2000 Ford F-250 Super Duty Problems and Solutions

mac24 · December 2004

LOL, I think he means 'scarred', as in deep scratches and grooves.

:--)

anne2 · December 2004

I have lost faith that a truck can be built to last. I have had 3 Chevys now a Ford and I am lost. My truck just blew the #7 spark plug out of the aluminum head causing the head to have to be replaced. Why with as much compression as these trucks put out would you make something out of a soft material. $2000.00 and it could happen in the other 9 cylinders at any time???

Sorry this is not acceptable. I lost my rear end in my Chevy at 3000 miles again at 12,000 and again at 24,000 needless to say I got rid of it and bought the Ford and am now in the same position. I give up! Ford sucks too!

karthur · December 2004

F-350 SUPER DUTY 6.0L DIESEL, HAVE HAD FOUR INJECTOR REPLACED, 20,000 MILES. IS THIS BEEN A

PROBLEM?

swampdog · December 2004

The brake warranty for your automobile is located in the warranty book that comes with the vehicle.

fife327 · December 2004

contact me if you have an 04 with vibrations...I just bought an 2004 3-4 weeks ago...about to make ...or not make 1st payment because I have not had it in my possession yet. They have tried numorous times time stop the vibrations with no success. I may start a petition or ??? We have to get something done here. I have contacted the BBB and am ready to submit all information to the Attorney Generals Office. I have test drove about 25-30 trucks in my area all 2004's they all had the vibration except two or three border lined acceptable. The Dealers/salesmen are lying to the customer to get rid of the stock. fife327@sbcglobal.net

perk83 · December 2004

I have an '04 F-150 4x4.

I've been getting vibrations (shudder) when accelerating from a stop and they are more pronounced when making a turn at the same time as I accelerate.

Took it in to the dealer yesterday. They tell me that the problem is the differential clutch pack and that it is "too tight", so they are replacing it. I haven't seen this particular problem on my brief scan of this forum, but I understand there are a number of these Ford has replaced already.

perk83 · December 2004

I searched All-Data TSB's and found the following:

04-1-6 JAN 04 Driveline - Clunking/Grunting Noise/Shudder

I'm not a subscriber... yet, so don't have access to the text of the TSB. Anyone?

PerkinsMark83@yahoo.com

wpalkowski · December 2004

I take it from your description that you have limited slip rear end on this truck?

djkeyboard · December 2004

I just purchased a new Lariat 2004 F-150, 2 wheel drive, and I have the same vibration from stop nd turning as you. I'd be interested to know if their "solution" solves the problem. Please post your results...thanks

kappel15 · December 2004

i went to dealer to see if they had a truck i could trade on and the sales manager wouldnt take my truck cause it had a noise in the engine. i told him his service dept said it was piston slap. he said he talked to them. got me mad enuff i went to another dealer and told them to check it out. they found piston problems. ford esp had them do a tear down. i now have a new remanufactured engine compliments of ford esp. thanks for your help wpalkowski

jaylor644 · December 2004

I just purchase a 2004 FX4 Crew Cab with the 5.4L engine. The truck is fantastic except for a pinging I hear from the engine. The pinging sound is rare. When it does occur, it happens when I am going up a slight incline. It is as if the transmission wants to stay in the high gear (I'm thinking it is the 4th gear) and not switch to the lower gear (3rd). When I hear the pinging, I press the accelerator a little harder, it then down shifts and likewise, the pinging goes away. It is as if I am using low octane fuel. I did fill up with 89 octane to see if it would help -- it didn't. Since I only have about 400 miles on the vehicle, I'm thinking it may correct itself once the engine is broken in. Again, this problem is inconsistent, I have trouble making it repeat, which is why I am not ready to take it in to the dealer. Any thoughts? Is this a problem, or should I exercise some patience? Thanks for any reply.

