Model year guide

2001 Ford Econoline

Recalls, most-reported problems, crash-test ratings, fuel economy and what a 2001 Ford Econoline is worth — from official NHTSA and EPA data. 2 on record.

2001 Ford Econoline — representative photo
Representative photo

2001 Ford Econoline at a glance

Safety recalls5
Owner complaints181

Included: that car's specs and build sheet, model-year recall campaigns and a fair price.

2001 Ford Econoline recalls 5

Exterior Lighting:headlights NHTSA Campaign #09E025000 · 11/05/2009

DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.

Fix: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.

Exterior Lighting NHTSA Campaign #09E012000 · 07/04/2009

SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.

Fix: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.

Vehicle Speed Control:cruise Control NHTSA Campaign #08V051000 · manufacturer #08S01 · 04/02/2008

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. THE AFFECTED VEHICLES WERE PREVIOUSLY REPAIRED USING A WIRING HARNESS THAT IS NOT COMPATIBLE WITH THE VEHICLE CIRCUIT POLARITY.

Fix: 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.

Fuel System, Gasoline:storage NHTSA Campaign #03V282000 · manufacturer #03S06 · 05/08/2003

ON CERTAIN CUTAWAY CHASSIS CAB WITH THE SCHOOL BUS OPTION, TWO BRACKETS AND TWO OUTRIGGER MEMBERS ARE MISSING IN THE AREA OF THE FUEL TANK.

Fix: FORD WILL SEND TECHNICIANS TO THE OWNER'S LOCATION TO INSPECT AND ADD THE BRACKETS AND OUTRIGGERS AS REQUIRED. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 3, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.

Child Seat NHTSA Campaign #00V304000 · manufacturer #00S32 · 04/10/2000

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: CERTAIN CREW VANS FAILED TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS 225, "CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORAGE SYSTEMS." THESE VEHICLES, WHICH ARE DESIGNATED AS TRUCKS, ARE 5 PASSENGER VEHICLES WITH THREE DESIGNATED SEATING POSITIONS IN THE SECOND ROW SEATS. THEY WERE BUILT WITHOUT CHILD SEAT TETHER ANCHORAGE BRACKETS IN THE CENTER POSITION OF THE SECOND ROW SEAT. ALSO THE OWNER GUIDES DO NOT ADDRESS THE CHI…

Fix: DEALERS WILL INSTALL THE CHILD SEAT TETHER ANCHORAGES AT THE CENTER SECOND ROW SEATING POSITION, AND ALSO REPLACE THE VEHICLE OWNER GUIDES WITH NEW VERSIONS PROVIDING THE REQUIRED WRITTEN INSTRUCTIONS. ELEVEN VEHICLES ARE AT DEALERSHIPS AND ASSEMBLY PLANT PERSONNEL WILL REPAIR THESE UNITS AT THE AF…

Source: U.S. NHTSA, checked 4 Nov 2026. A campaign covers the model year; to see whether a particular car still needs the repair, check its VIN on NHTSA.gov or ask a franchised dealer.

2001 Ford Econoline common problems

The most-reported problem areas across all 181 owner complaints filed with NHTSA — and what to check before you buy.

Engine And Engine Cooling
Check coolant level and color, look for leaks, and confirm the engine reaches normal temperature without overheating.
Service Brakes
Brakes should feel firm and quiet — no grinding, pulsing or pulling. Check for an ABS light and uneven pad/rotor wear.
Hydraulic
Have a trusted mechanic inspect this system as part of a pre-purchase inspection.
Electrical System
Test every electrical feature: windows, locks, infotainment, charging and all lights. Watch for flickering, dead accessories or warning lights.
Vehicle Speed Control
Test cruise control and throttle response, and watch for any hesitation or unintended acceleration.
Power Train
Drive through every gear: watch for slipping, hard or delayed shifts, and shudder. Check for transmission/driveline leaks and noises.

2001 Ford Econoline safety ratings

Frontal crash★★★★★
Frontal — driver★★★★★
Frontal — passenger★★★★★
Frontal crash test — 2001 Ford EconolineFrontal crash test

Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings (NCAP), tested as the 2001 Ford Econoline. Ratings can differ by body style and drivetrain.

Investigations & service bulletins

NHTSA defect investigations 5

HVAC Switch Failures Closed

This investigation was opened based on one complaint and reports from four transportation fleets alleging 182 blower motor control switch failures. ODI was concerned that these melting and burning switches could lead to an open flame that could spread throughout the vehicle. After a comprehensive review of all data related to overheating blower motor control switches in the subject vehicles, ODI did not identify the…

NHTSA #EA10003 · Electrical System · opened Apr 2010 · closed Mar 2012

HVAC Switch Failures Closed

ODI has received 1 complaint and reports from 4 transportation fleets alleging 182 switch failures. Each fleet operates mini buses built on a Ford E350 or E450 cutaway chassis. The OEM HVAC blower switches have melted, smoked, burned or experienced open flame and become inoperable on vehicles in each fleet. Some drivers have reported a burning smell or smoke coming from the dash. One fleet reported a vehicle fire. No…

NHTSA #PE09055 · Electrical System · opened Dec 2009 · closed Apr 2010

SPARK PLUG EJECTION FROM CYLINDER HEAD Closed

ON SEPTEMBER 6, 2005, ODI RECEIVED A PETITION REQUESTING THAT THE AGENCY INVESTIGATE ALLEGATIONS OF ENGINE SPARK PLUG EJECTION IN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 1997 THROUGH 2004 FORD VEHICLES WITH TRITON V-8 AND V-10 ENGINES. ODI RECEIVED A TOTAL OF 474 NON-DUPLICATIVE COMPLAINTS ON THE SUBJECT VEHICLES WHERE THE COMPLAINANT, OR THE DEALER REPAIRING THE VEHICLE, REPORTED THAT A SPARK PLUG DETACHED FROM THE CYLINDER AND/OR EJECT…

NHTSA #DP05005 · Engine And Engine Cooling · opened Sep 2005 · closed Jan 2006

RAPID TIRE DEFLATION Closed

THIS INVESTIGATION WAS OPENED ON CERTAIN FORD PICKUP TRUCKS AND VANS TO EVALUATE THE EFFECTS OF A VALVE STEM EJECTION (WITH RAPID AIR LOSS) AND A SLOW LEAKING VALVE STEM ON VEHICLE HANDING. DURING THE INVESTIGATION, ODI EVALUATED OVER 1,100 COMPLAINTS AND WARRANTY CLAIMS, CONDUCTED VEHICLE DYNAMIC TESTING ON A SUBJECT VEHICLE WITH THE FAILURE MODE REPLICATED, INTERVIEWED OWNERS, AND EXAMINED COMPLAINT VEHICLES IN THE…

NHTSA #EA02018 · Tires · opened Aug 2002 · closed Aug 2003

TIRE VALVE STEM Closed

NHTSA #RQ02002 · Tires · opened Jan 2002 · closed Aug 2002

An investigation means NHTSA is examining a possible defect — it is not a recall, and many close without one.

Manufacturer service bulletins 187

Technical notes the manufacturer sent to dealers about known issues and fixes. Useful to mention to a mechanic — they are not recalls and repairs may not be covered. Showing the 10 most recent of 187.

For 2000-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, swapping a module from a vehicle for diagnosis purposes is likely to cause errors and is not recommended. It is also not recommended to order a replacement module using a vehicle identification number (VIN) from a diffe…

Bulletin SSM 51536 · Structure · Apr 2023

This SKU is a front upper ball joint. The Customer communication requested return of unsold inventory to inspect for ball studs with excessive rotational friction in the ball joint assembly. Excessive friction in the ball joint assembly may cause a perceptible…

Bulletin DOR-X8B9R-11 · Steering · Apr 2018

FORD: THE BLOWER MOTOR ON SOME VEHICLES ARE OPERATING EITHER INCORRECTLY OR NOT OPERATING OR JUST FUNCTIONING ON ONE SPEED. *PE

Bulletin TSB-11-11-21 · Engine And Engine Cooling · Nov 2011

FORD: CERTAIN 1999-2001 MODEL YEAR VEHICLES UP TO 6000 LB GVWR REGISTERED IN NEW YORK AND CERTAIN 2001 VEHICLES UP TO 6000 LB GVWR REGISTERED IN THE STATE OF MAINE, CERTIFIED FOR SALE IN CALIFORNIA-FEDERAL EMISSION WARRANTY REFUND. *PE

