Vehicles / Ford / F-150 / 2008

2008 Ford F-150

369 federal complaints (456 component records) · 1 recall campaigns on file · 1 federal investigation · 37 service bulletins
See all 40 model years of the Ford F-150 →
Engine
5.4L 8-cyl
Fuel
Regular
Drive
RWD
EPA economy
14 city / 19 hwy
Federal complaints
369
Recall campaigns
1
Specifications show one example EPA configuration for this model year; other engines, drivetrains, and trims exist and the records below cover all of them.
How to read this file. Complaint records are unverified owner submissions to the federal safety agency. Counts are raw, not adjusted for sales volume or vehicle age. Recall campaigns apply to the model; only a VIN check shows whether this car is affected or repaired. Parts shown are named by an editorial note or listed as a search directory; none is a diagnosis. Full methodology.

Fault profile

Complaint-component records on this vehicle, grouped by family. A complaint naming two systems counts once in each.

Engine & cooling
77
Steering
53
Power train
51
Speed control
41
Brakes
39
Electrical system
29
Air bags
29
Fuel system
26
Complaints are owner-reported and not verified by the agency.

When it fails

The timing of this vehicle's reported failures, from the complaint file itself. A cluster tells you what to expect and when; it is shaped by reporting behavior as well as by the vehicle.

Vehicle age when the failure occurred

0 years old: 46 complaints01 years old: 30 complaints2 years old: 29 complaints3 years old: 20 complaints4 years old: 21 complaints5 years old: 28 complaints56 years old: 28 complaints7 years old: 30 complaints8 years old: 32 complaints9 years old: 24 complaints10 years old: 23 complaints1011 years old: 22 complaints12 years old: 6 complaints13 years old: 4 complaints14 years old: 5 complaints15 years old: 5 complaints1516 years old: 9 complaints17 years old: 6 complaints18 years old: 1 complaints19 years old: 0 complaints20+ years old: 0 complaints20+
Years between the model year and the owner's reported failure date. Based on 369 of 369 complaints with a usable failure date.

Odometer when the failure occurred

0,000 - 20,000 miles: 50 complaints020,000 - 40,000 miles: 47 complaints40,000 - 60,000 miles: 39 complaints40k60,000 - 80,000 miles: 46 complaints80,000 - 100,000 miles: 39 complaints80k100,000 - 120,000 miles: 24 complaints120,000 - 140,000 miles: 20 complaints120k140,000 - 160,000 miles: 17 complaints160,000 - 180,000 miles: 7 complaints160k180,000 - 200,000 miles: 5 complaints200,000+ miles: 7 complaints200k+
Owner-reported mileage at failure, in 20,000-mile bands. Based on 301 of 369 complaints reporting a plausible odometer (500 to 500,000 miles; unverified).

Known issues

The component families with the most complaint records against this vehicle. Counts, crash and fire figures belong to the whole family, not to any single named issue. Parts listed are related system parts, not a diagnosis.

Engine & cooling

77 complaint records6 fire reports2 crash reports
"AT IDLE THE ENGINE KNOCKS LOUDLY VEHICLE STALLS ENGINE FAILS. NOT ABLE TO DRIVE. I HAVE BEEN TOLD BY FORD TECHS AND DEALERSHIP TO REPLACE ENGINE. *TR..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse engine & cooling parts in the directory →

Steering

53 complaint records
"INTERMEDIATE STEERING SHAFT CORRODED, CAUSING STIFF STEERING, HAZARDOUS TO DRIVE, PARTICULARLY WHEN MAKING TURNS, MANEUVERING...."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse steering parts in the directory →

Power train

51 complaint records1 fire report3 crash reports
"SAFETY CONCERN. SOLENOID THAT ACTIVATES 4 WHEEL DRIVE FAILURE, CAUSES PARTIAL ENGAGEMENT OF 4 WHEEL DRIVE AT ANT TIME. *TR..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse power train parts in the directory →

Federal defect investigations

Formal investigations opened by the federal safety agency into this vehicle. An investigation is the step between a complaint pattern and a recall; not every one results in one.

InvestigationStatusComponentSubject
PE08060
opened Oct 2008
closed Apr 2009TiresTIRE VALVE CRACKING
ON OCTOBER 14, 2008, ODI OPENED PE08-060 TO INVESTIGATE ALLEGATIONS OF CRACKED AND LEAKING SNAP-IN TIRE VALVES IN MODEL YEAR (MY) 2007 VEHICLES MANUFACTURED BY FORD MOTOR COMPANY.THE VALVES WERE SUPPLIED TO FORD BY TOPSEAL AUTO-PARTS, A SUBSIDIARY OF THE...

