Hey all its been a while for me here. I'm in the market for a "new to me" truck. I originally was looking at 2014 F150 4x4 Lariat Supercrew. My son said they have issues with rear cab corners rusting out. So now, I'm looking at the same truck in 2015. As far as engines are concerned, my heart says go with the 5.0. Supposed to be less to go wrong. As for the 3.5, being a fairly new engine, for that year, I'm not quite sure what to think of them.
I know the 3.5 has more hp and torque, but I need reliability. I've heard, read and seen the stories of different things that the 3.5 had going on, thats why I am tending to favor the 5.0
Anyone has anything they want to forward me on this subject, I'm here to listen.

 

In 2015, the 3.5 was rated at 365hp/420tq. The 5.0 was rated at 385hp/387tq. The 5.0 has more top end and the 3.5 has more low end.

 

for that model year, go with the 5.0. It does not have direct injection and is fairly simple in general. The other motors are still plenty good, but the 5.0 gives you plenty of power with a non complicated design.

 

Even though it was brand new in 2015, I'm pretty sure the 2.7 has proven to be the most reliable motor. Mine has been trouble free.

 

The V8 is NOT a simple engine. Definitely not your old 302 from years ago. I don't think you will find any statistics that prove the V8 is more reliable than the 2.7 or 3.5.

 

You can't go wrong with either motor.

Pick the one that has the most power to suit the needs you are after. Or maybe you want to base you decision on the sound a V8 makes. If so, stay away from the 2.7 or 3.5 as they sound like crap with a modified exhaust under it.

If you think one or 2 of the motor are unreliable.... just stop it.
I'm sure the junk yard has exactly 1 of each motor that has failed prematurely.

You're in a situation of a used vehicle, it is going to depend exactly on how the previous owner(s) maintained the vehicle. A 5.0 without oil changes is likely to fail more quickly than the 3.5 with routine 5,000 mile oil changes.
Next important is to find your favorite color and you'll be tootin down the road as a happy camper!
Speaking of campers, some motors and trim packages and features are better suited for a tow vehicle. If you plan to tow, you might as well open that can of worms not also. You may be influenced to look for the 'right' truck.

 

Yep, they've all got issues. The 5.0s of that era had cam phaser problems... so did (and do) the 3.5s. You also have to consider that the 3.5EB and the 2.7EB have higher take rates than the 5.0 - so, larger user base, more issues. Honestly, many regard the 2.7EB as the most problem free engine in the current lineup.

 

Everyone has their opinions of the best engine. Ford has made millions of each type. They all have their pros & cons. It`s kind of like asking which is the best color

 

That one is easily answered - black. Black is the best color. Henry Ford knew it and now everyone else should as well. 😂

 

Go drive both and go from there !!!!!