Used 1997 Ford F-150 Consumer Reviews
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Best truck I ever owned
Jerrys Truck, 11/29/2006
1997 Ford F-150 XLT 3dr Extended Cab SB (4.2L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
66 of 69 people found this review helpful
I now have 275,000 miles on my 97 F150. The only thing I have had to do to it is new front brake pads, new fan belt, 1 new battery, change plugs and plug wires twice, 3 sets of tires, 1 set of shocks, 1 coil pack, and kept the oil changed. Everything else is original. If this truck was to quit on me today I would buy another one. I park it on a concrete driveway every day and there is not one drop of fluid where it sits. I love driving a truck that is paid for and I can depend on!
Good Truck
TN, 02/26/2006
1997 Ford F-150 XLT 3dr Extended Cab SB (4.2L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
34 of 35 people found this review helpful
I bought this new in 1997 and put on 151,000 miles on it in 9 years. It is well built and reliable. The only unscheduled repair was when the transmission broke at 98,000 miles. It was rebuilt for $2,000. Otherwise, absolutely no problems. Now at 151,000 miles it needs some repair but it shouldn't be too bad considering the low repair history so far. I'd say investing $2,000 now would buy me another 3 years of trouble free driving. Don't be afraid to grab one of these used if it has a clean bill of health. It will last you a long time.
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Couldn't Ask For Anything Else
Great Truck, 01/01/2005
1997 Ford F-150 XLT 3dr Extended Cab SB (4.2L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
27 of 28 people found this review helpful
Bought it new. Original brakes lasted 80k and first set of tires lasted 90k. Unbelievable but true. One breakdown in 8 years (ignition interlock). Plan on keeping it for as long as possible.
All '97 5.4 L Knock on cold start up (overbore)
Jerry Myers, 01/20/2016
1997 Ford F-150 Lariat 3dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.6L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
30 of 32 people found this review helpful
Ford discovered a calibration error on the block boring machine that ended up over boring the early 5.4L engines for all of '97 and half of '98. This was discovered (especially up north) when many fleet trucks with this new modular engine began to knock like a rod bearing going out during cold weather start-up after approximately 85,000 miles. After engine warm up or in warm weather (well above freezing temperature) the knock subsides (metals expand in heat). Apparently, according to the tech bulletin issued in late '98-'99, the cylinders in the 5.4 L's we're accidentally over bored causing piston slap when cold during startup, and stated it would not harm the engine or interfere with function or performance. After purchasing a 35,000 lariat 4x4, I found the news disappointing at best and little consolation for owners that have to listen to an annoying knock in the engine until warm-up of the engine or warm weather (which ever comes first). Mine has over 160,000 miles as of this note date, and has not burned oil, but simply irritates me that Ford would not do anything about it (expense of putting oversized pistons in these engines to cure the issue). WARNING: AVOID the 5.4L engine in the '97 and most of the '98 Ford vehicles at all cost. Beyond that they're good engines!
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300, 000 miles little work
arobe, 08/05/2012
1997 Ford F-150 XLT 3dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.6L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
33 of 36 people found this review helpful
I bought my truck in 2000 w/ 54,000 miles on it. I just broke 300,000 miles with maintenance consisting of oil changes, brakes, heater core, basically a new front end, starter, and alternator. I had an 86 f150 prior, thought it was the best truck ever. i was wrong this one was. the sad part of the story is the motor just locked up on me. However, i will either put in a new one or buy another 1997 with 100 or so thousand miles. can't say enough good things about this truck! it may be 15 years old, but if u can get ur hands on one for a decent price, run with it. Born and raised a ford man
A great full size truck
Daniel, 05/17/2016
1997 Ford F-150 XLT 3dr Extended Cab LB (4.2L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
I went to ford and don't see myself going back! 4.6 liter engine in this truck sounds great and is known to be a famous engine. Interior and quality surpasses the Chevy products I've had. Very smooth ride and well worth getting an older model to save a little money. The 4.2 v6 and 5.4 v8 are also available, but I have heard they had more frequent problems than the 4.6. Then again you mainly read reviews from only Unsatisfied buys.
