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rv:van_issues [2022/02/03 22:50]
princess_fluffypants [Ford Transit]
rv:van_issues [2024/01/27 16:04] (current)
princess_fluffypants [Ford E-Series]
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 ===== On the likelihood of problems ===== ===== On the likelihood of problems =====
  
-Only a small percentage of failures occur on any particular vehicles;  it's not like "this is guaranteed to happen to you!" It's more a list of things to look for, to be aware of.  Forums and complaint sites list tons of problems because **people with problems are more likely to post**.  It is rare to see a post saying "drove my van for a year and nothing happened!" Beware of people who claim "the [fill in the blank] forum is full of unhappy owners!!!" without mentioning unhappy owners of //their// vans on //their// forums. Forum links are included below for further research.+Only a small percentage of failures occur on any particular vehicles;  it's not like "this is guaranteed to happen to you!" It's more a list of things to look for, to be aware of.  Forums and complaint sites list tons of problems because **people with problems are more likely to post**.  It is rare to see a post saying "drove my van for a year and nothing happened!" Beware of people who claim "the [fill in the blank] forum is full of unhappy owners!!!" without mentioning unhappy owners of //their// vans on //their// forums. Forum links are included below for further research. More popular vans are also more likely to have documented problems, as the ownership base of people who are passionate enough about the vehicles to actually post to ownership forums and meticulously document everything is larger as well.
  
 With that being said, [[rv:diesel|use extreme caution with modern Diesel engines]].  Tightening emissions requirements have lead to extremely predictable (and expensive) repairs. With that being said, [[rv:diesel|use extreme caution with modern Diesel engines]].  Tightening emissions requirements have lead to extremely predictable (and expensive) repairs.
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 You may also want to think about [[rv:cargo_van:comparo#total_cost_of_ownership_comparison|Total Cost of Ownership]] or [[rv:cargo_van:comparo#annual_repair_costs|average annual repair costs]]. You may also want to think about [[rv:cargo_van:comparo#total_cost_of_ownership_comparison|Total Cost of Ownership]] or [[rv:cargo_van:comparo#annual_repair_costs|average annual repair costs]].
 +===== 1A Auto video series =====
 +
 +1A auto has [[https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL37d7oWG6wDCjEXu1xeU3n5tXGRaa-svL|a video series]] about the Top 5 problems with many popular vehicles. Select "show all" and scroll down to see if your vehicle is listed. 
 +
 +
 ===== Chevy Astro ===== ===== Chevy Astro =====
  
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   * P1870  This can be caused by wear of the bore for the TCC isolator and regulator valves in the valve body.   * P1870  This can be caused by wear of the bore for the TCC isolator and regulator valves in the valve body.
   * alternator failures   * alternator failures
 +  * plastic radiator tank leaks((https://www.reddit.com/r/vandwellers/comments/11nlwg9/radiator_head_gasket/jbp5rvy/))
  
  
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 Generally very reliable, and 250,000+ miles can reasonably be expected without any major repairs.  Relatively easy to work on and fix for the few things that do break. The exception being the diesel engines, however [[rv:diesel|this problem is not limited to Ford]]. Generally very reliable, and 250,000+ miles can reasonably be expected without any major repairs.  Relatively easy to work on and fix for the few things that do break. The exception being the diesel engines, however [[rv:diesel|this problem is not limited to Ford]].
  
