2017 Ford E-350 Super Duty

The 2017 Ford E-350 Super Duty is a robust workhorse van designed for hauling cargo and passengers. It was offered with two primary engine choices: the 5.4L Triton V8 and the 6.8L Triton V10. The 5.4L V8 produces 255 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, offering adequate power for most hauling needs. The 6.8L V10 ramps things up to 305 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque, providing significantly more grunt for heavy-duty tasks. Both engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate the E-350’s reliability, spacious interior, and payload capacity. However, some dislike its dated design, fuel economy, and ride quality compared to newer vans.

Engine

5.4L Triton V8

• Spark Plug Thread Damage/Ejection
  • Description/Symptoms: Spark plugs can become loose and eject from the cylinder head, often taking the threads with them. This can cause a loud popping noise, misfires, and engine damage.
  • Solution: Repairing the cylinder head by installing thread inserts (e.g., Time-Sert) or replacing the cylinder head.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on the repair method and number of cylinders affected.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Exhaust Manifold Leaks/Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks in the exhaust manifold can lead to exhaust leaks, resulting in a ticking or hissing noise, especially when the engine is cold. Can also reduce fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacing the exhaust manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

6.8L Triton V10

• Spark Plug Thread Damage/Ejection
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 5.4L V8, the 6.8L V10 is also prone to spark plugs becoming loose and ejecting from the cylinder head, potentially damaging the threads.
  • Solution: Repairing the cylinder head by installing thread inserts (e.g., Time-Sert) or replacing the cylinder head.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on the repair method and number of cylinders affected.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Exhaust Manifold Leaks/Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks in the exhaust manifold can lead to exhaust leaks, resulting in a ticking or hissing noise, especially when the engine is cold. Can also reduce fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacing the exhaust manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4R75E 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (Both Engine Options)

• Erratic Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may exhibit harsh or delayed shifting, or slip between gears. This can be caused by worn clutches, valve body issues, or low fluid level.
  • Solution: Replacing the transmission, rebuilding the transmission, or replacing faulty solenoids or valve bodies.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3000+ depending on the severity and repair method.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear leaf springs may sag over time, especially if the vehicle is frequently used for heavy hauling. This can reduce ride height and towing capacity.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Ball Joints/Tie Rod Ends
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn ball joints or tie rod ends can cause loose steering, clunking noises, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn ball joints or tie rod ends.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Faulty Fuel Pump Relay
  • Description/Symptoms: The fuel pump relay can fail, causing the engine to stall or not start.
  • Solution: Replacing the fuel pump relay.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $100
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator may fail, leading to a dead battery, dim headlights, and other electrical issues.
  • Solution: Replacing the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Undercarriage/Frame
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust is common on the undercarriage and frame, especially in regions with salt usage during winter. This can weaken structural components.
  • Solution: Rust repair, rust converter application, or frame replacement (in severe cases).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Driver or passenger side window regulator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The window will not roll up or down, or will take a long time to roll up or down. This is due to a worn or broken window regulator
  • Solution: Replacing the window regulator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2017 Ford E-350 Super Duty, while a dependable work van, does exhibit some common issues. Engine-related problems, particularly with spark plugs and exhaust manifolds, are frequent concerns. Transmission problems can also be prevalent. Suspension components like leaf springs and steering linkage can also be prone to wear. Electrical issues such as fuel pump relay or alternator failure could leave you stranded. Rust is also a common issue. The severity and cost of these repairs can range from minor fixes to major overhauls, so diligent maintenance and inspection are crucial.