Ford Satisfaction Poll

[Pelican]

Fred had asked a few days ago that I post this and then we got hit with a lengthy storm but here it is. Fred would like us to post our grievences with Ford warranty issues and learn if you've been satisfied with the way they were handled. Please vote in the poll and give a detailed description of your dilemma, Fred will be copying this thread and bringing it to a Ford representative to show them our displeasure and concern with how our trucks/business are being cared for.

Keep everything at a professional level so we can make the biggest impact.

Thanks!

[CPSS]

Our 2001 F-250 PDS had the tranny go at 36K miles. Replaced under warranty, but we were still out a truck for over a week. Our 03 has already had the alternator and both batteries replaced, ( not under warranty ). I guess the "snow plow prep package" is just a marketing gimmick.

[glllc]

After buying 4 brand new Fords (154,800) worth I have a problem every time i need warranty work done. may next time i buy some thing from my dealer thay will have to fight with me to get my check to clear :D

[cat320]

Well To just put input in for the ford product I just got a new '05 and have it in the shop today as I speak to have the 4x4 to stay in 4x4 when you shift it. My other ford is a e350 and had alot of computer problem with it at only 74K+ miles and that is a 7.3 diesel.If ford is going to read this I hate your choice for all terain 18" tires on the new '05's. I will let you know how I make out with the shifter problem.

[JD PLOWER]

I don't know if this is for newer trucks only, but my 02 550 has had the alt replaced and a turbo seal replaced with no problems from ford other than them not thinking the seal was bad until I showed them. I think quite a bit of satisfaction or lack of it comes from which dealer does the work. Some are terribble while others are great. Really a crapshoot around here.

[bud16415]

My last Ford truck was a 1983 F150 plain Jane 2 WD work truck with a straight 6 300CID 4 speed. Warranty was great because I never needed it. That truck I ran and ran hard for 17 years and never had one issue other than standard maintenance items. Easy to work on easy to get in and out of never used oil. And I sold it telling the guy that was ecstatic to get it for 1500$ that I wouldn’t hesitate driving it across the country. Many hundreds of thousand of miles on the odometer later. I looked at the new Fords wanting no needing 4WD is the only reason I parted with the 83. and the only reason I didn’t buy one or the Dodge for that mater was they sat so high. Not having the benefit of web forums like this at that time to point out what I would need to know. I ended up with a new 2000 GMC classic 350 old style body. That I just rolled over one hundred thousand last week. Not a problem yet one recall for tailgate straps. No other issues. Just standard maintenance is all. The issues I have been hearing lately make me want to hold off on any new purchases for some time.

I answered the poll as completely satisfied keep in mind that was for my 1983.
Bud

[Waterchikn]

It seems that Ford is going through a time right now, a bad time. I have been a Ford guy since I bought my first truck 15 years ago and have been very happy with them since. There have been some issues and they have been resolved. I think right now Ford is going to have to bite the bullet and get this problem fixed, and I have faith that they will. Ones things for sure, its isn't good for business, theirs or ours.

[Pickering Snow]

Were to start after buying 7 99and newer superdutys time has come to consider whether or not my money's been spent well or not. After owning 4 5.4 gas engines super dutys a decision was made in 03 to switch to 6 liter 5 speed trans trucks.

1. 03 f350 failing alts. always during plowing 3 software updates to correct engine running conditions, 2 driver window glass regulators assemblies failed.
2. 04 F450 wrecker from 0 miles horrible drive line vibration. 5 trips to dealership to get cobbled up shim kits put in carrier assembly to correct. Still has vibration. Also same vehicle affected by transmission recall.
3. 04 F350 2400 miles delayed transmission shifting under same recall as above. Explained to service manager importance of vehice for commercial snow removal business told no different then the concerns of a soccer mom without he van. Transmission will not be replaced with new or considered unless case is cracked. Also informed 1/12/05 dealership does not have special tools to perform recall, will take 3 weeks for tool to come in.

Ford's blatent disregard for commercial truck owners is why they too will fall to the bottom of the heap. No one could have been more loyal to Ford Motor Co. then Pickering Mobile Auto, and Pickering Snow Removal. No solutions on the horizon.

[chtucker]

01 Excursion 7.3 70k miles Towed 10 (TEN!) times. Each time it was blamed on fuel gelling/injectors issues. 10th time refused to take truck back after being blamed on Gelling. Check valve on fuel pickup tank found floating in fuel. Air was getting in the system.

High pressure oil line blew off resulting in 11 tow

36248 miles (yes that is 248 miles out of warranty) they alternator went out.

