Just got a 2014 F150 with 180k miles… what should I be doing to keep it running well?

F150 Models Forum F150ecoboost
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So, I just picked up a 2014 F150 with the 3.5 EcoBoost engine. It’s got 180k miles on it, which is high, but it had two inspections, and everything checked out well. What’s your advice on things I should do to keep it running smoothly? Any tips on what to watch out for or any common issues to prepare for?

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Change every fluid—engine, transmission, differential, you name it. Spark plugs too. I sold mine around this mileage because of rust, but it was running fine. I did 5k synthetic oil changes or changed it when the oil minder hit 60%. Went from 28k to 180k miles without any timing issues.

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Yep, don’t skip the transmission pan drop, fluid and filter change, differential fluid, brake fluid flush, and radiator flush. Use Motorcraft fluids to be safe.

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Just drive it. Lol

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First things first… give it a good name that matches its personality! Also, check out F150 upgrade videos on YouTube. There are tips and tricks that can help you out.

6

Sell it before the cam phasers start acting up.

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Holt said:
Sell it before the cam phasers start acting up.

Is there a specific noise I should listen for if the cam phasers are going bad? I’m looking to buy a truck and was wondering about this.

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@Nev
Yeah, you’ll start hearing a rattle when it’s a cold start. At first, it’s brief, but that’s the warning sign.

If it needs fixing, it’s around $4k and takes about 3 days in the shop. All 3.5 EcoBoost engines up until at least ‘21 can have this issue, and it’s worse in models before ‘17.

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@Holt
If I check out a used truck that’s already warmed up, will I still hear it? I’m hoping to get a 5.0 but they’re hard to find. Thanks for the heads up!

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Nev said:
@Holt
If I check out a used truck that’s already warmed up, will I still hear it? I’m hoping to get a 5.0 but they’re hard to find. Thanks for the heads up!

You’ll only hear it on a cold start, and it usually goes away after a few seconds. But it gets worse over time and will need to be fixed eventually. I just had mine done on a 2018 at 75k miles… it took 3 days and cost $3,200. With 180k miles, it might’ve already had this issue and been repaired, but definitely something to ask about.