2013 Ford Econoline Wagon
The 2013 Ford Econoline Wagon, also known as the E-Series, is a full-size van that’s known for its durability and practicality. It was available with a few engine options: a 4.6L Triton V8 producing 225 horsepower and 286 lb-ft of torque, a 5.4L Triton V8 delivering 255 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, and a 6.8L Triton V10 producing 305 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. All engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praised the E-Series for its spaciousness, towing capacity, and relatively simple mechanical design, which made it easy to maintain and repair. Common complaints include its outdated design, poor fuel economy, and cumbersome handling compared to newer vans.
Engine
4.6L Triton V8
- Spark Plugs Breaking During Removal
- Description/Symptoms: The 4.6L Triton engine is known for spark plugs seizing in the cylinder heads. During spark plug replacement, the plugs can break off inside the head, requiring specialized extraction tools or head removal. Symptoms include difficulty removing spark plugs, the sound of the plug breaking, and potential engine misfires if the broken plug is not properly removed.
- Solution: Use penetrating oil and carefully work the plugs back and forth. If a plug breaks, use a spark plug extraction tool or have a professional remove the broken piece. In severe cases, head removal might be necessary. Using nickel anti-seize on the threads of the new plugs can help prevent future issues.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the number of plugs broken and the repair method required.
- Recalls: None Found
5.4L Triton V8
- Spark Plugs Breaking During Removal
- Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 4.6L, the 5.4L Triton engine suffers from spark plugs seizing in the cylinder heads. During spark plug replacement, the plugs can break off inside the head, requiring specialized extraction tools or head removal. Symptoms include difficulty removing spark plugs, the sound of the plug breaking, and potential engine misfires if the broken plug is not properly removed.
- Solution: Use penetrating oil and carefully work the plugs back and forth. If a plug breaks, use a spark plug extraction tool or have a professional remove the broken piece. In severe cases, head removal might be necessary. Using nickel anti-seize on the threads of the new plugs can help prevent future issues.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the number of plugs broken and the repair method required.
- Recalls: None Found
- Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, stalling, poor acceleration, check engine light illuminated. Diagnostic codes often include codes related to camshaft position sensor issues.
- Solution: Replace the faulty camshaft position sensor. Ensure the new sensor is of good quality, as aftermarket sensors can sometimes cause issues.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $80 - $200
- Recalls: None Found
6.8L Triton V10
- Spark Plugs Breaking During Removal
- Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 4.6L and 5.4L, the 6.8L Triton engine suffers from spark plugs seizing in the cylinder heads. During spark plug replacement, the plugs can break off inside the head, requiring specialized extraction tools or head removal. Symptoms include difficulty removing spark plugs, the sound of the plug breaking, and potential engine misfires if the broken plug is not properly removed.
- Solution: Use penetrating oil and carefully work the plugs back and forth. If a plug breaks, use a spark plug extraction tool or have a professional remove the broken piece. In severe cases, head removal might be necessary. Using nickel anti-seize on the threads of the new plugs can help prevent future issues.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the number of plugs broken and the repair method required.
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (All Engines)
- Harsh Shifting/Slipping
- Description/Symptoms: The 4-speed automatic transmission can develop harsh shifting, slipping between gears, or complete failure. This can be caused by worn clutches, valve body issues, or solenoid failures. Symptoms include delayed shifting, jerking during gear changes, and the engine revving without acceleration.
- Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter change. If the problem persists, further diagnosis is required, which might involve valve body replacement or a full transmission rebuild/replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid and filter) to $1500 - $3500 (rebuild/replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Worn Ball Joints
- Description/Symptoms: The front suspension ball joints are prone to wear, leading to excessive play, clunking noises, and potential steering issues. Symptoms include a clunking sound when driving over bumps, uneven tire wear, and loose steering.
- Solution: Replace the worn ball joints. It’s recommended to replace both upper and lower ball joints at the same time for optimal performance.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per side.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Door Lock Actuator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The door lock actuators, especially on the driver’s side, can fail, preventing the door from locking or unlocking electronically. Symptoms include the door not locking/unlocking with the remote or switch, and a clicking sound from the door panel.
- Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
- Recalls: None Found
- Blend Door Actuator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The blend door actuator fails causing only hot or cold air, failure to switch between vents, or a clicking noise from behind the dashboard.
- Solution: Replace the faulty blend door actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150-$400
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rust on Body Panels
- Description/Symptoms: Rust can develop on the lower body panels, especially around the wheel wells and rocker panels.
- Solution: Remove rust, apply rust inhibitor, and repaint the affected areas. Severely rusted panels may require replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the severity of the rust.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Seat Belt Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The seat belts can become frayed or malfunction, making them difficult to use.
- Solution: Replace the seat belt assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2013 Ford Econoline Wagon has some common issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. Engine issues, particularly related to spark plug replacement and camshaft position sensors, can be costly. Transmission issues can also be expensive to repair. Suspension and electrical problems are generally less severe but still warrant attention. Rust is a prevalent issue and needs to be addressed to prevent further damage. Overall, while the Econoline Wagon is a reliable and practical van, careful inspection and preventative maintenance are essential to avoid major repairs. The severity of the issues ranges from minor electrical faults to major engine and transmission repairs, with costs varying accordingly.