Looking to buy a new to me truck? 2009 -2013. Looking for reliability/ longevity. -aren't we all !! Upon researching I'm finding a lot of issues with 5.0 cam phasers?! And no permanent fix ?! Was set on a 2013 xlt 4x4 sc w/ 42000 miles , but am concerned that it's " not if but when" ?! Have also read about the 4.6 L 2v being underpowered but very reliable !! ?? Also looking at a 2010 Stx 4x4 sc with 51000 miles w/ the 4.6 2v. Need a truck but not major headaches ! Will do some towing and hauling , mostly firewood , but not on a reg. Basis. The 2013 is a much nicer/ newer/better mpg truck but will it last ?! Thanks for any advice

 

I think you're confusing the 5.0 with the old 5.4. The 5.4 ate cam phasers like snacks. By contrast the 5.0 is very reliable, especially in the '13+ model years. I personally know of one with 215,000 on it and zero issues. Mine has 111,000 and zero issues.

 

09-10s have 4.6s and 5.4s. 11-up have 5.0s and 6.2s... the 5.0 is really good after 2013. the 6.2 is good and hard to find and thirsty.

 

I have a 2013 Coyote (5.0) and though I only have 58k on the clock, I can tell you it's a great engine. And it does really well on fuel, for being a super Crew 4x4, and liking the sound of that engine, I'm pretty prone to driving a little harder at times.
I get better mileage than several friends do with their EcoBoost, when I do drive it easy. And though the Eco Boost will outpull the Coyote, it's no slouch.
Drive one, and please, kick that Coyote in the butt, and listen to that engine.

Unk Bob

 

The '13 should be a safe bet in my opinion. It's tough to beat the 2V engines for being dead-nuts reliable, but they are hobbled by the significantly worse 4-speed transmission that doesn't hold up as well as the 6R80. The 5.0L seems to be pretty good at this point, as does the 3.7L V6 and the EcoBoost engine. I believe any of the 2011+ engines are considerably more reliable than what was available previously.