2009 Ford F-150

Introduction: The 2009 Ford F-150 is a full-size pickup truck available with a range of engine and transmission options. The 4.6L V8 engine produces 248 horsepower and 294 lb-ft of torque, while the 5.4L V8 engine generates 310 horsepower and 365 lb-ft of torque. The 6.2L V8 engine produces 405 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed automatic, and a 5-speed automatic. The F-150 is praised for its powerful engines, rugged design, and towing and payload capabilities. However, it does have some reported issues.

Engine

4.6L V8 Engine

• Intake Manifold Runner Control Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The intake manifold runner control valve fails, causing poor engine performance, stalling, and difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold runner control valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Spark Plug Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The spark plugs fail prematurely, leading to misfiring, rough idling, and reduced engine power.
  • Solution: Replace the spark plugs and ignition coils.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $350
  • Recalls: None Found

5.4L V8 Engine

• Cam Phaser Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The cam phaser fails, causing a rattling sound, reduced engine performance, and increased fuel consumption.
  • Solution: Replace the cam phaser and timing chain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Stem Seal Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The valve stem seals fail, causing excessive oil consumption and blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replace the valve stem seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.2L V8 Engine

• No Major Issues Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual Transmission

• No Major Issues Found

6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Torque Converter Shudder:
  • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter shudders or vibrates during acceleration.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips or hesitates when shifting gears.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Shift Solenoid Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The shift solenoid fails, preventing the transmission from shifting properly.
  • Solution: Replace the shift solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Upper Control Arm Bushing Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The upper control arm bushings wear out, causing a clunking or rattling sound when driving over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the upper control arms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1,200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Leaf Spring Breakage:
  • Description/Symptoms: The leaf springs can break, causing the rear of the vehicle to sag.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $900
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, even when the vehicle is not in use.
  • Solution: Test the electrical system to identify the source of the drain and repair it.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The headlight switch fails, leaving the headlights inoperative.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Tailgate Handle Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The tailgate handle breaks, making it difficult to open the tailgate.
  • Solution: Replace the tailgate handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Bumper Rust:
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear bumper rusts prematurely.
  • Solution: Replace the rear bumper.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Rattling:
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard rattles or squeaks when driving over bumps.
  • Solution: Apply sound deadening material or adjust the dashboard screws.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The power window switch fails, leaving the power windows inoperative.
  • Solution: Replace the power window switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary While the 2009 Ford F-150 offers powerful engines and impressive capabilities, it is not without its issues. Some common problems include intake manifold runner control failure, cam phaser failure, torque converter shudder, and suspension component failures. The severity of these issues can vary, from minor annoyances to major repairs that can be costly to fix. Before purchasing a used 2009 Ford F-150, it’s essential to be aware of these potential issues and consider their impact on the overall reliability and value of the vehicle.