1996 Ford F-150 suspension problems

Filed Jul 11, 2008 · Suspension · 178,000 miles · OH

1996 ford f150 4 x 4-both rear brackets connecting the leaf springs (rear of vehicle) to the frame were terrible corroded and cracked. Mechanic was fearful of failure within a month or two. Replacement parts are only available from a ford dealership. Called local dealership and was assured parts available. Upon arrival at the dealership, not all parts available as demand had been so great they kept running out of the parts. I had to go to a different dealership to obtain the rest of the parts. The replacement parts were of significantly heavier build than original parts. Have since been informed by my mechanic and others that mid 90s ford 150s and explorers are losing the brackets en masse. I consider this a significant safety issue as an important chasis component is more than likely to fail. These older trucks are now being handed down to high school kids. A failure at highway speeds will surely lead to inexperienced drivers panicking and over correcting at the time of failure. There was no accident, but based on the demand at a single dealership (I was told at the parts department that they had received 12 request for the very same part in one day. All requests were for either 1996 f150s or 1996 explorers). I consider that statistically significant and wished to bring it to your attention. Thank you.

Filed Oct 14, 2005 · Suspension · 5,600 miles · ME

Oct 4, 2005-during annual state safety inspection, the inspector discoverewd that both front coil springs were broken. The breaks were aproximately 90 from the top end of each coil, leaving them unattached. The broken ends were rusty, so they had beejn in this condition for some time. The springs were replaced with new ones.

Filed Jan 16, 2005 · Suspension · OH

Noticed rear of truck was not level-noticed control difference on curves in road. Inspected truck and found right rear spring shackle rusted away. Parked truck until repairs are made. The old part is still on truck.

Filed Dec 4, 2001 · Suspension · MN

Front left spring coil broke, causeing excessive tire wear, brake/rotor failure, and diminished vehicle control at highway speeds. Expenses to repair defective spring and subsequent damage to brakes/rotors in excess of $500.00.

Filed Apr 24, 2001 · Suspension · PA

While driving and make a turn steering wheel shakes terribly.

Filed Apr 24, 2001 · Suspension · PA

When driving and hitting a rough service or pothole steering wheel shakes terribly, it will jump out of driver's hands.

Filed Feb 12, 2001 · Airbags, Steering · NY

Power steering hose rusted and developed a massive leak which caused no power steering ability. *ak wire harness for air bag sensor not operational. Both rear springs broke under light load resulting in steering and brake failure.

Filed Dec 3, 2000 · Suspension · TN

Loud popping noise. Dealer was no help. Independant repair shop found and replaced control arm bushings. Originals had chemically deteriorated from application of slovents at some point at assembly. Repairs cost me $400. Attachment points were worn to the point of being oblong.

Filed Oct 15, 2000 · Suspension · TX

Whem making turns (mostly noted at slow speeds) truck makes loud popping sound from underneath

Filed Mar 27, 2000 · Brakes, Suspension · TX

Put in new shock absorbers but brake lining rested against the shock absorbers which rubbed a hole through the metal, causing brake failure. Contacted dealer and manufacturer, but were not able to help. *ak