why does my Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020) vibrate when I accelerate

Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

432 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix vibrations during acceleration in Ford F-150 (2015-2020). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always use jack stands when working under the vehicle.
•Allow the engine to cool before inspecting any components related to the engine or exhaust system.

Symptoms

•Vibration felt in the steering wheel or floorboard
•Increased noise from the drivetrain during acceleration
•Shaking that intensifies with speed
•Possible loss of power or sluggish acceleration
•Uneven tire wear or vibrations that change with steering input

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect tires for proper inflation and check for uneven wear patterns.
2
Perform a visual inspection of the driveshaft and U-joints for damage or play.
3
Check the engine and transmission mounts for signs of wear or failure.
4
Use a wheel balancer to check for unbalanced wheels.
5
Scan the vehicle for any error codes that may indicate drivetrain issues.
6
Test drive the vehicle at varying speeds to isolate the vibration source.

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

•Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
•Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
•Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
•Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

•Tire pressure gauge
•Jack and jack stands
•Pry bar
•Wheel balancer
•Socket set
•Torque wrench

Parts Required

•Replacement tires (if needed)
•U-joints (if needed)
•Engine or transmission mounts (if needed)

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect tires for proper inflation and check for uneven wear patterns.
2
Perform a visual inspection of the driveshaft and U-joints for damage or play.
3
Check the engine and transmission mounts for signs of wear or failure.
4
Use a wheel balancer to check for unbalanced wheels.
5
Scan the vehicle for any error codes that may indicate drivetrain issues.
6
Test drive the vehicle at varying speeds to isolate the vibration source.

Solution

1. Tire Inspection

Sub-steps:
- Check tire pressure using a tire gauge. Inflate to the manufacturer's recommended PSI.
- Inspect tires for uneven wear or damage. Replace any tires that are excessively worn or damaged.

2. Driveshaft and U-Joint Inspection

Sub-steps:
- Lift the vehicle securely using jack stands.
- Inspect the driveshaft for any signs of rust, damage, or imbalance.
- Check U-joints for play by attempting to move them up and down; replace if any play is detected.

3. Engine and Transmission Mounts

Sub-steps:
- Visually inspect the mounts for cracks or deterioration.
- Use a pry bar to check for movement in the mounts while the engine is running.
- Replace any failing mounts with OEM parts, ensuring proper alignment and torque specifications during installation.

4. Wheel Balancing

Sub-steps:
- Remove the wheels and take them to a tire shop equipped with a wheel balancer.
- Balance the wheels according to the manufacturer's specifications.
- Reinstall the wheels and torque to the recommended specifications.

5. Test Drive

Sub-steps:
- After completing repairs, take the vehicle for a test drive to confirm that the vibration issue is resolved.
- Monitor for any residual vibrations or noises during acceleration.

Tools Required:

Tire pressure gauge
Jack and jack stands
Pry bar
Wheel balancer
Socket set
Torque wrench

Parts Required:

Replacement tires (if needed)
U-joints (if needed)
Engine or transmission mounts (if needed)

Estimated Repair Time: 2-4 hours

Safety Warnings:

Always use jack stands when working under the vehicle.
Allow the engine to cool before inspecting any components related to the engine or exhaust system.