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a truck that ca ntake a beating but keep on ticking
jbscrappy, 12/07/2012
1997 Ford F-150 XLT 3dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.6L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
12 of 13 people found this review helpful
i got the 1997 ford f-150 with the 5.4 V-8 with a milage meter on in it that has rolled over twice and now sitting at over 290 thousand been threw hell an back but still keeps on goin with only a new belts a battery alternator regular oil changes an trans fluid this truck is one of the best trucks on the road to date even with it's flaws due to being old and high milage
)ver all GREAT TRUCK
Scott, 10/15/2015
updated 10/22/2018
1997 Ford F-150 2dr Regular Cab 4WD LB (4.2L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
Very fuel effishent and does what it should do for a truck of this size, and will even do what it shoud'nt beable to do. I have polled a trailer with 4000lbs of wood with another 1000lbs of wood in the back and have towed it 50mi with alot of up hill and it did slow on the hills but for the amount of weight I was moveing it does awsome and it has never let me down yet.
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Fantastic Vehicle
Mark, 01/26/2016
1997 Ford F-150 Lariat 3dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.6L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
15 of 17 people found this review helpful
My Father bought this pickup, brand new, in 1997. Since then the only repairs we have needed to do are basic maintenance, brakes, oil changes, air filters, so on and so forth. Lucky for me, he handed it down to me free of charge about a year ago (late 2014) with 125,000 miles on it. It now has 150,000 miles on it, which isn't a lot but I have a very heavy foot and the v-8 sounds great and pushes the truck forward with a lot of force. Not having 4-wheel drive in the winter can be annoying but it still gets me where I'm going.
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Good American Product
hydropump, 10/07/2006
1997 Ford F-150 XLT 3dr Extended Cab SB (4.2L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
10 of 11 people found this review helpful
Good experience, drives easily. Minor problems recently with "fault light" erratic turn on/off. No material structural problems. Normal tire wear. No alignment problems. This is my most recent Ford and much better service than 1988 and 1978 similar versions.
My '97 Used P/U
Jack Latty, 03/31/2005
1997 Ford F-150 2dr Regular Cab 4WD LB (4.2L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Vehicle has been very good. It has done all I've asked of it, both in a "fun" situation and in a work situation. It handles well, however, fuel economy, particularly in light of extremely high fuel prices, could be better. It averages only about 14 MPG. I have a '01 Expedition, with a larger engine that gets much better mileage. (P/U has a 4.6 V8, Expedition has a 5.4 V8) I would not hesitate to recommend this year model to anyone looking for a good used P/U.
Best truck I ever had
Steve, 03/10/2010
1997 Ford F-150 XLT 3dr Extended Cab SB (4.2L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I had to replace my exhaust manifold as soon as I bought it. It was the poor quality factory bolts. I put in 2 starters, the 1st replacement starter was bad. I get oil on the spark plug nearest the passenger side firewall. That causes my idiot light to come on and stay on. Having said all of that it is still the best truck in every way I have ever owned.
1997 F150 4x4 Short bed Exteded cab Lariat
Donald, 05/13/2016
1997 Ford F-150 Lariat 3dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.6L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
This is a great truck... was bought new at kendall ford in eugene oregon.. and was handed down to me with 165K miles and now its pushing 240K miles and still runs and drives great... has stock motor and its on second auto trans.. this truck is fantastic.. ive owned ford chevy and dodge pickups and this one is by far the most reliable and great driving truck..
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Miss Mexico
missmexico, 05/26/2013
1997 Ford F-150 Lariat 3dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.6L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
13 of 16 people found this review helpful
(xlt 2wd flare side 4.6 v8 4sp automatic ) Bought new in 97; love her. Did have problem with a blockage in oil pan that caused the engine to lock up around 90k mi. (factory fluke) Ford was a dick about it, but has still been good truck. She has had her share of small problem from parts breaking from old age. The transmission sucks and has now power in 2nd and I wish I could change that, but still going with around 200000 miles on her. Truck gets around 14.5 in city and 17.5 on highway. She got rear ended on may 8th, totaled, or I would driver her into the ground. Not a fan of the gas mileage, but would take her over another truck.
