my truck wants to stall out at stops
 

I have a 2004 f150 supercrew with the 5.4L. I just bought it a month ago with 97xxx miles on it and lets just say...I haven't been having a lot of luck with it. I have had it in the shop 6 times already (a new transmission, new fuel pump and 3 different times for the problem I am about to explain). I have been having problems with the truck wanting to stall out, or run really rough when I come to a stop after driving for a while or shifting into reverse. Each time i bring it in, they say there is nothing wrong and there are no codes when run a diagnostic test. It doesn't happen all the time, but often enough to be a pain in my ... They can't seem to figure it out so I'm looking for help from anyone who may have had a similar issue. Thanks, Dogneck:huh:

Spark Plugs???? Might be time for the tune up

fuel filter?

Does it rattle like a rod knock when it is starting to stall? Sounds like the same problem I'm having, but mine throws codes after it does this several times. CPS and retarded timing codes each time. I've been told the timing chain guides and tensioners are worn out and maybe a cam phaser. Haven't had it repaired yet, cost $2000-2500 is what I've been quoted by non-dealer shop.

Too late to bring this up now, but I'm assuming you did not have the truck examined by a mechanic prior to the purchase. Would have saved you a lot of grief.

Take the truck to a different shop/mechanic. I'll assume the repairs done so far had nothing to do with this occasional "stall" problem?

Bouncy idle on ocasion can be lots of items: fuel filter (although I'd think the shop would have inspected/replaced it when they did the fuel pump replacement), dirty Throttle plate, or the throttle position sensor, spark plugs worn, bad coil pack(s), or the fuel pump control module just to name a few.

You don't want to toss new parts at this problem until it's fixed, which is usually what happens on these forums. Folks tell you "they had the same symtoms, and replaced xxxx" and it's running great now".

Some of the above mentioned set codes. You mentioned there are no codes set. This leads me to think it's tune up related, but I'd not want to suggest having the plugs replaced or the coil packs unless it was a sure bet. The 2004 5.4 fits into the catagory of spark plug hell. If you've been reading any of the forums on early Ford F150's with the 5.4, you'd see that changing these plugs are a pain. They can break off when removing, requiring a special tool to remove. Shops are aware of this, and charge for this extra service. Some get all 8 plugs out with no grief, and some have nightmares with them. This is why I'd hate to say this is your problem. The Ford recommended service maintenance schedule says these plugs are good for 100K.

I'd get the truck to another shop.

Try cleaning your MAF sensor - this is a cheap one you can do yourself. Are there any odd noises under the hood, vacuum leaks, misses or anything?

I really appreciate the replies. It does make a rod knocking sound when it's about to stall or idle rough. I've heard the same thing about the spark plugs being a pain in the butt too. Today I stopped by a parts shop and asked if I could borrow one of their code readers, but they didn't have one that reads all codes. However, the guy behind the counter stated that it sounds like it may be the IAC (Idle Air Control) motor. His daughter had an issue similar to this with a chevy monte carlo, and it turned out to be a dirty fitting inside the IAC motor assembly.

I am going to take your advice and take it to another shop. The dealership I bought it from doesn't seem to have their ducks in a row. I'm just glad I bought the extended warranty. I'll keep you posted on what I find out.