Recall campaigns

Safety-recall remedies are normally provided at no charge. Under US federal law the mandatory free remedy applies when the vehicle was no more than 15 years old at the time the defect was determined; manufacturers often cover older vehicles voluntarily. Canadian rules differ. Confirm eligibility with the manufacturer using the VIN. Each campaign number links to the federal record.

CampaignComponentSummaryRemedy
08V523000Engine And Engine CoolingROUSH IS RECALLING 213 MY 2007-2008 FORD F-150 TRUCKS ALTERED TO OPERATE USING LIQUID PROPANE INJECTION. THE HYDRO-CARBON PAPER AFFIXED TO THE INSIDE OF THE AIRBOX LID WITH ADHESIVE MAY BECOME DISLODGED DURING OPERATION.Normally free

Service bulletins and warranty extensions

Manufacturer communications to dealers on file with the federal agency: repair instructions, service campaigns, and warranty extensions. A warranty extension means the manufacturer may pay for a repair the recall table does not cover.

BulletinTypeComponentSummary
SSM 54601
Feb 2026
Electrical SystemFord and Lincoln vehicles equipped with wired keyless entry keypad systems and accessory wireless keyless entry keypad systems may or may not come with a wallet card containing the master code.
TSB 24-2188
Jul 2024
WheelsThis article supersedes TSB 22-2219 to update the Parts List and Service Procedure to clarify applicable steps by vehicle application.
SSM 52476
Apr 2024
EquipmentAll accessory stick-on keyless entry keypads come with a wallet card containing the master code. If the accessory keypad was factory installed, this card will be placed in the glove box and should be handed to the vehicles owner during initial delivery.
SSM 51536
Apr 2023
StructureFor 2000-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, swapping a module from a vehicle for diagnosis purposes is likely to cause errors and is not recommended. It is also not recommended to order a replacement module using a vehicle identification number (VIN) from a different vehicle.
TSB 22-2219
Jun 2022
Power TrainSome 2003-2020 Expedition/Navigator and 2006-2020 F-150 (non-Raptor) vehicles equipped with 4WD may exhibit grinding/clicking/ratcheting noise from the front wheel area. This may be due to partial engagement of the integrated wheel ends (IWE).
Show 32 more bulletins
BulletinTypeComponentSummary
TSB 20-2307
Oct 2020
Electrical SystemSome 2003-2020 Expedition/Navigator and 2006-2020 F-150 vehicles equipped with TOD transfer cases may exhibit grinding/clicking/ratcheting noise from the front wheel area. This may be due to partial engagement of the integrated wheel ends (IWE).
TSB 20-2233
Jul 2020
StructureThis article supersedes TSB 19-2026 to update the vehicle model years affected. Some 2000 and newer Ford/Lincoln/Mercury vehicles equipped with aluminum body panels may exhibit corrosion concerns appearing as bubbled and/or peeling paint with or without accompanying white dust.
DOR-N3Z7B-03
Feb 2020
Engine And Engine CoolingThis SKU is an Oil Dipstick. The customer communication requested return of unsold inventory to inspect the dipstick tube. The dipstick tube inner diameter may be small enough that it prevents installation of the OE dipstick.
SSM 48157
Sep 2019
Electrical SystemSome 2002-2008 F-Super Duty, F-150 and Mark LT vehicles may exhibit concern during or after programing the VSM. The programming may fail or vehicle symptoms such as inoperative door locks, dome lamps, door ajar indicators or auto lamps may occur after successful programing.
DORD2Q5Z09
Jul 2019
Power TrainThis SKU is a Transmission Oil Cooler Line. The customer communication requested return of unsold inventory to inspect for the port size being too large.
TSB 19-2026
Feb 2019
StructureSome 2000 and newer Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles equipped with aluminum body panels may exhibit corrosion concerns appearing as bubbled and/or peeling paint with or without accompanying white dust. Panel replacement is recommended.
SSM 47331
Jun 2018
EngineVarious vehicles equipped with a 4.6L, 5.4L, 6.8L modular 3 valve engine built on or before 8-Jan-2016 may exhibit symptoms that may include upper end engine noise, rough running, misfire and/or engine damage.
SSM 47201
Mar 2018
EquipmentReplacing the original equipment SYNC/Navigation system with either an aftermarket SYNC/Navigation kit or modifying original SYNC/Navigation parts to provide additional features is not recommended nor supported on any Ford, Mercury or Lincoln vehicle.
SSM 47009
Jan 2018
EquipmentThe Accessory (Wireless) Keyless Entry Keypad can only be used with vehicles that are factory built with Remote Keyless Entry (RKE).
SSM 46542
Apr 2017
Electrical SystemWhen ordering a 2005 to 2008 remanufactured 5.4L 3v or 6.8L 3v engine, spark plug boots may be provided in the packaging. Replace all black spark plug boots from the original engine with the 'brown' spark plug boots, as provided.
SSM 46085
Sep 2016