Loved my Alice!
Jamie, 10/09/2017
1997 Ford F-150 Lariat 3dr Extended Cab SB (4.6L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I bought my f150 used, 20 years old, with 313,000 miles on it when I bought her. The only real problem I had was with the multifunction switch wore harnesses. I didn't get to finish fixing that before someone hit me last week and totaled her. Had I been in any other vehicle, or not had the grill guard it would have been way worse. My truck basically hugged us and kept us from being seriously injured. Even with as many miles as she had, 340,000 at the time of her death, she was the most dependable, comfortable vehicle I have ever owned. I would not hesitate to take her anywhere! Awesome truck!!
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Made to last
zee, 07/31/2010
1997 Ford F-150 XLT 3dr Extended Cab LB (4.2L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
It's been a great truck, turned 218,000 miles, just regular maintenance. Well it finally left me on the road. Not trucks fault, differential ran dry. I been taking it to NTB for regular changes and they never checked it. Shame on them. I am having it fixed. 4.6 L engine keep on purring !
Reliable Lariart
Lhr Vati, 09/29/2003
1997 Ford F-150 Lariat 3dr Extended Cab SB (4.6L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
This truck was an excelent purchase. I've never had a single issue with it and it has been a reliable workhorse.
Nice Overall Truck
matt howard, 01/08/2005
1997 Ford F-150 XLT 3dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.6L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I have had this truck for 6 months and it has been reliable. I love the way it looks inside and out. It is a great truck to have if you want to have fun and go offroad or just drive onroad. It has a comfortable ride and it is very comfortable also. This truck also looks real nice with big tires and a lift kit put on it. I will probably buy another Ford truck when I decide to buy another one. I would recommend this truck to anyone.
I Love It
Tom Gapch, 02/01/2005
1997 Ford F-150 XL 3dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.6L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I love this truck. I've had it for 8 years with nothing but normal maintenence. When it comes time to sell, I plan on getting the same truck with the same features. It handles great in all types of weather, and here in NJ we get all types of weather. It's been reliable, and we've used it for 7 trips down to Tuscaloosa, AL. (998 miles) with no problems. I have severe back problems, but because of the lumbar support captain chairs, I have not had to stop to get out of the vehicle to stretch. In fact, the only time we stop is for gas (about every 5 hours). I'm 6' 4", and cannot fit into a lot of vehicles. There's plenty of room to fit 4 people in the back, even with my seat back.
First Ford & Best truck yet
Denny, 08/05/2018
1997 Ford F-150 XLT 2dr Regular Cab SB (4.2L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Got my 97 Ford F-150 regular cab short bed in on trade and was hesitant about it because ive never owned a Ford before (CHEVY GUY) but im so glad i did because its been the best truck ive had yet..i drive it way over 100 miles a day to and from work and its never broken down or left me stranded..the triton 4.6l v8 is strong and tough, it uses a little gas while passing everything on the hwy going 80mph but once im home I drive it easy and gets 20mpg easy..had 169,000 when i got it but I drive it everyday and between oil changes it uses a half quart of mobile 1 full synthetic oil and thats not bad for a 97 model with high mileage..i never do nothing to it other than put gas in it and it goes and goes, it has no rust, new interior, remote control stereo system with amp and speaker box and bedliner with a toolbox and I love it..like I said, its bullet proof, the motor and tranny is strong and if it ever tears up on me I couldn't complain because ive only got $1500 in it and it's seen its fair share of work and I'll never put another Ford down again...theres good ones and bad ones in all of them, mostly depends on how theyre kept up and how theyre treated so if your buying one be sure to find out as much as possible from previous owners because I can tell u everything about mine..all I can say is if your thinking of getting one and it's been kept up maintenance wise you can't go wrong..i love mine and plan on keeping it
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Sold it.
