Matty V

Hey everyone,

I just joined the forum and I hope to get some information because I am somewhat new to the truck scene. I am possibly going to sell my Stage 2 WRX for an F-150 because the F-150 will be more suitable for my needs as of right now. Is there anything I should look out for when purchasing an F-150 that is a 2004 or 2005. I have read through some threads about gas mileage and some people do not get that great of mileage. Do you think you can get through a week on a full tank? As of right now with the tune on my car I get about 17 around town. Any thoughts please let me know.

Thanks,

Matty

speeddemon86

Spark plugs can cause hassle if they haven't been changed. Cam Phasers are know to go bad on the 04-07 trucks with 04-05 being the worst years. And if it's 4wd the iwe's.

Rosie

Make sure you look over the truck extensively these trucks are very easy to "hide" problems with.. Sparkplugs is a big one because it can cost from 400-1,500 depending on how many break.. Otherwise these trucks are pretty well built I know in my old one I could always count on it getting me from point A to point B even in the winters of Minnesnowta.

Matty V

Ok, thanks for the information! I figure the best way to make sure the plugs have been changed is to get it from a dealer?

GrnMachine210

I have an '04 and my personal experience has been great. Only had to replace the battery and alternator so far. At 105k miles and still drives like a new truck

GrnMachine210

one more thing! Look out for bad spark plugs as mentioned above but also take a look at the driveshaft. If its a two piece than it has irreplaceable u-joints combined with a faulty yoke that causes a "clunk" feel/noise on acceleration which would eventually lead to a total driveshaft replacement. Not to big of a deal IMO though. Been driving mine with the clunk for a while now and dont think ill need to replace it anytime soon.

Patrick Boehm

1. Cam phasers. (I bought an 04 lariat 5.4 liter with 73000 miles and they were clacking after I got rid of the gear lube some weasel had in the crankcase) 1200$
2. 4 wheel drive vacuum control issues. 850$
3. Spark plugs get stuck and break off. 500$
4. ****ty rotors. 200$
5. ball joints @ 80000 miles. 700$

Otherwise now that I added 4000 to the original 17000 dollars we are pretty good.
Mileage is 14.2 average total driving with a peak of 16.8 on a recent road trip.

Check them over close. I thought I did but some of this @#$% is also routine wear and tear stuff the previous owner ignored.
Good luck!!