I bought my 04 F150 5.4 Used in 08 45,000 mi. So far both windows dropped and needed repair$700.00. Just now the engine developed a Loud KNOCK to the tune of $4000.00 for a used engine. I am not at a dealer and my question is should I get a NEW engine or just go with the used one my mechanic suggests? I have losted all confindence in this truck, ready to sell. Did I buy a LEMON? Are all 04's a PITA?

 

I have an 04 with the 5.4 3v and had to have one head replaced already, under the certified pre-owned warranty. I have replaced both front struts (twice) and lower ball joints and along with the struts the second time I also replaced the strut bearings. I did the plug change myself and did not break a plug, but this 04 can't hold a stick to my 97 F150 4x4 sc... It went 86,000 before touching the breaks and at 103,000 at time or trade not a single problem, other than a faulty brake light switch. I am keeping my fingers crossed.

 

I think you are far from calling your truck a lemon. There is a service bulletin for the knocking noise. It is most likely a cam phaser.

I have replaced the rear window regulators (causes the window drop) and I will tell you that for two of them at a parts store price, you would spend maybe $250. They are pretty easy to put in also. I have not had to replace them in my personal truck, the ones I have replaced were for a dealership i work at.

I would be careful before you throw a motor in that thing, and make sure it actually needs it. Does the truck still run? Is the knocking noise gone when the motor is cold, then gets louder when it warms up?

Also, dont think because of this you got a lemon. All cars have window regulator issues, I cant tell you how many I have replaced from all manufacturers over the years.

I just put a head gasket in a 2005 Nissan Sentra with only 54,000 miles on it, which is supposed to be a "Higher Quality" car.

My personal 2004 F150 has been run into a median barricade and totaled out (now a slavage title) by the previous owner. The thing still runs great, is in alighment, and I really enjoy the truck. Just dont let the small things get you down.

 

Thanks for the reply. My mechanic showed me the cam and it was destroyed, Also parts in the pan. He found a 05 engine with 42,000 mi on it and is replacing it for $4000.00. You think that is about right? Not finished yet. I will post the results.

 

For these trucks I would say that is probably a good price. I can imagine that these engines are expensive, even used. They also don't look like alot of fun to install as well