2000 Ford E-150 van blew spark plug number 6, with loss of power accompanied by loud noise, smell of exhaust and gasoline. Had two children in van with me at the time. Had previously heard a slight ticking which I thought was a developing exhaust leak or possibly ticking valve. Had vehicle towed 50 miles to home town mechanic who repaired damage with Ford recommended helicoil at a cost of near $400. Fortunately breakdown happened at low speed and was able to limp van off to empty parking lot.

- Moulton, TX, USA

The contact owns a 2000 Ford E-150. At 80,000 miles, a tune-up was performed on the vehicle and all of the spark plugs were replaced. Approximately 10,000 miles later, the vehicle was taken to the dealer and they replaced the coil and the number six spark plug again. At 140,000 miles, the number six spark plug ejected from the head and had to be replaced a third time. On a separate occasion, when the vehicle was started, the number six spark plug ejected again and damaged the head, which rests on top of the cylinder of the engine block. The vehicle was towed. The mechanic stated that the number six spark plug ejects from time to time. Approximately 700 miles later, the number seven spark plug ejected. The dealer had the insert placed in the head and replaced the number 7 spark plug and the coil. The current mileage was 145,500 and failure mileage was 144,000.

- Webster Groves, MO, USA

The vehicle had engine problems. The consumer stated that one or two cylinders seem to stop functioning and this renders the vehicle unable to proceed even in the most benign traffic situations. When the cylinders fail to function the engine service light comes on. The consumer stated that there is a high voltage coil on each spark plug siting that this may enhance performace but it also reduces engine reliability.

- New Baden, TX, USA