How To Repair Completely Rusted Out Bed On A 2003 Ford F-150 4.6l V8 Truck

Best and Worst Years for the Ford F-150

Shopping for a used Ford F-150? Faced with the dilemma of which ones to choose and avoid? We've compiled a comprehensive list to ease your purchase decision.

The Ford F-150 has been in the market for decades. Ford introduced its F Serial line of pickups back in 1948, and the fleet now includes a collection of calorie-free, medium, and heavy-duty trucks. Hither, we'll focus on the consumer-axial F-150, which Ford sells roughly 103 of per hour, or approximately ii a minute.

From a broad perspective, consumers looking to buy an F-150 don't need to coughing up the big bucks, specially for the all-new models. This is largely due to the fact that while Ford claims 2022 F-150s have 92% new parts, the differences between a used and brand-new model are hardly meaning.

Equally a consequence, getting into a used Ford F-150 makes a lot more sense from a fiscal standpoint.

What is the Best Year for the Ford F-150?

From a consumer standpoint, ownership the latest and greatest is unremarkably the all-time, largely due to the added condom and reliability over the model it replaces. However, considering how things take panned out for the F-150, it's safe to say that models betwixt 2022 and 2022 are the all-time of the bunch.

Considering a 2022 F-150 is particularly advisable since it won't interruption your budget, and it's a bit newer. Function of the twelfth generation, yous even so get the slightly outdated just adequate MyFord touchscreen infotainment paired with Xenon headlights, colina descent control, and decent towing capabilities.

2013 and 2022 F-150s Offer Reliability, Customization, and Plenty of Power

Both the 2022 and 2022 F-150s come up equipped with a host of engine choices, ranging from a 302 horsepower 3.7-liter V6, a 411 horsepower 6.two-liter V8, and a 365 horsepower 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine.

Since the F-150 comes in Unmarried Cab, Super Cab, and Crew Cab models, nosotros'd propose y'all to stick with the nigh practical choice for your needs.

Siding with the 2022 F-150 over the 2022 model is ideal, since reliability ratings of the former are far better than the latter. Cost-wise, the 2022 Ford F-150s range between $14,500 and $39,900.

Going for the 2022 F-150 is preferred if y'all don't mind paying a bit extra for the added rubber and technology features. Also, 2022 introduced the 13th generation, when the F-150 switched to an all-aluminum compages.

The 2022 F-150 comes equipped with adaptive cruise command, lane departure warning, forrard collision warning, a 360-degree camera, and blind-spot monitoring. When properly equipped, the 2022 F-150 tin tow upward to 12,200 pounds.

J.D.Ability gave the 2022 F-150 a "All-time" rating for driving experience and resale value. Couple that with Consumer Reports' four-out-of-five-stars owner satisfaction rating, and the 2022 Ford F-150 looks to be the nigh promising.

Still, if you want features like Ford's Sync 3 infotainment and Trailer Backup Assist, the 2022 F-150 should exist on your radar. In terms of toll, the 2022 Ford F-150s range between $18,600 and $39,000 while the 2022 models sit down in a slightly higher price bracket between $21,000 and $50,600.

2017 and Later F-150s Characteristic More Modern Applied science and Condolement Features

If you can't live without the comfort of Android Auto or Apple tree CarPlay, yous'll have to resort to 2022 or later F-150s. Also, in 2022 Ford updated the F-150 Raptor, an off-road pickup that leads the lineup in terms of cost.

If y'all're looking for the best utilitarian selection that still packs a mix of the latest features and doesn't sacrifice performance, 2022 F-150s should entice y'all. However, acquit in mind that they are on the pricier side of the spectrum.

Starting at around $24,000 and topping at $64,000, the 2022 F-150 has the highest towing chapters of any of its contemporaries. Rated at a xiii,200-pound tow chapters (when properly equipped), this F-150 is a capable workhorse.

Which F-150 Model Yr F-150 Should Yous Avoid Buying?

