I'm looking to replace my 02 F150 SCab 4x4 in the next few months. I want a crew cab 4x4. I'll be buying used. Which generation has the best reputation 06-08 years or 09-14 and fewest overall problems. I would like to avoid the spark plug problems hat plague some models and prefer a V-8. Thanks!

 

Depending on what your budget is, I'd buy an '09 - '14 truck with the 5.0......

 

To get the 5.0, it has to be 2011 or newer. That would be my choice with your criteria. 5.4 3 valves of any year leave a bad taste in my mouth.

 

It would have to be a 2008.5+ for me to consider it. Meaning after the revised plug/head design

5.0 is a solid choice as well.

 

Even the 5.4 and 4.6 3V with the revised head designs still have some VCT/phaser issues.

 

I'll add that a newer truck will have fewer "age-related" problems too. I try to stay within a 2-yr old age group when I buy a used vehicle, and, I try to buy directly from the owner, so I avoid paying taxes and dealer markup.

I bought my truck from a dealership though, because I got a fantastic deal.

- Jack

 

I definitely try to buy from an individual. However buying used I usually look for the lowest mileage in my price range with the options or most of the options I want.

Anyway 2011 or newer with the 5.0 is definitely my preference. Should I consider the Ecoboost? Are there any major issues to avoid with the Ecoboost models or preferable years?

 

I was in the same boat as you when it came to buying I newer truck. I sold my 01' Screw and ended up buying 07' Screw 4wd 5.4 from the original owners. The 5.4 3v's catch a bad wrap but the issues are all fixable (plugs/phasers) and then you're good. I too was looking at 09-14. But like GLC said 5.0 didn't come out till 2011 and this is what I wanted. With low mileage you're looking at 20k+ The Ecoboost is a towing machine but the horror stories are starting to emerge with higher mileage. The 5.0 is still to new to see any long term high mileage problems. Anyway good luck with whatever you choose... It's a gamble

 

I've found some 06-08 models with under 50,000 miles that end up being about $10-$15K less than the 2011+ models with under 25,000 miles. I just read so many horror stories about plug issues with the 3V motors I'm just a little cautious.

I think both generations look great. I actually like the 2000-2003 SCab bodies better than 04-14, but the SCrew bodies of the 2001-2003 look a little goofy to me (I did have an '01 but sold it...)

Anyway, buying used is a gamble. I just want to put myself in the best situation possible and was wondering if the 06-08 models had too many issues that I should avoid them all together.

Thanks for all the help!

 

The plug issues were addressed mid-year 2007 with revised heads. Anything newer has normal plugs that don't break. The 2009-10 model years are a bit of a red headed step child. They have the 5.4 with revised heads and solenoids/phasers, but also the 6 speed transmission. The same 5.4/6speed was still used in the expeditions until 2014 so don't be too worried about that combo.

Owning a 2009, I have been very happy with mine. In 2010, they went to electric fans as well. I would suggest a 2010 if the price is right.

 

No, it was fairly late 2008.

The VCT may be revised, but has not been trouble-free. The 5.4 3V is a potential turd, regardless of year.

 

Heads were revised 10/09/2007 (engine build date)
I have a 07' and my EBD is 3/9/07. If you got the brown boots on the COPs you're good.

 

Having had an '04 and '07 truck, go directly to a 2011+ truck with the updated styling, comforts and features, and the much better power trains.

 

More ecoboost problems

 

Well, read all the pluses and minuses, just gonna say I've seen one 5.4 which gave up with no oil pressure .... at 417,xxx miles. It's not at all uncommon to see 5.4s north of 150-200K now. The 5.4 makes good torque, they do like 5w20 or 5w30 and MC filters at regular intervals.

Buddy of mine has a 2012 with 5.0, about same miles as my '07 .... 5.0 definitely has the top end power but down low where most of my driving is, the 5.4 is at least as good judging by the seat of pants.

Sure, I've read the stories on plugs and VCT solenoids, I've also read some tales relating to 5.0 problems. I know to change out my OEM plugs anytime now as it's at 52,xxx miles (and Ford recommends 60K now I think) and the best thing I can do for VCTs is good oil and filters. Right now, she's as quiet as a church mouse, but then she's young yet.