Picked up my 2005 Lariat on Friday, traded in a 96 Ranger XL (my Ranger had 118000 miles without a single problem). I'm still getting used to my new wheels (what a difference!) but so far I am very pleased. My truck is absolutely gorgeous and a pleasure to drive. Flawless in every way, smooth as silk, no vibration. I can say that there is a lot of road feedback, probably due to the stiffer frame, but I personally like that. Does have a tendency to skip a bit on turns, I noticed that immediately but nothing I can't live with. I would agree with the brake dust issue however, I've seen some even after only 200 miles. I would like to thank all the members of the FTE site for all their input, you all have certainly kept me an informed consumer. I am looking forward to many years of interaction. I would recommend the F-150 to anyone considering a new full size pickup purchase, at least so far.

 

Welcome to the club. I just got my '05 Screw lariat last monday, and I love it. No problems except brake dust and the tan leather getting dirty....and the gas hog. But not any worse gas mileage than the two I traded in on it....'97 DOHC V8 Cobra and '95 F-150 4.9L I-6.

 

Welcome to the club
I too stepped up from a 96 ranger XLT to a 2004 F-150 XLT (albiet yours a 2005). Was well worth it if you ask me. I luv the truck and am always getting compliments from everyone i see on how nice a truck i have. Traded in my ranger for this labor day weekend, and the ranger was sold already. I know this because i just happened to see it the other day. Talked to the new owner of it too hehe since i couldnt resist stoppping when i saw it. He said he picked it cause it was the cleanest one of all the trucks he looked at (i took good care of it) plus the v6 4.0 litre engine in it. Imagine his surprise when i told him the engine was a brand new rebuild, hehe. The dealer he bought it from I guess never told him or didnt know. (wasnt the dealer i traded truck with)