my Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020) shakes when I accelerate

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

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

528 words

Problem Statement

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

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Ensure the vehicle is securely lifted and supported before working underneath.
•Disconnect the battery if working on electrical components.

Symptoms

•Shaking or vibrations felt through the steering wheel or chassis during acceleration
•Diminished acceleration power
•Noise or clunking sounds when accelerating
•Steering wheel misalignment or pulling to one side
•Uneven tire wear

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect tires for uneven wear and check tire pressure.
2
Perform a visual inspection of the suspension components for damage or wear.
3
Check for loose or damaged driveshaft and CV joints.
4
Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to identify any engine-related issues.
5
Test drive the vehicle to replicate the shaking under various acceleration conditions.
6
Check wheel alignment and balance.

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

•OBD-II scanner
•Tire pressure gauge
•Tread depth gauge
•Jack and jack stands
•Torque wrench
•Socket set
•Alignment tool
•Wheel balancer

Parts Required

•New tires (if necessary)
•Suspension components (bushings, control arms, shocks if worn)
•Driveshaft or CV joints (if damaged)

Related Faults

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect tires for uneven wear and check tire pressure.
2
Perform a visual inspection of the suspension components for damage or wear.
3
Check for loose or damaged driveshaft and CV joints.
4
Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to identify any engine-related issues.
5
Test drive the vehicle to replicate the shaking under various acceleration conditions.
6
Check wheel alignment and balance.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather all necessary tools and parts.
Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.
Wear safety glasses and gloves.

2. Tire Inspection

Tools Required: Tire pressure gauge, tread depth gauge
Check tire pressure and inflate to manufacturer's specification if necessary.
Measure tread depth across all tires; replace if tread is below 2/32 inches.
Inspect tires for bulges, cracks, or foreign objects.

3. Suspension and Drivetrain Inspection

Tools Required: Jack and jack stands, torque wrench, socket set
Safely lift the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
Inspect the control arms, bushings, and shock absorbers for any signs of wear or damage.
Check the driveshaft for any play or damage; tighten or replace if necessary.
Inspect CV joints for wear and replace if boot is torn or joint is damaged.

4. Wheel Alignment and Balance

Tools Required: Alignment tool, wheel balancer
Check wheel alignment using alignment tools and adjust as necessary to meet manufacturer's specifications.
If tires are unbalanced, balance them using a wheel balancer.

5. Reassemble and Test

After completing the inspections and repairs, reassemble any components that were removed.
Lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
Test drive the vehicle to ensure the shaking has been resolved.