I have a 2005 F150 King Ranch that I just love. The only problem I have with it is a very high pitched whine in the winter. It really sounds like some bearing going bad.

It only happens under the following conditions: it must be fairly cold -10 to +10 degrees, you must be driving (it won't happen if not under load), the RPM range is around 1800 to 2200. Outside of that RPM range its OK.

I have a friend with a 2004 F150 (smaller V8) that had the same problem. He said that when he called the dealer the rep. told him "oh yeah I have two others in right now for the same problem". They said it was one of the pulleys on the front of the engine. By a process of elimination they replaced the alternator and everyting is fine.

Does anyone have a similar issue? Any ideas why Ford hasn't addressed this issue? It is covered under standard Ford warranty or extended Ford warrany. But for the poor guy/gal this happens to after warranty they are looking at an expensive repair bill.

Anchorage, AK

 

Interesting. When I saw your post, I thought I could get help with my winter noise. I have a 2008 Screw Limited, and my high pitch squeal happens when I turn on the heat. Ever time I turn on the fan for the climate control unit, I get a high pitched squeal that sounds like the plastic on plastic or something.

Good luck with your other noise. I am interested in what your issue is as well.

 

I have no idea just what causes the whine / squeal but both my "04" did it and my "06" does it. I suspect it has to do with the pulleys My "06" squealed like a stuck pig this morning at -9.
I suspect most all of them do it when it is 20 or below.