2006 Ford E-150

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints associated with the 2006 Ford E-150, organized by category and engine/transmission option.

The 2006 Ford E-150 is a full-size van known for its versatility and cargo capacity. Engine options included a 4.2L Essex V6 (201 hp, 260 lb-ft of torque), a 4.6L Triton V8 (225 hp, 286 lb-ft of torque), and a 5.4L Triton V8 (255 hp, 350 lb-ft of torque). The transmission was a 4-speed automatic across all engine options. Owners often appreciate the E-150’s spaciousness and utility but sometimes criticize its fuel economy and handling.

Engine

4.2L Essex V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, rough running engine, white smoke from exhaust.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• PCV Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, rough idle, vacuum leaks.
  • Solution: Replace the PCV valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
  • Recalls: None Found

4.6L Triton V8

• Spark Plug Ejection
  • Description/Symptoms: Loud popping noise, misfire, loss of power. This primarily affected early 2V (two-valve) Triton engines.
  • Solution: Install thread repair inserts (e.g., Time-Sert or similar) or replace the cylinder head.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Idle Air Control (IAC) Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or erratic idle, stalling, especially when coming to a stop.
  • Solution: Clean or replace the IAC valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.4L Triton V8

• Spark Plug Ejection
  • Description/Symptoms: Loud popping noise, misfire, loss of power. This primarily affected early 2V (two-valve) Triton engines.
  • Solution: Install thread repair inserts (e.g., Time-Sert or similar) or replace the cylinder head.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, rough running, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the CMP sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4R70W 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (All Engines)

• Erratic Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifts, delayed engagement, transmission slipping during acceleration.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter change. If the problem persists, rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid/filter) - $3000+ (rebuild/replace)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, stalling when coming to a stop, unusual noises from the transmission area.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Ball Joints and Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises when going over bumps, loose steering, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace worn ball joints, bushings, and/or control arms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per side, depending on the extent of the damage.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sagging Leaf Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end sagging, poor ride quality, reduced load carrying capacity.
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs or add helper springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, slow cranking, battery light on the dashboard, battery draining.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window moving slowly or not at all.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per window.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rocker Panels and Lower Body Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust along the bottom edges of the van, especially in areas where salt is used on roads.
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ per panel, depending on the extent of the damage.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Handle Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handles breaking or becoming difficult to operate.
  • Solution: Replace the door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ per handle.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Broken Seat Mounts
  • Description/Symptoms: Seats that wobble or are not securely fastened to the floor.
  • Solution: Repair or replace seat mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per seat.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Conditioning Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning blowing warm air, refrigerant leaks, compressor failure.
  • Solution: Recharge refrigerant, replace compressor, replace condenser, or repair leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (recharge) - $1200+ (compressor replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 Ford E-150 has some common issues, with engine and transmission problems being potentially the most severe and costly. The spark plug ejection issue, while not always present, can be expensive to fix. Suspension and electrical issues are more typical of vehicles of this age. Rust can be a significant issue, especially in certain climates. Overall, potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle, paying close attention to the engine, transmission, suspension, and body for signs of wear or damage. The cost to repair these issues can range from relatively minor expenses to more significant investments.