kappel15 · December 2004

i have a 2000 f150 5.4 at 70000 miles started getting knocking noise that lasted 20 minutes on cold start took it to a dealer service said it was piston slap when i went to trade sales manager said he wouldnt trade cause of noise in engine made me mad enuff i went to another dealer and gambled on cost of tear down they didnt think it was piston slap ford esp said to tear it down they found bad piston skirts i now have a new motor compliments of ford esp it pays to hang in there thanks for all the help on this site !!

joeprinter · December 2004

I have the same problems and they can not fix it. they have replaced the drive shaft, put a shim between the leaf spring and axle and installed a "dampner" what ever that is and nothing has helped. I am now waiting for new transmission mounts. 10 days so far. If it is not fixed the next time in I am going to start lemon law process. Does any one have experience with this?

I also know the BBB Autoline will help.

tunes1 · December 2004

Mine is a '04 F-150 4x2, but I get exactly what you describe. It feels like its coming from the rear-end. I haven't taken it in yet. Did the replacement work?

mullins87 · December 2004

Folks, over the weekend a thought occured to me. All of you that have the new F-150's with the shaking - have you altered the shape/aerodynamics of your truck in any way? Have you added a topper, bed cover, truck box, etc.....

The reason for my questions is this: Years ago I had an '82 Toyota pickup that I bought used. It would shake violently at any speed over 40 mph. Since the tires were old, I thought a new set would fix that. It didn't. The tire store told me that the tires weren't the problem, but that all five of my rims were bent - yeah right. But bought new rims anyway. Guess what, didn't fix the problem. About a week or so after that, I decided to take off the topper that was on it because I didn't need it. You'll never guess what happened. The shaking went away.

All I could figure out was the topper altered the aerodynamics enough to cause serious wind flow issues with that truck. I never had another shaking problem with that truck.

I said all that to get to this - If you have put something on your truck and it is shaking, you might try taking it off to see if the shaking goes away.

perk83 · December 2004

Yes, I do have limited slip rear end. They did replace the differential clutch pack, and on my "request" showed me the Service Bulletin 04-24-2 which referenced several symptons including the pronounced shudder on acceleration from a stop on turns (my problem). The bulletin also stated in bold print that they should caution me not to tow anything for 500 miles. Of course the guy who replaces the clutch pack reads this, but the service advisor who hands you back your keys doesn't necessarily pick up on it. I think I'll always make it a practice to ask to see TSB's in the future.

perk83 · December 2004

So far so good. No more shudder.

wpalkowski · December 2004

Glad I could help. The Piston Slap was kind of a long shot. Your truck was the right year for the problem, but according to the official Ford line from back then, Piston Slap was only exhibited in first the 10-12K miles. If the noise didn't show up by then, then the engine was fine and would never develop it. They replaced a whole slew of 5.4 and 6.8L engines early on, and then the issue just faded away. Guess there's an exception to every rule.

I'm glad Ford stood behind its engine, though considering this was never an official recall, it makes wonder how bad they messed up on the design originally that they still take responsibility for it at 70K miles. Sounds like they've been seeing the problem resurface in older motors and are trying to nip it in the bud.

jack440 · December 2004

Hello

I had the same problem with my FX4 took it in and the they adjusted the clutch in the differential, the truck feels much lighter on take offs.

mjkram · December 2004

My '04 Lariat Supercrew 4x2 had a 40-50 mph vibration that was corrected by replacing the driveshaft. I was so happy, I put a set of 2" lowering shackles on the rear leafs. Right away I noticed a harshness or shudder type vibration on take off. It's most pronounced between 15-25 mph, then smooths out. Is it possible the new shackles caused a u-joint or driveshaft alignment problem, or is this a rear end problem? It sure seems similar to the vibration others are describing when accelerating from a stop or turning a corner.

ttimbers · December 2004

I bought my 2004 in June. I noticed it starting to vibrate through the steering wheel around 2,000-3,000 miles. The service manager said to bring it in and they would balance the wheels. It didn't help. Then we started hearing a scratching noise in the front wheel and it was still vibrating. They took it back in and kept in for 2-3 days. They said the caliper had come loose and would have to order new hub. They tightened the caliper and said it would be save to drive until the new part came in, that made me feel save! They took truck in again and put on the new hub plus they road balanced the tires. This seemed to help for a while, but the vibration is back, not so much in the steering wheel as it is the whole truck. Day before yesterday I took the service manager for a drive, he felt the vibration up through the passenger seat. I took the truck in again and this time they called and said they were going to order a new drive shaft and it would be another week.

