2004 Ford Lobo

The 2004 Ford Lobo, a Mexican-market variant of the Ford F-150, was a popular truck known for its ruggedness and versatility. This model year offered several engine and transmission options. While precise horsepower and torque figures may vary slightly depending on tuning for the Mexican market, the engine options available were: a 4.2L Essex V6, a 4.6L Triton V8, and a 5.4L Triton V8. Transmissions included a 4-speed automatic and a 5-speed manual, depending on the engine configuration. Owners generally appreciate the Lobo for its reliability, towing capacity, and spacious interior. However, common complaints revolve around fuel economy, certain electrical issues, and the age-related wear and tear on components, especially in older models.

Engine

4.2L Essex V6

• Intake Manifold Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak from the intake manifold gasket, leading to coolant loss and potential overheating. May notice a sweet smell and white smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

4.6L Triton V8

• Spark Plug Blowout
  • Description/Symptoms: Spark plugs ejecting from the cylinder head, especially on earlier 2V engines. This is due to insufficient threads in the cylinder head.
  • Solution: Install thread inserts (Heli-Coil) or replace the cylinder head.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.4L Triton V8

• Spark Plug Blowout
  • Description/Symptoms: Spark plugs ejecting from the cylinder head, especially on earlier 3V engines. This is due to insufficient threads in the cylinder head.
  • Solution: Install thread inserts (Heli-Coil) or replace the cylinder head.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cam Phaser Tick/Knock
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or knocking sound coming from the engine, especially at idle or low RPMs. This is due to worn cam phasers within the variable valve timing system.
  • Solution: Replace the cam phasers, timing chains, and tensioners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (4R70W/4R75E)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifts between gears. Can be caused by worn valve body components or low transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush, replace the valve body, or rebuild the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission fails to engage properly or slips out of gear. This can be caused by worn clutches or a failing torque converter.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual (Mazda M5OD-R2)

• Gear Grinding
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding noise when shifting gears, especially into second or third. This is typically caused by worn synchronizers.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or popping noises from the front suspension, excessive play in the steering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the upper and/or lower ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Leaf Spring Sagging/Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the truck sitting lower than normal, reduced load-carrying capacity, and potential cracking in the leaf springs.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working or working intermittently.
  • Solution: Replace the window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to control the temperature of the air coming from the vents, clicking noises behind the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Lower Body Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the rocker panels, cab corners, and wheel wells, especially in areas with high road salt usage.
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted body panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, especially in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Replace or repair the dashboard (often with a dash cover).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner fabric begins to detach from the roof of the cab, sagging down and obstructing the view.
  • Solution: Replace the headliner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2004 Ford Lobo presents a mix of age-related issues. Engine issues such as spark plug blowouts and cam phaser problems (on the 5.4L V8) can be costly. Transmission problems, particularly with the automatic transmissions, can range from relatively inexpensive fixes like fluid changes to expensive rebuilds. Suspension and electrical issues are also common and can add to the overall cost of ownership. Rust, a common issue with older vehicles, is a significant concern in certain climates.