Ford F-150 problems
The Ford F-Series is a series of light-duty trucks marketed and manufactured by Ford Motor Company since the 1948 model year. The F-Series is marketed as a range of full-sized pickup trucks positioned above the midsize Ranger but below the larger Super Duty in the Ford truck lineup. Alongside the F-150 (introduced in 1975), the F-Series also includes the Super Duty series (introduced in 1999), which includes the heavier-duty F-250 through F-450 pickups, F-450/F-550 chassis cabs, and F-600/F-650/F-750 Class 6–8 commercial trucks.
History
The F-Series was first introduced in 1948 as a replacement for a previous pickup model line based on car platforms.
The most popular version of the model line is the F-150 pickup truck, currently in its fourteenth generation (introduced for the 2021 model year). From 1953 to 1983, the entry-level F-Series pickup was the 1⁄2 ton F-100. Starting in 1984, the F-150 became the entry-level. The F-150 has a long-running high-performance off-road trim level introduced for 2010, the (SVT) Raptor currently consisting of three generations. Production of the F-150 SVT Raptor ended in 2014 and it was planned to be succeeded by a new F-150 Raptor, which is based on the thirteenth and fourteenth generation F-150.
The F-Series trucks have been developed into a wide range of design configurations. Alongside medium-duty trucks and "Big Job" conventional trucks (the forerunners of the Ford L-series), the model line has been marketed as a chassis-cab truck and a panel van (a predecessor of the Ford E-Series). The F-Series has served as the platform for various full-sized Ford SUVs, including the Ford Bronco, Ford Expedition/Lincoln Navigator, and Ford Excursion. The F-Series has been marketed by its three North American brands: by Mercury as the M-Series (in Canada from 1948 to 1968), and by Lincoln in the 2000s, as the Blackwood and the later Mark LT (2010s for the latter in Mexico only).
Since 1977, the F-Series has remained the best-selling pickup truck line in the United States; it has been the best-selling vehicle overall since 1981. The F-Series has been the best-selling truck in Canada for over fifty years. As of the 2018 model year, the F-Series generated $41 billion (~$49 billion in 2023) in annual revenue for Ford. By January 2022, the F-Series models have sold over 40 million units. Currently, Ford manufactures the F-Series in four facilities in the United States.
Social links
Ford F-150 model years
Common Ford F-150 problems
The Ford F-150, a popular pickup truck model, has faced various issues over the years, as reported by its owners. These problems range from engine issues to transmission problems and even interior design flaws.
One common issue with the 2015-2017 Ford F-150 models is transmission problems, which lead to rough shifting. The 2015 models, in particular, have experienced transmission issues that cause difficulty when shifting gears. The 2016 models also face engine problems, while the 2017 models have experienced a large recall due to a faulty transmission gear indicator.
The MyFord Touch feature, which was intended to enhance the technological options of the console, has been found unreliable by many owners, leading to a class-action lawsuit. The feature has been reported to disable certain vital vehicle commands, such as the defroster or rear-view camera.
Another significant problem with the 2015-2017 F-Series trucks is a frozen door handle latch issue, which has also been reported in 1997-2000 and 2005-2008 F-150 models. Ford initially blamed the issue on users over-torquing replacement spark plugs, but owners have reported that the original spark plugs ejected from the vehicle.
The 1987-1996 Ford F-150 models also experienced transmission problems, with many owners reporting rough shifting and difficulty changing gears.
In summary, the Ford F-150 has faced various issues over the years, including transmission problems, engine issues, and unreliable technological features. These problems have led to recalls, class-action lawsuits, and dissatisfied owners. However, with proper maintenance, many of these issues can be avoided or addressed in a timely manner.
What years did the F-150 have engine problems?
What year F-150 has engine problems? If you want a F-150, but also want to avoid engine problems, then steer away from getting model years 2004-2008, 2010, and 2015-2017.
Which year of F-150 is most reliable?
