1997 Ford F-250 Problems: 3 Known Issues
1997 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated October 2026
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 1997 Ford F-250 has 3 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is Recall 11V385000: Corroded Fuel Tank Straps on Salt-Belt 1997-1999 F-250 (Under 8,500 lbs GVWR). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $200 to $2,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
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All 3 Known Issues
NHTSA Recalls29 recalls
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
ON CERTAIN TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH SPEED CONTROL, GASOLINE OR NATURAL GAS ENGINES, THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH MAY OVERHEAT.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
CERTAIN EAGLE EYES HEADLAMPS, P/NOS. FR208-B101R, FR208-B101L, FR208-B001R, AND FR208-B001L, SOLD FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE PHOTOMETRIC REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
CERTAIN MAXZONE HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLIES, DEPO BRAND, P/NOS. 331-1129L-ASN AND 331-1129R-ASN, SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE PHOTOMETRIC REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH SPEED CONTROL, THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH MAY OVERHEAT, SMOKE, OR BURN.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Ford F-250 problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 1997 Ford F-250 has 3 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Recall 11V385000: Corroded Fuel Tank Straps on Salt-Belt 1997-1999 F-250 (Under 8,500 lbs GVWR), 7.3L IDI/Powerstroke Injector Failure, 7.3L Diesel Glow Plug and Relay Failure. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Ford F-250 reliable?
The 1997 Ford F-250 has 3 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 1 issue is rated critical: Recall 11V385000: Corroded Fuel Tank Straps on Salt-Belt 1997-1999 F-250 (Under 8,500 lbs GVWR). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Ford F-250 problems?
Repair costs for known Ford F-250 issues range from $200 to $2,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 1997-1999 Ford F-250 Recall 11V385000: Corroded Fuel Tank Straps on Salt-Belt 1997-1999 F-250 (Under 8,500 lbs GVWR)?
NHTSA recall campaign 11V385000 covers 1997-1999 Ford F-250 pickups rated under 8,500 lbs GVWR, built between June 20, 1995 and August 4, 2004, that were originally sold in or are currently registered in the road-salt states: Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentuc… Severity: high.
What is the 1990-1997 Ford F-250 7.3L IDI/Powerstroke Injector Failure?
The 7.3L diesel engines (IDI pre-1994, Powerstroke 1994+) experience injector failure causing rough running, hard starts, and excessive smoke. The IDI injectors are simpler mechanical units; Powerstroke uses HEUI hydraulic electronic injectors. Repairs typically run $800-$2,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 1990-1997 Ford F-250 7.3L Diesel Glow Plug and Relay Failure?
Glow plug failure is common on 7.3L diesel engines, causing hard cold starts. The glow plug relay (solenoid) also fails, preventing power from reaching functional glow plugs. Broken glow plug tips can also fall into the cylinder. Repairs typically run $200-$800. Severity: medium.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.