2014 Ford F-150
Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2014 Ford F-150, categorized by major components and engine/transmission options. This is based on commonly reported problems and repair information, however, individual experiences may vary.
The 2014 Ford F-150 is a popular full-size pickup truck known for its versatility and capability. Engine options include a 3.7L V6 (302 hp, 278 lb-ft torque), a 5.0L V8 (360 hp, 380 lb-ft torque), a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (365 hp, 420 lb-ft torque), and a 6.2L V8 (411 hp, 434 lb-ft torque). A 6-speed automatic transmission is standard across all engine options. Owners generally praise the F-150 for its comfortable ride, spacious cabin, and towing capacity. Common dislikes include fuel economy (especially with the larger engines) and some reported reliability issues, especially in higher mileage vehicles.
Engine
3.5L EcoBoost V6
- Turbocharger Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Whining or screeching noise from the engine, loss of power, check engine light. Can be caused by oil starvation to the turbo bearings.
- Solution: Replace the faulty turbocharger(s). Ensure proper oil changes and inspect oil feed lines.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ (depending on if one or both turbos are replaced and if the dealer handles the repair)
- Recalls: None Found
- Spark Plug Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, hesitation during acceleration. The 3.5L EcoBoost is known to be sensitive to spark plug condition.
- Solution: Replace spark plugs with the recommended type and gap.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
- Recalls: None Found
5.0L V8
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Low oil level, needing to add oil frequently between oil changes, blue smoke from exhaust.
- Solution: Difficult to fix permanently. Possible solutions include replacing piston rings, valve seals, or even the entire engine. Some owners have had limited success with switching to a heavier weight oil.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500+ (for diagnostic work and band-aid solutions) to $5,000+ (for major engine repairs or replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Knocking Noise (Cold Start)
- Description/Symptoms: Ticking or knocking noise present only during cold starts, typically disappearing after a few minutes. Often related to piston slap.
- Solution: No definitive fix. Monitor oil level and condition. The noise is often considered a nuisance rather than a sign of imminent failure.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: N/A (typically not repaired)
- Recalls: None Found
6.2L V8
- Exhaust Manifold Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Ticking or hissing noise, especially noticeable during cold starts. Exhaust smell in the cabin.
- Solution: Replace cracked or warped exhaust manifolds and gaskets.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
3.7L V6 No Issues Found
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic (All Engines)
- Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts between gears, especially at low speeds.
- Solution: Start with a transmission fluid flush and filter change. If the problem persists, valve body replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 (fluid flush) to $800 - $1,500+ (valve body replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Shudder
- Description/Symptoms: Shaking or shuddering sensation, especially during light acceleration at highway speeds.
- Solution: A transmission fluid flush with a friction modifier additive may help. In some cases, torque converter replacement is required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 (fluid flush) to $800 - $1,500+ (torque converter replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Leaf Spring Sagging
- Description/Symptoms: Noticeable sag in the rear of the truck, especially when loaded. Can lead to a rougher ride and reduced towing capacity.
- Solution: Replace rear leaf springs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Front Suspension Ball Joint Wear
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, loose steering, uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replace worn ball joints. May require replacing the entire control arm assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Power Window Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Window not operating, or operating intermittently.
- Solution: Replace faulty power window motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
- Recalls: None Found
- Instrument Cluster Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Gauge cluster flickering, gauges not reading correctly, or complete failure.
- Solution: Replacement of the entire instrument cluster.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rust on Bed Rails/Wheel Wells
- Description/Symptoms: Surface rust appearing on bed rails and around wheel wells, especially in areas exposed to road salt.
- Solution: Remove rust, repair damaged areas, and apply rust inhibitor and paint.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on severity and extent of repair)
- Recalls: None Found
- Tailgate Assist Strut Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Tailgate dropping rapidly when opened instead of gently lowering.
- Solution: Replace the tailgate assist strut.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- MyFord Touch System Issues (If Equipped)
- Description/Symptoms: Freezing, lagging, unresponsive touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity problems. This system was notoriously buggy.
- Solution: Software updates may help. Replacing the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) can sometimes resolve the issue, but it’s not a guaranteed fix. Some owners opt to replace the entire head unit with an aftermarket system.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (for software updates, if available) to $500 - $1,500+ (for APIM replacement or aftermarket head unit)
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2014 Ford F-150 has a mix of potential issues depending on the engine and options chosen. The 3.5L EcoBoost can suffer turbocharger issues, while the 5.0L V8 is known for oil consumption. Transmission problems, such as harsh shifting, can occur regardless of engine. Electrical gremlins like window motor failure and instrument cluster problems are also reported. The severity and cost of these issues vary greatly, from relatively inexpensive fixes like spark plug replacement to major engine or transmission repairs costing thousands of dollars. Owners should be aware of these potential problems and carefully inspect any used 2014 F-150 before purchase.