2008 Ford Econoline Cargo Review
2008 Ford Econoline Cargo Review
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Impressive payload capacity, improved handling, powerful gas and diesel engine options, top-notch reliability.
Cons
- Weak standard V8s, minimal safety features, unwieldy maneuverability, not as many configurations as Dodge Sprinter.
What’s new
Ford significantly updates its E-Series "Econoline" full-size commercial and passenger vans for the first time in years with a bold new look up front and an upgraded chassis underneath offering improved handling and braking along with greater load-carrying capability. An engine-only traction control system is also available on most models.
Edmunds says
A top seller with a reputation for outstanding reliability, the 2008 Ford Econoline Cargo delivers improved handling dynamics this year and catches up to modern rivals from GM and Dodge.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2008 Ford Econoline Cargo E-150 3dr Van (4.6L 8cyl 4A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of N/A undefined in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
Not EPA tested for Econoline Cargo E-150
Econoline Cargo E-150
vs
$322/mo
Avg. Midsize Van
Vehicle overview
As a fixture on America's highways since way back in 1961, the Ford E-Series (a.k.a. Econoline) currently accounts for about half of the full-size passenger and cargo vans sold in this country. Offering lots of space, versatility and durability, this rear-wheel-drive cargo van has long been a staple of commercial fleets, independent contractors and small businesses that need to transport materials and equipment economically.
While popular, Ford's van has suffered from antiquated underpinnings that lagged behind more modern rivals from GM and Dodge. The 2008 Ford Econoline Cargo addresses many of our complaints by modernizing the handling dynamics with a revised front and rear suspension, more refined steering and an all-new braking system. These changes promise to elevate the drivability and ride of Ford's vans to a level similar to the Chevrolet Express/GMC Savana twins and Dodge's Sprinter, its chief rivals that have already received engineering upgrades in recent years.
Not much has changed inside, but the latest E-Series is visually distinguished from its predecessors outside with a rugged new front end treatment borrowed from Ford's Super Duty trucks featuring a new grille, bumpers, fascia and headlamps. Ford is obviously hoping for a more macho look here, though it's not entirely cohesive in our opinion.
Those chassis and suspension improvements made to the 2008 E-Series have not only resulted in a better riding and handling vehicle than in the past, but also one that can handle especially heavy loads. The 2008 E-350 Super Duty, for example, offers a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 9,500 pounds and a maximum available payload of 4,110 pounds -- meaning many customers won't have to move up to larger, truly heavy-duty van-based cutaways to meet their needs.
Carrying over are a multitude of choices in terms of power and hauling capability, depending on the size and weight of the gear you need to carry. With four engine/transmission combinations utilizing gas or diesel power, several different capacities, sliding or swing-out side doors, and standard or extended lengths, buyers will need to pay close attention to E-Series specifications in order to choose the particular combination that best fits their needs.
The 2008 Ford Econoline Cargo lineup starts off with the E-150, which should be more than sufficient for many customers given its 3,340-pound maximum payload rating. For heavier-duty needs there are the E-250 and E-250 Extended with its 20 additional inches of length and 52 extra cubic feet of cargo space. And for those who truly need to maximize their hauling capability in a standard-issue full-size van, there's the E-350 Super Duty and longer E-350 Super Duty Extended variant.
With its makeover for 2008, the Ford E-Series is much closer to its rivals, especially in terms of road-going dynamics. Thanks to its high-roof options, the Dodge Sprinter offers the most cargo-friendly compartment (that you can walk upright in), while its class-best build quality and fuel economy make it the best choice for those with a bit more cash to spend. The Ford therefore aligns better with GM's Express and Savana (which feature mildly updated interiors this year), as they too feature a more traditional American work van design, providing a similarly rugged chassis design, ample interior space and torque-rich engines. However, the 2008 Ford Econoline Cargo is probably the preferred choice for heavy-duty users with its combination of high payload ratings, available diesel V8 and gasoline V10 engines, and legendary reliability record. If that describes what you're looking for, you won't go wrong choosing a 2008 Ford E-Series work van -- just ask five decades worth of customers.