Every bit a rule of pollex, information technology'south important to enquiry the car you're getting into while going over the ones to avoid. No machine in the history of the auto industry is perfect, and the Ford F-150 is no exception. Some of the worst model years of the Ford F-150 (and the ones you should avoid buying) are 2004, 2005, and 2010. Below we'll explicate our reasoning.

2004 Ford F-150's 16 Recalls are Cause for Concern

The NHTSA reports that the 2004 F-150 has well-nigh 16 recalls to date. While Ridgeback Bodies claim information technology to be the worst F-150 in history, it's hard to overlook how many problems information technology had. One of the reasons why it became the worst in the F-150 lineup was primarily due to its available engines, the 5.4-liter, and 6.8-liter Tritons.

Problems include spark plugs that may break during removal, sudden plug ejection, or even over-tightening was common. Faulty window regulators were also mutual with the 2004 model year, one of which includes the breaking of the plastic clips that hold each side window in place, causing them to all of a sudden crash into their corresponding doors.

2005 Ford F-150 is Marred Past Spark Plug Problems Faulty Window Regulators

While the 2004 model was an engineering nightmare, things didn't better all that much with the 2005 Ford F-150 either, which had a full of 14 recalls. The faulty window regulators remained, leading to mechanics thinking the 2005 build was a rushed practise. Also, the spark plug problems persisted leading to DIY maintenance leaving pieces lodged inside the cylinder. Lastly, the Triton 5.4-liter V8 struggled with a continuous knocking audio attributed to either the cam phaser or bad cylinder heads.

2010 Ford F-150'south Has Registered Complaints Over Oil Leaks and Infotainment System Tech Glitches

Peradventure the worst modern F-150 is the 2010 model year. Consumers reported bug with the MyFord infotainment where the screen would abruptly fail and become unresponsive. In some cases, the system fails to recognize smartphones, and the rear-view camera stops working when the contrary. Leaks were also common issues, where the gaskets in the oil pan and engine head would drip oil, which is not but messy but tin can quickly add up to a costly repair bill.

This model year also struggled with spark plugs that could ruin the ignition coil, often causing the engine to misfire or not start altogether. Reports also pointed to the automated transmission suddenly downshifting into second gear in the middle of a drive, which could potentially lead to catastrophic engine failure.

Which Ford F-150 Engine is the Near Reliable?

In terms of reliability, you may be surprised to know that the 3.five-liter EcoBoost is the best selection of the bunch.

Co-ordinate to Pop Mechanics, the 3.v-liter EcoBoost is the sugariness spot in the F-150's engine lineup. Thanks to its generous 375 horsepower and 475 lb.-ft. of torque, this engine could devour anything you throw at it.

Along with the performance, the EcoBoost is also one of the most efficient, sitting around 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway, depending on the model twelvemonth.

Also, YouTube'due south The Fast Lane Truck confirms our claim with a video showing owners comparison the Coyote V8 and the EcoBoost merely to notice out the iii.5-liter churner comes out to exist the best overall.

As for reliability, if y'all're following Ford's recommended service schedule, you should take no problem reaching the 100,000-150,000 mile marking (if not significantly more).

Photos: Ford

Ofttimes Asked Questions

April 9, 2022

What twelvemonth is the most reliable Ford F-150?

The generally accepted about reliable yr for the Ford F-150 would exist the 1993 model yr. These are an older manner of the truck simply they were congenital to stand the test of time. There are plenty of 1993 trucks out on the road withal today with well over 300,000 miles on them.

If you are more interested in getting a more recent truck and then a 2022 is a smashing one to take a look at. The 2022 has the lowest number of complaints of any of the recent years for the F-150, indicating that they were able to brand a swell truck during that twelvemonth of production.

Ford typically has made reliable trucks with their F-150 lineup. It is the well-nigh popular full-size truck in the world and that is because they are affordable, strong, and tin last a long fourth dimension with relatively few issues.

What year F-150 to avoid?