My doors have rattled from day one

Now I drive a GMC

Howard

[Dwan]

92 F350 7.3 w/plow, 94 f350 7.3 w/plow, 95 f350 7.3 w/plow. 89 SC thunderbird, 90 SC Thunderbird, 1967 LTD, all bought new and have has some problems but was taken care of in a timley manor.
With new transmition problems listed here I chose to buy a 2004 F350 w/V-10 and am very satisfied.
Seems like most of the problems are with the dealers. My dealer bends over backwards for me. I have the keys to there shop truck incase I brake down in the middle of the night.
Ford also paid for my kid to go to collage for 2 years on a scollership.
What more can I say except my hobby car is a 69 Z/28.


I still have those fords which I bought new and these which I bought used, 2 each 78 F250 w/plows, 74 F600 10x10 all wheel drive, and a 1988 L9000 10 yd dump truck cat powered,

[Lawn Tek]

99 f350 P S D 7.3 was told by the alignment shop that 2 ball joints was needed " Get ready to replace them often " " We have never seen such shody ball joints ,we think they supplier must be from Mexico " " Never seen a 1 ton eat ball joints like these 1 tons " .
Right front brake caliper was locking up almost caused wreck ,
bill arround 500.00

Left front spring saged , replaced with x springs , which should have come on the truck .

Mirrors wont stay tight .

Turn signal wont work sometimes when moving, always felt like something was binding in the steering wheel .

Cant wait till the Japs enter the large truck market

We have never owned anything but Fords for the past 24 years , but thats fixing to change .Built Ford Tuff , and I m the tooth fairy

[Mark Oomkes]

I'll start with the easy ones. 2 F350 pickups, virtually no problems, very happy with them. Both 7.3, 4 speeds. One has 43K miles, no problems at all. The other has just about 78K and one Cam Position Sensor, a tranny at just under 77K, and just did a bunch of work on ball joints, axle joints and a wheel bearing. Also had to replace the 'automatic' hubs with manual hubs after 2 seasons.

Our '05 has 550 miles on it and has been in the shop twice. First time was for the 4WD shift lever not staying in 4WD. They just changed and the 'new' part was worse than the original. Waiting to get this 'fixed' permanently yet. The modification the dealer made is working. Tranny was slipping after a couple hours both times we plowed with it. Last time it was really bad. 440 Miles on it and the case has a crack because of the snap ring.

Not happy at all and can't wait to see what problems are going to occur with the new front ends in a couple years.

Our '04 550 has been in the shop 4 (four) times for bad shifting into reverse. The last time (right now) the case is cracked from the earlier version snap ring walking its way out. This is blamed on us because we supposedly are not coming to a complete stop between shifting. The problem is the service tech informed me that there is an electronic delay when any motion is sensed before shifting, so this is impossible if you ask me, unless the transmission is malfunctioning. The other problem is that another owner was told by the service tech\Ford hotline that the reason the snap ring was changed to the one that they are having all the problems with is to solve the problem of 'shuddering' when shifting (see first sentence). I can dig up everything they have done the first 3X including repairing the retaining pin that walks its way out which is supposedly not a problem on this manufacturing run. It has been reflashed at least once because of stalling when trying to back out of a snow bank. There was also a tube or something that came off the turbo so lost some power with that. Have also not been happy with the cooling system on this truck compared to the 7.3's. Before the reflash it was running much warmer than 7.3's with plow on and still the guage will spike and then go back down one time when starting off plowing with this truck. Dealer did replace alternator before we had any problems with it.

I am partially satisfied with this truck, basically waiting to see what happens with the transmission before I give my final opinion.

So far, our dealer has been very helpful. But if they keep spewing what the 'hotline' says is the problem when there are this many problems with the 5 speeds, then my opinion could very easily be changed. I am not trying to take it out on them because I know they did not design and build the truck, but they need to stick up for me because I do not think that Ford cares one bit whether I buy another truck from them or not.

At this time, because I do not think that Ford has outright admitted they have a major problem and they are working on solving it rather than a band aid fix, I voted completely dissatisfied. This is also based on the dilemma that if I do buy another Ford, it will be another 6.0\5 speed with all the associated problems.

My Opinion to somebody at Ford if you care about the commercial truck market. If you really want to test a truck\engine\transmission in the real world before releasing it, give 50 or a 100 trucks to snow plowers and let them test them for a season or two. If there is a weak spot in a truck, we will find it, not driving it in the Arctic or Sahara for a month, not driving it over a test track with some bumps, not driving it too the grocery store for weeks. I hope you get my point.

[snowplowjay]

Just got a warranty notice in the mail for the Ranger.....

Tranny issue with improper blending of fluids which may pose future harsh tranny issues........

Called today and I have an appointment for 8am Monday morning for that and a whine when using cruise control and a arm rest issue..........

