Ten problems related to dash wiring have been reported for the 1997 Ford F-150. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Ford f150 windshield leaks, leading to gem and fuse module failure. Random electronics clicking and turning themselves on due to leaking windshields damaging these electronic modules.
I am now having the water leak issue into the gem due to faulty windshield seal. It is starting to cause electrical system malfunctions. The following is a TSB released by Ford: Ford special message #15773 various electrical conditions resulting from water intrusion into the gem/cjb some 1997-2002 expedition and 1998-2002 navigator vehicles may exhibit various unusual electrical conditions, including but not limited front or rear blower or eatc staying on with key out of the ignition, radio staying on after doors opened and key out of ignition, wiper circuit failure codes, and multiple system warning lights with 'short to power' or 'low battery voltage' dtcs. These symptoms most often occur after a rain or snow. This may be due to gem/cjb water intrusion resulting from a windshield water leak. To service, remove the gem and cjb from the vehicle, separate them and inspect for water contamination or corrosion. If found in either component, replace both components and completely reseal the windshield. After doing some research on the internet I have found that I am not the only soul experiencing these issues. Apparently Ford is not fixing this obvious manufacturing defect at their expense but passing it to the customers. This is obviously a Ford issue that they have known about for quite some time. Please help with resolving this issue as some people have spent in the thousands fixing issues that this water intrusion issue has caused.
The truck caught on fire while parked in the driveway. The truck sat for a day prior to the fire. The fire department and consumer extinguished the fire. The fire originated from under the hood. The fire melted the engine components, destroyed the entire hood, and totaled the vehicle. A mechanic indicated that the fire was due to an electrical failure.
When using the cigarette lighter the whole lighter got too hot and went right through the dash. It burned through plastic and wire burned in half. Very dangerous. This could have burned up the whole dash. Burned my wife's hand after it went through the holder.
A burning/smoke was coming from under dash, unable to locate problem. Dealer was notified. Feel free to provide any further details on this matter.
This truck burned down a shop building on 1-6-00.
No summary.
The bad door switch causes the dome light and bed light to stay on until the vehicle reaches about 20 mph, making it difficult to see when backing up at night. I have talked to other owners of similar trucks who have the same problem.
Computer controller failed.
I have contacted Ford motor CO. By phone & email and they say they will get back w/me and never do. There is no follow up on their part. No customer service and no satisfaction. The customer service ended at the signing of the bill of sale. No safety defect.