1987 Ford F Series
Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 3 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1983 | 0 |
| 1984 | 1 |
| 1985 | 0 |
| 1986 | 0 |
| 1987 | 3 |
| 1988 | 6 |
| 1989 | 2 |
| 1990 | 2 |
| 1991 | 6 |
| 1992 | 2 |
| 1993 | 5 |
| 1994 | 7 |
| 1995 | 16 |
| 1996 | 16 |
| 1997 | 47 |
| 1998 | 20 |
| 1999 | 36 |
| 2000 | 41 |
| 2001 | 44 |
| 2002 | 34 |
| 2003 | 1 |
| 2004 | 7 |
| 2005 | 9 |
| 2006 | 4 |
| 2007 | 4 |
| 2008 | 1 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 3 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
2 of 3 total reports mention: electrical system, most commonly citing switch.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
IGNITION SWITCH FIRE.
NHTSA ODI report, 19970527
FORD MOTOR COMPANY RECALLED 7.5 MILLION TRUCKS WITH DEFECTIVE IGNITION SWITCHES MADE FROM 1988-1996. THEIR LOGIC WAS THAT THE DEFECTIVE IGNITION SWITCHES BEGAN BEING USED IN 5/87, THUS NOT RECALLING 83-87 MODELS.
NHTSA ODI report, 20110627
1 of 3 total reports mentions: service brakes, most commonly citing hydraulic.
1 of 3 total reports mentions: exterior lighting, most commonly citing hazard flashing warning lights.
Show complaint excerpts
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, HAVE BROUGHT UP SOME SERIOUS SAFETY PROBLEMS WITH MY EMPLOYER AND THEY SEEM TO THINK THAT IT'LL BE "OK"TO LEAVE THESE VEHICLES IN SERVICE.BUCKET TRUCKS IN SERVICE IN THE BRISTOL,VIRGINIA AREA.*AK EDWARDS TELECOMMUNICATIONS...
NHTSA ODI report, 20030825
Also filed under SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
FIREWALL FRACTURE
FIRE IN HEATER/AC PLENUM
DEFECTIVE WIRING
UNDER DASH FIRES
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1987 Ford F Series — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for service brakes issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for exterior lighting issues (1 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 1987 Ford F Series reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 1987 Ford F Series?
The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 67% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1987 Ford F Series have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.