When was the 1997 F-150 introduced? I'm looking at buying an F-150 that looks like a 97, is being sold as a 97 but has a door-jam label that says it was mfg'd. in 03/96. Any insight would be greatly appreciated.

Also, what's been the history on the first production lots for 97?

Thanks.


Kevin

 

I think that they started selling in January of 1996, I don't have any idea of how many 96s were sold, but I would guess that the numbers for that model year were down. If you want, you can call it a 1996.5 or a 96 v2.0 or a 96 ƒ-150! Mine is an early 97, I am not sure of my build date, but I am thinking they went on sale in January of 96. Gotta love the 97s!

 

Thanks for the speedy reply.

After posting my question I took a closer look at some of the f150online sites and found some interesting info ported from NHTSA.

https://www.f150online.com/resources/recall.cfm

Apparently the 97 model year began as early as August 1995.

NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 96V256000

[snip]

Potential Number of Units Affected: 133000
Manufactured: 08/1995 - 04/1996

What with 11 NHTSA citations I'd better find out where the vehicle was assembled and what if any issues have not been addressed.

Thanks again.


Kevin

 

I never dreamed that they started producing them that early! I learn stuff all the time around here. Where do I get the exact build date on my truck? This may come in handy when trying to sell, so I will have as many specs on it as I can get. So far I know I have a 4.6 Romeo, and that it is an early 97. I don't know how I know either one of these things.

 

Look in the driver's side door jamb, you should see the build date on the tag there.

The 97s are unique in a lot of ways, it was a one year grill and bumper style. And I think it was the only year to have a three door model, I'm sure a 98 owner will be along shortly to correct me if I'm wrong!

With the exception of a small door crack on the driver's side, mine has been trouble free.

 

First time I went in for service they gave me a copy of the Oasis report. It details all work done on the truck. I found out my truck's exact build date (which I call birthday!) is 11/18/96!
Go to a Ford dealer & have them run the VIN & get a free Oasis too. If there's any unresolved recalls I believe that will appear as well. Good luck - I love my '97, even though I do have the door cracks in both doors. It's an awesome truck & I am very glad I got it!

 

Whats an Oasis report? Do they have a site? Is it easy to hack into? I really dont feel like going to a dealer to get it done. Whats the price? Is it like a carfax?

Thanks.