Overview & Reviews
Although it was last produced for the 2014 model year, the Ford Econoline (E-Series) Wagon, the passenger carrying version of this stalwart van, hadn't undergone a full redesign since George Bush was president. No, not George W, but the original "no new taxes" edition. But there was good reason for the Econoline's staying power other than Ford simply not messing with what had been the top-selling full-size van for more than three decades. For upfitters (those who turn vans into commercial vehicles such as airport shuttles), any change to the Econoline's basic structure and dimensions meant they also had to change the dimensions and tooling of their customizations.
However, in its unmodified form as a high-capacity passenger van, the Ford Econoline showed its old age. It received only minor changes over the years, the most significant of which occurred for 1997 (engine and interior updates) and for 2008 when it received a radical new grille along with steering, brake and suspension improvements. Yet the basic vehicle and its passenger comfort remained virtually unchanged. As such, other full-size vans outclassed the Econoline in terms of versatility and ride and handling dynamics. But considering the Ford's typically lower price and respectable reputation for reliability, it makes a solid choice for a used full-size passenger van.
The more modern Transit replaced the Econoline as Ford's full-size passenger van.
Most Recent Ford Econoline Passenger Van
Though not a new generation, the most recent version of the Econoline passenger van was produced from 2008 through 2014. There were three basic models: the eight-passenger E-150, the 12-passenger E-350 Super Duty and the 15-passenger E-350 Super Duty Extended. Each of these vans was offered in XL and XLT trim, with the E-150 also available in a high-end Chateau trim.
The base XL was just that, with vinyl upholstery, air-conditioning and an AM/FM radio as its notable standard features. The upper trim levels came better equipped and options were plentiful. Two passenger-side openings were available: a pair of barn-style swinging doors and a single, minivan-type sliding unit. Unlike on the Sprinter by Dodge or Mercedes-Benz, dual sliding doors were not available.
There were three engines available on these E-Series Wagons. A 4.6-liter V8 with 225 horsepower and 286 pound-feet of torque was standard on the E-150. A 5.4-liter V8 capable of 255 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque was optional on the E-150 and standard on the E-350 Super Duty models. Both of these engines came with a four-speed automatic. E-350 buyers could upgrade to a 6.8-liter V10 with 305 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed automatic came with the V10.
The generation that encompassed these refreshed E-Series wagons dated back to 1992, when it was called the Club Wagon. The name change to E-Series Wagon took place for '98. Whatever it had been officially called, the Econoline was always available in E-150 and E-350 styles with two vehicle lengths. An E-250 was also offered for most of this model's run. Trim levels included base XL, midlevel XLT and, depending on the year, plush Chateau trim levels. There were numerous options and packages available, so be sure a potential used Econoline has the features you're looking for.
The original vans from this generation came standard with a 4.9-liter inline-6 engine or a choice of three gasoline V8s and a diesel V8. In 1997, these engines were replaced with a base V6, two Triton V8s and a Triton V10. The diesel V8 carried over unchanged. That year, the Econoline underwent other significant upgrades. The dashboard was redesigned to meet the latest Ford interior standards and the grille was updated to match Ford's ongoing oval theme.
Items like tilt steering wheel, antilock brakes and a passenger front airbag were added at the turn of the century. In 2003, the E-Series was given another grille design to match the latest F-Series Super Duty, featuring two vertical bars and an integrated Ford badge (rather than perched on the hood lip). Engine output continued to rise, and a 6.0-liter turbodiesel V8 debuted for '04.
Although the basic body design remained unchanged, Ford's big passenger van underwent another update for 2008. There was a new front fascia, along with significant changes to the steering system, brakes and suspension to improve driving dynamics. There were also new seats and seat-integrated three-point belts for rear center position passengers. The 6.0-liter turbodiesel V8 was replaced by the 6.8-liter gas V10 for '09, a year that also saw a welcome interior redesign and some new options. After that, changes were minimal.
Despite its segment-leading sales, the Ford Econoline passenger van suffered from its ancient design. Although the most recent version featured improved steering, braking and suspension systems, there was still no escaping the fact that the basic architecture was two decades old. That said, these Econolines still make for a decent option given their low pricing and strong dependability record.
The Ford Econoline name dates back to 1961, and the previous-generation Econoline was produced from 1975-'91.