Amongst Ford enthusiasts, there is one yr that people know to avert with the F-150 and that is the 2004 model yr. These are considered to be the worst F-150 trucks that were always fabricated for a few different reasons.

The biggest reason that the trucks from 2004 are considered bad is due to engine failures. The 2004 model year has more reports of engine failure than any other yr, so many that there were more failures in 2004 than several years combined of normal production.

The 2004 F150 also had a very bad recollect on these trucks. At that place were over a million trucks that were in a recall campaign due to the strap that holds the gas tank in place failing. This could lead to the fuel tank falling out of the truck while driving and could be extremely dangerous. Ford did repair them all under warranty, merely however, it is a sign that something was not right at the Ford establish during the 2004 model yr.

How many miles will an F-150 terminal?

A Ford F-150 should have no problem lasting well over 150,000 miles. These are trucks that are designed to be used for work and they are built to terminal a long time. Getting to 150,000 miles is pretty easy for an F-150 but if yous want it to terminal longer you will have to keep up with the maintenance.

At that place are enough of F-150s out on the roads these days with over 300,000 miles on them. These trucks can last that long when you are proactive with your maintenance. Every bit long as you become your oil changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles and track down any problems and fix them as they come up then the truck should accept no problem lasting.

The motors that can be found beyond the F-150 lineup are very adept. There have been some known bug with the 3.5L EcoBoost cam phasers, but they have been updated and repaired as time has gone on.

Owner Reviews

Michael Halstead on February 18, 2022

A great truck

My 2001 with the 4.6 has been a neat truck with 120000 miles on information technology. I've replaced the sparkplugs twice and went alee and replaced the coils why I had the plugs changed never a problem with the plugs . I've had to replace the ball joints and alternator. Kept all the fluids inverse even the transmission. I pull my gunkhole it does what a truck should practise.My dad ever said theirs alot of pretty trucks just a Ford is a work horse. I've been so fortunate with this truck.My next Ford truck will definitely be one of the aluminum Ford trucks ,perhaps it won't rust as bad because rust will be the death of my 2001,But it has nonetheless been a great truck.

Lauren Yard on June 9, 2022

2022 F-150 is the perfect truck for a family unit

I really love trucks, especially Ford. I've never had whatsoever problems with the functioning my truck gives. I feel so rubber in information technology especially as a new mom carrying my little 1 with me. The features my truck have are amazing! Seat warmers, Ac and the Support camera are perfect and brand driving so much easier. And I don't want to forget to mention the dorsum back up, I have some dorsum pain and I accept the perfect setting for the commuter'due south seat in my truck that make driving and then comfortable. And I beloved how spacious it is in the front and back, we've taken road trips out of state and can easily pack upward everything we need inside the truck.

Eric M on June iv, 2022

I believe that the most interest detail is the torque that the 2022 F-150 has. It is very heavy and can get traction very well in tough terrain.

My Ford F-150 is one of the most reliable cars I have had in all of my life every bit a working homo. It has a sturdy chassis that can be driven in some of the toughest terrain and is bang-up for subcontract work as well equally driving to and from cities where traffic is tight. I love the suspension because information technology is very forgiving and does not bounce only rather absorbs the bear on. The miles per gallon that I become on my F150 is fair and depending on how you bulldoze information technology, you can get close to what a minor car might be getting. All in all, this car is definitely a sturdy auto that tin accept on whatever job.

Nancy B on June eight, 2022

2022 F-150 is comfy, reliable and affordable with excellent gas mileage!

My Ford F-150 pickup is awesome! I dearest the climate control for driver and passenger. Another characteristic is the rear sliding window which helps the air flow inside the vehicle. The four doors allow for easy access for transportation of friends and transporting items. The inside is spacious and the forepart seats lay dorsum to make information technology comfortable to relax while taking long trips. The coolest affair always is the bright lights are automatically used when necessary and they automatically dim with approaching vehicles. All in all I totally recommend this vehicle for people of all ages!

