2011 Ford E-150

The 2011 Ford E-150 is a full-size van known for its spaciousness, durability, and utility. The E-150 in 2011 was primarily powered by a 4.6L V8 engine producing around 225 horsepower and 286 lb-ft of torque, or a 5.4L V8 engine which produces around 255 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. It was only available with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the E-150 for its cargo capacity and towing capability, making it a popular choice for commercial use. Common complaints often revolve around fuel economy and the aging design compared to more modern vans.

Engine

4.6L V8

• Spark Plug Thread Damage
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficultly removing spark plugs during maintenance. Damaged threads in the cylinder head. Misfires.
  • Solution: Thread repair kit or cylinder head replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.4L V8

• Spark Plug Thread Damage
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficultly removing spark plugs during maintenance. Damaged threads in the cylinder head. Misfires.
  • Solution: Thread repair kit or cylinder head replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Phaser Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine rattle upon startup, rough idling, reduced power, and potential stalling. Typically occurs in higher mileage vehicles.
  • Solution: Replacement of camshaft phasers, timing chain, and related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifting between gears, especially 1st to 2nd and 2nd to 3rd. Transmission slipping during acceleration.
  • Solution: Fluid flush and filter change, valve body repair/replacement, or complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, particularly during acceleration. Can also cause stalling or complete loss of drive.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Ball Joints
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps or turning. Steering play or looseness.
  • Solution: Replacement of ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per side.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Leaf Spring Sagging/Breaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end sagging, reduced load carrying capacity, and potential cracking or breaking of leaf springs.
  • Solution: Replacement of leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Door Ajar Light Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Door ajar light stays illuminated even when all doors are securely closed. Can drain the battery and prevent certain features from working.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacing the door latch sensor/switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery not charging, and potential stalling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rocker Panels and Wheel Wells
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation, especially in areas prone to moisture and road salt exposure.
  • Solution: Rust repair, panel replacement, or preventative rust proofing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Driver Seat Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty adjusting driver seat. Sometimes the motor will only work on one side.
  • Solution: Replacement of the driver seat motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Ford E-150 has some common issues, with the spark plug threading in both engines being a notable concern. The 5.4L V8 also experiences camshaft phaser problems. Suspension issues like worn ball joints and sagging leaf springs are typical for a van of this age and use. Electrical issues such as door ajar light malfunctions and alternator failures can also occur. Rust is a common problem, particularly in areas with road salt. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, engine and transmission repairs can be costly, potentially exceeding several thousand dollars. The severity and cost of these issues can vary widely based on the vehicle’s maintenance history, usage, and geographic location.