2018 Ford F53

Introduction

The 2018 Ford F53 is a Class A motorhome chassis built on the Ford F-Series Super Duty platform. It is available with a choice of two engines: a 6.7L Power Stroke diesel V8 and a 7.3L Triton gasoline V8. Both engines are mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The F53 has a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 19,500-26,000 lbs and a towing capacity of up to 30,000 lbs.

Owners of the F53 generally praise its powerful engines and impressive towing capabilities. However, they also report experiencing some common issues with the vehicle.

Engine

6.7L Power Stroke Diesel V8

• Turbocharger failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, black smoke from the exhaust, whistling sound from the turbocharger.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 18V404000
• Fuel injector failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, poor engine performance, black smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replace the fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, decreased fuel economy, check engine light illuminated.
  • Solution: Clean or replace the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

7.3L Triton Gasoline V8

• Spark plug failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfiring, rough idling, decreased engine performance.
  • Solution: Replace the spark plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition coil failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfiring, loss of power, check engine light illuminated.
  • Solution: Replace the ignition coil.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Transmission slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, loss of power under acceleration.
  • Solution: Overhaul or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque converter failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or slipping during gear changes, loss of power.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf spring failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging or broken leaf springs, reduced handling and stability.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shock absorber failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough ride, reduced handling, fluid leaking from the shocks.
  • Solution: Replace the shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies prematurely, slow starting, electrical components not working properly.
  • Solution: Test and replace the battery and alternator, inspect for electrical shorts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, difficulty starting, battery warning light illuminated.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Windshield leaks:
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the cab from the windshield.
  • Solution: Reseal the windshield.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door lock failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking properly.
  • Solution: Replace the door lock actuators.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard rattles:
  • Description/Symptoms: Annoying rattling noises coming from the dashboard while driving.
  • Solution: Tighten or replace loose components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window switch failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working properly.
  • Solution: Replace the window switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Ford F53 is a popular choice for Class A motorhome owners due to its powerful engines and impressive towing capabilities. However, owners have reported experiencing some common issues, including turbocharger and fuel injector failures, transmission slipping, leaf spring and shock absorber failures, battery drains, and windshield leaks. The severity of these issues varies, but they can be costly to repair, especially the transmission and engine problems.