2013 Ford E-150

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2013 Ford E-150, categorized and detailed as requested. The 2013 Ford E-150 is a full-size van popular for commercial use and passenger transport. It offered two engine options: a 4.6L V8 producing around 225 horsepower and 286 lb-ft of torque, and a 5.4L V8 generating approximately 255 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate the E-150’s spacious interior, robust build, and towing capability. Common complaints revolve around fuel economy, ride comfort, and outdated technology.

Engine

4.6L V8

• Spark Plug Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Spark plugs can seize in the cylinder heads, leading to breakage during removal. This can be caused by corrosion from moisture intrusion over time, as well as extended maintenance intervals. Telltale signs can be misfires, rough idling, and a noticeable decrease in power.
  • Solution: Use penetrating oil before attempting removal. The engine should be warm, but not hot. Slow and steady is key.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+, depending on the severity and if a broken spark plug needs to be professionally extracted.
  • Recalls: None Found

5.4L V8

• Spark Plug Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 4.6L V8, the 5.4L V8 is known for spark plugs seizing in the cylinder heads, often breaking during removal.
  • Solution: Using penetrating oil, use an impact wrench to remove the spark plugs quickly and reduce the chance of them breaking.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+, depending on the severity and if a broken spark plug needs to be professionally extracted.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Roller Follower Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Roller followers fail which cause excessive tick that gets louder with RPM.
  • Solution: Remove heads and replace damaged rollers and potentially damaged cams.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 4-Speed Automatic (4R75E)
  • Harsh Shifting/Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: The 4R75E transmission can experience harsh shifting, particularly between 1st and 2nd gear, or slipping. This can be caused by worn valve body components, solenoid failures, or internal wear.
    • Solution: Diagnosis should start with checking the transmission fluid level and condition. A fluid and filter change might alleviate minor issues. For more severe problems, valve body replacement or a transmission rebuild may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid change) - $3500+ (rebuild)
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Ball Joint Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear of the front ball joints is common, especially on vans used for heavy hauling or frequent stop-and-go driving. Symptoms include clunking noises from the front suspension, loose steering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the worn ball joints. In some cases, the entire control arm may need to be replaced if the ball joints are not serviceable separately.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power door lock actuators can fail, preventing doors from locking or unlocking electronically.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Alternator fails, leading to dying or dead battery
  • Solution: Replace the alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Lower Body Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can develop on the lower body panels, especially around the wheel wells and rocker panels, due to exposure to road salt and moisture.
  • Solution: Repair the rust with body filler and paint.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+, depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Belt Buckle Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Front driver/passenger seat belt buckle fails.
  • Solution: Replace faulty seat buckle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Ford E-150, while a dependable workhorse, has some common issues owners should be aware of. Engine issues, particularly spark plug problems and roller follower failures on the 5.4L, can lead to significant repair costs. Transmission problems, suspension wear, and electrical faults are also areas to inspect. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major repairs costing several thousand dollars. Potential buyers should thoroughly inspect the vehicle and obtain a pre-purchase inspection to identify potential problems before committing to a purchase.