User Reviews:
Showing 51 through 60 of 63.00-
Never a Problem - 2006 Ford Econoline Wagon
By max on the road - February 27 - 10:00 amIve bought about a dozen Ford vans since 1976 and have never had a serious mechanical problem with any of them. I usually run them out to 160,000 mile before trading. My 1998 van had incredible wind noise so I traded earlier than usual. My 2002 conversion lost a wheel once but I replace the rear end with used part for under $500.
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Work Horse - 2001 Ford Econoline Wagon
By Haulin Kids - January 27 - 3:10 pmOur 2001 E-150 with Traveler package is the most versatile vehicle I have ever owned. It is the ultimate trip vehicle with the VCP with its cargo room and towing capability. We have almost 50K miles and havent had any mechanical issues. When purchased the vehicle was about $7 K less than a comparable SUV and about $4 K less than a comparable minivan. Other than off roading it is much more functional than a SUV. Mileage isnt even that bad (up to 18 mpg), comparable to many smaller SUV models.
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Killer Traveler Van - 2002 Ford Econoline Wagon
By suburbank2500 - January 24 - 10:00 amThis van is my daily commuter; Its got the Traveller package, and the kid quiet option (2 screens with a VCP). Ive always been get the bigger motor but the 289 (4.6L) v8 is just fine. I get about 20-21 on highway, 15-17 mixed. the ONLY thing is its a rear wheel driver, so Ill have to retrain myself for winter. Dont waste your money on some tinny, mini-van. They dont have nearly the room and cost about $2-$3K more
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Big Red - 2001 Ford Econoline Wagon
By Ford_Guy1996 - December 13 - 3:56 amMy van is a very good van and especially good because of its size (which in fact, was the overall reason we were looking for a van) Its fuel economy, well, we werent expecting a prius, so it could have been worse. The exterior is very acceptable for a 01 and the interior is very well thought out, with lots of cup holders and other thoughtful touches, although perhaps too well thought out; I find gum and candy wrappers all over the place from our kids. I commute many miles daily to chi, so I am looking for a new car but Big Red has served me very well. Although I have had only one problem with the engine sometimes it does not operate when its hot, but Keep making econolines, Ford! Thank you
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Not a Good Buy - 2002 Ford Econoline Wagon
By Irony - November 18 - 10:00 amI have replaced the front brakes including rotors every 3 months approx. 3000-4000 miles. Ford told me this was normal wear for this vehicle. The price to have this done at a Ford Dealer averages $800. The tires wear out quickly on this Van as well.
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The big van just flat works - 2006 Ford Econoline Wagon
By E320pilot - November 9 - 7:50 amI bought this van to be used at work to haul a cargo trailer plus take family vacations with a camper trailer in tow. The 5.4l motor gets about 16- 17mpg on the interstate at 72mph lightly loaded. When pulling a 22 trailer, the mileage drops to about 8mpg (I installed a ScanGage to measure mpg, rpm, etc). Yes, there are squeaks and rattles, handles mediocre, and gives a rough ride. What else would you expect from a 1 ton van/truck? I would still buy another one.
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Red Ford E150 - 2002 Ford Econoline Wagon
By Jim - September 27 - 10:43 pmWe bought this van in winter of 2004 as mainly, a people carrier as there was only a short commute back then. but this van quickly turned into a mainly all purpose car, groceries, long cross-country trips, towing, you name it. For such a giant of a car, it handles well in the (Its not a Subaru) and when we moved and the work commute turned into a hour long one to Chicago, it served very well, although the MPG it delivers convinced us to get a 2007 Toyota Prius. We have logged 111,000 miles on it but with the exception of a starting problem (cant start if the engine is too warm sometimes)we hope to get years more out of it, and has been very reliable. Save your money, I suggest! Get a Ford
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Most Bang for Bucks - 2004 Ford Econoline Wagon
By VanMan - March 19 - 4:36 amEasy to work on. Ultra-Safe. Room for anything, Takes no more parking space than most cars. Gas mileage better than most cramped mini-suvs. Cheaper than most minivans, the only way to ride on long hauls, and finally, made in America.
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ford van - 2002 Ford Econoline Wagon
By wriddle - December 11 - 2:00 amnice van, mediocre fuel economy, very comfortable, minor build quality issues which have been corrected under warranty. would definitely buy another one when this one wears out. 5.4 engine is the way to go.
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van for life! - 2003 Ford Econoline Wagon
By keyfri - August 4 - 2:00 amThis van wants tobe filled and driven accross the country nd be a part of your family. It will gaim a personality. It will last forever because oof the 4r100 tranny that i actually did try to shoot a bullet through!Dont let it fool you it liokes to huil everything and more!