I have never really had any issues that were that bad with Ford.

One of my other trucks had a defective floor carpet........With a little bit of persuasion they overlooked the questionability of it being a warranty issue and replaced it as well as my OVERUSED dead horn..................


:D

Jay

[bobcatman]

On my 04' F-550 4x4 9' Dump, I've had the rear main leak a considerable amount since day 1. I have also experienced a loud clunk since day 1. The clunk is very noticeable when I pull into a parking spot and back out of a parking spot. I have had the truck stall on me while towing my 331 excavator. The truck stalled when temperatures were about 60 degrees and I doubt the diesel was the problem. However the truck did start again. I brought the truck to the dealer where I bought it for service. This dealer usually has at least 200 SD on their lot at all times. I was provided with a replacement F-550 which was helpful. The truck was in service for the leaking rear main, the clunk, and horrible fuel milage (4-5 mpg). The dealer called me and told me that the clunk was a "normal characteristic" of these trucks. The replacement truck I was driving did not clunk, nor did the 01' F-450 I had rented or the 04' F-550 I had rented. They applied a dye to the oil and told me to come back. I was not satisfied with the "normal characteristics" and told them to check again. They found a loose bolt on the rear driveshaft u-joint at the tarnsfer case. They told me the rear main was fine. I told them to check again and they admitted it needed to be replaced. I had the truck reflased and it improved the mileage and got rid of the varying idle. Also, I would like to note that the Torq-Shift transmission sounds like it has marbles in it when I am goiing back and forth while plowing. Altogether, I am very dissatisfied with this truck and deeply regret buying it. Of all the junk trucks I have owned in the past, I trust this truck the least. I want to get back into the Fords of 93-97 as I feel they were a much better-built truck.

[BgGrg]

I am very dissatisfied with Ford. On my 2001 F-250 that I traded in in September I broke down with it 14 times. I had it towed to the dealer 5 times. The truck had a bad fuel pump and wouldnt start. After it sat for three or four hours it would start back up. When it was under warentee the dealer said the computer said there was nothing wrong with the truck. When the warentee was up all of a sudden they could fix the truck for $800.00 dollers. On my 2005 F-350 Lariet Supercab sitting in my driveway with 3700 miles on it I am extremely unhappy with it. 1. It has the V-10 with the torqueshift transmission. It shifts so bad It will only be a matter of time before it breaks! 2. The Continental tires on it wouldnt be worthy of a wheelbarrell let alone a $40,000.00 Truck! I paid $300.00 for all terrain tires and Ford Ripped Me OFF. Ford is going to have many Law Suits on these tires because they are not suited for Light Trucks! 3. All the nickel and diming like no insulation on the hood and no glove box light. I bought the Lariet Model because I wanted the Best model. What I got wasnt up to the Lariet Standard. This 2005 Ford F-350 is the worst truck I have ever owned! Ford needs to step up or it is going to lose many customers. Thank You for your time Big George Bensenville Illinois. Ford Owner for all 20 years of driving:headwall :headwall :headwall

[EIB]

03 F350SD 7.3 4x4

24,000miles Rotors resurfaced and left upper ball joint replaced.

32,000miles Both right front ball joints replaced, Brake vibration is back. Dealer told me there is no warranty past 12/12 on brakes. I pointed out that they resurfaced them at 24,000miles, the advisor didn't have any thing to say about that.

I called Ford's customer line and complained about the brake issue. They told me the same thing about the 12/12 warranty. The man on the phone said that maybe the dealer cut the rotors for good will and didn't file a warranty claim with Ford, then he looked it up and they did file the claim. I then asked him who I have to talk to now. Get this he told me I have to go back to the dealer and talk to the service manager, to get a appt. with the district manager. I haven't made that appt. yet.

Engine has oil leak. They put dye in it and I have to go back.

Now I have a noise in the left front, same noise the last time when it was a ball joint. I also think the u-joint is going too.

Manual hub on left turns hard, I have to have them look at that also.

There is my list from a 03 with 33,000 miles on it. I'm not real happy with this at all. A new Dodge is looking good right now.

Everett

[Pickering Snow]

Kinda missed the point on this poll maybe i should of said number of 5speed tranny failures looks like unhappy doesnt win this poll was hoping all the 5speed guys on the other thread would chime in iam meeting with the DM on wensday this week to say iam complety disasatisfied is kinda tough because i honestly love the look and ride and abilty of fords however iam complety disatisfied with the tranny issue and how ford is handling it

[BWhite]

Good polling (sampling) is tough to do . I agree this should have been a 5spd trans only . In this poll, a Ford owner who had their dealer replace a bulb that went out would have to answer in the positive .
It would be interesting to see the total amount of transmissions problems Ford is having with these trucks and a breakout of owners who are actually using these trucks for work. Of course , Ford may have this information and I would bet they will keep it close to the vest .

