2005 Ford E-350 used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• Engine stalls while driving12 owner complaints, usually around 67,294 miles

  Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.

• Check engine light9 owner complaints, usually around 12,881 miles

  Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.

• Engine failure8 owner complaints

  Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• EquipmentRecall number 11V131000, Feb 24, 2011
• Equipment adaptive/mobilityRecall number 09V325000, Aug 3, 2009
• Equipment adaptive/mobilityRecall number 09V326000, Aug 3, 2009
• Equipment adaptive/mobilityRecall number 09V306000, Jul 29, 2009
• Equipment adaptive/mobilityRecall number 09V275000, Jul 15, 2009
• Equipment adaptive/mobilityRecall number 09V271000, Jul 14, 2009
• Equipment adaptive/mobilityRecall number 09V100000, Mar 27, 2009
• Equipment adaptive/mobilityRecall number 09V102000, Mar 27, 2009
• Equipment adaptive/mobilityRecall number 09V016000, Jan 16, 2009
• Equipment adaptive/mobilityRecall number 09V015000, Jan 15, 2009
• Equipment adaptive/mobilityRecall number 09V014000, Jan 14, 2009
• Equipment adaptive/mobilityRecall number 08V518000, Oct 6, 2008
• Equipment adaptive/mobilityRecall number 08V519000, Oct 6, 2008
• Electrical systemRecall number 05V270000, Jun 10, 2005

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• Ford: on some trucks, there is a no crank situation and if voltage on transmission range sensor at pin 21,...Feb 1, 2014
• Ford: there may be a lack of RPM, hesitation, or rough running concerns when the vehicle is in idleNov 17, 2010
• Ford/mercury/lincoln: vehicles may exhibit one or more of the following symptoms: drive away hesitation,...Jun 1, 2009
• Ford: some vehicles equipped with 6.0L diesel engine may exhibit any one or combination of the following...May 1, 2009
• Ford trucks: misfire, lack of power, buck/jerk, excessive smoke, crank/no start-diagnostics for fuel systemMar 20, 2009
• Ford: 6.0L diesel hard start/long crank/no start du to low injector control pressure (ICP)Oct 23, 2008

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.