Martin, 04/15/2019
updated 04/19/2022
1997 Ford F-150 XLT 3dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (4.6L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
It's been sold. It's now happy living out it's retirement years doing yard care. With barely 105k on the clock and a fresh tune up... it's good to go for a while. It was just time to downsize and stop paying Allstate to park it. Don't know why it's not listed, but ours was the 5.4.
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Want the truth?
Blake, 05/03/2016
1997 Ford F-150 XL 3dr Extended Cab LB (4.2L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
I have a '97 XL Extended cab 3-door, with a 4.2L V-6, 5-speed manual transmission, and 2WD. This is a good truck, with just a couple of exceptions. Unless it has been repaired or replaced in the truck you're looking at, beware of the 1997 4.2-liter V-6. This engine was initially built with a too-thin intake manifold gasket, which caused many of these engines to leak coolant into the #1 cylinder. The resulting hydro-lock caused many of these engines to grenade at around 100,000 miles (ranging from as low as 60K to 140K), and send pistons, rods, etc., through the block or oil pan. HOWEVER, if the gasket has been replaced with the updated one, or if the long block has been replaced after a blown engine, then these engines are totally reliable and powerful. I bought mine at 114,000 miles with a new long block, and at 182,000 miles it runs perfectly. Mine is a little spare in 'creature comforts,' but it's a truck. PS, PB, tilt wheel, cruise, but otherwise cloth bench seats, vinyl flooring, and an adequate sound system. It has the tow package, with hitch, trailer brake, and both 4- and 7-pin connectors. Mine also has a bed liner and matching cap. The truck tows beautifully, with only one real concern- the extended-cab is so long and the front wheels located so far to the front of the truck, that this mandates small, gentle steering inputs to prevent 'sphincter-slamming' yaw and veering one way or the other. You learn quickly to use an easy touch. Estimates for gas mileage are at best, laughable. Mine ranges from 12 in the city to as high as 14 highway... tops. Period. And yes, the engine was properly run-in; I did it myself. Got the truck with only 600 miles on this engine. Doesn't leak or burn a drop of oil or coolant, and is as dependable as any vehicle I've ever owned. I love this truck, and I do not plan to replace it. Ever.
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F150 XL 6 cylinder (4.2 L) Auto Trans.
Steve 1, 01/14/2003
1997 Ford F-150 XL 3dr Extended Cab SB (4.2L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Overall the vehicle has been pretty reliable. Although the brakes (disc front/drum back)seem to need replacement more frequently than most, transmission torque converter went out at 65000 miles, this model has sealed front end ball joints and had to be replaced also at about 65000 miles, gas mileage has been about 12 city/ 19 highway. Truck is well maintained with no heavy towing or abuse and regular maintenance. Good low end torque for 6 cyl.
Original Owner, Great Value Truck
Bad da Bingg, 02/13/2009
1997 Ford F-150 XLT 3dr Extended Cab SB (4.2L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought the 4.6 L V8 4x4 XLT when our kids were just small enough to fit easily in the extended cab. Now that they're grown and gone, the truck keeps on doing truck duty. Those are boat hauling, camping, motorcycle transport and skiing. This truck has needed brakes and shocks but nothing else beyond routine maintenance. I look at newer trucks and laugh at the pricing and fuel efficiency, my truck still compares nicely.
My 1st Truck
04 Desmo, 08/01/2003
1997 Ford F-150 XLT 2dr Regular Cab SB (4.2L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Never thought about getting a truck, but an implulse buy made me glad I did. It has moved me 3 times over the last 3 years. This thing is very reliable, and for 115000 miles still work like a charm. The 4.2 V6 w/ 5sp has a bit of get-up and is fantastic on the highway. Great control location, and the interior design is highly functional and comfy. Exterior design is OK. Residual is alright for a 1997, but I have no plans in selling it. I'm trying to put in a CD player, but the 1997 stereo is unique, and I can't find one!
