Common Ford Raptor Problems & Their Fixes

The Ford Raptor is America’s best-selling truck. It provides a comfortable off-road experience with long-travel suspension, large all-terrain tires, and a compact body. Ford first used the nameplate “Raptor” in 2010, designated for the highest off-road performance version of the F-150 and Ranger models. However, despite the Raptor’s outstanding performance and sturdy design, it is not without its problems.

The overall worst problem category for the Ford Raptor is engine problems. Then we have issues such as brakes problems, drivetrain issues, electrical issues, and interior accessories issues. The best way to solve your Ford Raptor problems is to eliminate possible problems one-by-one until you identify the root cause of the malfunction. This post will address common problems with the Ford Raptor and help you with troubleshooting tips.

Ford Raptor IM monitors are not working.

Problems with the Ford Raptor IM monitors are among the most prominent issues Raptor drivers reported. The monitor in Ford Raptors is part of the SYNC 3 system that conducts communication with other parts of the car and the vehicle’s computer.

There are several problems with the monitor, such as a blank screen or a frozen or glitching screen. However, a failing monitor could also mean a problem outside the SYNC 3 system. Here’s how you can fix the monitor issues on your Ford Raptor.

Reset the Ford Raptor monitor

The first thing to do when having problems, such as the Ford Raptor monitor freezing, try performing a soft reset. A reset will clear the memory and any software glitches causing issues. Here’s how to reset a Ford Raptor monitor yourself.

Locate the volume button and seek forward buttons on the dashboard.
Press and hold both buttons simultaneously until the screen turns off completely. Then let the screen start as usual.
When the screen comes on, the reset will be successful.
Try updating the software to finish clearing the bugs causing the screen to freeze.
If the screen is entirely blank, continue with troubleshooting.

Fuse issues

If resetting the monitor and the SYNC 3 system doesn’t fix the issue, check the fuse box for blown fuses.
Locate the fuse box on the right-hand side of the passenger’s footwell.
The fuse to the monitor display should be number 32.
If the fuse to the infotainment system has worn out or clearly shows signs of burns, replace it.
After replacing the fuse, the screen should come back on when you start the Ford Raptor.

Damaged LVDS cable and wiring faults

The LVDS cable maintains a connection between the front display and the accessory protocol interface model. When this cable is broken or loose, there will be no power to the monitor in your Ford Raptor, and it will go blank.

Check the LVDS cable and other wires for loose connection or damage. If the connections are loose, ensure they are secure and replace any damaged or worn cables.
Fuel issues
Fuel issues in your Ford Raptor 2019 can also cause the monitor to stop working. Open the fuse box and check fuse numbers 32 and 33. If one or both of the fuses is blown, replace them.

2011 Ford Raptor 6.2L could not duplicate key

If you have lost the key fob to your 2011 Ford Raptor, you will have to go to the Ford dealership for programming. However, when you learn how to program the new key to your 2011 Raptor, you will not need to go to the Ford dealership for the same procedure.

Before you program the duplicate key, you need two working keys for your vehicle. Also, note that programming the key and programming the fob buttons are two different procedures. Read more to know how to program the duplicate key.

Things you need

Duplicate key(H92-PT transponder key)

Instructions

Insert working key #1 into the ignition, turn without starting the car, and hold until it stops beeping. Then you pull it out.
Insert the working key #2 into the ignition within five seconds without starting the car and holding until it stops beeping. Then pull it out.
Then, insert the unprogrammed key into the ignition and turn it without starting the car within five seconds. You will hear the lock cycle to indicate that the Raptor truck is programming itself to the key, then remove it.
Test the new key to see if it works with your truck. If it doesn’t work, repeat the process and make sure you’re doing them quickly.

Catalyst monitor is not ready Ford Raptor.

The OBDII (On Board Diagnostic) system in your Ford Raptor regulates your vehicles using monitors. Your Ford Raptor, like other cars, has two monitors – continuous and non-continuous. Continuous monitors run when the engine runs. In contrast, non-continuous monitors depend on certain factors such as speed, acceleration, fuel level, and more to process testing.

Catalyst monitors are non-continuous monitors that monitor the catalytic converter’s ability to reduce harmful emissions. The catalyst monitors can either be ‘ready’ or ‘not ready .’If your Ford Raptor indicates ‘catalyst monitor not ready,’ it suggests that the Drive Cycle has not run entirely. Therefore the catalyst monitor has not tested the catalytic converter. Follow the steps below to get the status to ‘ready.’

Ensure the engine light is off because active trouble codes can stop a monitor from running altogether.
Check if your Raptor is at coolant temperature. Since the drive cycle starts with a cold state, the engine coolant temperature should be below 50°C (122°F) and within 6°C (11°F) of the air temperature. You can achieve coolant temperature by allowing your truck to sit overnight.
Start the engine and maintain idleness for two and a half minutes, keeping the rear defroster and AC on.
Switch the rear defroster and AC off and drive the vehicle at a speed of 90 km/hr (55MPH) for about three minutes. During the drive, the purge and Fuel monitor diagnostics will take place.
Then decelerate your speed gradually up to 32 km/hr (20 MPH) without shifting of clutch or brake.
Again increase your speed back to 90 km/hr (55MPH) at 3/4 throttle for approximately five minutes. The catalyst monitor diagnostics will occur, and the status should go to ‘ready .’If the catalyst is still not ready, it might take five completely driving cycles to change the status of the catalyst.

Ford Raptor grill lights are not working.

As required by law, the Ford Raptor has extra LED amber lights on the grill as identification of its large width and safety on the road. In addition, the grills lights act as daytime running lights and stay on if your lights are on auto. Follow the steps below to replace the grill lights on your 2004 to 2014 Ford Raptor regardless of your grill type.

Remove the front grill from your Raptor by unscrewing the two bolts and two clips holding it in place.
Lift and pull back the grill to reveal the open space. Then pop off the metal clips on the metal beam.
Disconnect the bad LED light from the wiring harness.
Install the LED lights through the grill depending on your desired spacing interval.
Then plug the replacement lights into the wiring harness. Next, crimp and ground the negative wire and crimp the positive wire.
Plug the harness into your fuse box, reinstall the grill, and test the lights.

Ford Raptor heated seat is not working.

The heated seat fault is a well-known problem, especially on the first generation Ford Raptors. Follow these steps to diagnose and troubleshoot a Raptor-heated car seat that isn’t working.

Corroded plug

Locate the heated seat plug under the seat where it connects to the wiring harness. Check for corrosion or dirt in the plug sockets. If the sockets are clean, turn on the car’s ignition to ensure the plug has power.
Then use a multimeter to check for at least 12 volts on both sides of the switch. If the plug has rusted, you’ll need to replace it.

Blown fuse

Open your vehicle’s fuse box and locate the fuse to the heated car seat.
Check if the fuse has blown or is loose. If it is loose and working, ensure it sits securely.
If it has blown, replace it.

Inspect the thermistor

Remove the seat cover and locate the thermistor, the device that maintains the heated seat’s temperature. Check for burned areas on the seat under the seat cover or the vehicle’s carpet to indicate the thermistor has shifted.
If the thermistor is not in the correct position in the seat, it will not detect the proper temperature.
If it has shifted, replace it or solder the burnt wire.

Damaged heating element

If the fuse, plug, and thermistor are in good condition, check the heating element of the seat. The heating wire that warms the seat is delicate and can easily break.
Use a multimeter to test for the heating wire continuity. If the heating element is damaged, replace the entire unit.
Disconnect the wires from the seat and use tape to mark which connectors go where.
Remove the seat from your truck.
Disassemble the seat, separating the back and the base. Then remove the cushion and leather from the base.
Replace all the heated seat parts, including the heating element and the wiring.
Reassemble the seat again and put it back into the truck.
Reconnect the wires correctly as marked earlier and test them.

Ford Raptor 4WD will not engage.

There are several reasons why the 4WD in your Ford F150 Raptor will not engage when you select 4H. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you diagnose and fix the issue to get your Raptor 4WD to engage.

Test the vacuum system

Inspect the vacuum hoses for leaks or cracks to ensure vacuum pressure. Then, next to the battery, locate the solenoid on the truck’s passenger side.

To test vacuum pressure:

Remove the vacuum hoses from the solenoid located against the firewall. There are two vacuum hoses held together by a black plastic housing. The line with the valve should have a constant vacuum when the engine is running, whereas the second line should only have vacuum pressure once 4WD has engaged.
Remove the lines from the check valve connection and insert them into the second hose that supplies pressure to the IWE’s. This creates a permanent vacuum when you switch on the engine and sucks the diaphragm from the IWE back in, allowing the front wheels to rotate freely.
Test by jacking the truck’s front up and test if both front wheels turn freely.

