2008 Ford LCF

The 2008 Ford LCF (Low Cab Forward) is a cab-over-engine style medium-duty truck primarily designed for commercial applications. It was offered with a 4.5L Power Stroke V6 diesel engine produced by International Navistar, rated at 200 horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque, and a Ford TorqShift 5-speed automatic transmission. People generally liked the LCF for its maneuverability in urban environments and ease of cab access. Dislikes often centered on parts availability, service complexity, and some reliability concerns with the engine and aftertreatment systems.

Engine

4.5L Power Stroke V6 Diesel

• EGR Cooler Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, white smoke from exhaust, engine overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the EGR cooler.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
• High Pressure Oil Pump (HPOP) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, no start, engine stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the HPOP.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2500+
• Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough running engine, misfires, white/black smoke from exhaust, fuel in oil.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per injector (labor included)
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Lack of power, excessive black smoke, whistling noises.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, warning lights, frequent regeneration cycles.
  • Solution: Forced regeneration, DPF cleaning, or DPF replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+
• Exhaust Gas Temperature (EGT) Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Warning lights, reduced engine power, incorrect regeneration cycles.
  • Solution: Replace the EGT sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Ford TorqShift 5-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard or jerky shifts, especially between 2nd and 3rd gear.
  • Solution: Fluid change, valve body repair/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine revs high without acceleration, delayed engagement.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3000 - $6000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging suspension, rough ride, broken leaf springs.
  • Solution: Replace the damaged leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per spring pack
• Worn Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll, poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace the shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ (for a pair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, check engine lights, sensor failures.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the damaged wiring harness sections.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ (depending on severity)
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery light on, battery not charging, vehicle stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Cab Mount Corrosion
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust and corrosion around the cab mounts, potentially leading to structural issues.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the corroded cab mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No air blowing from the vents, or intermittent blower operation.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Ford LCF is a capable truck, but it has its share of common problems. The most prevalent issues revolve around the 4.5L Power Stroke diesel engine, particularly its emissions control systems, and potential transmission issues. Suspension and electrical problems are also potential concerns. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major repairs costing several thousand dollars. Prospective buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle, review its maintenance history, and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic familiar with the LCF.