Ford F-150 Years to Avoid [3 Worst] • Road Sumo

Even reliable automakers like Ford Motor Company make mistakes. But you, as a vehicle buyer, wouldn’t want to risk buying a Ford F-150 only to find mistakes with it soon after. So, what are the Ford F-150 years to avoid?

Below are the three Ford F-150 years to avoid:

2004 Ford F-150
2005 Ford F-150
2010 Ford F-150

Read on to learn more about the Ford F-150 truck years to avoid. We will also discuss F-150 models with superb reputations.

Ford F-150 Years to Avoid

Ford has impressively established its reputation as one of the best-known automakers worldwide. Among all the vehicles they have released in the market, the Ford F-150 has always been one of the most popular.

But just like any other successful company, Ford has also experienced dreadful times. The worst of it is the release of several F-150 models with horrible issues:

2004 Ford F-150
2005 Ford F-150
2010 Ford F-150

Let’s look at each one of them:

1. 2004 Ford F-150

The Ford F-150 truck has always been one of Ford’s most popular products since its inception. It has always been known for its durability and reliability. It is an impressively convenient vehicle not only for work-related use but also for family use.

However, what used to be a reliable vehicle became unreliable with the release of the 2004 Ford F-150 truck. The first few customers who bought this model reported the engine problems they encountered. Since then, there have been a total of 16 recalls on parts.

Below are the 2004 Ford-150 issues:

1. Window Regulators

One of the major issues was the window regulators. Some owners reported that the plastic window clips were breaking. This problem caused the window to crash into the door suddenly. Moreover, the horrifying noise it created posed a serious and dangerous distraction for drivers.

2. Sudden Spark Plug Ejection

Several 2004 Ford F-150 owners reported sudden spark plug ejection issues involving the Triton 6L V8, 5.4L V8, and 6.8L V10 engines. However, when Ford checked its 2004 F-150 trucks with other engine types, they found the same issue.

3. Other Issues

The issues found were due to over-tightening, the four-thread design of the aluminum plugs, and the cylinder’s aluminum heads. These are common issues with spark plugs, but the incidence rate involving the 2004 Ford F-150 was alarming.

Ford vehicles have always been known for the superb quality of its engine. But the type of engine integrated into the 2004 F-150 truck seemed to be the worst of all.

Fortunately, they have already resolved this issue and have regained their good reputation with the succeeding models. However, such a problem had a major impact on their sales.

2. 2005 Ford F-150

Ford badly wanted to regain what it had lost from the 2004 F-150 model. So, they decided to launch the 2005 Ford F-150. Unfortunately, this resulted in a rush engineering job. Hence, it’s a similar fate.

Here are the 2005 Ford F-150 issues:

1. Power Window Regulator

Unfortunately, the issue with the power window regulator was still present in the 2005 Ford F-150 trucks.

2. Spark Plug Issue

Also, the issue with its spark plugs continued to be a concern.

3. Knocking Sound

Another problem encountered was the knocking sound involving the 5.4 L engine. The issue could be attributed to the incompatibility of the camshaft phaser and cylinder heads.

If the 2004 model had a total of 16 recalls on parts, the 2005 model had 14. It was truly an unfortunate time for a leader in the automotive industry to experience such a debacle.

Not to mention the fact that it all transpired in a consecutive year. This issue with the Ford F-150 may not have affected the sales involving other Ford vehicles. But then again, it surely affected the company’s overall sales, and more than anything else, the company’s reputation.

Thankfully, they seemed to have learned their lesson well as Ford Motor Company regained its good reputation with the release of the 2006 F-150 model.

3. 2010 Ford F-150

The 2010 Ford F-150 truck is one of the Ford F-150 models to avoid. Owners of this model complained of structural difficulties. It brought so much inconvenience as it required heaps of maintenance and repair.

Here are the 2010 Ford F-150 issues:

1. My Ford Touchscreen Feature

Problems with the “My Ford Touchscreen” feature of the 2010 F-150 model were among the most commonly received clients’ complaints. The issues included unresponsiveness and screen failure.

Failed to Recognize Smartphones

Some units failed to recognize smartphones. Other units had a malfunctioning rear-view camera.

Apparently, Ford encountered another debacle with the release of the 2010 Ford F-150. Many drivers say that it could have been due to Ford’s touchscreen feature added to its Generation 12 and 13 models.

Touchscreen Feature Stop Working

There were instances when the touchscreen feature would suddenly stop working. Some 2010 F-150 models complained of encountering unresponsive commands. Moreover, the system could not synchronize with their smartphones.

Incompatible with Portable MP3 Players

Other complainants said that the system was incompatible with portable MP3 players. Furthermore, every time it experienced a system hang, it would fail to reboot. Some 2010 F-150 owners would even have to remove and reinstall the battery to restart the touchscreen system.

System Unresponsive When Touched with Gloved Hand

Using the MyFord Touchscreen system was a challenge during the cold weather. It could not read commands if the user were wearing gloves. Users claimed that it was easier if the interface had press buttons instead of touchscreen keys.

Difficult to Update

It was also an inconvenience to update the touchscreen system. 2010 F-150 owners still needed to go to a dealership to have the system upgraded.

Ford trucks were among the top 5 non-luxury vehicles before Ford launched its touchscreen system in terms of customer satisfaction. But after its release, Ford drastically dropped to number 23 on the list.

Despite those issues encountered by Ford, it has now regained its good reputation with its succeeding releases.