10 yrs ago the seller said she's a great old truck
Jodi, 01/15/2019
1997 Ford F-150 XLT 2dr Regular Cab 4WD LB (4.2L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
6 of 8 people found this review helpful
Lots of miles and lots of looks and she still trucks
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LOVE MY TRUCK
josh, 02/28/2010
1997 Ford F-150 XLT 3dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.6L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
I have owned a 2000 Silverado before my ford . The only thing i miss is the Eton Locker in the rear and the AUTO 4WD. This truck gets GREAT MPG i hand calculated it at 22 mpg! that was at 65 mph and 295/85R16 BFGoodrich all terrians and the A/C on!!. my favorite part is the sound it has a mean growl in the exhaust that makes all other trucks wet there oil pans!!!. Also the engine in it is a 4.6 TRITON. I LOVE IT!!! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. Pull's like a dream i regularly pull 4 Big polaris quads on a 15 foot trailer.
my ford truck
cos, 04/29/2002
1997 Ford F-150 XLT 3dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.6L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
excellent purchase, would not trade it for the world. always reliable, always has power when you want it!
good truck
laddco enterprises, 07/18/2002
1997 Ford F-150 XLT 3dr Extended Cab SB (4.2L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
good truck. very reliable
Fix Or Repair Daily
bigruss, 10/25/2008
1997 Ford F-150 XLT 3dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.6L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have a 1997 F-150 XLT 4x4 with approx 165000 mi, ran well when just bought but developed a heavy cylinder misfiring issue. This is common with many F-150s especially the 4.6L V-8. I had to take the truck into the shop 3 times to fix the issue and the cause still cannot be diagnosed today. It is still misfiring! I do know that I have to keep changing my spark plugs which are almost impossible to gain access to. The total cost of repairs on this issue is now near $500. Another issue with this F-150 is the 4 wheel drive system. It mal-engages and a I hear a big BOOM underneath the cab. I engage it normally by setting it in neutral and then switching it. Ford must improve their quality!
Ford F-150 SB Stepside
Reggie Tommie, 08/21/2002
1997 Ford F-150 XLT 2dr Regular Cab SB (4.2L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Overall, I've been pleased with my truck. It's been reliable.
4.2L Engine
Scot , 04/26/2005
1997 Ford F-150 XL 3dr Extended Cab SB (4.2L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I really like the truck, overall design outside, and interior room. I have had the truck since it was new, mine was equipped with the 4.2L engine. At 88,000 miles the transmission went, at 89,200 the engine went. I was very much disappointed with that. I had the transmission rebuilt and purchased a new engine from Ford, I think it runs better now than when I first purchased it (WAY MORE POWER)! I would buy the truck again but would stick with at V-8 engine. If you're buying used be careful about the early 4.2L; my understanding is it had a lot of problems, the newer ones are supposed to have all the problems fixed.
Girl's Truck
reelqueen , 02/27/2005
1997 Ford F-150 3dr Extended Cab LB (4.2L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Loved the truck as soon as I saw it. Didn't think I could drive and maneuver it. Found it to be a great ride and tows our boat with no problem.
Awesome Truck!
Chauncey, 02/10/2008
1997 Ford F-150 XLT 3dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (4.6L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Bought w/100k on it. Other than tires and oil no major repairs needed. 140k now and replaced front and rear brakes 1 time and replaced 02 sensor and 3 spark plugs and that is it. I use for landscaping so most miles I put on are hard work miles and it does great. Unbelievable traction, comfort. Out of 5 other trucks, this is the best truck I have ever owned and would buy again if I could find one like it.
Built FORD tough!!
Mr. D, 06/17/2022
updated 06/20/2024
1997 Ford F-150 Lariat 2dr Regular Cab 4WD LB (4.6L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Bought truck new in 1997, it now has 345,886 miles on it. Original engine and transmission, no major repairs to either. I have 4WD model. I have another engine and transmission when time comes for replacement. This is the BEST truck I’ve ever had. I replaced the radiator, water pump, alternator 1 coil, half-shafts and rear axles, heater core and blend door. It has regular oil changes on 3500 mile average. Changed plugs one time, normal front end hardware and brakes as needed. If it completely falls apart tomorrow, it owes me nothing!! Update 6/19/24, It’s still going, I think it will last longer than I will!! 365,000 miles on original engine, transmission and exhaust.
