary. $600 - $1,200+

Transmission

• 5-Speed Manual
  • Transmission fluid leaks: Can cause the transmission to slip or fail. Symptoms include puddles of transmission fluid under the vehicle and difficulty shifting gears. Replacement of the seals or gaskets that are leaking is necessary. $400 - $1,000+
  • Synchronizer failure: Can make it difficult to shift gears. Symptoms include grinding noises when shifting gears. Replacement of the faulty synchronizers is required. $800 - $1,500+
• 4-Speed Automatic
  • Transmission solenoid failure: Can lead to erratic shifting, slipping, or loss of gears. Symptoms include delayed or harsh shifting, slipping gears, and warning lights on the dashboard. Replacement of the faulty solenoid is necessary. $400 - $800+
  • Torque converter failure: Can cause shuddering or slipping when shifting gears. Symptoms include vibration, noise, and loss of power. Replacement of the torque converter is required. $1,000 - $2,000+
• 3-Speed Automatic
  • Transmission filter clogging: Can block the flow of transmission fluid and cause transmission problems. Symptoms include slipping gears, delayed shifting, and overheating. Replacement of the transmission filter is necessary. $150 - $300+

Suspension

• Ball joint failure: Can lead to unstable handling and increased tire wear. Symptoms include clunking or popping noises when turning or going over bumps, and uneven tire wear. Replacement of the ball joints is necessary. $400 - $800+
• Leaf spring failure: Can cause the vehicle to sag and affect handling. Symptoms include a drooping rear end, uneven tire wear, and difficulty steering. Replacement of the leaf springs is required. $600 - $1,200+

Electrical

• Alternator failure: Can lead to a loss of electrical power. Symptoms include dimming headlights, flickering dashboard lights, and a dead battery. Replacement of the alternator is necessary. $500 - $1,000+
• Starter failure: Can prevent the vehicle from starting. Symptoms include clicking noises when turning the key, difficulty starting the engine, and a grinding noise. Replacement of the starter is required. $300 - $700+
• Electrical wiring harness issues: Can cause a variety of electrical problems. Symptoms include intermittent electrical malfunctions, blown fuses, and warning lights on the dashboard. Repair or replacement of the affected wiring harness is necessary. $500 - $1,500+

Exterior

• Rust: Can occur on various body panels, especially in areas exposed to moisture and road salt. Symptoms include bubbling paint, peeling paint, and holes in the metal. Rust repair or replacement of the affected panels is necessary. $500 - $3,000+
• Headlight lens fading: Can reduce visibility at night. Symptoms include cloudy or dull headlight lenses. Restoring the headlights or replacing the lenses is necessary. $200 - $500+

Interior

• Seat belt latch failure: Can prevent the seat belt from latching and securing properly. Symptoms include the seat belt not engaging or detaching easily. Replacement of the seat belt latch is necessary. $200 - $400+
• Dashboard cluster failure: Can affect the display of gauges and warning lights. Symptoms include flickering or dim gauges, inoperable warning lights, and a blank screen. Repair or replacement of the dashboard cluster is necessary. $400 - $800+
• Power window failure: Can prevent the power windows from operating. Symptoms include windows that do not move or move slowly, intermittent operation, and blown fuses. Repair or replacement of the power window motor, switch, or wiring is necessary. $300 - $700+
• Air conditioning failure: Can cause discomfort and poor cooling. Symptoms include weak or no airflow, warm air blowing from the vents, and refrigerant leaks. Repair or replacement of the compressor, condenser, or other components of the air conditioning system is necessary. $500 - $2,000+

Summary

Overall, the 1990 Ford F-250 is a reliable and capable truck. However, there are some common issues that can be encountered. Engine problems, such as intake manifold gasket failure and timing chain failure, can be costly to repair. Transmission problems, including transmission solenoid failure and torque converter failure, can also add up. Suspension issues, particularly ball joint and leaf spring failure, are not uncommon. Electrical problems, including alternator failure and wiring harness issues, can also cause headaches. Exterior rust is a concern, especially in areas with high moisture and road salt. Interior issues, while not as severe as engine or transmission problems, can still be frustrating.

The severity of the issues can vary depending on factors such as the severity of the failure, the driving conditions, and the quality of repairs. The cost of repairs can also vary depending on the location, the mechanic, and the availability of parts.