Steven Coy on February 20, 2022

Ex drag racer built 32 ford with jungle jim liberman

I Had a 1994 chev 2500 long bed extended cab pu for xiii years never had a problem !! Bought a 2002 f150 lariat 4x4 with 5.iv eng. And in eighteen months put $3000 ion repairs including a #i spark plug blew out the hole and took coil pack with it. Drag raced for 12 years and never had ane chev or pontiac engine do that !! Plastic intake needed replacing and at present take a howl from the intake system that has the mechanics baffled at ford dealership. Pile of c**p will never buy another Ford product again !!!!!!

Rhonda F on June iv, 2022

Our Forever Vehicle 2022 Ford F-150

I really beloved our Ford F-150 pick-up. There is a lot of legroom in the front, just even more in the back. The front seats tilt then that one tin lie down all the style. Especially nice are the heated seats, either to help warm you lot or for soothing aches and pains in your back. The rear-view camera and alarm are great for aiding in bankroll up. The dorsum seats are split in 1/3 seat and 2/3 seat, so many different ways to adjust. I will certainly purchase another vehicle merely like this!

Philip C. on Baronial 28, 2022

Original Owner Of 2009 F150 - Truck Is Great

I factory ordered a 2009 FX4 F150 with the 5.4 which I still own and programme to proceed indefinitely. It'due south had several bug which I can't fault on a at present 12 twelvemonth old truck merely well-nigh the problems of the earlier year of Triton were sorted out by 2009. I pull a 8000 pound trailer regularly and with an aftermarket cat back exhaust and cold air intake get nearly xx mpg empty which I consider practiced for a 4x4 Crewcab. I'd say proper maintenance is primal for reliable vehicle longevity.

Ricardo Chavez on June 6, 2022

Bug with 2005 f-150 clutch.

I have the STX with the rear doors that open up the contrary direction but no rear seats. Information technology'south a manual manual and I actually similar my truck. The merely problems that I accept had is the alternator and the clutch. In the viii years that I have had it, I have changed the alternator three times and the clutch iv times. I am guessing that the clutch will never be the same again. I am to blame for lending information technology out to idiots who don't know how to drive a manual transmission.

Jennifer B on June four, 2022

2004 Ford F 150 Great for our needs and safety. Non neat for spark plug issues.

The 1 downside we have had with this make and model is the tune ups. This detail make and model had issues with it's spark plugs getting stuck when trying to change them out during a tune up. That unfortunately happened to us and information technology toll us effectually five,000 dollars to become it stock-still. After researching this outcome we establish that they had a lawsuit concerning this result. Wish we would have known before purchasing. Might have gotten a different make truck.

Rick on Jan 26, 2022

Bare Bones Beauty

I've got a 2022 f-150 XL it'due south a 3.3L 6spd. And when I say bare bones, I hateful it ! No power anything, not even cruise control. I've got A/C and a radio. That'southward It ! And ya know what, I dearest information technology ! 290 hp. Is plenty. When the iii.3 gets dumped on, it's ordinarily a 25 yr. Old w/a charter. Beat on information technology, and so give back. I got my drivers license in 1975. Been there, done that. But hey, to all f-150 owners, "KEEP TRUCKIN'" !

Nick 5 on February 13, 2022

Mr.

I own a 1993 F150 which I purchased new. It.was used specifically as a work vehicle without a lot of bells and whistles. Today, it more often than not sits just when needed it starts and runsperfectly . Body rust is merely now becoming visible with the paint and interior showing its age. Other than normal maintenance, the only work done over and about is fuel pump replacement. Without a dubiousness, best vehicle I've ever owned

Horace B on June half dozen, 2022

2022 Ford f-150 congenital tough to final forever.

The best vehicle I accept ever endemic. It is roomy and has a lot of ability. It is fast and has all the bells and whistles anyone would always desire in an car or an truck. I would put this truck upward confronting any vehicle on the road. Information technology is and so powerful it can tow heavy loads and do not miss a beat with speed. I beloved this truck and then much that I do not think I will e'er buy a different type of vehicle.