Specifically, the 2018 F-150 is easily one of the best and most reliable models of pickup trucks, thanks to its high durability ratings and great mileage. The 2019 model is also a standout with excellent critics and user reviews.
What year to avoid buying F-150?
What Are the Best F-150 Models? The best Ford F-150 models years are 2019 - 2023, 2017, 2006 - 2009, 2003, and 1996. The worst model years of the Ford F-150 are 2018, 2010 - 2016, 2004 - 2005, and 1997 - 2002. This is based on reported problems, consumer feedback and ratings from major automotive review sites.
What is the issue with the Ford F-150?
Ford is recalling certain 2021-2023 F-150 vehicles equipped with the Trailer Tow Max Duty package and a 9.75-inch heavy duty axle with a 3/4 float axle design. The rear axle hub bolt may fatigue and break, according to the notice, which can result in damage to the axle hub splines.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Ford F-150 years
We have researched Ford problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Ford F-150 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Ford F-150 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Ford F-150 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Ford F-150 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Ford F-150 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Ford F-150 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Service brakes problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Ford F-150 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by F-150 model years
A total of 1136 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by F-150 model years
There were a total of 1745 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by F-150 model years
There were a total of 1003 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by F-150 model years
There were a total of 60 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 18022 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Ford F-150 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Ford F-150 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Ford F-150 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 1FTPX14555N
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Issues with transmission/ over drive snap ring vehicle only has 145,000 miles. This truck has many complaints and many failures and flaws that need fixed.
Ford F-150 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
- VIN: 1FTPW14VX7F
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Frame has rotted away
Ford F-150 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-28
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-20
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: See attached document for complaint.
Ford F-150 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-18
- VIN: 1FTPX14V38F
- Components: AIR BAGS,ENGINE
- Summary: My 5.4 v8 triton motor timing came phasers are bad the truck runs fine when cold when it gets warmer up it rattles and shakes and stalls air bag light stays on I had to pull the fuse bc it beeps and warning light so it's not active
Ford F-150 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-13
- VIN: 1FTRX12W57N
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact's daughter owns a 2013 Ford Focus. The contact stated that the vehicle had failed to shift properly and shuddered. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the clutch assembly needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to another local dealer, #1 Cochran Ford Boardman (7955 Market St., Youngstown, OH 44512); where it was diagnosed and determined that the clutch assembly needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 17,000.
Ford F-150 1993
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-10
- VIN: 1FTEX15N4PK
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: The contact owns a 1993 Ford F-150. The contact became aware that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 05V017000 (Vehicle Speed Control); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while replacing the brake master cylinder, the contact noticed that there was brake fluid leaking onto a connector. The local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and contacted the dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 156,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
Ford F-150 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-04
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2007 Ford F-150 equipped with Cooper Tires, Tire Line: Discovery ATP, Tire Size: 265/70/R17, DOT Number: (N/A). The contact stated that while performing a tire rotation, the contact discovered sidewall bulges and tread separation on both rear tires. The vehicle was taken to the tire retailer, where it was determined that the rear tires were defective and needed to be replaced. The contact replaced both rear tires. The tire manufacturer was made aware of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The tire failure mileage was unknown. The vehicle failure mileage was 220,000. The VIN was unavailable.
Ford F-150 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-27
- VIN: 1FTRF14W08K
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Vehicle will not go into reverse. After research and reviews of this transmission in this year model, the reverse band is a known issue by Ford. Even the transmissions installed for replacement have bad reverse bands. There was a service advisory put out by ford but the advisory is no longer available. The reverse band is weak and the incorrect part was installed from factory.
Ford F-150 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-20
- VIN: 1FTRW14558F
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: The defroster does not blow. There is an issue with the actuator and although the air can be heard blowing, the air is restricted at the firewall. Per the dealership, it is a known issue. I can't drive my truck in winter because it won't defrost. I live in Fargo, ND.