-  * **The 6.0L and 6.4L diesel engines are ticking time bombs of catastrophic failures** +  * **To say that the 6.0L diesel engine "has problems" is being polite** 
-    * This is the exception to the line at the beginning of the article that said //"Only a small percentage of failures occur on any particular vehicles"//. The failures rate on these engines is 100% once the vehicles reach 150,000 miles. These engines should be avoided at all costs, no matter how inexpensive the van is. //Especially// on vans that have spent a lot of time idling (ambulances), $5,000+ repair bills are a guarantee+    * This is the exception to the line at the beginning of the article that said //"Only a small percentage of failures occur on any particular vehicles"//
-    * The International VT365 (rebadged as Ford 6.0L Powerstroke)(("has the reputation as being the worst diesel engine ever put into a pickup truck". https://www.reddit.com/r/vandwellers/comments/f0jzbt/is_it_a_bad_idea_to_get_a_diesel_van/fgweslt/)) was put into the 2004-2010 model year Ford E-Series vans/chassis. It has the reputation of being [[https://www.dieselworldmag.com/diesel-technology/why-the-6-0l-is-so-unreliable/|one of the worst engines ever]] used in a commercial vehicle. +    * The International VT365 (rebadged as Ford 6.0L Powerstroke)(("has the reputation as being the worst diesel engine ever put into a pickup truck". https://www.reddit.com/r/vandwellers/comments/f0jzbt/is_it_a_bad_idea_to_get_a_diesel_van/fgweslt/)) was put into the 2004-2010 model year Ford E-Series vans/chassis. It has the reputation of being [[https://www.dieselworldmag.com/diesel-technology/why-the-6-0l-is-so-unreliable/|one of the worst engines ever used]] in a commercial vehicle. Multiple $5,000+ repair bills are a guarantee, //especially// on vans that have spent a lot of time idling (ambulances).
-    * The 6.4L Powerstroke was slightly better than the 6.0[[https://www.dieselworldmag.com/diesel-technology/why-the-6-4l-is-so-awful-awful/|but not by much]]. Vehicles using it are considered "throwaways" once they hit 150,000 miles.+
   * Easy to steal   * Easy to steal
     * A flat-head screwdriver and //maybe// a hammer is all that's needed to punch out a door lock, and there's no computer chip in the keys so if someone can turn the ignition cylinder by force (again not hard, screwdriver and maybe pliers), the engine will start.  It is **highly recommended** to install a hidden kill switch (the start relay and/or fuel pump relays are popular), and to reinforce your door locks with kits such as the [[https://jimmijammer.com/Product,%20JJ.htm|Jimmy Jammer]].     * A flat-head screwdriver and //maybe// a hammer is all that's needed to punch out a door lock, and there's no computer chip in the keys so if someone can turn the ignition cylinder by force (again not hard, screwdriver and maybe pliers), the engine will start.  It is **highly recommended** to install a hidden kill switch (the start relay and/or fuel pump relays are popular), and to reinforce your door locks with kits such as the [[https://jimmijammer.com/Product,%20JJ.htm|Jimmy Jammer]].
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   * The E-150 was generally very under-built for its weight spec, and other brake/suspension repairs are common   * The E-150 was generally very under-built for its weight spec, and other brake/suspension repairs are common
     * //Note:// The E-250 and E-350 vans use much stronger suspension components, and do not experience this problem (at least, not in an endemic way and no more than any other van)     * //Note:// The E-250 and E-350 vans use much stronger suspension components, and do not experience this problem (at least, not in an endemic way and no more than any other van)
-  * leaking cylinder head gasket 
   * HVAC Blower motor problems   * HVAC Blower motor problems
-    * The blower motor resistor will fail every 3-4 years. Symptom is that the HVAC fan only works on one speed (usually high).  Replacing it is cheap and [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HzQllt2MAwQ|takes ~45 minutes]].+    * The blower motor resistor can fail every 3-4 years. Symptom is that the HVAC fan only works on one speed (usually high).  Replacing it is cheap and [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HzQllt2MAwQ|takes ~45 minutes]].
   * [[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Modular_engine#Spark_plug_issues|The spark plug ejection issue]]((http://www.fordproblems.com/spark-plug-ejection/))   * [[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Modular_engine#Spark_plug_issues|The spark plug ejection issue]]((http://www.fordproblems.com/spark-plug-ejection/))
-    * This applies to all of the gas engines that were installed in the entire range of Econoline vans from 1997-2008. +    * This applies to all of the gas engines that were installed in the entire range of Econoline vans from 1997-2008.   
-    * Replacing spark plugs on these engines is a delicate process due to the limited threads. It should be done using a very accurate torque wrench, they should be torqued to the Ford specification AND NOT A SINGLE INCH-POUND FURTHER.+    * Replacing spark plugs on these engines is a delicate process due to the limited threads. It should be done using a very accurate torque wrench, they should be torqued to the Ford specification //and not a single in-lb further//
 +    * 2V engine sparkplug issues may be addressed with Calvan kit or Timesert kits.  tstechmind recommends the Calvan design.((https://www.reddit.com/r/vandwellers/comments/tn91zx/advice_on_ford_econoline_vansengines/i206wts/))
   * 5.4L V-8 can experience oil pan gasket leaks.  The part costs ~$20 but replacement runs about $1000, due to requirement to lift the engine.   * 5.4L V-8 can experience oil pan gasket leaks.  The part costs ~$20 but replacement runs about $1000, due to requirement to lift the engine.
   * 4R70E 4-spd transmission (found behind the 4.6L V-8 gas engine from 2002-2005)   * 4R70E 4-spd transmission (found behind the 4.6L V-8 gas engine from 2002-2005)
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   * 1996-2001 2v Tritons may have a nylon intake manifold that can crack and leak.((https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Modular_engine#Intake_manifold_defect))   * 1996-2001 2v Tritons may have a nylon intake manifold that can crack and leak.((https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Modular_engine#Intake_manifold_defect))
   * 2011 - 2013 5.4L 2V and 6.8L 2V Engine – Excessive Engine Oil Consumption (valve seals)((https://ford.oemdtc.com/2278/5-4l-2v-and-6-8l-2v-engine-excessive-engine-oil-consumption-2011-2013-ford-e-series))   * 2011 - 2013 5.4L 2V and 6.8L 2V Engine – Excessive Engine Oil Consumption (valve seals)((https://ford.oemdtc.com/2278/5-4l-2v-and-6-8l-2v-engine-excessive-engine-oil-consumption-2011-2013-ford-e-series))
 +  * Leaking cylinder head gasket
  
