2004 to 2008 Ford F-150
The Draw: Hauling and payload capacitates are largely appreciated by those owners who work their F-150s, and the available super-crew cabin and premium amenities are popular with those using their pickup for family duties. Most owner gripes deal with fuel mileage and relatively meager performance, even with the big V8 engine. At the end of the day, this is a truck that’s handsomely styled, capable, and easygoing to drive every day. Look for 6- or 8-cylinder power and a variety of options and packages to help meet any need or lifestyle. Note, two V8 engines were available -- namely a 4.6L unit and a 5.4L unit. The King Ranch, Harley Davidson and other special edition models dialed up selection and luxury, too.
The Common Issues: Triple-check for proper operation of all power windows, especially on older models. Numerous owners have reported an expensive issue in which the window falls into the door, which is a pain. A mechanic should check the brake system for wear, as well as the rear differential as both of these racked up a number of complaints from owners in online forums.
An F-150 with a “bad” rear differential may make a grinding sound from the rear and at highway speeds before it fails outright. Further, note that early models (2004, 2005) with the 5.4L engine are prone to spark-plugs that break off inside the engine when it’s time to change them. Your mechanic has more details. Note any check-engine lights, which could indicate a bad sensor.
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| 2004 Ford F-150 (Photo: Ford) |
The Draw: Hauling and payload capacitates are largely appreciated by those owners who work their F-150s, and the available super-crew cabin and premium amenities are popular with those using their pickup for family duties. Most owner gripes deal with fuel mileage and relatively meager performance, even with the big V8 engine. At the end of the day, this is a truck that’s handsomely styled, capable, and easygoing to drive every day. Look for 6- or 8-cylinder power and a variety of options and packages to help meet any need or lifestyle. Note, two V8 engines were available -- namely a 4.6L unit and a 5.4L unit. The King Ranch, Harley Davidson and other special edition models dialed up selection and luxury, too.
The Common Issues: Triple-check for proper operation of all power windows, especially on older models. Numerous owners have reported an expensive issue in which the window falls into the door, which is a pain. A mechanic should check the brake system for wear, as well as the rear differential as both of these racked up a number of complaints from owners in online forums.
An F-150 with a “bad” rear differential may make a grinding sound from the rear and at highway speeds before it fails outright. Further, note that early models (2004, 2005) with the 5.4L engine are prone to spark-plugs that break off inside the engine when it’s time to change them. Your mechanic has more details. Note any check-engine lights, which could indicate a bad sensor.
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| 2004 Ford F-150 (Photo: Ford) |