2017 Ford F59

2017 Ford F59

Overview

The 2017 Ford F59 is a chassis cab vehicle designed for commercial use, often upfitted with various body types. Its reliability is generally considered robust, particularly concerning its powertrain, which is built for demanding vocational applications. Owners and fleet managers typically report satisfaction with its durability and operational uptime. However, as with any commercial vehicle, specific component failures can occur, often related to the heavy-duty nature of its use and the aftermarket upfitting. This analysis focuses on documented technical issues beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential areas of concern for the 2017 model year.

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Engine

6.8L Triton V10

Intake Manifold Leaks

• Symptoms: Coolant leaks, engine overheating, rough idle.
• Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold.
• Cost: $600 - $1200

Spark Plug Blow-Out

• Symptoms: Loss of power, misfires, ticking noise from engine.
• Solution: Thread repair or replacement of spark plug inserts.
• Cost: $300 - $700

6.2L V8

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: No widespread issues reported.

Transmission

6R140 TorqShift 6-Speed Automatic

Torque Converter Issues

• Symptoms: Slipping, shuddering, delayed engagement, or harsh shifting.
• Solution: Replacement of the torque converter or transmission overhaul.
• Cost: $1500 - $3500

Transmission Fluid Leaks

• Symptoms: Leaking fluid from seals or lines, potential for overheating and shifting problems.
• Solution: Replacement of seals, lines, or cooler.
• Cost: $300 - $800

Suspension

Heavy-Duty Chassis

Leaf Spring Breakage

• Symptoms: Sagging rear end, uneven ride height, clunking noises over bumps.
• Solution: Replacement of broken leaf springs.
• Cost: $500 - $1000

Ball Joint Wear

• Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises when turning, uneven tire wear, steering looseness.
• Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Electrical

Standard Electrical System

Alternator Failure

• Symptoms: Battery warning light illuminated, dimming headlights, electrical system malfunctions.
• Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
• Cost: $500 - $900

Wiring Harness Issues

• Symptoms: Intermittent electrical faults, warning lights, non-functioning accessories.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of damaged wiring harness sections.
• Cost: $300 - $700

Exterior

Body and Frame

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: No widespread issues reported.

Interior

Cabin Components

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: No widespread issues reported.

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Summary Verdict

The 2017 Ford F59 demonstrates solid reliability, especially in its core powertrain components, making it a dependable choice for commercial applications. The available 6.8L Triton V10 engine has documented issues with intake manifolds and spark plug retention, which are repairable but require attention. The 6.2L V8 is generally more robust. The 6R140 transmission, while capable, can experience torque converter problems or fluid leaks under heavy use. Suspension components, particularly leaf springs and ball joints, may require attention due to the vehicle’s work-oriented nature. Electrical issues like alternator failure are not uncommon in heavy-duty vehicles. Overall, with proactive maintenance and awareness of potential engine and transmission concerns, the 2017 F59 is a reliable workhorse.