Considering a 2009 F150 KR 4x4, any advice?
02-01-2015, 02:58 PM
#1
Considering a 2009 F150 KR 4x4, any advice?
We are looking at a 2009 F150 King Ranch 4X4, 5.4 with navigation, heat and cool seats, separate heating controls and a sun/moonroof with 160,000 miles. In looking at the forums here I am finding EPAS issues with steering. Is there anything else to consider, anything to look for in the test drive? TIA Sam
02-01-2015, 03:39 PM
#2
Senior Member
I had a 2008 Ford F150 KR and while it was a great truck, it couldn't quite pull the loads I was wanting to put behind it.
The 5.4L is a great engine, however the spark plug design is a joke. I took the truck in at 90k miles for a misfire when cold, decrease in MPG, and a stumble at high RPM's. Ford diagnosed that I need new plugs and while they attempted to remove them, 2 of plugs cracked off inside the heads. $800 later (which is half of what they quoted me - they were nice enough to work with me and negotiate the price since just about every other 5.4L that came through their shop had the same problem) Ford fixed it after they pulled the heads and finally removed the plugs.
At 115k miles, the transmission started to shudder in OD. I dropped it off at the Ford dealer and they said it was a shift solenoid. I don't remember the cost but it didn't matter, that was the last time I drove the truck. They gave me a deal I couldn't refuse so bought a 2012 FX4.
Good trucks, just like all others, they have their problems.
The 5.4L is a great engine, however the spark plug design is a joke. I took the truck in at 90k miles for a misfire when cold, decrease in MPG, and a stumble at high RPM's. Ford diagnosed that I need new plugs and while they attempted to remove them, 2 of plugs cracked off inside the heads. $800 later (which is half of what they quoted me - they were nice enough to work with me and negotiate the price since just about every other 5.4L that came through their shop had the same problem) Ford fixed it after they pulled the heads and finally removed the plugs.
At 115k miles, the transmission started to shudder in OD. I dropped it off at the Ford dealer and they said it was a shift solenoid. I don't remember the cost but it didn't matter, that was the last time I drove the truck. They gave me a deal I couldn't refuse so bought a 2012 FX4.
Good trucks, just like all others, they have their problems.
Last edited by TylerB; 02-01-2015 at 03:46 PM.
The following users liked this post:
MSF1502000 (02-01-2015)
02-01-2015, 03:52 PM
#3
Junior Member
09-10 didn't have the epas. Still uses the hydraulic power steering. No issues with my 10 with over 80k miles. Oil analysis on my 5.4 has been great. With 160k I would just check the service records over really well. Would hope the 6R80 transmission has had at least 1 fluid and filter change, If not 2. Spark plugs on 09-10 5.4 are not an issue but they should have been changed by now.
Differentials and transfer case should have been done by now I would hope.
Limited slip rear axle or open? No electric locker on 09-10 except fx4. If Ls, I would check to see If it is still functioning well and not chattering or completely worn out/slipping.
Probably due for brake fluid flush, so hopefully that's done also.
That's all I can think of on these models. I would slide under and check out the tie rod ends, ball joints, u-joints on drive shafts. I would definetely test 4high and 4low in some sand or dirt. Good time to see if the limited slip is functioning decent if equipped. Full lock to lock turns in 4x4 (not on pavement) and listen for any cv joint noises or odd sounds. But that's with any used vehicle.
I wouldn't shy away from it if it's been maintained.
Differentials and transfer case should have been done by now I would hope.
Limited slip rear axle or open? No electric locker on 09-10 except fx4. If Ls, I would check to see If it is still functioning well and not chattering or completely worn out/slipping.
Probably due for brake fluid flush, so hopefully that's done also.
That's all I can think of on these models. I would slide under and check out the tie rod ends, ball joints, u-joints on drive shafts. I would definetely test 4high and 4low in some sand or dirt. Good time to see if the limited slip is functioning decent if equipped. Full lock to lock turns in 4x4 (not on pavement) and listen for any cv joint noises or odd sounds. But that's with any used vehicle.
I wouldn't shy away from it if it's been maintained.
We are looking at a 2009 F150 King Ranch 4X4, 5.4 with navigation, heat and cool seats, separate heating controls and a sun/moonroof with 160,000 miles. In looking at the forums here I am finding EPAS issues with steering. Is there anything else to consider, anything to look for in the test drive? TIA Sam
Last edited by slackwolf; 02-01-2015 at 03:59 PM.
The following users liked this post:
MSF1502000 (02-01-2015)
02-01-2015, 05:23 PM
#4
Thanks Tyler, the transmission is a concern for us, interested to know how the '12 is pulling that beautiful boat! Slackwolf, dang man, you brought the "A" game lol, so much good information here. Trans, diff and rear end box fluid levels and condition, check. No chatter or slipping in rear end operation, check. Brake fluid levels and condition, check. Front end ends, wheel bearing tolerances, u-joints, check. Operate 4X4 high and low in sand, lock to lock on steering for clicking in cv joint, check. Gentlemen, thank you.
