ccriley

Hello, im currently looking at buying a 2007 f150 crewcab xlt 4x4 with 129,000 miles on it. It has the 5.4 motor.
Is there anything in particular i should look for?
Dealer is asking about 2k too much for it IMO but if they will deal, i might end up with it. I know all the spark plug problems with theses motors but is there anything else thats possibly visible or able to feel for during a test drive?
TIA

tareed94

It's harder to notice off the bat unless you know the sound, but when it starts and runs listen for a ticking, almost diesel engine sound. This sound is generally due to failing cam phasers, failing timing chain tensioners, and/or failing VCT solenoids.

Modular man

^wat he said

techrep

iTrader: (1)

cycle the 4WD system...make sure the IWE’s engage

0488FB

Listen for any exhaust manifold leaks. When I bought my '07, it came with a 12month 12,000mile warranty and shortly after the passenger side manifold was leaking. Also, the power steering rack was cracked and they replaced that too. Do your research on this site and you should be armed with a lot of info. Good luck.

ccriley

Thanks fellas....ive had my heart set on a newer ford for while. Selling my 01 cummins and goin back to a gasser. Ive also found an 08 chevy i really like but its gonna be $5-6k more than the ford and has 30k mi less on it. Ive always been a ford guy at heart but the chevy engine bay sure looks easier to work around in and the back of the 5.3 isnt tucked up under the cab, unlike the ford..not to mention the 5.3 doesnt have the spark plug problems the ford has...
My father has an 06 crewcab 2wd and i recently helped him change the plugs in it. Luckily with a little patience and some seafoam they came out easily.
I appreciate the help as im soon goin to buy one or the other..

StanF

Personally, I would avoid any 04-08 F150s because of the 5.4L issues.

I might consider an 08, since Ford supposedly improved the phaser issue.

Others have mentioned the problems - the whole VVT system is just weak and suspect. The spark plugs. The broken exhaust manifolds. etc...

And, yes, I have an 04, and am dealing with all these issues...

Summers22

iTrader: (2)

I have an 07 with 126K and have none of those issues. Changed my plugs at 113K with none breaking, exhaust manifolds are quiet and I have no timing/phaser issues. For the 5.4 3V, proper maintenance is the key.

tareed94

I'm at 158K in my 07 and it's starting to get the phaser noise. I'm not sure how the previous owner maintained it. When I did my plugs only one broke, it had a different part and batch number than all my other plugs so I believe the previous owner replaced 7 of my 8 spark plugs. Kinda speaks for how well he probably maintained the rest of the engine... But I agree. Maintenance is key on these engines, if you take care of it, it will take care of you. The 5.4L isn't something to be scared away by.

Summers22

iTrader: (2)

I agree maintenance is key. There are 50 to 1, 5.4's that are good, you only hear about just the bad apples.