[arrowenterprises]

Owned an 04' Super Duty since March of 04. Minor problems (i.e.: Door closure sensor, turn signal switch) Had (Have) a loud thump 10-15 seconds after engines starts. Diagnosed as a/c compressor pump and "settling" in the line. Dealership hasn't given me any problems wish warranty repairs so far. I think warranty issues and service are a matter of dealer performance.

[SIPLOWGUY]

Been running Fords since my 61 F100 in 1979. The best never rest!

[Mark Oomkes]

Originally posted by SIPLOWGUY
Been running Fords since my 61 F100 in 1979. The best never rest!

Absolutely correct. Because we get to keep running them back to the dealer for new tranny's or tranny problems.

[SIPLOWGUY]

My 61 F100 is still on the road! I wish I kept it.

[Mark Oomkes]

Originally posted by Pickering Snow
Kinda missed the point on this poll maybe i should of said number of 5speed tranny failures looks like unhappy doesnt win this poll was hoping all the 5speed guys on the other thread would chime in iam meeting with the DM on wensday this week to say iam complety disasatisfied is kinda tough because i honestly love the look and ride and abilty of fords however iam complety disatisfied with the tranny issue and how ford is handling it

I spoke with the service manager at our dealership today for about a minute and a half. That's when I walked out the door. He was very interested in telling me the only problems with the '04s is the late run, not ours. In fact, he has never heard of a shuddering problem when shifting, never mind ours has been in 4 times for it. When I attempted to tell him that there was another owner told by Ford Motor Comapny that is why the snap ring was 'redesigend', he wouldn't even look at it. He says everybody on the internet is confused, mixed up or mistaken with their problems.

I decided I should probably leave for the good of everbody at that point, mainly me.:greenange

[crashz]

With 98K miles on my 2001 F150, I can say that the truck went from being great to merely mediocre. But after some of the above stories, I'd say I'm lucky!

Warranty Period:
- Failed DPFE sensor = fixed quickly by dealer
- Rough idle, slight skip = never fixed, still does it today

Out of warranty:
-Wheel bearings, front and rear
-Lower Ball Joints
-Drive shaft U Joints
-DPFE sensor (again on my dime)
-Ignition module
-Parking brake shoes
-Ignition wires many times
-Serpentine belt idler pulley

With a little effort on Ford's part the non warranty repairs would have been much less. Seized slack adjusters (Antiseize would have prevented this) caused a chain reaction of repairs on the rear axle. The slight differences due to the fact I have a van motor [from the factory], make ignition parts difficult to obtain and aftermarket parts impossible. Greaseable joints are a no-brainer. Nobody buys a truck expecting the maintenance to be at 100K. Thats just unrealistic. But maintence should not include replacing $300 (each) front wheel bearings simply because the rotors are frozen on them.

[wyldman]

I've seen some siezed rotors,but none that I couldn't get off.No wheel bearing damage if done correctly.

Sealed u-joints last longer than greaseable ones.

The DPFE sensor is commonly replaced for no reason.9 times out of ten,it's just full of water (from the moisture in the exhaust),or you have a cracked\burnt hose.The hoses will usually need replacement when you try to take it off as they will crumble.If it happens again,pull it off,and shake\dry it out,and reinstall,making sure the hoses are all good.It will most likely fix the problem.

[crashz]

Thanks for the tip on the DPFE, Chris!

The bearings may or may not have needed to be replaced, however the beating they took to seperate them (the bearing and rotor), left me with an un-easy feeling. My feeling is that a light coating of anitseize or even paint between them could have made things a lot easier. After all, rotors don't last for the life of the vehicle, so a little effort in corrosion control makes a big difference later on. Especially to backyard mechanics like myself.

:D

[wyldman]

I agree on the anti-seize.It would save tons of headaches on manifold bolts,rotors,brake hardware etc.

The reason they don't is cost.A few pennies of anti-sieze,and the time to pay an assy line worker to slather it on,would cost lots of $$$ for all the vehicles they build.

[tlc]

Not to stick up for Ford, thier new tranny sucks. I also had 4x4 shifter problems. My dealer did get the new tranny in fast, I had it back in 3 days.

[jakegypsum]

I have always been pro Ford but I am concerned with the direction they are headed.

1999 Expi: Rebuilt 5.4 engine after 24,000. Warranty baby!
Patented oil leak on right side head. Front stabilizer bar probs .

2002 Superduties. (2 trucks)
Gas guage problems with both, windsheild leaks & creeks, Strange overdrive sounds, only approx 36,000 on both.

