I'm looking for a new truck as a daily driver (my commute is only a few miles) and having ruled out the new Super Dutys unfortunately, I'm noting a few V-6s on dealer's lots. Is it safe to say that the bugs have been worked out at this point, e.g. the internal coolant leak issues?

 

My 05 - pretty much the same as the current model - has 146,500 miles on it.
Only problem was brake rotors about 100K miles ago, and a rear axle seal about 30K miles ago.
As far as engine and drivetrain, I have not had one problem. Nuthin'.

If I wanted and need another inexpensive, reliable truck, I'd buy another in a heartbeat.

 

Ah, thanks! Though I wish I had a couple hundred similar responses to constitute a sample size, I have to believe that Ford addressed any known issues with this engine long ago. If that's the case, it just comes down to materials and how well it's bolted together. I don't particularly care about power as long as it's adequate.

 

Now is the time to buy an 08 XL,4.2V6 truck! Ford is practically giving them away!And if I had to buy another it would be another XL,4.2V6,auto,F150!

 

Yep. 'zactly what he said ^

 

seems like good motor, just know that it burns about the same amount of gas as the 4.6 V8 and is less powerful. and i've seen great deals on regular cab STXs with the 4.6.

 

Seems most all Ford trucks are pretty reliable, but I like the simplicity of the 4.2.
It is easy to work on, has adequate power and in my experience has been very reliable.
Gas mileage isn't great, but I can get above 20 mpg pretty often on the highway.

I hate having a vehicle that is unreliable and/or a PITA to service.
Plugs, wires, oil changes, etc. are all easy and fairly cheap on the 4.2.

My 2 have served me very well.

 

I've got a 2000. No complaints so far. Mine is a 5spd with 4wd so the mileage is only around 18 on the highway and 16ish in town

 

I have a 2003 and have not had any problems yet.