"Hi" from across the pond (UK)! I'm going to view a 2007 4x4 F150 and it being the first F150 I will potentially own, I'm not too sure of what the common faults are and what I should look out for/test prior to buying the truck?

I'm a very amateur mechanic so any information, however obvious, will be of use .

 

5.4 Liter?

 

run a carfax, ensure that it has a clear history (no wrecks, etc). If the state that you're going to live in has a state inspection program make sure that it is up to par

 

Inspect the brakes and calipers, be sure rotors are smooth ( '04/'08 brakes/rotors suck ).

See if the plugs have been changed before.

Inspect the Fuel Module above the spare tire is in good shape. If crusty and old looking it may fail and cause a no-start or misfire feeling.

Check the transmission fluid, be sure its red and not burnt smelling.

2007 wasn't a bad year truck. But some small things like window regulators, the fuel module, IWEs, some things to watch out for.

All 5.4Ls are ones to watch out for for the spark plugs.

 

Check bumper mounts to see if they're still factory. They should have factory stickers and stuff on them. Any sign of replacement for those mounts usually warrants possibilities the vehicle has been in a collision before. Also, check for paint chipping. If there's paint underneath it, allow yourself to speculate possible collision or rust, as some people will just "spray over" to hide something they don't want to be seen. Obviously this doesn't always mean the worst, but if you hope for the best but prepare for the worst, you can pretty much search in safety.

 

Except the 5.4s built in 2008 which have the updated heads with brown cop boots! My 2008 has the updated heads with brown cop boots & have regular one piece plugs! Thank God!