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F150 Can't go wrong!
Michigan trucker, 12/03/2010
1997 Ford F-150 XLT 3dr Extended Cab SB (4.2L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I purchased my F150 with just under 100,000 miles on it it now has 126,000. No problems to report. This truck is the nicest one i have owned. I always buy used and have been wrong in my choice a couple of times. This purchase was not one of them. The style and motor/transmission combo is great. the interior is well designed with room to spare. Seating is big like you would expect in a truck but it is also comfortable. The rear bench is has good leg room but really its not where any adult wants to sit for a long trip but it is prefect for the kids or the dog. I would highly suggest a F150 with this motor its is excellent. No rust after all these years!
My 1997 Ford F150 review
cconlee, 03/30/2004
1997 Ford F-150 XLT 3dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.6L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Great Pickup. I have seen some others that have paint problems. My paint cracked on the roof due to expansion/contraction over the years. Also I have seen limited rust spots on the bottom of doors. check the doors exterior right behind the window area for a hairline crack due to lack of support built into the door. Engine has never had a problem. Overall very pleased.
Stone Cold Reliable
BTE, 09/16/2006
1997 Ford F-150 Lariat 2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (4.6L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
4 of 6 people found this review helpful
My F-150 has been a pleasure to own. I do wish for more torque from the 4.6 at times, but that is really due to the OHC design which predictably displays the opposite power making characteristics of what should be in any 4x4 truck. I added 4.10 gears to mine to make up for the lack of torque and it improved off the line performance considerably with little effect on gas mileage. At 140,000 miles all I have done is standard maintenance and it runs like a champ. The interior has held up well too. It seems better built than the new F-150s (noticed the cheap plastic fuel door on the current trucks). My tailgate is heavier than some but if you can't lift it then buy a Honda or a Subaru.
Built Ford Tough
nascar_nfl, 11/24/2009
1997 Ford F-150 XLT 3dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.6L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
I purchased this truck new in 1997 and it has held up great ever since. I now have almost 190,000 on this truck and it runs perfect. I have installed lots of aftermarket parts to the truck and have always taken care of it. I live in the Mountains of Southern West Virginia so this truck sees alot of road salt during the winter but still has no rust. I take this thing off roading alot to and it NEVER gets stuck and Ihave been in some deep mud and water. The interior has plenty of romm and I am 6'3". It is also stylish and has good sound from the speakers. Built Ford Tough!!!
4.2 engine a bust
Disappointed, 04/13/2010
1997 Ford F-150 2dr Regular Cab LB (4.2L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
3 of 8 people found this review helpful
I purchased this vehicle not even a yr ago, had been driving Fords for over 20 yrs with my job. But will never again purchase a Ford product until they make a engine that is reliable again. What a disappointment. Ford, you can do better or else stand by your product. 4.2 liter engine a bust.
Ilovemytruck
jesse/rippinitup01, 09/27/2002
1997 Ford F-150 Lariat 3dr Extended Cab SB (4.6L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
It runs good and is a great first truck!
Great Truck
srr7sk8r, 05/09/2007
1997 Ford F-150 Lariat 3dr Extended Cab SB (4.6L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This truck is now 10 years old and I have owned it for 3 years. It is still reliable everyday and beats the style of the new F-150's by far. The Tritin V8 delivers 210hp and the lariat towing package is a class 3 so i have never had any problems towing anything. Plent of room for up to 6 in the cabin, unlike most tundras. F-150 is all around great american truck, wish they still made them like this. Only improvement would be gas mileage.
Bullet Proof
JF150, 10/15/2002
1997 Ford F-150 XL 2dr Regular Cab SB (4.2L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
My brother is a "Chevy" man and he warned me about the Fix Or Repair Daily thing (FORD). Well, I have never owned a more reliable vehicle than this pickup. In 6 yrs & over 120K miles, I have had to change: thermostat gasket ($3), fan belt ($18), Battery ($50), tires ($300), look on my brother's face every time I mention it PRICELESS!!!!