Jack P on June 9, 2022

Reliable, but beware of rust bug with 2010 F-150

I have had issues with the transmission, especially when engaging 4wd, which is clunky and ford has not been able to fix. However, if at that place is one real consequence that would prevent me from buying some other ford truck, is rust. Nosotros get tough winters hither and I already had to accept the rocker panels replaced. Other vehicles that I accept had oasis't worn out this apace.

John Due north. on July two, 2022

Jr.

04 F-150 shortly subsequently purchasing started having starting issues, while trouble shooting found the frame and bed were rotted and unsafe replaced frame and bed, few months later went to melody upwards and the plugs bankrupt off at the threads. It was cheaper to rerplace the motor than rebuild information technology. Summary wish i had improve info on 04 fords. Earlier purchasing.

Gamma N on June four, 2022

2022 Ford f150 was a groovy option!

Information technology is extremely comfortable, the color is beautiful, information technology rides well, the gas mileage has been decent, and it more than meets my needs. Since I specifically chose information technology for the maximum tow package it came with, it has the ability to tow 12,000 pounds. The Sirius radio information technology has, forth with other features on the dashboard are dainty actress touches.

Jim M on June 5, 2022

2022 F-150 3.five liter ecoboost, an engine with a lot to love!

I dearest it. I have owned 3 other f-150'due south, all with 8 cylinder engines. My current f-150 has 3.v liter ecoboost and it is fantastic! Has only every bit much, maybe more, power than the 5-8. It is comfortable, spacious, and packed with well idea out features. I as well take the extended range tank, which allows me to go 500-600 miles per tank.

Mike K on Feb 1, 2022

2004 F-150 Heritage XLT X-Cab four.6L Engine

Best truck I've ever owned. Rides and handles similar a dream for a full size truck. Bought new in 2004, very dependable on minimal basic maintenance. Never bankrupt down on me or had to have it towed. However information technology did recently fail to outset the first time. Ended up being the Fuel Pump went out. Not bad though for almost 18 yo and 120K miles.

Malana on February 12, 2022

Widow

I'm the original owner of a 2001 Ford F-150 and I'm extremely proud to say its got over 336,000 miles on it and but over the past few thousand miles developed a slight oil or manual leak, so I check the levels on both of them and add oil equally needed per the advice of ii male person friends!

Nick A on June 8, 2022

V8 triton engine bug and more than. 2004 f-150

Problems with the 5. 4 fifty v8 triton engine, problems with transfer case, and bug with axle, the wheel bearings seem to constantly go out, the engine has a issue with ticking which does not pertain to my own vehicle equally I have seen many people who also have the same ticking issue.

Jeff C on June 8, 2022

Powerful v8 showstopper has shortcomings in the 2004 F-150

Roomy, still looks modern despite being a 2004, comfy seating, powerful v8 engine. - transmission problems, poor gas mileage, power lock bug during cold weather, factory spark plugs break when removing due to poor design, cam phasers are a known issue amid owners.

Amanda R on June 6, 2022

2022 Ford f-150 truck that is very roomy.

The ford f-150 king ranch truck is a reliable vehicle. It has smart technology with a keyless entry. The seats are comfortable and roomy with heating and air-conditioning seating options. The back row has ample leg room and airbag inflatable seats belts for.

Russ D on June 5, 2022

The MPG is incredibly low, and so I volition not probable cruise in the 2004

I love that it is a truck, because it'due south a cool car. Its pretty powerful, but the gas mileage is so dang bad it takes all the joy out of driving information technology. It also has had so many engine issues I can no longer drive it on trips or further than about an hour away.

Callie L on June 6, 2022

2022 F-150 is a truck I'd go along forever.

Never had a problem. Incredibly comfy in both rows. Plenty of storage compartments and additional space under seats if needed. Heated seats and separate air controls for each side. Touch screen great for maps and music. Expert sound quality for music.

