1999 Ford E-350 Econoline Club Wagon

Introduction:

The 1999 Ford E-350 Econoline Club Wagon is a popular full-size van known for its spacious interior, powerful engine options, and reliable performance. It is available with various engine and transmission configurations, with powerful V8 engines and robust transmissions offering ample power for hauling and towing. Despite its strengths, the Econoline Club Wagon has some notable issues that owners have reported over the years.

Engine

7.3L V8 Power Stroke Diesel

• Fuel Injector Failure: Worn injector seals cause fuel leaks, leading to rough idling, decreased power, and increased emissions.
  • Solution: Replace all fuel injectors, fuel injector seals, and O-rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
• Turbocharger Failure: Worn bearings or seals in the turbocharger can cause oil leaks, reduced boost pressure, and decreased engine performance.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger core or rebuild the existing unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
• High-Pressure Oil Pump Failure: The high-pressure oil pump can fail due to wear or a faulty pressure relief valve, causing reduced oil pressure and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the high-pressure oil pump and related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+

5.4L V8 Triton

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure: Leaking intake manifold gaskets can cause engine vacuum loss, rough idling, and decreased performance.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
• Spark Plug Blowout: Spark plugs can blow out of the cylinder head due to overtightening or faulty installation, causing engine misfires and potential cylinder damage.
  • Solution: Extract the broken spark plug and replace it with a properly tightened new one.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+

Transmission

4R100 4-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Shudder: Worn torque converter damper springs can cause vibrations while driving, especially during acceleration and deceleration.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter or rebuild the existing unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Overheating: Transmission overheating can occur due to clogged cooler lines, faulty sensors, or worn clutches, leading to slipping gears and potential transmission failure.
  • Solution: Flush the transmission cooler lines, replace faulty sensors or clutches, and add an auxiliary transmission cooler if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,200+

E4OD 4-Speed Automatic

• Governor Pressure Sensor Failure: A faulty governor pressure sensor can provide incorrect transmission line pressure, causing erratic shifting and premature clutch wear.
  • Solution: Replace the governor pressure sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• Sun Shell Splines Failure: Worn or damaged sun shell splines can cause loss of drive or slipping gears.
  • Solution: Rebuild the transmission and replace the sun shell and related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000+

Suspension

• Ball Joint Failure: Worn or damaged ball joints can cause loose and unstable steering, clunking noises, and premature tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the worn or damaged ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per side
• Leaf Spring Sagging or Breakage: Leaf springs can sag or break due to heavy loads or age, leading to poor handling and a lowered ride height.
  • Solution: Replace the sagging or broken leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per axle

Electrical

• Battery Discharge: Electrical components such as the stereo, lights, or ignition system can drain the battery rapidly if left on or faulty.
  • Solution: Inspect electrical components and replace or repair any faulty ones.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the component
• Alternator Failure: A faulty alternator can fail to charge the battery properly, leading to power loss and potential vehicle breakdown.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+

Exterior

• Rust: The E-350 Econoline Club Wagon is prone to rust in areas such as the rocker panels, wheel wells, and around the tailgate frame.
  • Solution: Rust removal and prevention treatment, including sanding, painting, and applying rustproofing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the extent of rust

Interior

• Radio Malfunction: The factory radio can experience issues such as fading audio, loss of functionality, or CD/DVD playback problems.
  • Solution: Replace the radio or repair it if possible.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Roof Lining Sagging: The headliner or roof lining can sag or detach due to high humidity or excessive moisture inside the vehicle.
  • Solution: Reattach or replace the roof lining.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Summary

The 1999 Ford E-350 Econoline Club Wagon is a versatile and powerful van with some notable issues to consider. While the engine and transmission issues can be costly to fix, the suspension and electrical problems are generally less severe and less expensive. The severity of the rust issue varies depending on the van’s history and location. Overall, the Econoline Club Wagon is a reliable option for those needing a spacious and capable van, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues and factor in the potential costs of repair or maintenance.