EngineThe Powertrain Control/Emissions Diagnosis (PC/ED) manual has been revised for diagnosing electronic throttle bodies (ETBs). The ETC_ACT and ETC_DSD PIDs should not used to diagnose possible ETB concerns.
TSB16-0108
Aug 2016
Power TrainSOME 2004-2014 F-150 AND 2006-2008 MARK LT VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE (4WD) MAY EXHIBIT NOISY OR ENGAGED FRONT HUBS WHEN OPERATING IN TWO-WHEEL DRIVE (2WD) MODE. FOLLOW THE SERVICE PROCEDURE STEPS TO CORRECT THE CONDITION.
16-0032
Mar 2016
Power Train4R75E TRANSMISSION - GRINDING/WHINE/VIBRATION/GEAR SLIPPAGE - SERVICE KIT AVAILABLE ISSUE A service kit has been released to assist with proper repair of the 4R75E transmission in 2008 Mark LT, 2008-2010 F-150, 2008-2010 / 2013-2014 E-Series, 2008-2011 Crown Victoria, Grand...
TSB160032
Mar 2016
Power Train4R75E Transmission - Grinding/Whine/Vibration/Gear Slippage - Serrvice Kit available
TSB-14-0153
Aug 2014
Power TrainFORD/LINCOLN/MERCURY: FAILURE OF PLANETARY GEAR ASSEMBLY IS DUE TO TRANSMISSION, ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, EXHIBITING GRINDING, GEAR SLIPPAGE, WHINE TYPE NOISE, VIBRATION, WHILE DRIVING OR LOSS OF REVERSE. *PE
TSB-14-0114
May 2014
EngineLINCOLN/FORD: WHEN DRIVING FROM IDLE UP TO 1200 RPM, THERE MAY BE AN INTERMITTENT RATTLE NOISE COMING FROM ENGINE. 2004-2013 F-150, F-250, F-350, EXPEDITION, MARK LT, NAVIGATOR. *PE
ASI-44538
May 2014
Power TrainFORD/LINCOLN/MERCURY: THE INDICATOR MAY ILLUMINATE OVERDRIVE OFF AND/OR SLIPPING IN 3RD OR NO 4TH GEAR, DUE TO DIRECT CLUTCH FAILURE AND DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) P0733 AND/OR P0734. MODEL 2008-2013 MARK LT, F-150, CROWN VICTORIA, GRAND MARQUIS, TOWN CAR, E SERIES. *PE
ASI-32270
Jun 2013
WheelsFORD: THERE IS A NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT HUB INTEGRATED WHEEL END (IWE) AREAS AND WHEN SHIFTED INTO 4X4 MODE, THE NOISE WILL CEASE. MODELS 2008-2013 F-150, EXPEDITION, NAVIGATOR, MARK LT. *PE
AS-21769
Mar 2011
Electrical SystemFORD: IF THERE IS AN INTERMITTENT LACK OF POWER, SURGE, OR HESITATION WHILE DRIVING THE BRAKES WILL OVERRIDE ACCELERATION. *RM
TSB-10-18-1
Sep 2010
Engine And Engine CoolingFORD: SOME EXPEDITION, F-150, AND NAVIGATOR MODELS MAY EXPERIENCE A DELAYED FORWARD OR REVERSE TRANSMISSION ENGAGEMENT. USUALLY HAPPENS ON COLD START IN COLD CLIMATES. *RM
SB-21434
Jul 2010
Engine And Engine CoolingFORD: SUPPLY/RETURN LINES INSTALLATION AT HIGH PRESSURE PUMP-REVISED WASHER FOR TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH 6.4L ENGINES. WHEN INSTALLING SUPPLY OR RETURN LINES AT HIGH PRESSURE PUMP ON DIESEL ENGINES, DO NOT USE THE BONDED STYLE WASHER (W302870), USE ONLY THE HYBRID STYLE WASHER...
CSP-092408CS-01
Aug 2009
Power TrainFORD TRUCK SERVICE CAMPAIGN: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. IN THE CASE OF THE ROUSHCHARGER FOR THE F-150, THE TRUCKS CALIBRATION ENHANCEMENTS HAS BEEN DEVELOPED TO BETTER ACCOMMODATE REGIONAL VARIATIONS IN PREMIUM FUEL QUALITY.
CSP-092908CS-01
Dec 2008
Power TrainROUSH/FORD: VEHICLES MANUFACTURED BY ROUSH WITH AN INTERCOOLED ROUSH CHARGER HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY FOR AN UPGRADE TO AN ENHANCED PCM CALIBRATION. NOT ALL F150 ROUSHCHARGED VEHICLES WILL BE AFFECTED BY THESE VARIATIONS. *PE UPDATED 12/16/08. *PE
20228
Apr 2008
Engine And Engine Cooling1999-2008 7.3L/6.0L/6.4L/4.5L DIESEL F-SUPER DUTY - CLEAN THE CHARGE AIR COOLER (CAC) SYSTEM AFTER CERTAIN TURBO OR ENGINE FAILURES - SERVICE TIP. *NJ
08-14-18
Mar 2008
Parking BrakeINTERMITTENT VEHICLE VIBRATION--PARKING BRAKE DISENGAGEMENT CONCERNS. *NJ
08-2-9
Feb 2008
Fuel SystemERRATIC FUEL GAUGE OPERATION - MIL ON --DTCS P040/P0463 OR INSTRUMENT CLUSTER MODULE DTC B1201--VEHICLES BUILT BEFORE 12/3/2007. *NJ
07213
Oct 2007
SteeringHIGH PRESSURE POWER STEERING LINE SEEPAGE-COLD CLIMATES ONLY (EXCLUDING HERITAGE F-150). *NJ
07212
Oct 2007
Engine And Engine CoolingSOME 1997-2008 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A 4.6L 2V, 5.4L 2V, OR 6.8L 2V ENGINE--SPARK PLUG THREAD REPAIR PROCEDURE--NOT COVERED UNDER NEW VEHICLE LIMITED WARRANTY. *NJ THIS INCLUDES F-53 MOTORHOME CHASSIS. UPDATED 2/23/10. *PE
SI-20008
Oct 2007
VisibilityFORD: WATER LEAKS, WIND NOISE AND/OR NOISE ON OPENING/CLOSING THE MOON ROOF/ROOF OPENING PANEL. THE 2004-07 WSM MANUAL PROVIDES TWO SEPARATE PROCEDURES FOR MOON ROOF HEIGHT A HORIZONTAL ADJUSTMENTS. HEIGHT AND HORIZONTAL PROCEDURES NEED TO DONE TOGETHER.
SI-20015
Oct 2007
StructureFORD: VEHICLES WITH 6.5 BED THREADED ATTACHMENT HOLES LOCATED ON THE BOX INNER SHEET METAL PANELS. ALL VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 6.5 CARGO BOX ARE EQUIPPED WITH THREADED ATTACHMENT HOLES LOCATED ON THE BOX INNER SHEET METAL PANELS.
SI-20022
Oct 2007
StructureFORD: SOME 2006-2008 F-150 LARIAT, XLT, AND FX4 VEHICLES (EXCLUDING HARLEY DAVIDSON AND XL) MAY EXHIBIT A WHISTLE NOISE FROM THE GRILLE AREA WHEN TRAVELING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS OF 65MPH AND GREATER.
07109
SuspensionVIBRATION FROM THE DRIVELINE AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. *KB