2003 Superduty F-650.
Very strong truck with the CAT engine but problems with the clutch and parking brake applications. Also, pinion seal replaced. Been back to the dealer with all problems.

Bottom line: Ford has taken care of me on ALL of my problems so far but I am concerned that these problems could continue to plague me in the future.

Jake.

[GinasMa]

Not a plow vehicle, but my personal 1998 Ford Econoline 150 Van, 5.4 liter engine, Chateau trim had a transmission problem. Instead of being a soccer mom, I am a dog trainer and when I brought this in for it's 10,000 mile checkup, I told my service manager that the transmission was acting badly, shuddering on occasion while idling and shifting and downshifting late. When I picked it up later that day, I was told that the transmission mount bolts were bad and were replaced. Two days and fewer than 50 miles later, this truck was towed back to the dealer.

I waited more than a month for a rebuilt transmission. I don't know how many times they told me that my transmission was on the truck from Kansas City, but it was more than once a week. Of course I complained that at 10,000 miles I should actually get a new transmission as a replacement, but that was not going to happen.

I treat all my vehicles well, there wasn't a thing I could have done to prevent this. What really bothered me was that I'd just had it in for service and told them about the problem and they still missed it, then were quite unresponsive to the fact that my brand new vehicle was laid up for close to 5 weeks.

[GinasMa]

BTW, even though I posted about a non plow vehicle, we do have one of those too, which is how I started reading this forum...

[capnkel]

Fred,when you get to talk to the DM,ask him what was changed in the torqshift that is different from the 03 that i have.When i first got my truck,i read tons of post on the dieselstop about all the engine problems that were happening at the time,i have to say i was very concerned,and kept a close watch on this,particularly the oil level,so far the truck has been back for 1 visit to fix 2 very minor leaks,one from the lower rad hose,and the other on the tranny cooler.I am not the easiest guy on a truck,i've put a few hours plowing on mine,and the tranny has worked flawlessly,no noises,no weird shifting,always very smooth.So far i am very happy with this truck.I believe there are a couple other guys on here that have the 03 trannys,i'm wondering if anyone has had issues with the original versions?The only problems i recall reading about were programing related ,not parts issues.

[Pickering Snow]

Cap

I too have a 03 the service truck and its not been affected either has far has using this poll would of been counter productive since most on this poll are happy :rolleyes: i printed the tranny thread in complete form . When i talked to the Dm over a week ago he tryed to play the whole tranny issue has a small perct and that in fact most of the trucks that even had the problem were plowing dah Well i got little or no were has at the time my dealer didnt even have the tools ness to preform the recall which the dm said see its such a small percentage most dealers havent even prepared for this action once again i said huh . When it was all said and done if a tranny case has a hole in it he said he would replace the complete unit for me otherwise a kit i said bull**** i dont want the tranny taken apart with those few of miles so lalalalal 5 days after seeing him the wrecker blew the whole ass end of the tranny apart yesterday i got it back with a lot truck tranny so like Chris has said this will be a temp fix has the one they put in has not been updated.


On another note the other day i get a call from Ford motor in dearborn in concerns to canceling the order on a 05F650 which was to be built next week The guy said he wanted to know why i had changed my mind and that being a loyal ford truck buyer he was concerned for my change in plans i told please contact Dist manager Ken Jenkins he can explain to you in detail on my cjhange of heart:rolleyes:

[Pelican]

Good for you Fred!!!

I'll be looking hard at a 5500 next time I need a truck!

[EIB]

I picked up my truck from the dealer today. Just to say I'm not happy.

First problem oil leak. Dealer says it is a seepage and is normal. They have a TSB that says that. I said if it drips it is not a seepage it is a leak. They disagree. They also informed me that I was down three quarts of oil. I told them I changed it 3000 miles ago and didn't think I had to check the oil on a truck with 35000 miles on it. I was informed that it was normal also. :confused:

Locking hub on left side working hard. They replaced both. One for Ford

U-joint binding. They inform me that the u-joint is within specs, not replaced.:headwall
Maybe I'm wrong, but every time I get the wobble from the front end and I'm not at full lock, I think it's the u-joint. Could it be something else?

I'll be talking with the service manager on Monday.

Everett

[Mark Oomkes]

Originally posted by EIB

First problem oil leak. Dealer says it is a seepage and is normal. They have a TSB that says that. I said if it drips it is not a seepage it is a leak. They disagree. They also informed me that I was down three quarts of oil. I told them I changed it 3000 miles ago and didn't think I had to check the oil on a truck with 35000 miles on it. I was informed that it was normal also. :confused:

I'll be talking with the service manager on Monday.

Everett

Should have told them that you were down 3 qts because of the 'seepage'.