I have read most of the messages and have noticed lots of trucks having the same problem. What can an owner do to get this fixed? Has anyone been able to get this fixed at this time? What are the steps to take with Ford Motor Company?

twocar · December 2004

I just bought my '04 last week! You guys are making me really paranoid about this shudder problem. I was telling the salesman yesterday about the concerns addressed on this board to see if I could "fish" out anything from him. He said they had some issues with some of the more base tires like Continental but that shouldn't be a concern for me since I had the Lariat and it has the BF Goodrich tires. I also ran my finger along the front disc to see if I felt any significant scoring. It was a tad rough, but seemed to be uniformly worn across the disc. I should note that I bought this vehicle as a demo with already 6,800 miles on it. I was told the parts manager primarily drove it so I'm hoping any flaws were addressed by him. Anybody know the build dates of any of the vehicles that appear to be exhibiting problems? (BTW my truck is an '04 F-150 Supercrew Lariat 4x4 with soft tonneau cover)

teddan · December 2004

I had a 1990 4 wheel drive Ranger and had this same problem. We found that the bearing race on the drive train was turning with the bearing. Ths was fixed {replace bearing and race.}

I have a 1998 f150 that just started a vibration under load from 40 to 55 mph. I have not found the fix yet. maybe the same problem.

Ted

jshapiro · December 2004

FOR STARTING PROBLEM TRY PUTING A LOAD TEST ON THE BATTERIES. ALTHOUGH THEY MAY TEST IN THE 12-13 VOLT RANGE , THE GLOW PLUGS PUT A SERIOUS LOAD AND THEY MAY NOT BE UP TO SNUFF, ALSO THE CHARGING SYSTEM MAY HAVE A MINOR FAULT THAT DOES NOT ALLOW THE BATTRIES TO FULLY CHARGE. AND LASTLY, BUT MOST IMPORTANT, ARE THE BATTERIES TERMINALS CLEAN? THET MAY NOT SHOW CORRISION,BUT IF THERE IS A BLACK COATING BETWEEN THE TERMINAL AND THE POSITIVE BATTERY POST IT WON'T PRODUCE IT'S FULL CRANKING ABILITY NOR WILL IT TAKE A FULL CHARGE.

swampdog · December 2004

If anyone has anything they consider a safety problem, (ex. scarred rotors) you need to contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Contact # 1-888-327-4236 or www.nhtsa.dot.gov/hotline. I just filed my compliant. The more people who file the better.

mrpyroman · December 2004

I hope someone can help. I have a '97 F350 Diesel. While driving to work, I noticed my heater wasn't working. A minute later, my coolant temperature shot up. I stopped the vehicle and checked my fluids. Nearly all my coolant had escaped through the Reservoir. I had changed my thermostat about 9 months ago and flushed all my coolant. Could this be my water pump malfunctioning or just a defective thermostat? The heater hose is connected directly to the water pump. Any ideas?

cignusx1 · December 2004

Can you provide more information on Engineering Problem 7-10. Is that the key identifier or is there a Special Service Announcement or TSB number to reference? I've called a few Ford dealers and none of them know what that is?

cignusx1 · December 2004

Found out 7-10 really refers to 7-1000 which is a category dealers use to reference or access Special Service Messages (SMM). Can you please talk with your dealer's Engineering Rep and ask him what SMM number the wind noise applies to. Again, I'm not refering to the 'whistle' noise under SMM 17309 - 2004 f150 Whistling noise from front of vehicle above 50mph.