-Common problems on Ford engines not installed in vans, but might be in RVs and Trucks. (All van engines are 2-valve, not 3-valve).+Common problems on Ford engines not installed in vans, but might be in RVs and Trucks. (All gasoline van engines are 2-valve, not 3-valve).
  
   * 2004-2007 3-valve 4.6L, 5.4L and 6.8L can experience spark plug breakage or head damage during removal.((http://assets.carcomplaints.com/docs/ford-tsb-08-7-6.pdf))  Changing at 50k miles instead of the stated 100k and using anti-seize may help prevent seizure.   * 2004-2007 3-valve 4.6L, 5.4L and 6.8L can experience spark plug breakage or head damage during removal.((http://assets.carcomplaints.com/docs/ford-tsb-08-7-6.pdf))  Changing at 50k miles instead of the stated 100k and using anti-seize may help prevent seizure.
-    * While these 3-valve engines were never installed in the vans, similar problems are reported on the 2-valve engines and the recommended change procedure still applies.+    * While these 3-valve engines were never installed in the vans, many mechanics recommend the increased change frequency on the 2-valve engines as well.
   * 2004-2011 3-val 5.4 Tritons with Variable Valve Timing can have timing chain, tensioner, or cam phaser issues -- listen for noises at startup.((https://autowise.com/common-problems-ford-5-4-triton-engine/)),((https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Modular_engine#Spark_plug_issues)),((https://www.reddit.com/r/vandwellers/comments/hw888i/2010_ford_e350_life_expectancy/fyy5uh8/))   * 2004-2011 3-val 5.4 Tritons with Variable Valve Timing can have timing chain, tensioner, or cam phaser issues -- listen for noises at startup.((https://autowise.com/common-problems-ford-5-4-triton-engine/)),((https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Modular_engine#Spark_plug_issues)),((https://www.reddit.com/r/vandwellers/comments/hw888i/2010_ford_e350_life_expectancy/fyy5uh8/))
 +  * The 6.4L Powerstroke diesel engine was //slightly// less terrible than the 6.0, [[https://www.dieselworldmag.com/diesel-technology/why-the-6-4l-is-so-awful-awful/|but not by much]]. Vehicles using it are considered "throwaways". Most common vehicle-killing problems are failures of the DPF, high-pressure fuel pump or other emissions hardware, which are often cab-off repairs for a pickup truck((Meaning the entire cab of the truck has to be lifted up and off of the body/frame just to be able to access the parts that need replacing)).
  
