1997 Ford Econoline Engine cooling Problems
- Complaints
- 11about this part
- Share
- 14%of 79 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 106,000miles
- Trend
- Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.
NHTSA recorded 11 complaints about the engine cooling of the 1997 Ford Econoline, 14% of the 79 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 106,000 miles. 1 a fire, according to the filers.
Fewer than 15 complaints name this part, so treat the figures as a rough indication only.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“As I type this complaint, I am listening to secretary lahood,....if what he says is true I should hear something back from you fairly soon!! I have a complaint with the v10 Ford engine.....if you go to the internet and type in Ford v10 engine spark plug ejecting or anything similar to that inquiry you will get a host of complaints about the problems that I am experiencing. My 1997 Ford (motorhome) spit out a spark plug several month ago. Called Ford, they suggested that I have my mechanic install an insert to repair the stripped out head or replace the heads.....offered no other help. …”
NHTSA complaint #10313670, filed 2010-02, 82,000 miles“The contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle a loud clanging noise was heard. The vehicle was towed to the dealer who determined a piston rod was bent due to anti-freeze leaking into the piston cylinder and the engine needed to be replaced.”
NHTSA complaint #10164705, filed 2006-08, 130,000 miles“1997 Ford Econoline van. The spark-plug blew out of the aluminum triton engine destroying the existing threads. Fire hazard. Exposed fuel to engine compartment.”
NHTSA complaint #10419405, filed 2011-08“Consumer was driving vehicle at 55 MPH with cruise control engaged. All of a sudden heard a loud popping noise and the vehicle was filled with dark smoke. Consumer pulled vehicle over to the side when it became engulfed in flames. Emergency vehicle arrived on location and put the fire out. Vehicle was totaled, and is being inspected for cause. Condition is unknown at this time.”
NHTSA complaint #825042, filed 1998-07“Front engine timing cover is leaking coolant. Heater was not working, causing consumer to have it inspected. Coolant is leaking into engine, and slowly damaging engine. Dealer was contacted. Consumer states that the vehicle now needs a new engine.”
NHTSA complaint #8004956, filed 2002-03Engine cooling: other model years
| Year | Complaints | Share of year |
|---|---|---|
| 2003 | 4 | 18% |
| 2002 | 6 | 26% |
| 2001 | 4 | 14% |
| 2000 | 2 | 5% |
| 1999 | 14 | 17% |
| 1998 | 6 | 13% |
| 1997 | 11 | 14% |
| 1996 | 12 | 15% |
| 1995 | 7 | 10% |
| 1994 | 14 | 11% |
| 1993 | 9 | 14% |
| 1992 | 13 | 16% |
| 1991 | 5 | 21% |
| 1990 | 1 | 3% |
| 1989 | 5 | 16% |
| 1988 | 5 | 23% |
| 1987 | 1 | 7% |
| 1986 | 1 | 14% |
| 1984 | 2 | 29% |
Other parts of the 1997 Ford Econoline
20 complaintsTires
13 complaintsVisibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors)
9 complaintsSeat belts
7 complaintsVehicle speed control
7 complaintsSuspension
5 complaintsSteering
4 complaintsElectrical system
3 complaintsFuel system
3 complaintsSeats
3 complaintsBody and structure
3 complaintsAir bags
2 complaints
← All problems reported for the 1997 Ford Econoline
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 27, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology