I have 98 sport auto trans, SOHC engine. I bought new. Currently 119,000 miles.
1) Gas pedal bracket welds may break.
Fix- Remove pedal, there are 2 holes in the bracket, drill through these through the fire wall and bolt the bracket down.
2) Door won't lock or open from the inside.
Fix- Replace latch while you are still able to get it open!
3) Remove cowl panels in front of windshield. Check the area down inside in front of the drivers side. Factory spot welded seam is rusted and leaks water into truck. You will find the padding beneath the carpet is soaked, drivers side on mine.
Fix- I was able to clean up the rust and seal it .
4) Ford ball joints. seal rots and it goes dry. Making noise as your driving along.
Get the dealer to replace them for you.
The Ford ones don't have the grease fittings on them.
5) When using turn signals you get a buzzing noise and signal.
Fix- Replace turn signal switch.
I chose to take mine apart and clean all the copper connections I could and greased them. Fixed it.
DR98