While these parts are generally considered wear-and-tear items and require replacements in most engines, there are some spark plug and coil problems unique to Ford 5.4 Triton engines. The 2-valve, 3-valve, and 4-valve versions of the 5.4 Triton engine often have issues with spark plugs and ignition coils. Just sayin’.Īnyway, these are the most common problems you can expect with this engine: Spark plug and ignition coil failure
For example, the life expectancy of a Subaru 2.5 engine is just as good with fewer reported problems. Understanding these issues can help you take the necessary preventative measures to keep it running as smoothly as possible.Īnd to help you put what I’m about to list out into better perspective, despite how bullet proof the Ford 5.4 L seems to be, it’s far from being the best engine ever made. The following are the most common issues that Ford 5.4 L engine owners should be aware of. Ford says it’s vehicles are “Built Ford Tough”, but that all goes out the window when it’s -20F for months on end. RIP to your 5.4 L engine if you live in a cold weather climate. Long story short: while the Ford 5.4 V8 may not be the most reliable engine, it has an above-average lifespan if it’s treated well with proper maintentence.
2008 FORD F150 FUEL PUMP DRIVER MODULE PROBLEMS DRIVERS
That being said, most drivers (including myself) would be happy to get over 200,000 miles from an engine, even if there are a few hiccups along the way. For example, the life expectancy of the Ford V10 is limited by the same issues as the 5.4 L.
This isn’t necessarily unique to the Ford 5.4 V8. Owners of vehicles with these engines may run into a handful of issues during their ownership (I’ve listed out some of the most common problems below). That being said, the lifespan of a Ford 5.4 V8 may not always be trouble free. As you read in my writeup of the most common Ford 2.7 L EcoBoost problems, I referred to the 5.4 as a better (more reliable) alternative. While the Ford 5.4 V8 may not be perfect, any engine capable of lasting 300,000 miles or more with proper maintenance can certainly be called reliable in my book. ‘Murica! How reliable is the Ford 5.4 V8? Older models manufactured before 2004 generally have 3-valve engines, while most Ford vehicles made after that year are the 3-valve version. Sportier models like the GT500 and Ford GT were outfitted with high-performance 4-valve engines. Since the late 1990’s, Ford has used 5.4 Triton engines in many of its most popular vehicles:Ģ-valve, 3-valve, and 4-valve variations of the Ford 5.4 Triton were used during these years, depending on the specific model. Which Ford vehicles use 5.4 Triton engines? For example, the life expectancy of the 3.5L EcoBoost (a typically reliable engine) is not as good. Even the ones produced from 2004 through 2013, if you compare them with other engines from that same time period. The earlier engines didn’t seem to have as many issues, nor do the ones produced after 2013.ĭespite all this, the Ford 5.4 is a a very solid engine. What years did the 5.4 Triton have problems?īased on my research, 5.4 Triton engines from vehicles manufactured between 20 seem to have the most problems. Remember how well you treated your car (or truck) the day you bought it? Treat it like that everyday and it’ll last forever. Some of the biggest issues are because of the 5.4 Triton. For example, Ford F-150 life expectancy varies from year to year. Certain model years were more problematic than others.Those who use their truck as transportation and not much else could see their engine life reach 450,000 miles or more (provided the truck is maintained well). A well-maintained truck that pulls heavy trailers has the ability to last 250,000 miles or more.A driver who regularly uses their truck to haul heavy loads may see a shorter engine life than a more casual driver. How hard you work the engine plays a big part in how long it will last.
Failing to do so can cause an engine to die far sooner than it should.