1990-1996 Ford F-150/250 Pickup Full Review

Our in-depth review covers everything you need to know about this generation Ford F-150. Get the latest news, find a local dealer, and get a free price quote for this generation Ford F-150.

1990-1996 Ford F-150/250 Pickup Review

Introduced for 1980, Ford's full-size pickups came in three series: F-150 for 1/2-ton capacity; F-250 for 3/4-ton; and F-350 for 1-ton. An F-250 Heavy Duty model also was available. Ford had dropped Flareside trucks with flared rear fenders in 1988, so all F-Series models were called Styleside. The short-bed F-150 had a 116.8-inch wheelbase and 6 3/4-foot cargo bed. A long-bed regular cab rode a 133-inch wheelbase, holding an 8-foot cargo bed. SuperCabs rode a 138.8-inch wheelbase with a 7-foot bed, or 155-inch with an 8-foot bed. Base engine was a 4.9-liter inline six, with a selection of V8 options. Antilock rear braking was standard. Available 4-wheel drive was an on-demand, part-time system. Automatic-locking hubs were phased-in starting in 1989 on F-150 models. Bench seats were standard, and SuperCabs had a folding rear bench. Front captain's chairs were optional, while SuperCabs might have rear jump seats.

Year to Year Changes

1991 Ford F-150: A new "Nite" option package for the F-150 went on sale this year, and the F-Series saw several powertrain changes. Automatic-locking front hubs became standard on F-250 and F-350 4x4s. A Touch Drive (pushbutton) electronic transfer case became available during the year for F-150 4WD models.

1992 Ford F-150: Ford gave the F-Series a front-end facelift with rounded nose and broader grille, plus a new dashboard. Ford also revived the Flareside (rear-fendered) model in the short-bed F-150 series.

1993 Ford F-150: A high-performance Lightning model joined in 1993 with a modified 240-horsepower 5.8-liter V8. It's an F-150 2WD regular-cab Styleside short-bed, featuring a lowered sport suspension and 17-inch tires on alloy wheels, among other extras.

1994 Ford F-150: A driver-side airbag went into 1994 models with a gross vehicle weight below 8500 pounds.

1995 Ford F-150: A new 7.3-liter turbocharged diesel engine became available, replacing the regular diesel V8.

1996 Ford F-150: The F-150 lost its SuperCab body and Flareside cargo box this year. An all-new, more rounded F-150 arrived in January 1996 as an early '97 model.

1990-1996 Ford F-150/250 Pickup Road Test

Pros	Cons

Acceleration (V8)	Fuel economy

Passenger and cargo room	Noise

Trailer-towing capability	Handling

	Interior storage space

Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation

Even though the 6-cylinder engine nearly matches torque output of a 5.0-liter V8, we prefer gasoline V8 models on the basis of their impressive acceleration and passing ability. That was our appraisal of an F-150 XLT with the 5.0 and 4-speed automatic. The 5.0 was just about as responsive as a 5.8-liter, in fact, but both returned horrid gas mileage: around 12.5 mpg in a city/highway mix. Some 4-speed automatics have demonstrated slurred, lurching gear changes, plus sluggish downshifting for passing. Tall and square, Ford trucks can be blown around in heavy crosswinds, but otherwise hold the road well--even with an empty cargo box. Steering feels looser than in a GM or Dodge pickup, and requires a bit more correction on the highway. An unloaded short-wheelbase 4x4 rides harshly over city streets, but longer-wheelbase models cope much better with bumps. Engine noise and tire rumble can annoy, though wind noise is modest. Regular-cab models easily hold three adults, though the center rider straddles the transmission tunnel. Dashboards are better after 1991, with an easy-to-use climate system and audio controls grouped near the driver. All trucks have plenty of head room. The steering wheel sits near the driver's chest, and pedals are close to the chair-height seat cushion. SuperCab rear seats are a convenience, but have minimal knee and foot space.

Value for the Money
If you're in the market for a pickup in this league, also look at the Chevrolet C/K and Dodge Ram. But we put the F-Series at the top of our list in terms of room, power, payload, and trailer-towing ability.

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Ford F-150 5.0-liter ext. cab	Rating

Performance	4

Fuel Economy	2

Ride Quality	3

Steering/Handling/Braking	3

Quietness	2

Controls/Materials	4

Interior Room	6

Room/Comfort (rear)	2

Cargo Capacity	2

Value within Class	5

Total:	33

Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room, Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.

