Vehicle Class:
Full-size Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, professional technicians, fleet maintenance, owners seeking in-depth understanding of their vehicle.
Competitors:
Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Dodge Ram (1500 series), Toyota Tundra.
Vehicle Strengths:
Reputation for durability, towing and hauling capability, wide range of configurations and engine options, extensive aftermarket support.
Manual Value:
Provides factory-level diagnostic and repair information, crucial for accurate and efficient maintenance and repair.
Engine Service:
Detailed diagnostics, repair procedures, specifications for all gasoline engines including 4.6L 2V/3V, 5.4L 3V Triton, and 6.8L 3V V10.
Transmission Service:
Repair and diagnostics for 4R75E, 4R75W, and 6R80 automatic transmissions, including fluid types, torque converter service, and shift control.
Drivetrain:
Front and rear axle service, CV joints, driveshafts, differential service, and 4x4 system operation and repair.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (independent front suspension on most models), power steering system, wheel alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system diagnostics, ABS component service, parking brake, rotor and pad replacement, brake fluid specifications.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, lighting, power distribution, fuse and relay locations.
Body And Frame:
Body panel replacement, interior trim removal, door hardware, glass replacement, frame straightening procedures, rust prevention.
HVAC System:
Climate control diagnostics, refrigerant handling, blower motor service, heater core and A/C evaporator replacement, cabin air filter replacement.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, fuel filter replacement, fuel injectors, evaporative emissions control system (EVAP) diagnostics.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, and pipe replacement and repair.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Detailed recommended maintenance schedules based on mileage and time, including oil changes, filter replacements, and inspections.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common and intermittent issues.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for removing and installing all major and minor vehicle components.
Rebuilding Procedures:
Detailed instructions for rebuilding engines, transmissions, and differentials where applicable.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on using OBD-II scanners and Ford-specific diagnostic tools (e.g., FORScan, IDS).
Depth Level:
Comprehensive - Covers everything from basic fluid checks and filter changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and body repairs.
Engine Options:
4.6L 2V/3V V8, 5.4L 3V Triton V8, 6.8L 3V Triton V10.
Horsepower Torque 4.6L 2V:
Approx. 232 hp / 293 lb-ft
Horsepower Torque 4.6L 3V:
Approx. 248 hp / 297 lb-ft
Horsepower Torque 5.4L 3V:
Approx. 300 hp / 365 lb-ft
Horsepower Torque 6.8L V10:
Approx. 362 hp / 457 lb-ft
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating recommendations will be in the manual)
ECU Type:
PCM (Powertrain Control Module) with integrated ABS/TCM on some models.
Standard Transmission:
4-speed automatic (4R75E, 4R75W) on most models; 6-speed automatic (6R80) introduced on some powertrains during this generation.
Optional Transmission:
Some models may have offered a manual transmission option, typically with the base engines, though less common for F-150.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Mercon V for 4R75E/W; Mercon LV for 6R80 (refer to manual for exact specifications and capacities).
Torque Converter:
Lock-up torque converter for improved fuel efficiency.
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, SuperCab (extended cab), SuperCrew (crew cab).
Bed Lengths:
5.5 ft (Short Bed), 6.5 ft (Standard Bed), 8.0 ft (Long Bed).
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 4,500 - 5,500 lbs (varies significantly by configuration).
Max Payload:
Up to ~3,100 lbs (varies by configuration and GVWR).
Max Towing Capacity:
Up to ~11,000 lbs (varies by configuration, engine, axle ratio, and trailer package).
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
5 Stars (for models tested)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
5 Stars (for models tested)
NHTSA Side Impact Driver:
5 Stars (for models tested)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
4-5 Stars (for models tested)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Optional Electronic Traction Control (ETC).
Airbags:
Front airbags for driver and passenger. Optional side-curtain airbags available on certain configurations.
Seatbelts:
Three-point active seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Audio Options:
Various AM/FM/CD/MP3 players, with optional satellite radio and premium sound systems.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trim levels.
Parking Assist:
Optional rear parking sensors available.
Auxiliary Input:
Auxiliary audio input jack available on some stereo systems.
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional cruise control system.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. The manual will specify for synthetic vs. conventional.
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection (manual specifies).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by engine; 3-valve Triton engines (5.4L, 6.8L) have specific procedures and intervals, often around 100,000 miles. Consult manual for exact part numbers and procedure.
Engine Oil Spec:
Typically SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 for 4.6L/5.4L V8; 5W-20 for 6.8L V10. API certified. (Manual confirms exact spec and capacity).
Coolant Spec:
Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Green) or equivalent meeting specification WSS-M97B51-A1. 50/50 mixture with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
5.4L 3V Camshaft Phaser:
Common issue causing rattling or knocking noises from the engine, particularly at idle. Manual covers diagnosis and replacement.
Spark Plug Ejection:
Early 3-valve Triton engines were prone to spark plug ejection due to threads stripping. Manual addresses updated procedures and tools.
Transmission Clunking:
Some users report clunking from the transmission during shifts. Manual provides diagnostic steps.
Maintenance Schedule Summary
Comprehensive Schedule:
The manual provides detailed schedules for every 5,000 miles, 15,000 miles, 30,000 miles, 60,000 miles, and 100,000 miles, covering all major systems.
Ford Truck Legacy:
Ford has been producing trucks since the early 20th century, with the F-Series line established in 1948. The F-150 has consistently been a dominant force in the pickup truck market.
Generation Period:
This manual covers the 12th generation of the Ford F-Series, which debuted for the 2004 model year (often referred to as the '04-'08 generation, though the '04 model had a split launch with earlier and later versions).
Design Changes:
The 2004 models introduced a completely redesigned chassis and body. Minor styling updates occurred in 2006, including revised grilles and headlights.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary manufacturing plants included Dearborn Truck Plant (Michigan) and Kansas City Assembly (Missouri).
Sales Performance:
The F-150 was the best-selling vehicle in the United States throughout this period, solidifying its market leadership.
Motor Trend Truck Of The Year:
While not specifically for the 2004-2008 generation, the F-150 has received this award multiple times in its history, indicating consistent market strength and capability.
Kbb Consumer Rating:
Generally high consumer ratings for capability, reliability (with attention to known issues), and value retention.
Emissions Standards:
Vehicles conform to EPA emissions standards for the respective model years. Manual will detail specific emissions system components and diagnostic procedures.
