The 1998 F-150 is a full-sized pickup truck made by Ford Motor Company. The F-150 truck is now in its twelfth generation of redesign (as of 2009). In 1998, the F-150 was in the 10th generation. 1998 saw a variety of options come to the F-150. Many of them were optional body panels, but there was also an upgrade to the engine. Even with all of the upgrades and options, the F150 was not without its problems. You will have to troubleshoot them, though know the 1998 model year did have specific issues covered by a manufacturer's recall.
Check the headlight assembly for ANZO replacement headlamps. ANZO made replacement headlamps for the F-150 in the event that the factory headlamps cracked. These replacement headlamps, however, failed to conform to the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard concerning amber side markers. The headlamps did not contain side markers. They can be replaced by calling ANZO at 909-468-3688.
Check for normal shifting of the transmission. The 1998 model year had a serious issue with the transmission shift cable malfunctioning. At times, the cable would not allow the truck to be shifted into park. If this happens, you will not be able to disengage the transmission from the engine. The truck may not start again, because the neutral safety switch will prevent the F-150 from being started (since it cannot be shifted into park). This problem is covered under a factory recall. You just need to take your truck to a Ford dealership.
Check for higher than normal idle speed. The Ford F-150 may not idle normally if you live in cold temperatures (below freezing), as ice may form on the throttle body causing it to stick open. This issue can be fixed by taking your truck to a Ford dealership and having it serviced under the factory recall for this item.