Best vehicle I've owned
Allan, 03/16/2005
1997 Ford F-150 XLT 2dr Regular Cab SB (4.2L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Other than my heater core going out and the blender-door motor breaking, this truck has been the most reliable and comfortable vehicle I have driven. I must say it is one of Ford's best vehicles ever made. Fuel economy is a downside, but with a K & N air filter and fiberglass tonneau cover, I get 25 mpg on the highway and 16 in the city. If you want a truck, get an F-150.
Very dissatisfied
BradB, 02/22/2005
1997 Ford F-150 XL 2dr Regular Cab LB (4.2L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Broken engine at 71,000 miles from ONP 99-20-7 (TSB99-20-7) due to front cover gasket leaking into crankcase. Ford and dealer will do nothing. This vehicle, alone with many others, was not on the notification list about the problem. That means that these owners were never notified that it may fail. I even had it into dealer while under warranty, when the heater quit working. Guess why? You got it - low coolant! Their lame excuse was a disconnected tube or something. They covered it up. It's been sitting in my yard for 2 yrs. Broken tie rod while driving, crankshaft pulley broke off on highway, very poor gas mileage. My new truck is a Silverado.
redesign engine
NICHOLEMARIE, 09/09/2004
1997 Ford F-150 Lariat 2dr Regular Cab LB (4.6L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
my f-150 2 dr 4.2 ltr has been sitting at my dealer ship for 6 months. the engine died at 68000 miles and ford will not take responsibility for this. i have gotten in touch with attorney general in my area( consumer protection) and waiting to here from them. i dont think i will ever buy another ford, also the total of the bill is 5000.00 that i don't have! this truck was maintained very well, and this really makes me furious!!!!! is there anyone that i could write to other than what i have done already? is there an address that i could write to and make sure they get it? please let me know. thankyou, lisa
Super truck
JRaney, 06/26/2008
1997 Ford F-150 XLT 3dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.6L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I purchased my truck used in 01 and have owned it for 6 years and all I have done is maintenance and changed the tranny fluid 2x. My truck always starts and runs great. My father in law has an 05 Silverado with a 5.3L and we always use my truck for heavy loads because they crush his suspension and all I have is the 4.6L. All I wish was better fuel mileage but the truck is almost bulletproof and the 4x4 system is great. All it needs is a locking rear differential.
Definite Workhorse
pdm2, 04/25/2003
1997 Ford F-150 Lariat 3dr Extended Cab LB (4.6L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The 60/40 seat style is right out of the 50's as are the springs bounciness. However easilly fixable with quality bucket seats via after market. Weak rear Axle needed replacing by 30,000 mi. Otherwise, pure pleasure I'll keep till the wheels fall off.
Dud Engine
yard man, 04/01/2004
1997 Ford F-150 XLT 3dr Extended Cab SB (4.2L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Truck was great until the motor imploded. Research on the web informed me of 4.2/v6 engine problems with Ford. TSB only addressed lower gasket. Recall only fixed a portion of engines mfged' during period. Water coolant leak into motor from upper and lower gaskets displaces oil in motor which results in total engine failure. Clues should have been coolant odor but never a leak on ground. When it happened, loud bang and clank under hood and continual pouring of white exhaust from tailpipe. Also strong odor of coolant from exhaust. End result, $4000.00 Jaspar replacement engine which is the same engine but with improvements of Ford's poor design.
Great Truck
NPLM, 05/10/2002
1997 Ford F-150 Lariat 3dr Extended Cab SB (4.6L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
My F150 is a '97 Ext. cab SB Lariat (exactly like the one in the photo section of this site) with 76,000 miles. It is a great riding truck with plenty of power from the 5.4L V8. It is smooth as glass on the highway. I've noticed that the ride actually improves when adding load or towing. Interior design is elegant as well as user friendly, and the build quality is top notch, with little wind noise or rattles. Has had no problems since new. My only complaint is the 5.4L engine is thirsty, getting an average of around 15-16 MPG,(city driving). I would recommend the 4.6L unless you really need the extra power. Overall great truck.