The actuator

The 4-wheel-drive actuator locks the differential when the driver engages 4WD through a switch inside the cabin. All the moving parts inside the actuator, like gears, shift fork and locking collars, need regular inspection and lubrication to protect them from moisture setting in and causing internal damage.

Fluid levels

If you stay in places with severe cold weather conditions, you must ensure the differential and transfer case oil levels are on point. These fluids cool and lubricate the differential gears. However, like other automobile oils, they break down over time. Also, ensure you use quality synthetic differential oil to withstand sub-zero temperatures.

There could also be a fluid leakage in the lines reducing its levels. Grinding noises when driving on 4WD indicate that your Raptor is running on low differential fluids. Inspect for oil leaks after every off-road trip and fix them. Failure to top up this fluid will result in component failures and expensive repair costs. During winter seasons, it’s important to first warm the vehicle before engaging any 4WD systems.

Other reasons why your differential oil breaks down faster include:

Contamination from water
Off-road driving on rough and wet terrain
Heavy towing which strains the drivetrain
Electrical connection problems

Wire corrosion

4WD vehicles like the Ford Raptor have several electrical connections that send various signals from sensors. Corroded electrical wires in the 4WD system can cause voltage and current flow degradation. Therefore, the sensor could interpret dips and irregularities in the signal transmitted through the cables as a fault and prevent 4WD from engaging. This fault will also result in a flashing light on the dashboard.

Wire corrosion is prevalent if you drive your Raptor in wet conditions like mud, rivers, or snow. Therefore regular service and maintenance work is essential.
Avoid using a piercing probe when testing electrical wires in your Ford Raptor. Pricking holes through the insulation allows moisture to set it and increases wire corrosion.
Ensure all electrical wires are cleaned and sprayed with quality electrical silicon spray to prevent moisture build-up during vehicle service.

Faulty switch

When the 4WD switch becomes faulty, it causes issues such as delayed engagement and disengagement, flashing 4WD light. If you suspect the switch is defective, consult a professional auto-electrician to test and replace the switch if necessary.

Ford Raptor AC is not cold.

We have outlined the most probable reasons why the AC in your Ford Raptor is not keeping cool.

No refrigerant or low refrigerant levels

The most common reason for your Raptor’s AC not getting cold is it requires recharge with a new refrigerant. It is best to use a professional mechanic to recharge the AC system.

Leaking refrigerant in the AC system of your Raptor will prevent it from working correctly. Even the wrong refrigerant pressure will prevent the AC from cycling. You should inspect the system for defective seal rings, damaged lines, or a worn condenser for signs of leaking by filling the system with forming gas. Then fix the holes by replacing the defective component and then refilling the coolant.

Clogged cabin air filter

The cabin filter or pollen filter in your Ford Raptor is part of the AC system that removes dirt from the air inside your vehicle’s cabin. A dirty cabin filter will reduce cooling, heating, and airflow. It also puts unnecessary stress on the AC system, which in turn affects your Raptor’s fuel consumption.

Inspect the cabin filter and clean it using a vacuum cleaner. If cleaning doesn’t remove enough dirt, replace the cabin filter.

Stuck blend air door

The blend air door is a small hatch inside your Raptor’s ventilation system that controls how much conditioned, and heated air enters the cabin. When switching your system from heat to cold, the door should change to drawing in cold air. However, if the blend air door gets jammed or stuck, it will still be drawing heat from the engine and blowing it into the cabin. The best way to fix a defective blend air door is with the help of a mechanic.

Bad condenser

The condenser in your Ford F150 Raptor sits at the front of the vehicle. It releases the heat from the coolant into the ambient air. Unfortunately, when the condenser gets clogged with dirt, bugs, and grime, it reduces its ability to release heat, resulting in poor cooling in the interior.

Take out the condenser and clean it using a power washer set at low pressure. It allows the condenser to air dry before reinstalling it.

While you have the condenser in hand, you can test for leaking using forming gas as it could also be a source for leaking refrigerant. If the condenser is leaking, replace it.

Faulty blower motor

If there is little to no air blowing from your Raptor, the blower motor is probably defective. You will also hear abnormal sounds from the AC when it is running to indicate a damaged blower. If the blower motor is bad, replace it. If the replaced blower motor fails shortly after, check for a blown fuse and replace it too.

