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I'm currently looking for a higher mileage 2004-2008 F150 to purchase, but I'm not sure my pockets are deep enough for the possible repairs. Is the 5.4 engine as bad as everyone says, or should I give it a shot? The cam phaser issue is really my biggest concern about adding this truck to my garage. My NON-Ford mechanic says that the cam phaser issue is mostly brought on by not changing the oil at 3000-5000 intervals, and once fixed it shouldn't do it again if the oil is changed appropriately. However, I'm not sure I'm buying what he's selling. Any input is welcome. Thanks!
Mechanic is definitely right. The cost is not too prohibitive if you do the work yourself, and it really isn't hard, it just takes time. Then keep up on the oil changes religiously (change it early, change it often) and you'll be good.
The 4.6 does for 2004 - 8 years does not come with the spark plug, phaser or other issues.
Not as much power as the 5.4 but quiet, smooth and reliable.
I came from a 5.4 to a 4.6. The 4.6 does everything I need it to do. Power s upped a little with a tuner. MPG is just under 19 for combined city/highway driving.
I was worried too. I took the dive and will be doing the phaser/timing job this spring. Its not very noticeable yet but its there. I still wouldn't go back and change my decision even now. The 5.4 is great when taken care of. My phaser noise has not gotten any worse because I change the oil regularly and use quality parts when doing it. Not every truck will have the problem and mine may never get worse but Im going to head that one off at the pass just in case. IMO these trucks are no more work than any other vehicle. You don't take care of any vehicle you will have problems.
I purchased my 2004 XLT 4X4 Super Cab four years ago.
It has all options available other than leather and nav.
I still enjoy it as much as I would a new one. Not as many bells and whistles as the newer ones but more than what is necessary for smooth, quiet driving.
No issues to date other than normal maintenance.
10-18-2016, 01:39 PM
2004-2008 F150 - 5.4 engine
