1990-1996 Ford F-150/250 Pickup: Reliability
Updated: 11/23/08
1996 Ford F-150/250 Pickup
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1990-1996 Ford F-150/250 Pickup
- Price Range: $600 - $4,900
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Our reliability study for this generation Ford F-150 includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Ford F-150 .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Alternator belt:
If the accessory drive belt on 4.9-liter engines chirps, the pulley for the power steering may be misaligned on the pump or the A/C compressor may have to be repositioned. If the belt squeals, the automatic tensioner must be replaced. (1990-94)
Automatic transmission:
The transmission may slip and the engine may flare when the transmission shifts into fourth gear, which can often be traced to a bad TR/MLP sensor. (1994-95)
Automatic transmission:
If the transmission does not shift from second to third, the valve body separator plate may be distorted. (1990-94)
Ball joints:
If water gets into the ball joints, they will wear out early and have to be replaced. (1990-96)
Hard starting:
Hesitation, miss, stumble, no-start, or stalling could be due to a short in the wiring harness for the powertrain control module (PCM). (1993-95)
Hard starting:
If the engine does not start or cranks for a long time then stalls, the idle air control valve may be sticking. (1995-96)
Manual transmission:
On trucks with a diesel engine, the clutch may not release due to a leaking slave cylinder. (1993-95)
Suspension problems:
The front leaf springs are prone to sag over time and must be replaced. (1991-94)
Suspension problems:
Front tire cupping is common with Twin Axle suspension. Often new springs will help, but sometimes other suspension parts must also be replaced. Regular alignment is crucial. (All)
Vehicle noise:
A chattering noise that can be felt coming from the rear during tight turns after highway driving is caused by a lack of friction modifier or over-shimming of the clutch packs in the Traction-Lok differential. (1990-96)
Vehicle noise:
Loose frame rivets should be replaced with bolts (welding is not approved). (1990-96)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $395 |
| Alternator | $290 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $560 |
| Brakes | $295 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $515 |
| Exhaust System | $375 |
| Radiator | $425 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $160 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $200 |
| Universal Joints | $175 |
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