Ford F59 2015-2020 Starter Motor: A Guide to Replacement
Don't get left stranded; learn how to spot a failing starter on your 2015-2020 Ford F59 commercial chassis and choose the right replacement.
- A clicking sound, slow crank, or intermittent starting are the primary signs of a failing starter on your F59.
- Always rule out a weak battery before replacing the starter; try a jump-start first.
- No recalls are currently active for the starter motor on this vehicle.
- Motorcraft is the OEM brand for a guaranteed fit, while quality aftermarket brands like MPA offer a reliable, cost-effective alternative.
Is Your F59 Starter Failing?
A starter motor rarely fails without warning. For a commercial vehicle like the F59, where reliability is key, recognizing the early signs can prevent a no-start situation that disrupts your work. The most common issue is simple wear and tear on the internal components from thousands of engine starts.
Symptoms of a Bad Starter
- Clicking Sound: The most classic symptom. You turn the key and hear a single, loud click or a series of rapid clicks, but the engine doesn't crank. This usually means the starter's solenoid is trying to work but doesn't have enough power, or the motor itself has failed.
- Slow Engine Crank: If the engine turns over sluggishly, like it's struggling, it's a major red flag. While this can also be a sign of a weak battery, if a jump-start doesn't solve it, the starter is the next likely suspect.
- Grinding Noise: A harsh grinding or whirring sound during or after starting is a serious warning. This indicates the starter gear is not meshing correctly with the engine's flywheel and could cause expensive damage if ignored.
- Intermittent Starting: The starter works fine one day but fails the next. This inconsistency is typical of a starter with worn internal electrical contacts and will eventually lead to complete failure.
- No Sound at All: You turn the key and nothing happens—no click, no crank. If your dashboard lights and accessories work, the power is not reaching or being used by the starter motor.
Don't Mistake It for a Bad Battery
Many starter symptoms overlap with a weak or dead battery. Before replacing your starter, always check that your battery terminals are clean and tight. Try jump-starting the vehicle. If it starts up immediately, your battery is the likely problem, not the starter.
Choosing a New Aftermarket Starter
For the 2015-2020 Ford F59, you have a few solid choices for a new aftermarket starter. The decision often comes down to a balance of cost, quality, and warranty.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Quality
Motorcraft is Ford's own parts brand, making it the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) choice. A new Motorcraft starter is built to the exact specifications of the one your F59 came with from the factory. They are known for their reliability and are often used for warranty repairs, but they typically come at a higher price.
Aftermarket brands like MPA (Motorcar Parts of America) offer a more budget-friendly alternative without a significant compromise in quality. MPA is a major manufacturer that produces starters designed to meet or exceed OEM specifications. They often use high-quality internal components like double-sealed bearings and perform extensive testing to ensure durability. Sometimes an aftermarket part may look slightly different than the original, as Ford occasionally used multiple suppliers for the same part.
| Brand Tier | Our Available Brands | Typical Quality & Price |
|---|---|---|
| OEM / Premium | Motorcraft | Highest quality and perfect fitment, but most expensive. The benchmark for reliability. |
| Quality Aftermarket | MPA | Excellent balance of price and performance. Built to OEM specs and often includes improvements. A reliable choice for commercial use. |
| Performance | Ford Performance | Generally designed for high-compression or racing engines. Not typically necessary or available for the stock 6.8L V10 in an F59. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it hard to replace the starter on a Ford F59?
The job is moderately difficult and can be done by a DIYer with the right tools. The starter is located on the passenger side where the engine meets the transmission. Access to the three mounting bolts can be tight, especially the top one, which may require a combination of socket extensions and swivels.
Are there any recalls on the 2015-2020 F59 starter?
No. As of early 2026, there are no active recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) from Ford or the NHTSA specifically for the starter motor on the 2015-2020 Ford F59.
What is the difference between a new and a remanufactured starter?
A new starter is made entirely from new components. A remanufactured starter is a used OEM core that has been completely disassembled, cleaned, inspected, and rebuilt with new internal wear components like brushes, bearings, and solenoids. A quality remanufactured starter from a brand like Motorcraft or MPA can be just as reliable as a new one and is a cost-effective option.
Can a bad starter damage other parts?
Yes. A starter that grinds can damage the teeth on the engine's flywheel, which is a much more expensive repair. A failing starter can also draw excessive current, putting a strain on the battery and potentially overheating the electrical wiring.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: DL3Z-11002-A DL3Z-11002-B DL3Z-11002-C SA-1026 SA-1072 SA-1083
Fits 6.8L V10 engine. Typically a 12-Volt, 1.2 kW Permanent Magnet Gear Reduction (PMGR) design with a 12-tooth gear.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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