1999 Ford F-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.

• Tire blowout or tread separation50 owner complaints, usually around 114,124 miles

  Check the tire age (the DOT date on the sidewall), the tread depth and any uneven wear.

• Engine stalls while driving16 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.

• Airbags did not deploy in a crash15 owner complaints

  Make sure the airbag warning light turns off after start-up, and that every airbag recall was completed.

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.

• Vehicle speed controlRecall number 06V286000, Aug 1, 2006
• Parking brakeRecall number 02V068000, Mar 11, 2002
• Fuel system, gasolineRecall number 99V311000, Nov 4, 1999
• Fuel system, gasolineRecall number 99V219000, Aug 12, 1999
• Fuel system, gasolineRecall number 99V093001, Apr 27, 1999
• Fuel system, gasolineRecall number 99V093002, Apr 27, 1999
• Vehicle speed controlRecall number 99V062001, Mar 30, 1999
• Air bagsRecall number 98V303000, Dec 1, 1998
• SteeringRecall number 98V116000, May 29, 1998
• Parking brakeRecall number 98V101000, May 15, 1998
• Electrical systemRecall number 98V056000, Mar 12, 1998
• EquipmentRecall number 98V055000, Mar 10, 1998

Service bulletins worth asking about

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

• A cold weather reverse engagement stallJan 1, 2005
• Vacuum pump inoperative or runs continuously - climate control defaults to defrostOct 1, 2004
• Rear axle popping/chatter noise - dana 80 model dual rear wheel (DRW)Aug 23, 2004
• Excessive drive-away shudder or vibration under moderate to heavy acceleration from a stopMay 1, 2004
• Steering wheel fight after riding over bumps/rutsSep 1, 2003
• Some vehicles equipped with the dual rear wheel (DRW) rear axle may exhibit a tactile popping or audible...Aug 18, 2003

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.