I don't understand why you wouldn't agree that it's normal, don't all vehicles leak at 35K?

[John DiMartino]

Everett,Id be unhappy too if I were you. I dont know if you have a 6.0 or not.From reading on the diesel site it seems normal for 6.0s to leak oil out the rear main seal,even brand new.Some trucks with under 100 miles had a drip.I know a few guys with the 7.3 PSDs that have had to add oil between changes.Personally I think its rediculous in this day and age to have such poor oil control,and crankcase sealing,neither I nor my Dad has ever had to add oil to our Cummins between 3000-10000 miles oil changes.the level does go from near the full mark,down to almost the add line at 10000 miles,but we've never had to add any.At 10000miles ( his truck) (7000) my truck we drop the oil and filter. If it was my truck Id probably unload it,I wont drive an oil burner,I always check the oil,but if i have to add it ,it better have over well 100,000 miles on it. That is unacceptable on a newer low mileage truck.

[John Banks]

Originally posted by John DiMartino
I wont drive an oil burner


Maybe not, but he'll drive the hell out of his coal furnace!:burnout :grinz

[Dwan]

Originally posted by EIB
I picked up my truck from the dealer today. Just to say I'm not happy.

First problem oil leak. Dealer says it is a seepage and is normal. They have a TSB that says that. I said if it drips it is not a seepage it is a leak. They disagree. They also informed me that I was down three quarts of oil. I told them I changed it 3000 miles ago and didn't think I had to check the oil on a truck with 35000 miles on it. I was informed that it was normal also. :confused:

Locking hub on left side working hard. They replaced both. One for Ford

U-joint binding. They inform me that the u-joint is within specs, not replaced.:headwall
Maybe I'm wrong, but every time I get the wobble from the front end and I'm not at full lock, I think it's the u-joint. Could it be something else?


I'll be talking with the service manager on Monday.

Everett

Everett;
First thing I would do is find another dealer. I was told by ford that 1 qt. in 1000 miles met there sped but anything more then that they would do what ever was nessary to repair it. (92 IDI 7.3) it uses 2 qt in 3000 miles. My 95 DI does not use a drop. as far as the leak, Tell them you will turn it over to the EPA as the new requirements are no oil should ever hit the ground (that would be a oil spil). U-joint? my dealer will replace if I say it squeiks (sp), knocks, clunks, or even smells funny. Like I said you need a different dealer.

[SIPLOWGUY]

GM finds it acceptable to use a quart of oil every 500 miles. (I find a quart every 2000 miles cause for concern). They also say if a drop of oil were burned each time the spark plug fires (on gas engines) a quart of oil would be burned in 30 miles. At least that is what I read in a bulletin when I worked at a Pontiac dealer in the 80's. I don't know what Ford's policy is or GM's present policy is. I hope Ford and GM wake up. We lost the Electronics industry to the Japanese long ago...looks like we are losing the Automotive industry too. As an American I think this is major cause for alarm. I'm not preparing to sell my soul to the Japanese but what is Ford or GM really doing about keeping Americans loyal to their products?

[SIPLOWGUY]

Something else to add. Please bear in mind I am very satisfied with Fords but I came to realize the Dealership network (which is the first line of defense for Ford, GM, etc...) may be the weak link. I was cleaning my new truck yesterday when I noticed my spare tire isn't a match to the 4 tires on my truck. I called the dealer and spoke to the salesman. He made no attempt to help me and told me, "My car has a donut, so my spare does'nt match". I explained to him I paid for a full size spare, it should match. He then asked me what the difference is. I told him I like to rotate 5 tires and do not want to have a mismatched tire in the mix. He finally replied to me, "Then go buy a tire if thats what you want". We went back and forth a little and then I called Ford's 800 number. They were very appologetic but explained to me that Ford's policy is to give you 4 tires on the truck that match but the spare tire does not always match. I'm still not too happy but I wasn't treated abruptly and was given a somewhat resonable answer. Although this pales to some of the serious issues you guys have, the Dealer could have handled this much better than they did. I put a complaint in against the dealer but unfortunately our relationship is off to a bad start. :(

[Pelican]

I called the Ford 800 number when I had the transmission problems and they told me the dealers are not in their control. I asked if they didn't represent ford to the public and they agreed but said they could be of no further help to me. I felt they had a list of pre-prepared answers in front of them to read off, the person I spoke to did not waver from her original statement no matter what I said.

[chtucker]

double ditto

[atgreene]

And the big three wonder why no one is buying their vehicles? I'm glad to see them all hurting, maybe they'll realize that loyalty means more than the quick buck. Loyal customers will always come back when treated fairly, otherwise it's dog eat dog.