Michael R on June 4, 2022

Issues with the 2010 F-150

Electrical system has bug. Door locks don't ever work properly. A/c is terrible, non enough power to absurd unabridged cab of truck. Frustrating that the traction control cannot exist disabled. Can't plow off daytime lights when vehicle is put into drive.

Tyler T on June 4, 2022

2005 F-150 with manual issues.

The bad thing about the truck is the manual seems to be having some problem. The truck sometimes jerks when in drive and information technology is not a very natural feeling. I think the transmission or the engine may need some piece of work done shortly.

Ben C on June viii, 2022

2022 f 150 platinum is awesome!

No bug so far! The truck handles great, performs well, and is super comfy. Nice interior and beautiful exterior trim. Bang-up for hard work days and a luxurious travel mode. I highly recommend this truck to anyone.

Al on December 8, 2022

2022 F150 ecoboost lariat

Dearest the truck, hate the engine. Put 3800 into motor for cam phasers and timing chain. Have to change oil every 2 months at present or it starts ticking. Looking at new engine soon or trading information technology. Should take stuck with v8.

Bob on March v, 2022

Then J.D. Power is wrong?

The most reliable F150 of the last 20 years is the 2008. This is the only year to get v star reliability from J.D. Ability. The 4.half-dozen is extremely reliable although considered under powered.

Nicholas J on June 9, 2022

2010 F-150 has too many problems lack of power and towing.

5. iv motor is weak on towing could use a ameliorate manual. I have had a few bug with my truck. Injectors going out nether 150, 000 miles had to supplant water pump at 45, 000 miles.

Caleb Westward on June six, 2022

It is a terrible car that gets terrible mileage. Not happy with the 2004 F-150

My truck actually has a lot of problems ranging from the starter all the way to miles per gallon. It has been falling apart ever since I got it and I cannot wait to get another vehicle.

Mary on June vi, 2022

2005 Ford f150 v.4 engine, 4x4, 4 door.

T has had tapping sounds since the day I bought it, and now I need a new motor that I can't beget. My mechanic said he had a lot of these 2005 trucks brought in for the same matter.

Ronny Starks on Feb 12, 2022

2004 f150

I bought the truck new in 2003 and i still own the truck I've not had a lot of problems.my OD works like it's in neutral but u tin however drive the truck.145,000 miles

Alyssa H on June vii, 2022

The spark plugs are known to bore out on the2005 F-150 5.4L triton motors.

I don't like the issues that I have been having with the 5.4L motor. The gas mileage is bad even for it beingness a truck

Darin B on February 14, 2022

Stay abroad from 3.v eco heave

I've got a 2022 3.5 eco boost and information technology's been in the shop many times with cam phaser and timing chain issues.

Jerry S on Feb 21, 2022

02 f-150 four.6 manual transmission

Keen truck! Runs great shifts flawlessly. No complaints. 180,000 miles on her all the same trucking.

Gregory O on June 5, 2022

2005 F-150. Overall information technology's a skilful truck, unless information technology is abused.

Needed new cables and spark plugs after I bought information technology. Spark plugs are difficult to change.

daniel pinstriper on March 18, 2022

2022 XL 3.3L std. Cab

Later on three years and over 45,000 I'm yet impressed. Solid, no rattles, loftier 22 MPG.

Mike Brown on February 17, 2022

Starbord@gmail.com

I've owned a 2010 F150 for a twenty-four hour period when I found this commodity. Lovely news.

Kiran Menon

Kiran has been a fan of automobiles ever since he was a kid, thanks in office to auto magazines and TV shows like Top Gear. Fast forward a few years, and this obsession somewhen led him to earn a degree in automotive engineering. He now writes about all things motoring for Vehicle History and HotCars after starting his machine journalism career every bit a features writer for CarHP.

How To Repair Completely Rusted Out Bed On A 2003 Ford F-150 4.6l V8 Truck,

Source: https://www.vehiclehistory.com/articles/best-and-worst-years-for-the-ford-f-150

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