2009 Ford E-350 Super Duty
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2009 Ford E-350 Super Duty, adhering to your specified format.
The 2009 Ford E-350 Super Duty is a robust workhorse van known for its reliability and cargo/passenger hauling capabilities. Engine options included a 5.4L Triton V8 producing around 255 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, and a 6.8L Triton V10 that cranked out approximately 305 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 4-speed automatic. Owners often appreciate the van’s spaciousness, payload capacity, and utilitarian design. Common complaints revolve around fuel economy and some reliability issues related to older components and higher mileage.
Engine
5.4L Triton V8
- Spark Plug Thread Repair
- Description/Symptoms: Spark plugs are ejected from the cylinder head due to weak factory threads. This often occurs during routine maintenance or when plugs become loose over time. The engine may misfire, run rough, and experience a loss of power.
- Solution: Repairing the cylinder head by installing thread inserts (such as Time-Sert or Heli-Coil) to provide a stronger grip for the spark plugs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ (depending on the number of cylinders that need repair and labor rates).
- Recalls: None Found
- Cam Phaser Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Ticking or rattling noise, especially at idle or low speeds. Can lead to rough idling and potential engine stalling.
- Solution: Replacement of the cam phasers and potentially the timing chain and related components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
- Recalls: None Found
6.8L Triton V10
- Exhaust Manifold Bolts Breaking
- Description/Symptoms: Ticking or hissing sound, especially when the engine is cold. Exhaust leaks can also lead to reduced fuel economy and potentially a check engine light.
- Solution: Replacing the broken bolts and potentially the exhaust manifold if it is warped or damaged.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the valve covers, leading to burning oil smells and potential oil consumption issues.
- Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic (4R75E)
- Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifts between gears, especially noticeable during acceleration or deceleration.
- Solution: Possible causes include worn valve body, low transmission fluid, or a failing solenoid. Solutions range from a fluid flush and filter change to valve body repair/replacement or complete transmission rebuild.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $3000+ (depending on the severity and cause)
- Recalls: None Found
- Transmission Slipping
- Description/Symptoms: Engine revs high without corresponding acceleration, difficulty climbing hills, or delayed engagement when shifting into drive or reverse.
- Solution: Slipping is often caused by worn clutches or bands within the transmission. A rebuild or replacement is usually necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Worn Ball Joints
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps or turning. Steering may feel loose or wander.
- Solution: Replacement of the ball joints.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side
- Recalls: None Found
- Leaf Spring Sagging/Breaking
- Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sags noticeably on one or both sides, especially when loaded. Could also notice broken leaf springs.
- Solution: Replacement of the leaf springs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per side
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Alternator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, warning lights on the dashboard (battery, charging system), difficulty starting, and potential stalling.
- Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Power Window/Door Lock Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of power windows or door locks.
- Solution: Could be a faulty switch, motor, or wiring issue. Diagnose the specific component and replace it.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ per window/door
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rust (Especially Around Wheel Wells and Rocker Panels)
- Description/Symptoms: Visible rust forming on the body panels, particularly in areas exposed to road salt and moisture.
- Solution: Rust repair involves removing the rust, patching or replacing damaged metal, and repainting.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ per panel depending on the severity
- Recalls: None Found
- Door Hinge Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Doors sagging, difficult to close, or making creaking noises when opened or closed.
- Solution: Replacement of the door hinges or hinge pins.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400 per door.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Headliner Sagging
- Description/Symptoms: The headliner material detaches from the ceiling and sags down.
- Solution: Replacement of the headliner material.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
- HVAC Blower Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The blower motor stops working, resulting in no air coming from the vents.
- Solution: Replacement of the blower motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2009 Ford E-350 Super Duty, while a capable vehicle, can experience a range of issues related to its age and mileage. Engine problems such as spark plug thread issues, cam phaser problems (5.4L), and exhaust manifold bolt breakage (6.8L) can be costly to repair. Transmission issues like harsh shifting and slipping are also common. Suspension components like ball joints and leaf springs may wear out. Electrical issues such as alternator failure and power window/door lock problems can occur. Rust and interior wear and tear are also potential concerns. The severity and cost of these issues vary depending on the specific problem and the extent of the damage. Addressing these issues promptly through proper maintenance can help extend the life and reliability of the vehicle.