[Markford14]

The reason is i can say that me partially satisfied with ford is my final settlement with a lemon law. My truck went to shop 15 times and spend 35 days there in 18 months. It never left me stranded but I could not count on it. Some of the service manager I had to deal with were the biggest jerks and wouldnt believe a word the customer would say. I did not understand why because everytime I came it was covered under warranty and they were still getting paid. But what Ford says is covered in the warranty and what ends being covered with an argument is completely different. But no matter what they always want you come back and buy another truck that costs 50k or close to it.

[BrockwayMT]

I have had good luck with Fords but my 96 Ranger is the newest. I think they went downhill in the late 90s. My father had a 2000 Ranger that was troublesome. My friend's 98 Ranger was also trouble. Most of the other Fords in my family (a lot of them) going back to the sixties were pretty trouble free.

My 96 Ranger for example. 2.3 liter, 5 speed Mazda trans, 2wd

It has 140,000 miles. Since I bought it in 99 w 35,000 miles it's had (besides oil and filters)

1 evap emission system valve (warranty)

2 sets of plugs

1 set of wires

1 IAC valve

2 timing belts (preventative)

1 timing belt tensioner

1 timing belt spring

1 upper and 1 lower water outlet tube (rust)

1 tstat

2 sets front calipers & pads

2 brake lines (rust, just recently)

1 set front wheel bearings (both sides)

1 set rear drums

2 sets rear shoes

3 park brake cables

2 starters

1 battery

1 starter solenoid (my fault)

1 cam position sensor (wasn't the problem, bad ground was)

and a few misc bulbs and hoses and the like.

It still has the original clutch and trans (both getting a little tired but still work). It always starts and to this day doesn't burn enough oil to add any in the 6000 mile interval I use (Amsoil). It needs air bag crash sensors (rust) but I am too cheap to replace them.

While that seems like a long list that is in 9 years of driving that truck, 7 years of which it was my everyday ride. Most of the parts were after 100k. My only complaint is that the park brake cables and front calipers are lousy. This is on a little truck I paid $6600 for in 99 with 35000 miles on it. I couldn't be happier with it. The problem is that with all I have heard from you people and people in town I am aftraid to buy a newer Ford. I currently drive a Silverado and a Mazda3.

On to the issues you guys have with Ford. I work at a tier 1 supplier. We make the transfer cases for all three domestic truck makers. The stuff we do to cut costs is unreal. It makes me sick. Hundreds of people like myself spend their 8 hours a day trying to take pennies out of the truck. I could tell you what Ford pays for the tcase in your F350 but I shouldn't and you'd be disgusted anyway.

As for warranty issues, I don't think your happiness is high on the list of the Detroit 3 at this point. They are more concerned with saving cash. The only warranty problems that will really get your attention or get a truck bough back are the ones that pose a safety threat that could get the OEM sued.

[chtucker]

This is ALOT for only 140,000 miles

1 evap emission system valve (warranty)
2 sets of plugs
1 set of wires
1 IAC valve
2 timing belts (preventative)
1 timing belt tensioner
1 timing belt spring
1 upper and 1 lower water outlet tube (rust)
1 tstat
2 sets front calipers & pads
2 brake lines (rust, just recently)
1 set front wheel bearings (both sides)
1 set rear drums
2 sets rear shoes
3 park brake cables
2 starters
1 battery
1 starter solenoid (my fault)
1 cam position sensor (wasn't the problem, bad ground was)


My 1994 Land Cruiser has only needed CV joints at 165,000 miles due to lack of previous owner care... It still has the original wire set that test OK.

My 1991 Honda Accord went 270,000 miles till I gave it away

My 2001 Ford Excursion was falling apart when I sold it in the fall of 2005.

Your thoughts are not really applicable to most here. What we are complaining about is Fords, mostly superduties made withing the last 10 years.

Lucky for you, the transfer case has been reliable:grinz

[BrockwayMT]

The man who was the principal engineer for the NV271/273 in your super duty Fords used to work at ALCO and thus liked things 'heavy duty.'

The fate of the SD trucks going forward will be interesting. The consensus in the industry right now is that the price of fuel [although down at the moment] along with all the 'green' awareness is going to put an end to air-haulers. Thus far fewer SD pickups will be sold. However, it may force them to be a better truck because the majority of the fewer sold will be legitmately used [towing, plowing, etc]. This could be a big boost to the quality of the trucks. Unfortunately the price will also go up. With falling volume the price will likely go up whether quality does or not.

I deal with full size trucks everyday and have come to be pretty neutral. Among Ford, GM, and Chrysler they work out about even overall. They all have their issues. A little of it is luck whether you get a good one or a bad one. There's something to be said for 'Friday' and 'third shift' vehicles and components.