Before you buy this vehicle

A test-drive checklist generated from this vehicle's own complaint and recall record.

  1. Cold-start it yourself and listen for the first thirty seconds.Knocking, ticking that fades as it warms, or blue or white smoke on startup are the sounds of this vehicle's engine cluster. Check the oil level and the coolant color, and ask whether the engine or its head gaskets have ever been out.
  2. Drive one straight highway stretch and one slow parking lot.Wander or a shimmy over bumps at speed, and heavy or dropped assist at low speed, are the two faces of this vehicle's steering cluster. A clunk on turn-in points at the linkage.
  3. Drive it from a dead stop, twice, on a hill if you can.Shudder, hesitation, or a lurch under light throttle is how this vehicle's largest complaint cluster shows itself. Then ask for the transmission service history in writing; repeat repairs are a pattern, not a fluke.
  4. Run the VIN against open recalls before you negotiate.This vehicle has 1 recall campaign on file. An open recall needs VIN-specific confirmation. Many are quick, no-charge fixes and worth negotiating over; an unresolved do-not-drive advisory, or a remedy the manufacturer has not yet made available, should stop the purchase until it is resolved.
  5. Ask for the service history in writing, then read it against this page.The complaint families above are where owners of this vehicle report trouble. Repairs in exactly those systems are evidence the car had the problem; no such repairs could mean it never developed it, or that it was never fixed. The test-drive items above are how you tell those apart.

Parts search directory

The generic parts list for this vehicle has its own page: a search launcher for every system, filtered by fuel type and era but not by engine, trim, or brake type. It is not a diagnosis and not a fitment guarantee.

Open the parts directory for this Ford F-150 →