Performance & mpg
E-Series cargo van buyers have four different engines to choose from, all sending power to the rear wheels. The standard 4.6-liter V8 on E-150 and E-250 models is rated at 225 horsepower and 286 pound-feet of torque. A larger 5.4-liter V8 putting out 255 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque is optional (and recommended) on these models, and standard on the E-350 Super Duty. These two gas V8s are backed by a four-speed automatic transmission. Engine upgrades on E-350 Super Dutys include a 6.8-liter V10 good for 305 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque, or a durable and more economical 6.0-liter Power Stroke turbodiesel V8 that produces 235 horses and 440 lb-ft of torque. These larger optional engines are coupled to a five-speed automatic transmission. Maximum tow ratings range from 6,000 pounds for a base E-150 to 10,000 pounds for a properly equipped E-350 Super Duty with 4.10 gearing and the V10 or diesel engine option. The Econoline Cargo's Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) -- the maximum amount a vehicle can carry including passengers, cargo and trailer -- ranges from 11,500 pounds on the E-150 to an impressive 20,000 pounds on a properly equipped E-350 Super Duty.
Safety
All 2008 Ford Econoline Cargo vans come standard with four-wheel antilock disc brakes and a manual deactivation switch for the passenger-side airbag. A reverse-sensing system is available, as is traction control on all E-Series models.
Driving
It takes a lot of grunt to get more than 2.5 tons rolling, so we recommend the more powerful optional 5.4-liter gas V8 on the E-150 and E-250 models. With the 2008 Ford E-350 Super Duty vans, our choice is the available diesel V8 due to its superior torque and added cruising range. However, if you're partial to abundant power in a gasoline engine, Ford is the only manufacturer that offers a V10 in a full-size van. The E-Series benefits from improved ride and handling dynamics this year that give it a newfound confidence on the road, but despite its chassis improvements this is still a massive full-size vehicle with a huge turning circle that can make it awkward to maneuver in city traffic. But that's a minor consideration in a commercial vehicle and certainly understandable given the substantial amount of equipment and materials this van can transport in an enclosed and relatively economical manner.
Interior
E-Series Cargo vans practically define the term "stripped," but can be made a bit more civilized by adding an optional second-row bench, front captain's chairs, insulation package, side or rear window glass and/or a sliding side cargo door. Unlike the Dodge Sprinter, there is no optional driver side door, nor different roof heights. Standard-length vans have a maximum cargo capacity of 230 cubic feet, while extended-length vans check in with a voluminous 271 cubic feet of space.
2008 Ford Econoline Cargo models
The 2008 Ford Econoline commercial van is offered to the public in half-ton, 3/4-ton and 1-ton sizes. Shoppers with lighter-capacity needs can start with the E-150 model, while those with more demanding requirements should focus on the E-250 and E-350 SD models. These heavier-duty vehicles come in two different lengths -- 212 inches for the regular version and 232 inches for the Extended model -- and can haul more than 2 tons of gear in the case of the E-350 Super Duty van. Standard Ford cargo vans are pretty basic with 16-inch steel wheels, front vinyl bucket seats, air-conditioning, tilt steering wheel, manual mirrors and an AM/FM radio. Functional extras include halogen headlights, a second-row bench seat, upgraded towing packages, a limited-slip differential and performance axle ratios for increased towing capacity. Those desiring more creature comforts and style can spring for forged aluminum wheels, interior insulation, cloth upholstery, captain's chairs, cruise control, keyless entry, powered accessories and a six-speaker CD stereo. For tradespeople who demand organization, Ford also offers several special packages that equip the E-Series with a variety of racks, bins and drawers.