If you guys didn't buy automatics that would elim a lot of your problems...lol..although ZF's have their issues as well.

[chtucker]

The man who was the principal engineer for the NV271/273 in your super duty Fords used to work at ALCO and thus liked things 'heavy duty.'

The fate of the SD trucks going forward will be interesting. The consensus in the industry right now is that the price of fuel [although down at the moment] along with all the 'green' awareness is going to put an end to air-haulers. Thus far fewer SD pickups will be sold. However, it may force them to be a better truck because the majority of the fewer sold will be legitmately used [towing, plowing, etc]. This could be a big boost to the quality of the trucks. Unfortunately the price will also go up. With falling volume the price will likely go up whether quality does or not.

I deal with full size trucks everyday and have come to be pretty neutral. Among Ford, GM, and Chrysler they work out about even overall. They all have their issues. A little of it is luck whether you get a good one or a bad one. There's something to be said for 'Friday' and 'third shift' vehicles and components.

If you guys didn't buy automatics that would elim a lot of your problems...lol..although ZF's have their issues as well.

I don't think there have been many problems with the Allison or the new Aisins

[atgreene]

The man who was the principal engineer for the NV271/273 in your super duty Fords used to work at ALCO and thus liked things 'heavy duty.'

The fate of the SD trucks going forward will be interesting. The consensus in the industry right now is that the price of fuel [although down at the moment] along with all the 'green' awareness is going to put an end to air-haulers. Thus far fewer SD pickups will be sold. However, it may force them to be a better truck because the majority of the fewer sold will be legitmately used [towing, plowing, etc]. This could be a big boost to the quality of the trucks. Unfortunately the price will also go up. With falling volume the price will likely go up whether quality does or not.

I deal with full size trucks everyday and have come to be pretty neutral. Among Ford, GM, and Chrysler they work out about even overall. They all have their issues. A little of it is luck whether you get a good one or a bad one. There's something to be said for 'Friday' and 'third shift' vehicles and components.

If you guys didn't buy automatics that would elim a lot of your problems...lol..although ZF's have their issues as well.


Have you tried to buy a standard in a 3/4 or 1 ton? Can't be done. You have to order it and then you get looked at like you have 3 heads. I'd rather plow with a standard, grew up in standard trucks, always plowed with standards until I bought my '98. Found I had more control with a standard on steep terrain and icey roads, that, and with the hand held plow controlers and hydro clutches, standards are pretty simple. I've been through 3 4L80E trannies, clutches are cheap in comparison.

[BASIC]

I had a 1999 F350,PSD,manual trans,the hyd.line to the clutch failed as well as the throw out bearing,I bought the manual because I thought it would be bullet proof,it wasn't.I would go back to a manual though.
Ron

[Mark Oomkes]

If you guys didn't buy automatics that would elim a lot of your problems...lol..although ZF's have their issues as well.

I think you need to take a closer look at the list of issues. While the Torqshift has been an issue because Ford tried to 'soften' shifts for all the idiots out there that HAD to have a SD for getting groceries; many, many of the problems listed that you seemed to have overlooked have much more to do with lack of training of Ford techs, lack of service abilities of Ford dealerships, and Ford losing their ass on warranty work with the new SD's--specifically the 6.0 and Torqshift debacle--thereby screwing customers out of deserved warranty work that is what has caused the lack of satisfaction. Not automatic transmissions.

Nothing personal, but to say that a standard transmission will solve all the problems\satisfy customers is rather short-sighted IMHDAO.

[Sbrem]

Have you tried to buy a standard in a 3/4 or 1 ton? Can't be done. You have to order it and then you get looked at like you have 3 heads.

If you can deal with having a Ford, the local dealer here usually has a few 6 speeds on the lot. I took a look today and all they currently have with a 6 speed is an F-550, but in the past there are usually a few manual pickups. I was able to get my '05 off the lot.

[BrockwayMT]

Have you tried to buy a standard in a 3/4 or 1 ton? Can't be done. You have to order it and then you get looked at like you have 3 heads.

I'm the guy with three heads. GM no longer offers manual, Dodge & Ford still do for the time being.

Mark - You're right. I was being sarcastic about buying manuals.

As I may have mentioned before I work for a tier I powertrain supplier. The sad truth is right now it seems the OEMs aren't overly concerned with warranty. Their mind is on conserving cash. The only way to get real attention out of them is with a warranty concern that could lead to litigation - ie brakes, fire hazard, etc. It's very short sighted because good warranty resolution for customers is their future, but thats not the concern right now. This months balance sheet is the concern right now.

[BRUNSWICK CONCRETE]

I think manual trannies will be done soon . There will be alot less build options too . :popcorn2