Yep, my dislike for the looks of my 2011 is offset by the fact that my 5.0 will run circles around my 5.4(with a custom tune), and get 30% better gas mileage doing it.

 

78k on my 2004... both cam phasers replaced, timing tensioners/guides need replacing, spark plugs (2) broke during replacing, limited slip wore out about 500 miles ago, a/c condenser drain plugged and flooded cab (cleared it and put on the rubber elbow TSB fix), rear bumper is rusting like crazy for some reason, fuel pump module proactively replaced (was on verge of failure due to galvanic corrosion).

 

Steve,
our trucks must have been next to each other on the assembly line.
64.5k, replaced phasers, broke 2 plugs, replaced 2 window regulators, rear end shuddered, currently in shop for skipped timing they think. I think the tensioners went out causing it to jump time. replaced FPDM for preventive maintenance.

 

08 5.4 with 44k zero problems so far.

 

Had to have the engine replaced at 75k miles (bought new, 04 FX4). Bits of metal in the oil pan from a thrust washer. With the cam phaser issue and my previous experience, this will be my last f150, although I still love the look and feel of my truck.

 

My 05 Supercrew Lariat 4x4 with 5.4 has been pretty reliable since purchased new now has around 78,000 miles on it,Had 1 stuck injector @ around 60,000 (Ford Fixed Under the Warranty) Left Front Window Regulator @ around 55.000,Right Front Fog Light had water in it replaced it 2 times 1st time under warranty & 2nd time on My dime,Had PCM reflashed when truck was almost new due to a Trans Shift Issue,Haven't did the plugs yet so haven't experienced issues with those yet.

 

I have a 05 screw 4x4 5.4 with 70k and have not had any real issues. Had the plugs changed at 65k due to a misfire and just replaced the FPDM due to it being cracked and a hole in it. That is all I have done besides regular maint. oil, brakes ect. Still runs great.

 

I wouldn't hesitate to drive my 04 across country and back. The only thing that was replaced that isn't normal wear and tear was the rack and pinion, that was at 60,000 miles. At 110,000 the axle seals were replaced and the passenger side ball joints were replaced around 115,000.

Now with almost 130,000 miles it still runs great, transmission shifts great and handles good. I'm fairly confident it will go to 200,000 miles without much trouble.

Now I just jinxd myself

 

well this is all good news. from what iv'e read so far it seems like the 06-08's have the cam phaser issue somewhat resolved, or are atleast seem to have less problems. i have a friend that was a ford tech for years that i will have go with to look at them as well. i just wish the 5.0's were in my price range

 

I think the bottom line is this - the 04-08 trucks themselves are solid and very reliable. However, the 5.4 3 valve can be a crapshoot. A lot of people have no problems with it whatsoever, but some others have nothing but problems with it. It is statistically NOT as reliable as the 4.6.

 

Don't worry about the Plugs... If you have any mechanics ability, the plugs can be done in a day... I was worried about the same thing...

And If you get an 07-08 it may still be under warranty(depending on the miles) 60k or 6 years. my 06 Just went out of warranty. (build date 12/05 with 59k on the clock)


I did plugs by my self. And had the cam phasers replaced under warranty in November.

 

yeah, thats what i've learned. i love the 04-08's, im just deciding whether i want to take the gamble on the 5.4 3v.

 

My 05' has 92,000 on the clock! I run the dog **** out of and its never failed me! I do my regular maintenance [Oil, Tires, Cleaning & Flushing, TuneUps] as best as I can to keep her up, and the truck couldn't run any better IMO. Yea, I have the little 4.6 2V, but with a nice tune & a couple of mods here and there, I couldn't be happier [OF course the 5.4 is gonna have more hp & torque]! At 92,000, I haven't had 1 problem out of this motor! AFTER its paid off in 1 yr & 1/2, I do want to do a 5.0 swap in there though for my self-pleasure I just love the looks of the 04-08s! To me, the newer Fords are too square looking and still haven't made me wanna budge and trade mine in for one. I love the lines and curves of my 05'. OVERALL, I think you'll be more than happy with your choice. As everyone else stated, these trucks are very reliable. With the normal maintenance & upkeep, I say these trucks will last 100+ years...literally

 

I know 4.6s are durable and reliable, and I know there are some that have had real problems with plugs in some 5.4 3Vs ...
... I'm sure that a few 4.6s as well as 5.4 3Vs have lain down and left owners at a statndstill ...
... but I have never seen any statistics?

I'ld say there are a lot of 5.4s that never have a problem for everyone you read about on this website or others. Buddy of mine and his dad run a shop and when I ask him about them, he says he's only needed a extraction tool a couple of times with the plug changes, he just follows Ford's procedure.

Love my 07 FX4 5.4 but so far but it only has 38K on it .... but original brakes / plugs / etc still. Still 2 or original Perellis still on ground, the other two were replaced just before I bought it in 2009.

I just got back from 1100 miles round trip to BIL's in Ga., every tank when calculated averaged 18 mpg or better. One 247 mile run netted better than 20 as could only stuff 12.2 gallons in. While visiting in Conyers, BIL drove us around in his vehs so mine is mostly all road mileage.

I find the power more than ample for my uses and I am plenty content to keep my '07's styling ...
... and forgo the 09 up style as well as maybe more uneeded (in my case) power and "payments" and "personal property taxes".

 

131k on my 05 5.4 and i love every second of it....just keep up with your truck change your oil if you treat her like a queen she will return the favor.