Head Gasket Leak

The head gasket at the passenger side tended to leak. Customers encountered a similar problem with the engine oil pan gasket. A rough idle was experienced resulting from the exhaust gas recirculation sensors that malfunctioned due to carbon accumulation.

Spark Plug Issue

There were issues with the spark plugs too. These caused ignition coil failure and, thus, inability to start the engine. There were also complaints about the automatic transmission. The issues reported included sudden downshifting into second gear.

So, again, what Ford F-150 years should be avoided? Below are the Ford F-150 years to avoid:

2004 Ford F-150
2005 Ford F-150
2010 Ford F-150

These Ford F-150 models still have many positives; however, they fell short of the reliability, specs, or features that other Ford F-150 truck models have.

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All About Ford F-150

It was in 1975 when Ford launched the F-150 truck in the market. Its impressive design, as well as its durability, made it one of the most-sold trucks worldwide.

It has remained to be a popular truck through the years despite experiencing several fiascos — which is not unusual for any business, anyway.

Generally, what made Ford F-150 trucks popular has always been due to their durability and reliability. After all, it is a product of a leading automaker worldwide.

So, now that we have talked about the Ford F-150 years to avoid – let’s also talk about several models – that have always been considered the Best Ford F-150 Trucks ever.

1994 Ford F-150

When Ford launched its 1994 model featuring the driver’s side airbag, it made drivers feel more valued, secure, and safe. Ford included a CD player in this model, allowing drivers and passengers to enjoy the ride.

The 1994 F-150 model had no weak shakes, too, with its 4.9 L V8 engine featuring a 190 horsepower output, a center-mounted stop lamp, and CFC-free air conditioning. Moreover, this model also had door-side beams.

There were several new features with this model. Thus, the reason for its extreme popularity.

2009 Ford F-150

The 2009 model was impressive due to its 248 horsepower capability on the V8 engine. Ford also introduced this model with a luxury Platinum trim level. Indeed, the ‘09 model became more popular than the previous models due to its big, ultra-sleek look.

This model was extraordinarily speedy for its size. It was such a charm. Who wouldn’t fall in love with it?

2012 Ford F-150

The 2012 Ford F-150 truly deserved the Truck of the Year award it received from Motor Trend. This model had a big and boxy design, and it featured an impressive range of engine options. Among the spectacular features that Ford added for the first time were the hill assist and neutral tow-assist.

2001 Ford F-150

Its owners and drivers have always considered Ford’s 2001 F-150 truck as a very long-lasting vehicle. In fact, Kelley Blue Book gave it a 4.7 rating.

Drivers don’t consider this truck the most powerful one. Nonetheless, it still runs well after more than a decade of use. It is unbelievably sturdy and one of the best work trucks that have ever been launched.

This means that despite having over 200,000 miles on it, the Ford 2001 F-150 is still a driver’s great ally.

1993 Ford F-150

The SVT Lightning pickup and the XL pickup were launched as 1993 Ford F-150 models. The XL was an ideal truck for heavy pulling — and this means tons of heavy pulling. But for those who preferred speed as their top priority, the SVT Lightning pickup was the best choice.

1996 Ford F-150

Ford’s 1996 F-150 is another classic. It was the last vehicle released under the ninth-generation models. This model had safer interiors and other upgrades that made it better than the previous models.

It was the first time that Ford introduced an integrated headrest in its seat design. Moreover, it introduced an automatic locking restraint mechanism as part of its seat-belt features, making travels feel a lot safer.

Ford launched the 1996 Ford F-150 truck in different models. This included the ever-famous Eddie Bauer edition featuring wood grain trim and its 5.0 L V8 engine with 205 horsepower. Indeed, it was a superior F-150 model, not to mention a long-lasting one too.

2003 Ford F-150

Some people describe the 2003 Ford F-150 truck as “The Perfect Tow Monster.” Every part of this model was durable. It was not only ideal for work, but it was also perfect for those seeking adventurous trips.

However, if there was any downside involved with this model, fuel consumption was an issue.

2015 Ford F-150

It was the first time that Ford introduced an F-150 model with an aluminum body. The aluminum did not only allow the 2015 F-150 truck to increase its strength. But it also spectacularly increased its overall performance.

The 2015 F-150 truck is lighter than the previous models by roughly 700 lbs. This results in several advantages in terms of fuel economy, towing, and payload. It can be true that aluminum might get easily damaged if overloaded. Nonetheless, its many advantages definitely outweigh its flaws.

Conclusion – Ford F-150 Years to Avoid

If you are thinking of getting a Ford F-150 truck, here are the models to avoid:

2004 Ford F-150
2005 Ford F-150
2010 Ford F-150

The 2004 and 2010 models of the Ford F-150 trucks could be considered beta versions. Thus, Ford launched new engine and touchscreen features in these models.

If there was a major mistake on the part of Ford Motor Company, it could be attributed to the 2005 Ford F-150 model’s launching. There was no denying that it was a product of a rushed engineering job to make up for what the company had lost with the 2004 model.

Unfortunately, Ford had to face the consequences of doing a rushed engineering job. The 2005 model was a failure in itself, too, just like the 2004 model. But the good thing was that Ford realized this and eventually launched way better models in the succeeding years.

Ford, however, encountered problems once again when it launched the touchscreen system for the first time in 2010. But then again, Ford did not want to experience once again the mishap they encountered in 2005.

So, for the next years after 2010, Ford has consistently released F-150 models with impressive features.

So, if you opt to buy an old Ford F-150 truck, it is better to avoid these three truck models. Other than that, all other F-150 models are excellent.