Which parts fail
Components named in complaints (service brakes, ABS, rotors and pads, parking brake).
Mileage when the problem started
Owner reports
Selected complaints filed with NHTSA by 1997 Ford Econoline owners, lightly cleaned up (personal details are redacted by NHTSA).
Tl contact owns a 1997 Ford Econoline. The contact stated that while driving at any speed, the brakes malfunctioned. The contact had to apply the brakes several times before they would engage. The vehicle had not been inspected or repaired. The manufacturer, when called, stated that the master cylinder May have needed to be replaced. The failure mileage was approximately 89,400. Updated 01/04/11 the consumer stated the master cylinder was replaced. However, that did not resolve the problem. The consumer was then informed the anti-lock brake block was bad. Updated 01/11/11.
Was driving vehicle when another vehicle stopped short suddenly. Applied brakes (ABS) & brakes failed. Rearended other vehicles. Took vehicle to dealer & mechanic changed master cylinder, but it did not solve problem. Brake pedal goes to the floor when ABS are pumping.
Consumer was driving approximately 4-5 MPH, made a u-turn and pressed hand brake and van accelerated to high speed, consumer rearended vehicle in front. Also, had to replace master cylinder/ heater core/premature worn out tires, and starter.
Since we've had the van. The brakes have given us problems, and the dealer worked on the vehicle multiple times. It is evident that they had no clue how to fix the problem! The first major repair was done on 1/28/98 and 12362 miles.. The dealer has now been bought out by classic, and they have been no help at all!!! I've talked to other people with e-150s who report similar problems! I've replaced the rotors/calipers, shoes ,and continue to have problems getting the vehicle antilock system to work properly!
This vehicle has had multiple brake failures. Before the warranty ran out at 36K, the dealer replaced the front brakes two times. Since then I have had the pads replaced and/or rotors turned at least three times more. Now, only 2K miles after the last rotor replacement, the brakes are failing again - I.e., the steering wheel vibrates when the brakes are applied, particularly from speeds greater than 45 MPH.
The anti-lock brakes do not function properly. I noted the fist occurrence only, there have been 4 addional occurrences of the same problem. The anti-lock system engages, clamps hard one time and then releases. This leaves you free rolling until it decides to continue or you take your foot up and reapply the brakes. When it does continue on its own the steering wheel shakes violently.
Was coming to a stop brake pedal went to floor. No brakes. Was towed to service station. Mechanic said ABS brakes were not working. Towed to dealership. Brake pads replaced & rotors turned. Problem returned. Back at dealershp & rotors replaced. Problem still existed. Back again to dealer & calipers replaced. Was told things were fine. Took vehicle around corner & no brakes at all.
Brake pedal needs to be pressed hard to bring vehicle to a stop. This results in extended stopping distance. Dealer notified on three occasions, and informed consumer that was normal condition of that type of vehicle. Seeking answers in this matter from NHTSA.
This is the second time that consumer had to replace brakes pad & rotors. Brakes were making a grinding noise and there was no warning when fading. Dealer said it just happened sometimes from alot of weight. Consumer replaced them again on 11-aug-2000.
Whenever ABS brakes are applied, either on dry/damp pavement, vehicle would not slow down. It would suddenly pick up speed. Happens at low speed (30mph or less). Have taken to dealer & told could not locate problem.
Brake complaints in other Econoline years
Frequently asked questions
How common are brake problems on the 1997 Ford Econoline?
NHTSA has 20 complaints about the brakes of the 1997 Ford Econoline, 25% of the model year's 79 complaints. The component named most often is antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip (14 mentions).
Is there a recall for 1997 Ford Econoline brake problems?
No. NHTSA lists no brakes recall for the 1997 Ford Econoline, though it has 2 recalls for other components. If the problem is widespread, a repair may still be covered by an extended warranty or a manufacturer service bulletin — ask a dealer.
At what mileage do 1997 Ford Econoline brake problems start?
Half of the complaints with a recorded mileage happened before about 89,000 miles.
Is it dangerous?
Owners linked 4 crashes, 0 fires and 0 injuries to brakes problems on this model year. If you notice symptoms, have the car checked before driving further.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.