terraformer

I received the window sticker today for my truck that's to be built on Jan. 28. I've scoured the forums here and elsewhere to create a list of things that a new F-150 buyer should check prior to taking delivery. Mine will be a ruby red 2013 FX4, 5.0, lux package, tailgate step, moonroof, nav, and the 20" wheels.

Most folks on here probably know most of this list already, but I'd appreciate it if anyone can add to or otherwise improve on it. TIA!

• Generally, do a good walk-around and test drive to make sure you don’t notice anything amiss so you can get it corrected immediately.

• Go over the vehicle, panel by panel doorjamb by doorjamb, and ensuring the paint is all good. Check all paint for any bubbles or imperfections. Especially check the paint on inside bottom of all doors –sometimes it’s just primer or is only partially painted. Do not accept the "Oh yeah, it’s supposed to look that way" excuse from the dealer. If dealer insists it’s normal, then ask to look at ten other F-150s on the lot, and if any don’t have primer, then you have proved your point. If they all have primer…

• Test all of the lighting and component systems, making sure they are all functioning.

• Check for any shuddering issues on start and at 55-60mph

• Make sure there is a spare tire and a jack & wrench to change it with, and a little funnel to deal with capless gas tank

• Relay and fuses are in little sacks in glove box (for trailer hook-up)

• Screws for license plate(s) are included

• Owner's manual(s) are included

• Test each window open/close, including sunroof & rear window

• Test sound system - full fade each way & full balance each way - to make sure all speakers working

• Make sure satellite radio and Sync/MyTouch have been enabled, and that the Navigation SD card is included

• Inspect each seat carefully for any scratches or blemishes

• Check the lights and wheels for scratches

• Engine starts and idles properly

• Remote start system operates properly

• Engine accelerates and cruises properly/smoothly

• Engine noise is normal (cold/hot & high/low speeds)

• Auto/manual transmission/transaxle operates properly and noise is normal

• Cold and hot shift quality is acceptable

• Shift interlock operates properly

• Drive axle/transfer case operation noise is normal

• Steers normally (Response, Centering and Free Play)

• No body and suspension squeaks and rattles

• Struts/shocks operate properly

• Brakes/ABS operate properly

• Gauges operate properly

• No abnormal wind noise

• No dealer decals (already asked salesperson about this)

• Ensure you have the key code card for your door.

• Make sure you have the fuses.

Stormrider

I consider my self lucky.
I have a fabulous dealer and have been with them for 10 years or so.
I trust them to make sure all the things you list are okay. If I find out after the fact they make sure it is taken care of no questions asked.
The sales guy, same one all ten years goes over everything that Ford requires.
Yes Ford requires the salesman to go over things. Even to the point of Sync'ing your phone for you.

When I buy I don't want to have to be there for 4 hours.
Go in, do the paperwork, have the salesman go over the workings of the vehicle and drive away.
in fact, the last three 4 times we picked up our Fords we did it at night.
So far never had an issue
With your list I would have to give up a Saturday or a day of work.

I guess I am just fortunate

terraformer

I hear you, but I suppose over the years I've learned not to be one that trusts something like this. Especially given the issues people post about (e.g., the paint). Luckily, you have a relationship with your dealer - and that probably goes a long way to explain the approach you have.

But I just moved here, and don't have a relationship with my dealer. So I'm going to take as much time as I can to make sure anything I might find is taken care of before I sign and drive off. To each their own, I guess!

Twisty

Try to relax about it. You won't be able to see or find everything anyway.
I suggest you don't look for and nitpik every single little detail or tiny flaw. Consider how many trucks Ford builds every day, not every one will be flawless.
Take the long way home and get it warmed up. Stomp on it from a stop and let it hit through the gears. Use the manual shift and upshift/downshift. Stomp on the brakes and get a feel for the anti lock.
I drove mine like it wasn't mine.

Edit; carry on too much and they won't want a long term relationship with you

rdkev

I would just check and make sure the bed is aligned correctly haha... I noticed this weeks after owning it. They aligned my bed as well as my rear diff to get it straight. 2013 Supercrew.

rdkev

My 2013 also has a speck in the paint on the front passenger door. It's something that got onto the body before it was sprayed. Almost looks like a tiny tiny rock.

jebulls

Just last week I found some things on my new truck. I have had it like a month. First I found like a welder splat that was painted over. Next a scratch on top the front bumper. Then on the tail gate there was a scratch on the platinum and a rock chip that was covered up!(I am sure this happened when on a transfer truck) Called dealer and all is taking care of. Truck goes in next Monday. Only reason it took me so long to find this was that was the first time i got a good wash job and spent a bunch of time drying it off. Last time I ever let a dealer trade happen! All little things but no way I was letting it fly on a pickup that was that expensive. So check it over more than once! The dealer I bought it from did their check and I looked it over when I bought it. We all missed these problems.

rdkev

Where is the weld splat?

Stator

I'm no expert but "stomping on it from a dead stop" with a brand new engine probably wouldn't be a very intelligent idea.

Twisty

Get it warmed up and drive it like you normally would. Stomping on it is part of my driving style. Engines are built with far more precision than they used to be.
I had a big block 402 Chevy built by Sonny Burres of Burres Specialties. Sonny said get it warmed up and drive it like you normally would.
A friend of mine had a Mopar 383 built in southern Cali. The builder got in the car with him and told him how to drive it. Pulled out of the driveway and went zero to redline locked out in first.
I am no expert either. I trust the word of a racer/engine builder.