why does my Ford F-150 shake when I accelerate?

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

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

2 min read

380 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix shaking during acceleration in Ford F-150. 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

•Always disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.
•Ensure the vehicle is securely lifted and supported before working underneath.

Symptoms

•Vibration or shaking felt through the steering wheel
•Shaking noticeable in the cabin during acceleration
•Increased noise from the drivetrain or suspension
•Unusual tire wear patterns
•Steering wheel misalignment or pulling to one side

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the tires for uneven wear or damage.
2
Check tire balance and alignment.
3
Examine the driveshaft for any signs of damage or imbalance.
4
Inspect the engine and transmission mounts for wear or failure.
5
Scan for any OBD-II error codes that may indicate engine or transmission issues.
6
Test the suspension components for wear or damage.

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
•Torque wrench
•Pry bar
•OBD-II scanner

Parts Required

•Tires (if damaged or excessively worn)
•U-joints (if worn)
•Engine or transmission mounts (if damaged)
•Suspension components (if worn)

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the tires for uneven wear or damage.
2
Check tire balance and alignment.
3
Examine the driveshaft for any signs of damage or imbalance.
4
Inspect the engine and transmission mounts for wear or failure.
5
Scan for any OBD-II error codes that may indicate engine or transmission issues.
6
Test the suspension components for wear or damage.

Solution

1. Tire Inspection

Sub-steps:
- Visually inspect all tires for bulges, uneven wear, or foreign objects.
- Check tire pressure and inflate to manufacturer's specifications.
- Rotate tires if uneven wear is detected.

2. Balancing and Alignment

Sub-steps:
- Take the vehicle to a tire shop for balancing if any tire shows imbalance.
- Perform a wheel alignment to ensure proper tracking of the wheels.

3. Driveshaft Inspection

Sub-steps:
- Raise the vehicle securely on jack stands.
- Inspect the driveshaft for any bent or damaged sections.
- Check the U-joints for play or wear; replace if necessary.

4. Mount Inspection

Sub-steps:
- Inspect engine and transmission mounts visually for cracks or separation.
- Use a pry bar to check for excessive movement in mounts.
- Replace any damaged mounts with new OEM parts.

5. Suspension Component Check

Sub-steps:
- Inspect shock absorbers and struts for leaks or wear.
- Check control arms, ball joints, and bushings for wear or play.
- Replace any worn suspension components.

Tools Required:

Tire pressure gauge
Jack and jack stands
Torque wrench
Pry bar
OBD-II scanner

Parts Required:

Tires (if damaged or excessively worn)
U-joints (if worn)
Engine or transmission mounts (if damaged)
Suspension components (if worn)

Estimated Repair Time: 2-4 hours

Safety Warnings:

Always disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.
Ensure the vehicle is securely lifted and supported before working underneath.