Bulletin CSP-08B01 · Engine And Engine Cooling · May 2008

FORD SERVICE CAMPAIGN: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. CSC LETTER WAS RECEIVED FOR MODEL YEAR 1999-2001 VEHICLES REGISTERED IN NEW YORK IS SUBJECT TO THE PROVISIONS OF THE CALIFORNIA EMISSION WARRANTY. MODEL IS UNKNOWN. *PE

Bulletin SP-08B01 · Engine And Engine Cooling, Power Train · May 2008

SOME 1997-2008 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A 4.6L 2V, 5.4L 2V, OR 6.8L 2V ENGINE--SPARK PLUG THREAD REPAIR PROCEDURE--NOT COVERED UNDER NEW VEHICLE LIMITED WARRANTY. *NJ THIS INCLUDES F-53 MOTORHOME CHASSIS. UPDATED 2/23/10. *PE

Bulletin 07212 · Engine And Engine Cooling · Oct 2007

MERLIN MULTIPLEX SYSTEM WHEN A PROER/GROUND LUG IS NOT CORRECTLY TIGHTENED OR BECOMES LOOSE FOR ANY REASON; ERRATIC SYSTEM OPERATION IS POSSIBLE.

Bulletin TSB T2007-03 · Equipment, Structure · Sep 2007

HEADLIGHT ADJUSTMENT NEEDED. *KB

Bulletin 19527 · Exterior Lighting · Dec 2006

FUEL CONDITIONER. LOW POWER, POOR FUEL ECONOMY, FUEL GELLING IN COLD WEATHER, EXCESSIVE WHITE SMOKE ON COLD START, HARD START, OR COKING OF COMPONENTS EXPOSED TO EXHAUST. *TT

Bulletin 19015 · Fuel System, Other · Jan 2006

WDS COP KIT DIAGNOSTIC TIP - COIL ON PLUG (COP) IGNITION SYSTEMS - ENGINE MISFIRE OR ROUGH RUNNING. *TT

Bulletin 041601 · Engine And Engine Cooling · Nov 2005

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, listed for the ECONOLINE. Model-year data, not specific to one car.

Canadian recalls 1

Transport Canada recall campaigns for the 2001 Ford Econoline. Relevant if the car was first sold in, or imported from, Canada.

Seats And Restraints

Certain vehicles do not comply with the requirements of CMVSS 210.1 - Tether Anchorages for Child Restraints. The vehicle was built without a child tether anchor bracket in the centre position of the second row seat. Also, the Owner Guide for the vehicle did not address the child seat tether anchor in this second row seat position. Correction: Tether anchorage was installed at…

Transport Canada #2000301 · Dec 2000

Source: Transport Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Recalls Database.

About the Ford Econoline

The Ford E-Series is a range of full-size vans produced by the Ford Motor Company since 1961. Introduced as a replacement for the Ford F-Series panel van, the line has spanned four generations. Sold in both retail and commercial markets, the E-Series has been offered as passenger and cargo vans, as well as in cutaway and stripped-chassis configurations.

From Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Describes the model line in general, not this model year specifically.

2001 Ford Econoline vehicles on record

Other Ford Econoline model years

2001 Ford Econoline — frequently asked questions

Does the 2001 Ford Econoline have any safety recalls?

NHTSA lists 5 recall campaigns for the 2001 Ford Econoline. Whether an individual car still needs a recall repair depends on its VIN — check it on NHTSA.gov or ask a franchised dealer. Recall repairs are done at no charge.

What are the most common problems with the 2001 Ford Econoline?

Across all 181 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are engine and engine cooling, service brakes, hydraulic.

What is the 2001 Ford Econoline safety rating?

NHTSA gives the 2001 Ford Econoline crash-test ratings of frontal 4★ (out of 5; this model year pre-dates NHTSA's overall score).

Sources: NHTSA (recalls, complaints, crash tests), U.S. EPA (fuel economy). Vehicle data only — CarLogs never shows owner information.