2017 Ford E-450 Super Duty

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints associated with the 2017 Ford E-450 Super Duty, organized by category and component, following your specified format.

The 2017 Ford E-450 Super Duty is a popular choice for commercial applications like ambulances, shuttle buses, and recreational vehicles due to its robust build and reliability. It typically comes equipped with a 6.8L Triton V10 engine producing around 305 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. While it’s known for its durability, owners have reported some common issues. People like the E-450’s strong chassis and ability to handle heavy loads. Common dislikes include its fuel economy and sometimes rough ride quality.

Engine

6.8L Triton V10

• Spark Plug Blowout
  • Description/Symptoms: Spark plugs can become loose and eject from the cylinder head, causing a loud popping noise, misfires, and loss of power. This is often due to weakened threads in the aluminum cylinder head.
  • Solution: Repairing the threads with a thread repair kit (like Time-Sert or Heli-Coil) or replacing the cylinder head.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on the repair method and if the cylinder head needs replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Exhaust Manifold Bolts Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Exhaust manifold bolts can corrode and break, causing exhaust leaks. Symptoms include a ticking noise, especially when the engine is cold, and a decrease in fuel efficiency.
  • Solution: Replacing the broken bolts and possibly the exhaust manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Ford 5R110W TorqShift 5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, especially between 2nd and 3rd gear, or slipping during acceleration.
  • Solution: Could be caused by low transmission fluid, a faulty valve body, or worn clutches. Start with a fluid flush and filter change. If that doesn’t resolve it, further diagnostics are needed, possibly leading to valve body repair or replacement, or a transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid/filter) to $3000+ (rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at highway speeds, especially under light acceleration, or complete loss of drive.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter. It’s often recommended to flush the transmission cooler lines to prevent contamination of the new torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging/Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end sagging, especially when loaded, or visible cracks in the leaf springs. This can lead to a rough ride and reduced load-carrying capacity.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaf springs. Consider upgrading to heavier-duty springs if the vehicle is frequently used for heavy hauling.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per side (depending on spring type and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Front-end clunking noises, especially when going over bumps, or loose steering.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn ball joints. It’s often recommended to replace all ball joints on the affected axle at the same time.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800 per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, slow starting, or a dead battery.
  • Solution: Replacing the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as malfunctioning lights, sensors, or gauges. Often caused by chafed or corroded wiring.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the damaged wiring. This may involve replacing sections of the wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on the extent of the damage)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Frame and Body)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation, especially in areas exposed to road salt and moisture.
  • Solution: Removing rust and applying rust prevention coatings, or replacing severely rusted panels or frame sections.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300+ for rust repair, $1000+ for panel replacement, $5000+ for frame repair/replacement
  • Recalls: None Found
• Running Board/Step Wear or Damage
  • Description/Symptoms: Running boards or steps can become worn, damaged, or detached, especially from frequent use.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the running boards/steps.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per side, depending on damage and replacement type.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No air coming from the vents, or weak airflow.
  • Solution: Replacing the blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seatbelt Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Seatbelts not retracting properly, or the buckle mechanism failing.
  • Solution: Replacing the seatbelt assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per seat
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Ford E-450 Super Duty, while generally reliable, can experience issues ranging from moderate to severe in cost and impact. Engine issues like spark plug blowout and exhaust manifold problems are fairly common and can be expensive to repair, especially if they lead to cylinder head damage. Transmission problems can also be costly, requiring anything from a fluid flush to a full rebuild. Suspension and electrical issues, while less severe, can still be inconvenient and require timely attention. Overall, a thorough inspection and maintenance history review are crucial when considering a used 2017 E-450 to avoid unexpected expenses.