Wondering what you guys think of this opportunity. One of my father in law's coworkers is selling his 2017 F-150 3.5EB Lariat SCrew short box and he let me know about it because he knows I've been wanting to buy a new truck for a while. It has the 502A package, FX4 package and a Bak-Flip hard folding tonneau cover. MSRP was $72k CAD new. The truck now has just over 11k kms (~6900 miles) and he wants $48k for it.

From what I've been reading, the issues with the plasma lined cylinders and plastic oil pans didn't start until 2018 (unless I'm misremembering and those are only affecting the 5.0L). However, I'm a little concerned by the fact that there are about a dozen recalls for eight separate issues on the truck. The seller claims he only knows about 2 recalls and one (door handles or latches) has been fixed already. He also says he's selling because he decided to order himself a Tesla and he doesn't need two vehicles. However, in my experience, it's rare for someone to sell a vehicle if it's not giving them some type of problem. So, what would you guys do in my place?

Thanks in advance for your advice.

 

In terms of the currency exchange, that’s about $36k in USD. So that’s in the range of a pretty good deal for that truck equipped that way. Of course, I’m sure someone will claim it’s not a decent deal.

 

Worry not, plasma lined cylinders are speculated by many to be the (or a) cause for excessive oil consumption in the 2018 5.0's , not the EB's.

 

Jump on that deal.

 

Get the vin number and check with a dealer on recalls, both open and completed. Also see if they will tell you about other repairs done that are in the system. If that checks out then drive the truck and see if you like it. It does seem like a good price.

 

I did run the VIN through a website to check for recalls and that's where I found the dozen or so.

 

It should still have the factory warranty, so anything that goes wrong in the short term (plus getting any recalls fixed) would be covered.

That would give you some time to decide to sell or get extended coverage if that gives you more peace of mind.
Extended coverage is really just like gambling and with similar odds in that it's stacked to benefit the house. Depending on your luck it'll either be a waste of money, or a good plan, but only time will tell.

 

What are all of the recalls you hit on in your research?

 

While I was shopping for trucks, this would have stood out as a good deal on the surface. I agree with the other people about getting vehicle report just to double check. IMO there is more peace of mind in the fact that it's someone you know instead of a random. If someone is willing to sell something to someone they know I feel like they would be a little more up front and honest about any known issues. Upper trim level truck with low miles for under $40k seems alright and would fit my search parameters.

 

That's a very good deal,

although a 502A fX4 typically will sticker a good amount more than 54k USD, so I think those numbers are off.