2013 Ford Raptor mileage is not working

A functioning odometer is essential to know the mileage on your Ford Raptor. However, the gears that turn the analog odometer can wear down and stop spinning. So before starting on the repair, check if the speedometer is also working. The speedometer and the odometer are part of the speedometer gauge. If both the speedometer and odometer aren’t working, the problem is with the speed sensors that will need replacing.

If the mechanical odometer is the only one broken, the issues are with the gears. Follow the instructions below to get your broken Ford Raptor odometer working.

Disconnect the negative cable from your car’s battery.
Remove the speedometer gauge gasket. Take a flathead screwdriver and pry all around the gasket edge of your speedometer. Then push it away from the dash.
Detach the entire speedometer gauge from the dash carefully not to disconnect the electrical wires behind it.
Mark how the electrical wires connect at the back of the speedometer gauge and then pull out the wires.
Place the gauge face down on a surface and remove the screws from the case’s back.
Lift the gauge from its casing and turn it face up.
Hold the post that resets the odometer and gently pull it from the gauge. If you feel resistance when pulling, place a finger under the dial of the gauge and press upward where the post passes through and connects into the motor case. The motor case is a small black box attached to the reverse side of the dial.
Remove the speedometer needle. Grasp the round base of the needle and turn the needle clockwise until it stops, then pull it up slowly while rocking the needle slightly back and forth. Do not force the needle out as it bends easily.
Remove the screws located at the front of the gauge and then pull out the motor case gently.
Pull out the gear pod off the top of the motor case and then pry out the odometer planetary gear from the gear pod.
Install the replacement gear and reassemble the gauge in reverse steps.

2010 Ford Raptor speedometer is not working

Several Ford Raptor owners have reported problems with the speedometer in their 2010 Ford Raptors. The following are the most probable reasons why your 2010 F-150 Raptor mileage is not working correctly.

VSS

If the speedometer is not displaying any speeds, there is likely an issue with the vehicle speed sensor(VSS). This sensor is on the output shaft of your vehicle’s transmission that measures the rotations and sends that data to the ECU. If the service engine light is on, use an OBDII scanner to look for the P0500 trouble code that indicates a faulty speed sensor.

Then take your Raptor to a professional mechanic to change the speed sensor. Replacing the speed sensor is important as it also controls the cruise control system. Therefore a faulty speed sensor can affect the engine’s performance.

Wiring issues

Exposed wiring running to and from the VSS will affect the speedometer. This usually happens after driving through heavy water. If the wiring is exposed, it will need replacing.

Also, check if the fuse to the VSS has blown. If the fuse has blown, consult with a mechanic to diagnose and address the cause of the blown fuse.

ECU

The Ford Raptors Engine Control Unit(ECU) is the vehicle computer that takes in data from the vehicle sensors and controls the vehicle systems. It sends crucial data to the driver via the instrument cluster. If there are software issues or bugs in the ECU system, it will not send speed data to the speedometer, especially if there are no VSS-related trouble codes.

Speedometer

Most times, if the speedometer fails, it means there is a bigger problem with the entire instrument cluster. First, check if the other gauges work. If they do, the speedometer is working, but there is a problem with the signal going to it. If the other gauges are off, there could be a problem with the instrument panel and ECU.

Ford Raptor trailer lights are not working.

Functioning trailer lights are crucial for utmost safety. Unfortunately, many issues can prevent your Ford Raptor trailer lights from stopping working. Here is a simple guide to troubleshooting your Raptor trailer lights.

Bulb issues

A blown bulb is the most common cause for trailer lights that don’t work. First, use a bulb tester to see if the bulbs are working. If they are not, replace them. If the bulbs are functional, continue with the next step.

Check for ground problems.

If the trailer lights are flickering, there is probably a grounding issue. Start by cleaning the ground connections with electrical contact cleaner.

Then check if the Raptor’s ground wire is hoarding additional wires on a screw. If it is stacked, move it to a screw of its own or move it to the stack bottom.

Check for signs of corrosion under the insulation and replace the wire if necessary.

Check the terminals

Inspect the terminals and replace any non-sealed and crimp-only terminals with Crimp and Solder Seal terminals. This is because crimp-only terminals have a weak connection even when they feel secure. While a Crimp and Solder Seal terminal is more secure, therefore, it doesn’t allow for a voltage drop through the connection. This connection will also keep the terminals clean.

