Corroding Hoods
No vehicle is immune to rust damage, but the 2000-2007 Ford F-150’s hood is particularly susceptible. In a technical service bulletin, the automaker admits this problem is likely due to iron contamination on the aluminum hood. As an F-150 owner, there’s not much you can do outside of taking it to your local Ford dealer, where they’ll blast off the damage and apply a fresh coat of paint.
Soy-Based Wire Coating Attracts Rodents
Are you going to park your used F-150 somewhere that’s trafficked by gnawing animals? Then you should think twice about choosing a truck from the 2015-2020 model years! Drivers report that rodents like to chew on these trucks’ soy-based wire coating. Some have even found nests in their engine bay or undercarriage. After repairing your electrical components, keeping the rats at bay becomes an exercise in creativity. Potential deterrents include coyote urine and capsicum-infused rodent tape.
Shaking EcoBoost Engines
The 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 is the modern F-150’s most capable engine, helping drivers tow best-in-class figures. But some 2011-2013 F-150 trucks had EcoBoost engine trouble, thanks to a charge air cooler (CAC) that collects a little too much moisture.
It’s the CAC’s job to cool air from the turbocharger before sending it to the engine. This unwanted condensation in the CAC may be exacerbated by humid weather (because of excess moisture in the air) or highway driving (which slows air flow to the engine). When air is drawn into the engine, this condensation may go with it, potentially causing the EcoBoost V6 to misfire, shudder, or trigger “limp home” mode.
To fix the issue, Ford technicians can install an amended bottom air deflector designed to decrease moisture in the CAC. Due to previous issues, used 2011-2013 F-150 trucks equipped with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine may already have this part. Check each vehicle’s history report before making a commitment!
Problematic Spark Plugs
If you decide on a 2004-2008 used Ford F-150, don’t plan on changing your own spark plugs. These trucks’ unique spark plugs were meant to last 100,000 miles — an impressive feat that they actually achieved. But their two-piece design —and the fact that they’ve been inside the cylinder head for an unusually long time — create a unique issue. When it’s time for routine maintenance, the old plugs break apart easily, leaving half the plug stuck in the engine. Ford issued a Technical Service Bulletin with special instructions on how to remove these spark plugs using specialized tools. Drivers should only take these trucks to a technician that has them!
MyFord Touch Is Terrible
Available for the 2011-2015 Ford F-150, Ford’s early infotainment system inspired multiple lawsuits. Drivers complained that MyFord Touch was downright dangerous, keeping them from accessing essential safety features (like the windshield defroster) when its touchscreen froze or the system crashed.
Eventually, drivers won a $17-million settlement from Ford, with up to $400 in compensation per driver. If you like a used F-150 with this technology, we highly recommend upgrading to a newer system, such as Ford’s popular SYNC 3 or SYNC 4.
Recent Recalls
It’s easy to check whether a used F-150 model has had all necessary recall repairs. Just plug the model’s VIN into the NHTSA recall-check page! When it comes to on-road safety, recall repairs can make a massive difference.
Potential Engine Failure
Last fall, Ford recalled some 2021-2022 F-150 trucks equipped with the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine. Their potentially faulty intake valves could break off and fall into the combustion chamber, causing catastrophic engine failure. Since this problem was quick to make itself known after a few months on the road, odds are that most used models have already gotten this fix (or suffered the consequences of not doing so). But you should still check to see that your used F-150 is equipped with properly functioning intake valves!
Rollaway Risk
Another recent recall involves some 2021-2023 Ford F-150 trucks equipped with the Trailer Tow Max Duty package. A faulty rear axle hub bolt may brake, potentially causing the F-150 to roll away while parked or lose power on the road.
Sudden Downshifts
This was an issue for 2011-2014 F-150 models. Their six-speed automatic transmission was known to suddenly downshift into first gear for no reason. In addition to an abrupt loss of speed, sudden downshifting could cause the rear tires to slide out of control, risking an accident. Some trucks were able to continue driving normally after a problematic downshift, while others needed to be restarted before they were able to return to normal.