The 11th generation of the Ford F-150 (code name P415) marked a major turning point for the model with the introduction of an all-new hydroformed chassis, which was much more rigid, and a cabin whose finish quality took a spectacular leap forward compared to the previous generation. It introduced the 5.4L Triton V8 engine with 3 valves per cylinder (3V). Although it was a huge commercial success, this generation is now infamous for the catastrophic reliability problems of its flagship engine (the 5.4L V8), contrasting with the robustness of its chassis and its other engines. Overall reliability rating: Average to Good (depending on engine). Data from Consumer Reports and the ADAC highlight a great disparity: the 4.6L V8 is very reliable, while the 5.4L V8 requires extreme vigilance.
Buying an 11th generation Ford F-150 (2004-2008) is a double-edged sword. If you opt for the 4.6L V8, you get an extremely robust pickup, well-finished for its time and capable of enduring hundreds of thousands of kilometers without flinching. On the other hand, the widespread 5.4L Triton 3V V8 is to be avoided unless you have formal proof (invoices) that the complete timing system (chains, guides, tensioners, camshaft phasers/cam phasers), the oil pump, and the spark plugs have been recently replaced. Data from J.D. Power and the ADAC confirm that this model sits in the segment average, but this average hides the great disparity in reliability between its engines.