1990-1996 Ford F-150/250 Pickup Reliability

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

NHTSA Recall History

1990 4x2 w/one-piece driveshaft and E40D transmission: Under certain conditions, snap ring may fracture and park gear would not engage.

1990 w/dual fuel tanks: Supply and return fuel lines may be crossed on some trucks.

1990-91 F-250/350 w/7.3/.5 liter engine, and 4x4 w/5.8-liter: Brake fluid may overheat, diminishing braking effectiveness.

1990-91: Ignition switch could short-circuit and overheat, causing smoke and possible fire.

1990-93 w/dual fuel tanks: Portion of unused fuel from one tank may be returned to the second, causing spillage.

1992 F-250/350 diesel: Sound insulation can contact exhaust manifold.

1992: Door latch may malfunction in below-freezing temperatures.

1992-94 w/manual shift: Parking-brake pawl can slip; brake might not hold.

1993 F-150 w/Touch Drive: Transfer case can slip out of 4x4 high gear during coasting or with power applied in reverse.

1993 F-150/250/350/450 w/speed control system: The speed control deactivation switch may, under certain conditions, leak internally and then overheat, smoke, or burn. This could result in an underhood fire. Dealers will install a fused wiring harness.

1993 w/dual fuel tanks: Fuel-pressure regulator in the fuel system can wear out during the life of the vehicle, causing high-fuel system pressure.

1994 F-150/250: Airbag and its warning light might not function; or, airbag might deploy when passenger door is slammed while key is turned to start position.

1994-95 Super Cab w/40/20/40 power driver's seat: Wiring harness for power lumbar support could overheat, leading to melting, smoke, or possible ignition of surrounding materials.

1994-96: Cruise-control deactivation switch may overheat, smoke, or burn.

1996 F-250: Certification label shows incorrect rear-tire-inflation pressure.

1996 F-250/F-350/Super Duty: Undersized fasteners on a few trucks can separate, causing fuel-tank strap to become disconnected.

1990-1996 Ford F-150/250 Pickup Prices

Prices	Good	Average	Poor

1990
F-150	$1,100-1,800	$700-1,100	$100-200
F-150 SuperCab	$1,500-2,100	$1,000-1,400	$200-300
F-250	$1,300-1,900	$800-1,200	$200
F-250 SuperCab	$1,800-2,400	$1,200-1,600	$300-400

1991
F-150	$1,200-1,900	$700-1,200	$100-200
F-150 SuperCab	$1,600-2,300	$1,100-1,500	$200-300
F-250	$1,500-2,200	$1,000-1,400	$200-300
F-250 SuperCab	$2,000-2,600	$1,400-1,800	$300-400

1992
F-150	$1,400-2,200	$900-1,400	$200-300
F-150 SuperCab	$1,900-2,700	$1,300-1,900	$300-400
F-250	$1,700-2,400	$1,100-1,600	$300-400
F-250 SuperCab	$2,300-3,000	$1,700-2,200	$400-600

1993
F-150	$1,700-2,800	$1,100-1,900	$300-400
F-150 Lightning	$4,000-4,800	$3,300-3,900	$1,300-1,500
F-150 SuperCab	$2,300-3,300	$1,700-2,400	$400-600
F-250	$2,100-2,900	$1,500-2,000	$400-500
F-250 SuperCab	$2,700-3,500	$2,000-2,600	$600-800

1994
F-150	$1,900-3,400	$1,300-2,300	$300-500
F-150 Lightning	$5,000-5,900	$4,300-5,000	$2,000-2,400
F-150 SuperCab	$2,600-4,100	$1,900-3,000	$500-900
F-250	$2,500-3,400	$1,800-2,500	$500-700
F-250 SuperCab	$3,200-4,100	$2,500-3,200	$800-1,000

1995
F-150	$2,100-4,000	$1,500-2,800	$400-700
F-150 Lightning	$6,000-7,000	$5,200-6,100	$2,500-2,900
F-150 SuperCab	$3,000-4,800	$2,300-3,700	$700-1,100
F-250	$2,900-4,400	$2,200-3,300	$700-1,000
F-250 SuperCab	$3,700-5,000	$3,000-4,100	$1,100-1,500

1996
F-150	$2,400-4,500	$1,700-3,200	$500-900
F-150 SuperCab	$3,400-5,500	$2,700-4,300	$900-1,400
F-250	$3,200-5,000	$2,500-3,900	$800-1,300
F-250 SuperCab/Crew	$4,100-6,300	$3,400-5,200	$1,400-2,100

This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:

Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.

Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings; engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.

Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo, etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from region to region.

1990-1996 Ford F-150/250 Pickup Specs & Safety

Vehicle Dimensions

Specification	ext. cab long bed	ext. cab short bed	reg. cab long bed	reg. cab short bed

Wheelbase, in.	155.0	138.8	133.0	116.8

Overall Length, in.	235.3	219.1	213.3	197.1

Overall Width, in.	79.0	79.0	79.0	79.0

Overall Height, in.	74.0	71.9	71.0	71.0

Curb Weight, lbs.	4316	4186	3982	3886

Cargo Volume, cu. ft.	--	--	--	--

Standard Payload, lbs.	4655	3855	5100	2310

Fuel Capacity, gals.	37.1	34.7	37.2	34.7

Seating Capacity	6	6	3	3

Front Head Room, in.	39.9	39.9	40.3	40.3

Max. Front Leg Room, in.	41.0	41.0	41.1	41.1

Rear Head Room, in.	37.6	37.6	--	--

Max. Rear Leg Room, in.	28.8	28.8	--	--

Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.

Powertrain Options and Availability

Base engine was an inline 6-cylinder. Next up: a 5.0-liter gas V8, rated 185 horsepower. Then, a 210-horsepower 5.8-liter V8. Stepping up further, Ford had a 230-horsepower 7.5-liter gasoline V8, plus a 180-horsepower diesel. Transmission choices depended on the engine, starting with a 4-speed manual. A 5-speed was available with all engines except the 5.8-liter. Two automatic transmissions were employed: 3-speed and 4-speed. An F-Series with on-demand 4-wheel drive might have either manual-locking or automatic front hubs. (Even after automatics were phased in, manual hubs remained an option.) Trucks with automatic hubs had shift-on-the-fly between 2WD and 4WD High. Touch Drive became available during 1991. For 1993, the 7.5-liter V8 gained 20 horsepower (rated 250) and 20 pound-feet of torque (now 410). A year later, the 5.0-liter V8 grew from 185 to 205 horsepower (195 with automatic), and the 5.8 added 10 horsepower and 25 pound-feet. The regular diesel V8s gave way to a turbodiesel for 1995, gaining 20 horsepower and 65 pound-feet. Four-speed manual gearboxes disappeared after 1993.

Engines	Size liters / cu. in	Horse- power	Torque	Transmission: EPA city/hgwy	Consumer Guide Observed

ohv I6	4.9 / 300	145	265	5-speed manual: 15/19 3-speed automatic: -- 4-speed automatic: 14/18	5-speed manual: -- 3-speed automatic: -- 4-speed automatic: --

ohv V8	5.0 / 302	185-205	270-275	4-speed manual: 15/16 5-speed manual: 15/19 4-speed automatic: 14/19	4-speed manual: -- 5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: 15.2

ohv V8	5.8 / 351	200-210	300-325	5-speed manual: -- 3-speed automatic: -- 4-speed automatic: 12/17	5-speed manual: -- 3-speed automatic: -- 4-speed automatic: --

ohv V8	7.5 / 460	245-250	400-410	5-speed manual: -- 3-speed automatic: -- 4-speed automatic: --	5-speed manual: -- 3-speed automatic: -- 4-speed automatic: 12.9

Diesel ohv V8	7.3 / 444	185-210	360-425	5-speed manual: -- 3-speed automatic: -- 4-speed automatic: --	5-speed manual: -- 3-speed automatic: -- 4-speed automatic: --

Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.

NHTSA Crash-Test Results

Test	1996 F-150

Front Impact, Driver	5

Front Impact, Passenger	5

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.

Built In: Canada, Mexico, USA

Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear- or 4-wheel drive

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Also in the 1990-1996 Ford F-150/250 Pickup Review:

Ford F-150/250 Pickup

Ford F-150/250 Pickup Road Test

Ford F-150/250 Pickup Reliability

Ford F-150/250 Pickup Prices

Ford F-150/250 Pickup Specs & Safety

Ford F-150/250 Pickup Photos

Ford F-150/250 Pickup Full Review