Most common 1997 Ford F-53 problems
Share of the 3 complaints; one complaint can involve more than one system. "~" is the median mileage when the problem started.
Ford F-53 complaints by model year
Best F-53 years: 2022. Years to avoid: 2014, 2020, 2016. Compare all years →
1997 Ford F-53 recalls (2)
Vehicle speed control › Cruise control
Ford is recalling 225,000 my 1992-2003 econoline, my 1993-1995 taurus sho, my 1992-1998 crown victoria, my 1993 bronco, f-series, my 1995-1997 f-series super duty stripped chassis, my 1992-1998 Mercury grand marquis, and my 1992-1995 Lincoln town car vehicles.
Remedy: Dealers will install a new wiring harness, or replace the mating electrical component. The recall began on February 18, 2008. Owners May contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673.
Vehicle speed control
On certain pickup trucks, passenger vehicles, sport utility vehicles, and motor homes chassis, the speed control deactivation switch May, under certain conditions, leak internally and then overheat, smoke, or burn.
Remedy: Dealers will install a fused wiring harness. Owners of the passenger cars included in this campaign will be instructed to return their vehicles to their dealers to have the speed control deactivation switch disconnected…
Frequently asked questions
Is the 1997 Ford F-53 a good car?
Based on 3 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 1997 F-53 rates average: 65% fewer complaints than a typical year of the F-53 at the same age. Complaint counts don't account for sales volume or individual maintenance, so have any used car inspected before buying.
What is the most common problem with the 1997 Ford F-53?
The suspension — 1 complaint, 33% of all complaints for this model year, most often about rear. Next are the speed control & acceleration (1) and transmission & drivetrain (1).
How many recalls does the 1997 Ford F-53 have?
There are 2 recalls for the 1997 Ford F-53, the most recent from February 4, 2008 (cruise control). Recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer — check whether yours has been done with the VIN recall check.
What are the best and worst years of the Ford F-53?
The best years by complaints, compared at the same age, are 2022. Years to avoid or approach with caution: 2014, 2020 and 2016. See the full Ford F-53 years comparison.
At what mileage do 1997 Ford F-53 problems happen?
The median mileage reported in complaints is about 45,000 miles; 100% of problems with a recorded mileage started before 50,000 miles.
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.