I'm currently looking around for a newer year truck. I have a 2015 with the 3.5na motor in it. I've had it nearly two years next month but have been looking around since I have come across some good deals. What I came across is a 2018 XL/STX, 60k miles with a 5.0. I test drove it, and also another 2018 XLT 5.0 but this one was a 4wd with 93k miles, tested this one out as well.

After reading online about the issues, concerns that come with this year 5.0, I'm between saying that I could deal with how to the 5.0 is and sounds and what to expect or have to deal with down the road. Both had the whine, rattle when letting off the gas and the very slight knock sound when fired up. The oil consumption would be the deal breaker for me.

My last Fords I owned honestly sounded the same as the two trucks I test drove and there is 13 years between my old 4.6s I had in all three of my cars. Popping the hoods to the trucks, they sounded similar, which I honestly expected. My car would whine when under load or punching it when speeding up. Never skipped shudder or anything. I just took it as this was normal stuff on all three ('97 '98 '05) years.

Both trucks drove, rolled and sounded great. Everything makes noises, but are actually just how they are naturally.

My main thing as mentioned above is the oil consumption. Is this a PITA to deal with? Do you just get your oil changed regularly? Is it the back of your mind, not a concern, but more like "something I'll always have to make sure is full"? Does the TSB actually do anything?

Any input would be appreciated.

Cruz

 

I have an '18 with the 5.0. It was using oil until the TSB was performed. It is fine now. Truck seems to get better with age.

 

I have a 2019 STX w/ 5.0 and love it! Also used oil until TSB performed. Since TSB it's used 1/2 quart in 10,000 miles. If you decide to go with the 5.0, seriously consider an Oz Tune. It makes driving this truck MUCH more enjoyable! https://oztuning.com/product/18f150-omega-rtd/#reviews

 

I love my 18 5.0! Currently setup with a tune, s&b intake & exhaust. Absolute blast to drive and has been super reliable!

 

How many miles are on your trucks that have had the TSB done?

As for the rattle, I just watched a two part video by Ford Boss Me on YT and he shows in the video that the VCT Solenoid, exhaust solenoid bank 2, was the one causing the "rattling" when letting off the gas. First video I've come across that shows and seems to actually get rid of the sound. This was made June of '21. If there is a TSB out there for this VCT solenoid, I haven't seen it.

As for tuning, out of all the vehicles Ive ever owned, I've never done a turn to any of them. Or honestly wouldn't know where to start to get into this.

 

My TSB was done at 8,200 miles, currently has 19,100 miles. This was my first tune. Ken & crew @ Oz tuning have videos and answer all questions, even via text.

 

Its a great motor!
Probably the strongest of the current full size truck makers line up of V8 engines.

And while some will suggest a person needs a TT engine to tow, my 5.0 tows just fine!!

Get one while you can!!!

 

I did want to ask, not being the original purchaser of the truck, if I decide to pull the trigger on either one, would the TSB be able to be done by a Ford dealer either way?

 

Any dealer can do an open TSB, if needed, on a vehicle brought into them. Remember, some TSB's are just suggestions on how to repair an issue, but dont necessarily do the repair under warranty. As I recall.

 

So there is a chance they may or may not do the TSB? If I'm reading this correctly. I see that it wouldnt be a recall nor under warranty.