Ford F-150 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-19
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FTRX18L41N
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: The contact owns a 2001 Ford F-150. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked and turned off, there was smoke coming from the vehicle. The contact stated the engine compartment had caught on fire. The fire was extinguished by the Fire Department. A fire report was filed, and a fire report number was provided; however, the cause for the failure was not yet determined. A police report was not filed. There were no injuries sustained. The contact had received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 05V017000 (Vehicle Speed Control). The vehicle was towed to the dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 154,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
Ford F-150 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-26
- VIN: 1FTRX17W22N
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: DRIVING DOWN [XXX] THE STRAPS ON MY GAS TANK BROKE BECAUSE THEY RUSTED THRU CAUSING GAS TANK TO DROP AND SPILL FUEL ALL OVER [XXX] IN IOWA CAUSING SO MUCH FUEL SPILLED OUT THEY HAD TO CLOSE ONE LANE OF TRAFFIC....THE FIRE DEPT CHIEF OF WHITING, IOWA, STEVEN SNYDER, Can verify what happened....THERE IS A POLICE REPORT BUT I DIDN'T HAVE IT FILING OUT THIS REPORT INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Ford F-150 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-25
- VIN: 1FTRF12277N
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2007 Ford F-150. The contact stated while making a right turn from a complete stop at 7-10 MPH, the vehicle shuddered significantly. The contact pulled over to the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the driveline assembly had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
Ford F-150 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-12
- VIN: 1FTPX14556F
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2006 Ford F-150. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, the contact became aware that the middle sub frame structure was severely rusted. The local dealer was not contacted, and the vehicle was not inspected or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 138,000.
Ford F-150 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-03
- VIN: 1FTPW12V38K
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE
- Summary: I experienced a loss in power while driving and not driving, as well as locking my keys in the vehicle once It would not unlock. The gear shifting knob stopped due to what seemed like resistance an the damaged caused by sales man to the top plunger cap just after i paid. Recently the battery and the alternator are not working and when power is ran through the vehicle, an obvious sound of a live cable buzzing in the rear cab exterior light and seemed to be spliced in a n unsafe way.
Ford F-150 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-30
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FTRW12WX8K
- Components: AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: My emergency brake doesn't work and light is on,and air bags did not deploy when I was hit from behind.
Latest 5 recalls Ford F-150
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 358 recalls for different components of the Ford F-150.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Ford F-150 2022
- Report Received Date: 2024-09-13
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:LIGHTING CONTROL MODULE
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022 F-150 vehicles. The parking lights may flicker when the headlights are activated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
- Consequence: Flickering parking lights can reduce visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the LED Driver module, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed September 26, 2024 on 2022 F-150, and September 27, 2024 on 2022 Maverick. A second notice will be sent once the final remedy is available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24C30. These vehicles were previously recalled for this same issue under 22V-686 and will need to have the new remedy performed.
- Model: Ford F-150 2022
- Report Received Date: 2024-08-23
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco, F-150, Edge, Explorer, Lincoln Nautilus, and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with either a 2.7L or 3.0L Nano EcoBoost engine. The engine intake valves may break while driving, which can result in engine failure and a loss of drive power.
- Consequence: A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will perform an engine cycle test and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed October 17, 2024. A second notice will be sent once the final remedy is available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S55.
- Model: Ford F-150 2021
- Report Received Date: 2024-08-23
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Bronco, F-150, Edge, Explorer, Lincoln Nautilus, and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with either a 2.7L or 3.0L Nano EcoBoost engine. The engine intake valves may break while driving, which can result in engine failure and a loss of drive power.
- Consequence: A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will perform an engine cycle test and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed October 17, 2024. A second notice will be sent once the final remedy is available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S55.
- Model: Ford F-150 2014
- Report Received Date: 2024-06-17
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014 F-150 vehicles. A loss of signal between the transmission output shaft speed sensor and the powertrain control module can cause the transmission to unexpectedly downshift into first gear, regardless of vehicle speed.
