2013 Ford E-350 Super Duty

The 2013 Ford E-350 Super Duty is a full-size van known for its robustness and practicality, often used for commercial purposes, cargo hauling, and passenger transport. Available engine options include a 5.4L Triton V8 producing around 255 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, and a 6.8L Triton V10, rated at around 305 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Common praises of the E-350 revolve around its spaciousness and towing capacity, while complaints often focus on its fuel economy and dated interior.

Engine

5.4L Triton V8

• Spark Plug Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Spark plugs can break upon removal due to corrosion and poor design. This often leads to the spark plug extracting itself from the cylinder head, leaving the threads behind in the head.
  • Solution: Special tools are required to remove broken spark plugs, and in some cases, the cylinder head needs to be removed for repair. Use anti-seize compound on spark plug threads during installation.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ (depending on the severity and the number of plugs)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rough Idle and Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, and a check engine light (CEL) often accompany issues with the ignition coils and fuel injectors.
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific cylinder(s) causing the misfire, replace the faulty ignition coil(s) and/or fuel injector(s), and clean the fuel system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.8L Triton V10

• Exhaust Manifold Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: The exhaust manifold studs can break, causing exhaust leaks, increased noise, and reduced engine performance.
  • Solution: Replace the broken studs and the exhaust manifold gasket. Sometimes, the manifold itself needs replacing if it’s warped or cracked.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are sometimes found at the oil pan gasket, valve cover gaskets, or rear main seal of the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (4R75E/4R100)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, especially between gears. Can be caused by worn valve body components or solenoid issues.
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific cause. It may involve replacing the valve body, solenoids, or performing a transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips, particularly when accelerating or climbing hills. This can be due to worn clutch packs or low transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Check and refill transmission fluid. If slipping persists, a transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Ball Joints and Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front end, loose steering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace worn ball joints, bushings, and possibly control arms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Leaf Spring Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the van sags, especially when loaded. This can reduce ride quality and load-carrying capacity.
  • Solution: Replace or reinforce the leaf springs, or add helper springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, difficulty starting, and a dead battery.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty 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: Diagnose and replace faulty switches, motors, or wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust develops in the wheel wells, rocker panels, and lower body panels.
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted panels, apply rust inhibitor, and repaint.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Handle Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: The door handles can break easily, especially in colder climates.
  • Solution: Replace the broken door handles.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Air Conditioning Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Weak or no cold air. Caused by refrigerant leaks, compressor failure, or blower motor issues.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the AC system. This might involve recharging refrigerant, replacing the compressor, or fixing the blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent gauge failure or complete instrument cluster failure.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Ford E-350 Super Duty, while a reliable workhorse, has its share of common issues. Engine problems like broken spark plugs and exhaust manifold leaks, transmission harsh shifting, and suspension wear are common complaints. Electrical issues like alternator failures and interior problems with the AC system also occur. Rust can be a significant concern in certain regions. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major repairs, with costs varying widely based on the specific problem and repair needed. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and inspect the vehicle thoroughly before purchasing.