2011 Ford Econoline Van

The 2011 Ford Econoline Van, also known as the E-Series, is a full-size van known for its durability, cargo capacity, and versatility. It comes in various configurations, including cargo van, passenger van, and cutaway chassis. Engine options for the 2011 model year include the 4.6L Triton V8 producing around 225 horsepower and 286 lb-ft of torque, the 5.4L Triton V8 making approximately 255 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, and the 6.8L Triton V10 generating about 305 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. All engine options are paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the van’s robust build, spacious interior, and towing capability. However, some common complaints include the relatively outdated design and fuel economy.

Engine

4.6L Triton V8

• Spark Plug Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, rough idle, misfires, check engine light. This issue is a common complaint for earlier model years of the 4.6L and 5.4L Triton engines, but some occurrences are reported in 2011 models. Spark plugs can break upon removal due to the two-piece design, leaving part of the plug stuck in the cylinder head.
  • Solution: Special tools are required to extract the broken spark plugs. Updated one-piece spark plugs should be installed to prevent future occurrences.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.4L Triton V8

• Spark Plug Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, rough idle, misfires, check engine light. Similar to the 4.6L, the 5.4L Triton engine can experience spark plug breakage during removal due to the two-piece design.
  • Solution: Specialized extraction tools are needed to remove broken spark plugs. Replacement with updated one-piece spark plugs is recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cam Phaser Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or rattling noise, especially at idle or low RPMs. Loss of power, poor fuel economy, and potentially stalling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the cam phasers, timing chain, and potentially other related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.8L Triton V10

• Exhaust Manifold Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or hissing noise, especially when the engine is cold. Exhaust smell inside the cabin. Reduced fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacement of the exhaust manifold and gaskets. Often, broken exhaust manifold studs will need to be extracted as well.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (All Engines)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts, especially between 1st and 2nd gear or 2nd and 3rd gear.
  • Solution: Could be caused by low transmission fluid, worn valve body, or internal component damage. Start by checking fluid level and condition. A transmission flush may help. If the issue persists, valve body replacement or a transmission rebuild might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid check/flush) - $3000+ (rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Front of the van sitting lower than the rear. Uneven tire wear. Reduced ride quality and handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn coil springs and/or shocks/struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Leaf Spring Sagging/Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the van sitting lower than normal, especially when loaded. Reduced load-carrying capacity. Potential for leaf spring breakage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks not working correctly, either not locking/unlocking or working intermittently.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, slow cranking, battery warning light illuminated.
  • Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Lower Body Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming along the lower edges of the doors, rocker panels, and wheel wells. This is more prevalent in regions with harsh winters and road salt usage.
  • Solution: Removal of rust, repair of damaged metal, and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ per panel depending on severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner fabric detaching from the backing board and sagging down, especially in passenger vans.
  • Solution: Replacement of the headliner fabric or the entire headliner assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Ford Econoline Van, while generally reliable, does have some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. The spark plug issues on the 4.6L and 5.4L engines, though more prevalent on earlier models, can still occur and result in significant repair costs. Exhaust manifold leaks on the V10 and transmission issues can also be relatively expensive to fix. Rust is a concern, especially in areas with road salt. Overall, the severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially costly repairs. It’s recommended to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic to identify any existing or potential problems.