- Consequence: Unexpectedly downshifting into first gear may result in a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the powertrain control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 1, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S37.
- Model: Ford F-150 2021
- Report Received Date: 2024-06-14
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:BODY CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 vehicles equipped with the Onboard Scales feature. An over-the-air software update to the body control module (BCM) may have disabled both reverse lights.
- Consequence: Disabled reverse lights cannot alert others that the vehicle is reversing, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the body control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are were mailed June 26, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S38.
Latest negative Ford F-150 car reviews
Latest positive Ford F-150 car reviews
-
Vehicle year: 2004
This is one of the highest quality vehicles I have ever owned. Although there were some major issues after 65,000 miles, such as a bad solenoid for the locking hubs and a temp gauge that is 6 degrees off, overall it has been a reliable truck. The OE tires were borderline, and the interior cloth stains quite easily, but the interior quality was much better before they sourced this stuff out (yes, I worked at Ford years ago and still hold the competency of the truck group high). This truck has been down a lot of washboard dirt roads and on rough narrow two tracks and is still tight. If you haul any lumber or want to use the bed for overnighters, I recommend going with the 6.5' bed. K&E filter helped gas mileage a bit.
-
Vehicle year: 2007
Your truck has been 100% reliable. The 4.6 liter engine is great for day-to-day driving and average payloads and towing. However, it may not be suitable for towing above 5,000 pounds (except on level roads). Overall, it's a great truck!
-
Vehicle year: 2002
I absolutely love my F150! It has over 246,000 miles on it and still runs like a dream. I use it every day and even take it on long trips without any issues. I was lucky enough to buy it for only 2 grand and it has been worth every penny. The combination of the stick shift and the 4.6 engine is fantastic. I get about 22 miles per gallon on the highway and 15 in town. My dad loved my truck so much that he bought one for himself and my brother. All of our Fords have over 240,000 miles on them and we trust them completely. Recently, I bought a second F150 for my wife while I'm away for 6 months. She used to have a 92 Chevy Silverado, but we started having issues with it overheating. I've owned Chevy, Dodge, and Ford trucks ranging from half tons to 1 tons, and this F150 model has been the most reliable and trustworthy one by far!
-
Vehicle year: 2023
Three months ago, I purchased a brand new 2023 Power Boost Ford F150 truck. Recently, after having a camper shell installed, I received a message that read 'Stop Safely Now' and the truck would not start. Today, I attempted to start the truck again, but there was no power whatsoever. I was unable to even lock the truck. This issue is unacceptable for a new vehicle and I will be taking immediate action to resolve it.
-
Vehicle year: 2018
I've been driving my XLT SuperCrew 2.7 Sport 5.5 10a 302a 4x2 for several months now and I must say, I'm impressed. I can see why it's such a popular choice. While it's not perfect, it's definitely very, very good. I upgraded from a 2015 Nissan Frontier because my kids are growing and it was getting too small. The 2.7 Ecoboost engine is the real deal. It's eco-friendly and gets about 20 mpg combined in mainly heavy big city driving. I've even seen it get up to 22 mpg on a regular basis in cooler months without AC running. On a longer highway trip, I got an impressive 26 mpg. I also towed a 3500lb small Travel Trailer, 400-500lb of gear and 4 people with ease in Tow/Haul mode. The 3.15 rear end ran up to 8th gear tops and I wouldn't hesitate to tow a heavier trailer with the 2.7. I think it would do fine with 5000-7000 lbs. I even tried Sport Mode once and it was very quick onto an onramp into highway traffic. The Sync 3 system is also a very good design and the seats are comfortable with lots of legroom. To be honest, I had to nitpick to find any cons. I would like a better quality feel to the tailgate release and there may be an occasional rattle from the dash or door panels. The Frontier never rattled in the 3 years I had it. However, I added some accessories like a Spray-In bedliner, tailgate cartridge that allows easy controlled down, tray style rubber mats, bed extender, hood protector, and Ford Kicker subwoofer. Overall, if it holds up well, it will be well worth it. The 2.7 engine combined with the 10a are great and have met or exceeded my expectations so far. It's a very good truck and I'm happy with my purchase. Even 7 months later, everything continues to hold true. The 2.7 engine is still the real deal and the 10 speed auto is very smooth. The Sync infotainment system is excellent and there are very few drawbacks. There may be a few rattles from the dash on occasion and the driver’s seat fabric may be showing a little more wear than I would expect, but overall it's a great vehicle.Buttons on dash could be a bit larger.