bwep · December 2004

Well I guess I should have been a little clearer on the 7-10. What I really meant to say was 7 out of 10 trucks have this problem. That was told to me by ford rep. Update on problem. Dealership did seal top of windshield a pillar to a pillar, no change. Next dealership told to replace windshield,maybe a little better. Call to ford stating problem still there,they kicked me back to dealer, said dealership will call me. Still waiting 2 days so far. I drove another 04 no wind noise until 75+. I find that acceptable. So I'm holding out for a fix. Anyone finds anything out let me know.

insane · December 2004

Ford OEM cargo cage extender.

One side of the cargo cage theft derterrent screw free floats in the lock position, and I can't get it back to the unlock position. Is the cover under warranty? Vehicle is 1 year old with less than 6K miles

mullins87 · January 2005

Isn't the 3/36 warranty bumper to bumper? I would go ask the dealer.

fordblue3 · January 2005

You need to have the bad "engine knock sensor" replaced. Do it quickly, before you end up with a hole in your piston.

aspesisteve · January 2005

my '04 4.6L V8 sucks down the gas like a pig too

pretty hard to break 15 mpg with mostly hwy driving

lariat4 · January 2005

Bought me a 2004 Lariat 4x4 brand new. The engine has stalled 3 times. Once while turning into a parking lot and twice at a stop sign.Dealer can't find anything wrong.Has anybody had this problem and if so HOW can it be fixed??!! I'm wondering if the idle is set to low the rpm is around 500...is that normal? thanx!

insane · January 2005

roughly how much would it cost for me to replace the rear bumper of a F150 - including labor?

And will I be able get to it on my own too much hassle?

joeprinter · January 2005

After numerous trips and failed attempts to fix my truck is still vibrating @40-55 mph. The dealer has done all of the service bulletins and the problem is still there. I know this is a common problem in the 04s has anyone got it fixed?

I am considering lemon law but that sounds like a lot of hassle. any ideas would be appreciated

thanks

ttimbers · January 2005

Hi Joeprinter!

I am taking my truck in tomorrow to have a new drive shaft put on to stop the vibrating. I assume putting the drive shaft on didn't help yours. I am also going to talk to the dealership about what I should do. I have been driving this vibrating truck for 15,000 miles while they have attempted to fix it. What all have they done to yours so far in attempting to fix the vibrating?

alibama · January 2005

I've had my 04' F150 FX4 Supercrew for 6 months, and from day one I have been trying to get the vibration fixed. The truck vibrates around 60 mph and the bed shakes. The dealer has replaced the driveshaft and road force balanced the tires. The truck is currently at the dealer for the fourth time and is going to have a counterbalance(dampner) bolted to the frame. Things are not looking good for a resolution at this time. Last word from Ford on the bed shake is that it is a characteristic of the new F150's. I have always loved the Ford products, but this may be my last if they are not willing/able to correct this problem. Note: Something to try with your F150--hit the top of the rear bumper on either side with your fist and notice how much the bed vibrates.

danee · January 2005

File the Dispute Settlement Board paperwork. You can get the application from your dealer. Make sure you attach all copies of your service reports. Some people are having their trucks bought back by Ford thru this process. Good luck. We are in the process of requesting the DSB to review our case.

joeprinter · January 2005

Things that did not work!

new drive shaft

shims

roadforce balance

new tires on front

transmission mounts

body mount kit

dampner

A LOT OF B.S. AND HASSLE

I also am not getting good service from the dealer

I have called for a dsb form.

