Hello all,

I really love the looks of the 2004+ f150 and would like to buy one. I really didn't want to do a search on Google, because sometimes "ignorance is bliss" but for some stupid reason I did and there is ALOT of complaints about the 5.4 engines.....basically saying they are garbage.

Anyways, do I have anything to worry about in a m/y 2005...? What exactly is/was the problem with the 5.4 Triton and was it fixed by 05? I read somewhere they blow out spark plugs, then I read thats only pre-05, that the problem is this/that/the other thing, etc. So much misinformation....

Then I read somewhere to stay away from the 5.4 and get a 4.6...but I heard they were similar engines.

So, whats the real story and what should I look out for in a 2005? I mean if I buy a 2005 truck in 2016, shouldn't any issues have been resolved by now or fixed by previous owner????

I'm looking at this truck: http://www.route146autosales.com/200..._259914515.veh

A co worker of mine has a 2002 f350 with the 5.4..It did blow a spark plug, but it was only one and that was several years ago. Other than that, he's had no issues with the engine.

 

Yeah... they're definitely not garbage. They just usually need a little TLC by the time we get them to bring them back up to snuff. Most common problem: you'll need to replace all the timing components, lifters and roller rockers. Not hard work, it just takes a while.

 

Correct if i was going to buy another one

Chains/guides/tensioners/vct solenoids/phasers

Check hubs/actuators/ Iwe solenoid

And do plugs/coil boots springs when i got it

 

I'll be honest, i specifically went looking for a 4.6 and that's what I bought. They have regular spark plugs, they don't have the cam phaser timing issues, sure they don't have the power but it gets the job done. I really wanted a GM truck, but I found my F-150 and I bought it, but i would personally stay away from a 5.4

 

To each his own, I suppose. I do hear, though, that when the 4.6 guys have the chance to drive a 5.4, they get a bit upset because the increase in power is pretty great. If you need it, get the 5.4 and fix the problems once and be done with it. If you don't, get the 4.6 and treat it nicely like any other.

 

I have'nt even found a truck with the 4.6. Seems like 95% of them had the 5.4.

 

You mean for sale or just in general?

 

For sale

 

I'm not surprised. Most folks are too lazy to do the repairs and just want to offload it.

 

my 5.4 has 180k on it, and just through basic preventative maintenance it runs like a champ.
but thats my experience