Are you having problems with your Ford F-150?
Jaylin O'Conner 2025-06-24
Vehicle year: 2019
I recently purchased a 2019 Ford F-150 and unfortunately experienced some issues with it. After only 5 days of ownership, I encountered a problem where the screen read 'turn ignition off' and I was unable to start the vehicle. Despite waiting all day for roadside assistance, I had to call the dealership and they had to tow the truck back to their location. It has been there ever since and they are still trying to diagnose the issue. While this has been frustrating, the dealership has been helpful in providing me with a loaner vehicle. I am reaching out to see if anyone has had similar experiences or has any knowledge about this issue. Thank you for your help!
Joe Hills 2025-06-23
Vehicle year: 2011
Hi there! I recently purchased the 2011 XLT 4x4 ecoboost supercrew as I needed a larger truck for my kiddos. Although I loved my previous Tacoma that I drove for 13 years, I was open to trying something new. While the acceleration was strong and the tech features on the inside were pretty good, I did find some areas for improvement. The looks were a bit bland and the fuel economy was well below advertised, only getting 14.5mpg in mixed driving during the winter. Additionally, the turbo would flutter on and off under very light acceleration. Ultimately, I decided to sell it as I didn't want to be holding the bag when it fell apart. As someone who comes from a Ford family, I was a bit disappointed, but I'm happy to say that I'm now driving another Tacoma (4D) and absolutely love it!
Misael Lynch 2025-06-18
Vehicle year: 2020
Let's start with the positives. While the moonroof may not be for everyone, it's a nice feature for those who enjoy a view of the sky. Moving on to the suspension, it's important to note that trucks are designed to handle rough terrain and the F150 is no exception. However, it's understandable that some may prefer a smoother ride. As for the tires, they may not be the most durable option, but they provide a comfortable ride on the road. Now, let's talk about the transmission. While it may take some getting used to, the 10-speed transmission offers a wide range of gears for optimal performance. It's important to note that the start-stop feature is designed to save fuel and reduce emissions, but it can be turned off if desired. Overall, the F150 is a reliable and capable truck that has been a popular choice for many years. While it may not be perfect, it's certainly not a piece of crap.
Hoyt Mayert 2025-06-14
Vehicle year: 1997
Ford discovered a calibration error on the block boring machine that ended up over boring the early 5.4L engines for all of '97 and half of '98. This was discovered when many fleet trucks with this new modular engine began to knock like a rod bearing going out during cold weather start-up after approximately 85,000 miles. According to a tech bulletin issued in late '98-'99, the cylinders in the 5.4 L's were accidentally over bored causing piston slap when cold during startup, and stated it would not harm the engine or interfere with function or performance. Although this news may be disappointing for owners, it is important to note that the engine will not be harmed and will perform well. It is recommended to avoid the 5.4L engine in the '97 and most of the '98 Ford vehicles. Beyond that, they are good engines! My own 35,000 lariat 4x4 has over 160,000 miles as of this note date, and has not burned oil.
Flavio Powlowski 2025-06-12
Vehicle year: 1999
Your truck has the 4.2 V6 engine. While it may not be the best for towing, it still offers great fuel economy with 19.7 on the freeway and 15.5 in the city. It's a full-size truck that's both reliable and comfortable for a family of four when traveling. I would highly recommend it as a great option for a family vehicle, whether it's your first or second choice.