Inspect the fuses

Check if the Ford Raptor lighting fuses on the powered converter are burnt and replace them. Examine the wiring on the trailer side and the Ford side for in-line fuses. If the fuses continue blowing out, there might be a circuit overload. The best solution is to replace the trailer lights with LED bulbs.

Check if the problem is with the Raptor truck wiring or trailer wiring

Disconnect the trailer from the vehicle and find out if the trailer lights function correctly.
Wire the wiring harness on your Raptor to a standalone battery.
Connect the white wire to the negative terminal and the colored wires to the positive terminal.
If the trailer lights function without this connection, the issue is with the vehicle wiring.

Rewiring

Sometimes insulation degrades, allows moisture to set it, and the wires erode from within, making diagnosing the problem areas difficult. Inspect the condition of the cables, and if the insulation has small tears and cracks, it is better to rewire the trailer using trailer wiring kits.

2017 Ford Raptor AM radio is not working

Amplitude Modulation(AM) radios have their signal’s strength(amplitude) changed to help the radio make a sound. Suppose the radio doesn’t work on AM but works when you insert a CD or other auxiliary audio sources. In that case, there may be a problem with the antenna, tuner, or external interference. To determine the source of the issue, follow the troubleshooting guide below.

Blown fuse

If the radio in your Ford Raptor is not turning on completely, the most common culprit is a blown fuse or fuses.

Test the radio for power and ground with a multimeter. Then check for blown fuses and replace them if necessary.

Tuning issues

If the radio powers on but doesn’t work on AM, try tuning to a different station to determine the issue is not limited to one or two radio stations. A station with a low-powered transmitter will have reception problems. Also, stations far from you will cause signal losses, and there is nothing you can do about this.
A misaligned tuner can also prevent the radio from receiving any AM signals. If the tuner is damaged, you will have to contact a professional technician to test and fix the tuner. If no radio station works, continue with the next step.

Vehicle radio ground connection

After determining the issue is not external, check the head unit’s ground connection.

Remove the heating unit and other components on the dash panel to find the ground wire.
Then trace the ground wire to where it has bolted to the frame.
If the connection is loose or corroded, tighten, clean, and relocate it if necessary.
Avoid grounding the head unit in the same area as other components as it can create a ground loose that causes a whine or hum.

Check the antenna

Ensure the antenna lead securely connects to the antenna jack on the rear of the car stereo receiver.
Inspect the condition of the antenna and make sure it is not dented or broken. If it is, replace it. The antenna jack should not connect to any other jack; otherwise, AM/FM radio won’t work.
You can also reroute your antenna cable so that it doesn’t come into contact with any wires or electronic devices that might cause interference.
Listen for static changes when you drive around. If it only shows up in certain places and worse in others, the antenna is likely the issue. You can add a car antenna booster on your Ford Raptor to improve poor reception, but it might not help much with the static.

Class D amplifiers

Class D amplifiers can also cause AM reception problems in your Ford Raptor radio.

If you have a connected amplifier, disconnect it from power and check if AM reception has improved. If it has, the amplifier is the issue.
The best solution for this is lowering the GAIN feature on the amplifier if applicable.

Reset

If nothing seems to work, try resetting your car radio or replacing the entire head unit.

Ford Raptor front camera is not working.

The front-facing camera on the Ford Raptor is slightly below the Ford emblem in the front grill and is part of the emblem assembly. The best way to fix a front camera that’s not working is to identify the symptoms when you switch it on. Here are some of the commonly reported Ford Raptor’s front camera problems.

No signal detected

There is a problem with the camera, it’s power supply or the signal line from the camera is damaged/unplugged.

Blown fuse and wiring faults

Check the fuses and power cables to the camera located in the bed area of the Raptor truck. Ensure the fuse is not blown, but if it has, replace it. If the wiring is frayed or disconnected, you can replace the wire or securely connect the wires to their terminals.

Faulty camera

A build-up of moisture, a collision, or a factory error can damage some components in the camera and prevent it from working altogether. However, if the camera breaks down shortly after purchasing your Raptor truck, there’s a chance its replacement is under warranty.

The camera can also get damaged when installing any components behind the front grill. If the front camera is defective, you have to replace it.

Conclusion

Known for its spacious and robust design, the Ford F-150 Raptor truck is excellent for off-road adventures, towing and commercial purposes. However, despite its high-reliability rating, the Ford Raptor has its share of issues with its owners. Tracking the source of the problems can be very challenging, but with the help of our article and patience and time, you can diagnose what’s wrong and repair it on time.