I'm Not Sold on Our Long-Term Ford F-150 Lightning
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
2 out of 5 stars2/5Average
#21 out of 24 among Commercial Vans
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Ford Econoline Cargo from 2008-2022.$952/yr
vs. $851/yr
for Average Commercial Van
for Average Commercial Van
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).2.05x/yr
vs. 1.96x/yr
for Average Commercial Van
for Average Commercial Van
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).21.4%
vs. 17.8%
for Average Commercial Van
for Average Commercial Van
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2008 Ford Econoline Cargo.
5 star(41%)
4 star(43%)
3 star(13%)
2 star(3%)
1 star(0%)
31 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
3 out of 5 stars
Clunky old van but very reliable
Chris, 02/21/2016
2006 Ford Econoline Cargo E-250 3dr Van (4.6L 8cyl 4A)
Pros -
- Great power when needed, used this for hauling supplies and pulling trailers
- Starts at first key even in zero degrees
- The car can take a beating, great chassis and suspensions. The body is all steel, feels like a tank
- Lots of room in the dashboard for tools, cups of coffee, etc
- Great 360 degree visibility
-smooth ride
Cons-
- gas milage, but for what i use it for i'll … give it a pass
- Doors, windows, mirrors are all clunky and terribly designed. Basically any moving parts will start to rattle or screetch, the back doors wont close right unless you SLAM them, which is bad if you have a night job or early morning shift where all your neighbors are sleeping.
- Had a handful of electrical problems - tail lights going out, headlights, alternator, starter, battery corrosion
- Replaced several fuel filters because the fuel tank rusted and kept getting rust in the filters
- Steering is wobbly
- Loud idle
- Seating position is awkward which makes it hard to get in and out smoothly
- lots of screws popping out in the cargo area will get your clothes ripped
- The cargo floor needs to be thicker metal becasue it warped from the weight
4.25 out of 5 stars
Excellent workhorse
rgold28, 11/18/2006
2006 Ford Econoline Cargo E-150 3dr Van (4.6L 8cyl 4A)
This van I chose for cost and convenience. Compared it to the Chevy and the Dodge Sprinter. Even loaded and pulling a trailer this van still has power to move. The Chevy with the 4.3 litre 6 did not have it. Warranty, cost of ownership and the reliability of Ford Motor company. The fuel economy is no where near where they stated at 19. It's more like 12-15. It has a decent radio and to … add cruise control costs an arm and a leg since it needs to be added by replacing the entire steering column. They told me differently at the dealer. Overall experience is excellent and i am very happy with this van. It's the best choice unless you want to pay $8k more for the Sprinter.
5 out of 5 stars
Solid, well built, dependable
sac7000, 06/10/2003
2003 Ford Econoline Cargo E-150 3dr Van (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
After one month of ownership I am very
happy with my new van. Very well built,
extremely quiet, even more quiet then
my 1997 Chevy Cavilier was. Handles
like a dream with excellent visiblity
and a solid braking when needed. I
bought this van remembering how much
fun I had owning a 78 Ford van years
ago. It's big, it's comfortable and I
feel very safe in it.
4.25 out of 5 stars
350,000 miles going strong
dlf105, 04/20/2010
2003 Ford Econoline Cargo E-250 3dr Ext Van (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
I bought this van over a year ago with 330,000 miles on it, its the ext. 3/4 ton version with a 4.6l. I was skeptical at first but for $1500 I figured it was worth a shot. We drive it everywhere, its been on several 6-8 hours trips. I use it to haul Mx bikes to the races. The 4.6l gets around 16-17 mpg on the highway fully loaded which is 4 bikes, 4 guys and all of our gear for a … weekend of racing and riding. If you need something to haul stuff, this is it. Find one that was well maintained and you can't go wrong.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2008 Ford Econoline Cargo, so we've included reviews for other years of the Econoline Cargo since its last redesign.
2008 Econoline Cargo Highlights
E-150
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $23,940 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Seating | 2 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 236.5 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Econoline Cargo include:
- Tire Pressure Warning
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