  
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     * 2018 and newer vans have omitted the Giubo completely.       * 2018 and newer vans have omitted the Giubo completely.  
   * AWD system shuts down due to overheating. https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/awd-system-shut-down.83672/   * AWD system shuts down due to overheating. https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/awd-system-shut-down.83672/
-    * Not really an "issue" as much as an inherent limitation of the technology. +    * Not really an "issue" as much as an inherent [[rv:awd|limitation of the technology]]
-  * Warped exhaust manifolds  +  * Warped exhaust manifolds on turbocharged engines 
-    * The cast iron exhaust manifolds only use 8 studs to attach to the engine, and are prone to warping/cracking.  While Ford did not issue an official recall, they did update the part to a new Stainless Steel part that uses all 9 stud holes on the block. Transits built after ~April 2021 use the new part.+    * The cast iron exhaust manifolds only use 8 studs to attach to the engine, and are prone to warping/cracking.  While Ford did not issue an official recall, they did update the part to a new Stainless Steel part that uses all 9 stud holes on the block. Transits built after December 2020 use the new part.
     * See https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/revised-ford-exhaust-manifolds-for-3-5-eco-boost-engines-2015-2021.86742/ for details     * See https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/revised-ford-exhaust-manifolds-for-3-5-eco-boost-engines-2015-2021.86742/ for details
   * Attempting to re-use the rear axle bolts after replacing or servicing the rear brake rotors will result in them breaking and [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/rear-axel-shaft-came-out-while-driving.88806/|the axle]] taking a [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/ever-see-this.78759/#post-1035119|horizontal exit]] from [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/warning-about-brake-noise.81079/|the van]].   * Attempting to re-use the rear axle bolts after replacing or servicing the rear brake rotors will result in them breaking and [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/rear-axel-shaft-came-out-while-driving.88806/|the axle]] taking a [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/ever-see-this.78759/#post-1035119|horizontal exit]] from [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/warning-about-brake-noise.81079/|the van]].
-    * Not so much a design problem, but the result of a common mistake made by inexperienced mechanics (even Ford Dealership techs). Removing the rear brake rotors for replacement or resurfacing requires pulling out the axle, but the five bolts holding the axle in are **single-use**. Like head bolts, they stretch upon install and have to be replaced every time. The instructions for installing the bolts is something like "Tighten to xx ft/lbs, and then one more complete rotation." Trying to re-use the bolts will result in the failures described above.+    * Not so much a design problem, but the result of a common mistake made by inexperienced mechanics (even Ford Dealership techs). Removing the rear brake rotors for replacement or resurfacing requires pulling out the axle, but the five bolts holding the axle in are **single-use**. Like head bolts, they stretch upon install and have to be replaced every time. Trying to re-use the bolts will result in the failures described above. 
 +  * Boom/Hum/Moan Noise Or Vibration From Rear While Driving At Highway Speeds 
 +    * Some 2015–2020 Transit vehicles equipped with rear wheel drive (RWD) and a U-joint at the transmission flange and rear driveshaft may experience a boom/hum/moan noise or vibration from the rear while driving. This noise or vibration is most prevalent at highway speeds (112-121 km/h [70–75 mph] for 4.10 axle ratio, 121-128 km/h [75-80 mph] for 3.73 axle ratio, and 136-145 km/h [85-90 mph] for 3.31 axle ratio) and may also be present to a lesser degree at roughly half of those speeds. 
 +    * Addressed under Technical Service Bulletin 20-2214, installation of part number LK4Z-4A263-C (Torsional Damper Kit)
   * Transmission filter cannot be accessed for normal service;  requires removal of front subframe which may be difficult due to seized bolts.  Normal service is done by a //fluid exchange machine// at the Ford dealer.   * Transmission filter cannot be accessed for normal service;  requires removal of front subframe which may be difficult due to seized bolts.  Normal service is done by a //fluid exchange machine// at the Ford dealer.
   * Ecoboost carbon fouling on intake valves   * Ecoboost carbon fouling on intake valves
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   * TSBs   * TSBs
     * 2015 Transit – Interior High Intensity LED Cargo Lamps May Emit A Low Glow When They Should Be Off – Built On Or Before 4/22/2015((possibly related to [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/dome-lights-dont-turn-off-completely.21689/post-274913|dimmer switch]]))     * 2015 Transit – Interior High Intensity LED Cargo Lamps May Emit A Low Glow When They Should Be Off – Built On Or Before 4/22/2015((possibly related to [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/dome-lights-dont-turn-off-completely.21689/post-274913|dimmer switch]]))
 +  * Body panels detach from interior bracing
 +    * Not actually a problem; intentional.  See [[rv:ford_transit#quirks|Ford Transit Quirks]]
  