If anyone has experience with dsb please let me know.

thanks

lemonf-150? · January 2005

Where did you purchase your truck? I am currently experiencing the same vibration at around 40-60 miles an hour on my new 2005 F-150. I only have 5700 miles on it. However, it started around 2400 miles and they said it might be I was not used to a 4x4. How dumb am I? I have an appointment at Brandon Ford in Florida on Monday am. I am printing this info out and I hope this will help expedite my fix. I will tell you this my personal mechanic called a friend of his at Autoway Ford and he told him the driveshafts and the tires a usually fixing the problem. Has anybody had a correction that fixed the vibration completely?

wetford · January 2005

I own a 2002 f-150 4x4 crew cab with 53k miles. Within the last 6 months we noticed a strong mold smell in the cab. The passenger side floor was soaking wet. We had the windshield replaced 60+ days ago. This seemed to solve water problem. Unfortunately strong mold odor is back and passenger floor is again slightly damp.

In the last six months the truck did trailer a load near but not over its towing capacity(Bobcat). Towing done before windshield repair. Any suggestions as to solution.

bwep · January 2005

I have the fix. After alot of research I have found out wind noise comes from the top of window. To double check, tape top of window glass A pillar to A pillar, this should eliminate all wind noise. Now for the fix. At the top of the windshield there is a gasket between glass and top of roof. With a small screw driver slide gasket closes to roof back a small amount this will allow you to squirt silicone underneath gasket. Do this across the windshield A pillar to A pillar. Next silicone the out side of this gasket A pillar to A pillar. You should have a smooth surface now from window to roof, meaning the space between edge of glass and roof should be filled in. This stopped my wind noise. I think this will solve most others to. Those who have this problem know that noise will drive you crazy. Well good luck to all I hope this fixes every ones problem.

trcar · January 2005

I'm not a mechanic, but I have owned several Ford trucks with the same symptoms around the same mileage...They needed a new heater core.

wpalkowski · January 2005

I'd kinda doubt a heater core would go in a three-year-old truck. Lotta time when the core goes your windows fog up pretty badly. My bet's on the windshield and that it still has a leak. May not leak all the time, only when water hits it just the right way

Call the shop that replaced it, tell them what your problem is and that you suspect the windshield replacement. Most reputable glass places stand behind their work for quite a long time.

Moldy smell and wet carpets is only the obvious stuff. Passenger car I used to have had a windshield leak that went down behind dashboard, didn't notice it until I started getting freaky electrical gremlins. Turns out that the back of the fuse panel was corroding and things were shorting out. Even though my windshield had been sealed, there was a small sliver of old glass left in the frame that didn't let things seat absolutely perfectly..... and it leaked. Glass shop tried sealing twice and couldn't get it fixed. The third try they put in an entirely new winshield.,.. and also paid toward my electrical repair.

trcar · January 2005

You may be right. I've purchased 8 Ford Trucks in the past 5 years. Three needed new heater cores around 3 years & 50,000 to 60,000 miles. I just thought it was worth mentioning to a mechanic. Sorry

akjbmw · January 2005

Check the path of the AC condensation drain.

Had a mustang once that would get wet carpet on the passenger side. Found the rubber drain pulled out of the opening in the floor that it was supposed to be stuck into.

Yes, it is winter, but the AC is active during defrost mode.

Good Luck.

aspesisteve · January 2005

my '04 F150 gave me steering wheel shimmies with moderate break pressure - I noticed this at 4,000 miles.

Fortunately I paid Ford to do my $68 oil change and tire rotation (ripp off) to help grease the 'OK we'll replace it under warranty from the service manager'

acsnetworks · January 2005

I know someone withg the same problem, it's been in the shop 3 times and now falls under the lemon law. It's sitting in the driveway and FORD hasn't piucked it up for 3 months now. You should contact me so I can give you the number to the other guy. WOW, I thought he was the only 1 having this problem. guess not!

cheatham · January 2005

Does anybody know how to get the pwer window motor out of the door? I took the panel off of the inside and I don't feel any nuts to take loose inside the door holding it on. When I roll my window up, it shakes up and down and wont go up. It will go up with assistance. Thanks for any information you caould spare. God bless.

Peace, Bo Cheatham

2000 Ford F-250 Super Duty Problems and Solutions

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