  
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   * Body rust issues until 2017 (?) - Metallic colors may have received better clearcoat.   * Body rust issues until 2017 (?) - Metallic colors may have received better clearcoat.
-  * 2008+ diesel emissions control:  [[https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/fatal-flaw-mercedes-benz-sprinters-tom-robertson|the "fatal flaw"]]. Repairs easily run [[https://www.reddit.com/r/VanLife/comments/ews1r4/hit_with_the_most_intense_mechanics_bill/|into the thousands]] See also [[rv:diesel|The Problems with Diesel]]. +  * 2008+ diesel emissions control:   
-  * fuel injector [[https://sprintergurus.com/fuel-injector-black-death/|"black death"]]+    * AKA [[https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/fatal-flaw-mercedes-benz-sprinters-tom-robertson|the "fatal flaw"]]. 
 +    * 2008-2018 model years are particularly problematic due to the location of the components. They are very tightly packed and there isn't much airflow in the area, leading to heat buildup that eventually cooks the DEF tank/heater and exhaust particulate filter.  This is made worse when subjected to long periods of idling.  
 +    * The tight packaging makes the system very difficult to access for repairs/replacement, requiring sometimes dozens of hours of labor. Repair bills can easily run [[https://www.reddit.com/r/VanLife/comments/ews1r4/hit_with_the_most_intense_mechanics_bill/|into the thousands]]
 +    * For the 2019 model year, the system underwent significant redesign and anecdotal reports have been generally positive, with increase reliability and easier to access components. However it will always be an [[rv:diesel|achilles heel of any modern diesel]]. 
 +  * fuel injector [[https://web.archive.org/web/20221006002758/https://sprintergurus.com/fuel-injector-black-death/|"black death"]]
   * T1N:  glow plug seizure in cylinder head   * T1N:  glow plug seizure in cylinder head
   * pay close attention to [[https://bevo.mercedes-benz.com/bevolisten/229.5_en.html|M-B specs for engine oils]].  [[https://bevo.mercedes-benz.com/d/d/en/Spec_223_2.pdf|Which spec goes with which engine]].   * pay close attention to [[https://bevo.mercedes-benz.com/bevolisten/229.5_en.html|M-B specs for engine oils]].  [[https://bevo.mercedes-benz.com/d/d/en/Spec_223_2.pdf|Which spec goes with which engine]].
-  * Service may be difficult to locate. When found the parts and hourly rate are expensive, particularly at M-B dealerships.+  * Service may be difficult to locate; not all M-B dealers can work on the Sprinter vans and some do not work on //any// vehicle over 10 years old.  
 +  * Parts and hourly rate are expensive, particularly at M-B dealerships. Many repairs (especially regarding the emission systems on 2010+ vans) are locked behind proprietary computer systems that are only available at a dealership.
  
  
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 Learn more about this vehicle on [[https://www.promasterforum.com/|the Promaster forum]] or the [[rv:ram_promaster|Promaster article]]. Learn more about this vehicle on [[https://www.promasterforum.com/|the Promaster forum]] or the [[rv:ram_promaster|Promaster article]].
  
 +  * short headlight life (low beam).  TSB 08-106-17 says to replace with [[https://amzn.to/2Rp4pys|L0000H7SLL Super Long Life headlamp bulbs]]  Also see [[https://www.promasterforum.com/threads/headlamp-adjustment.55922/post-663353|this comment]] about proper alignment in the sockets.  Turning headlights off in daylight rather than using them as DRL often can extend bulb life to years. 
 +  * Pentastar tick [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_8KwKWJamp0|due to failed rocker bearings]];  replacing them too late can cause damage to the cam. 
   * use of non-[[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mopar_Automatic_Transmission_Fluid#1998_-_ATF+4_type_MS-9602_fluid|spec]] transmission fluid can cause failure, with Dexron II being the worst offender.((https://www.allpar.com/mopar/transmissions/fluids.html))   * use of non-[[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mopar_Automatic_Transmission_Fluid#1998_-_ATF+4_type_MS-9602_fluid|spec]] transmission fluid can cause failure, with Dexron II being the worst offender.((https://www.allpar.com/mopar/transmissions/fluids.html))
 +  * [[https://youtu.be/oEKs8Nzh1W8?t=55|Per Kip]], trans rebuild diagnoses are often failures of the solenoid pack, which "costs 400-$500 and can be replaced in 2-3 hours without having to take the transmission out".
   * spark plug changes must be done with care to avoid damaging the spark plug carriers "tubes"((https://www.pentastars.com/engines/repairs.php))   * spark plug changes must be done with care to avoid damaging the spark plug carriers "tubes"((https://www.pentastars.com/engines/repairs.php))
   * the [[rv:ram_promaster#filters_and_fluids|oil filter housing can be cracked if overtightened]]   * the [[rv:ram_promaster#filters_and_fluids|oil filter housing can be cracked if overtightened]]
   * 2014 model known for squeaking brakes, sticking parking brake   * 2014 model known for squeaking brakes, sticking parking brake
-  * short headlight life (low beam).  TSB 08-106-17 says to replace with [[https://amzn.to/2Rp4pys|L0000H7SLL Super Long Life headlamp bulbs]]  Also see [[https://www.promasterforum.com/threads/headlamp-adjustment.55922/post-663353|this comment]] about proper alignment in the sockets. 
   * marker lights leaking   * marker lights leaking
   * P0750 transmission code may be from the solenoid pack, which [[https://www.promasterforum.com/threads/transmission-failure-kinda.65425/#post-450321|can be replaced without removing the transmission]].   * P0750 transmission code may be from the solenoid pack, which [[https://www.promasterforum.com/threads/transmission-failure-kinda.65425/#post-450321|can be replaced without removing the transmission]].
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   * [[https://www.promasterforum.com/threads/list-of-technical-service-bulletins-recalls.45193/|TSBs]]   * [[https://www.promasterforum.com/threads/list-of-technical-service-bulletins-recalls.45193/|TSBs]]
 +  * [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2a3j7V_Mssk|video]] - how to assess a used Promaster
 ===== RAM Promaster City ===== ===== RAM Promaster City =====
  
rv/van_issues.1643946619.txt.gz · Last modified: 2022/02/03 22:50 by princess_fluffypants