2004 Ford F-150

Fatalities reported

Owners filed 2,029 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the visibility. It has been recalled 16 times.

Avoid One of the Ford F-150 years to avoid: 2.4× the complaints of a typical F-150 year. Which Ford F-150 years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
61,000 milesMedian miles at failure

1,745 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 60,000–75,000 miles.

Most common 2004 Ford F-150 problems

814 of the 2,029 complaints (40%) are about the visibility.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Visibility › Power Window Devices and Controls594
302
Visibility199
405
Engine and Engine Cooling · engine97
160
Engine79
121
Power Train · transmission70
000
Suspension66
000
Unknown or Other61
312
Power Train › Automatic Transmission · transmission56
100
Electrical System55
070
Structure › Body · body and frame46
002

2004 Ford F-150 visibility problems

40% of all complaints

814 of the 2,029 complaints are about the visibility. This is what owners describe:

  • knocks, grinds or clunks4% · 32

Share of the 814 visibility complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
64,000 mi
median of 751 reports
Peak year of filing
2010
348 visibility complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
7 · 0 · 7
in these complaints
Recalls on the visibility
None
“I own a 2004 f-150 crew cab FORD truck. I have had to replace 3 of the 4 window regulators in this vehicle. Each one has broken at different times. The FORD dealerships replaced them at a cost of almost a thousand dollars for all three. The driver side window regulator is the only one so far not to break. Currently it is making a grinding sound. All three have broken within the past twelve months.”
Owner complaint, filed May 25, 2011 at 56,000 miles
“I'm not the first to report this problem and surely won't be the last; I was on my lunch break when I pushed the button to roll down my passenger side rear window then pow it happened. Yep, the[xxx] window fell inside the door. I proceeded to roll up the window, but only heard a grinding noise inside the door. Sound familiar?? The window will not roll up and is stuck in the open position.”
Owner complaint, filed Nov 9, 2010 at 87,000 miles

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2003: 3 complaints, 0 about the visibility'032004: 169 complaints, 4 about the visibility2005: 164 complaints, 4 about the visibility'052006: 69 complaints, 3 about the visibility2007: 70 complaints, 15 about the visibility'072008: 143 complaints, 75 about the visibility2009: 345 complaints, 265 about the visibility'092010: 455 complaints, 348 about the visibility2011: 199 complaints, 74 about the visibility'112012: 80 complaints, 15 about the visibility2013: 51 complaints, 9 about the visibility'132014: 64 complaints, 2 about the visibility2015: 43 complaints, 0 about the visibility'152016: 44 complaints, 0 about the visibility2017: 38 complaints, 0 about the visibility'172018: 31 complaints, 0 about the visibility2019: 19 complaints, 0 about the visibility'192020: 10 complaints, 0 about the visibility2021: 1 complaints, 0 about the visibility'212022: 7 complaints, 0 about the visibility2023: 9 complaints, 0 about the visibility'232024: 6 complaints, 0 about the visibility2025: 6 complaints, 0 about the visibility'252026: 3 complaints, 0 about the visibilityRecall 04V200000 (fuel system)Recall 04V443000 (fuel system)Recall 06E023000 (headlights)Recall 06E052000 (headlights)Recall 07V336000 (throttle and acceleration)Recall 07E066000 (equipment)Recall 09E012000 (headlights)Recall 09E025000 (headlights)Recall 11V107000 (airbags)Recall 11V385000 (fuel system)NHTSA investigation EA10001NHTSA investigation PE08063NHTSA investigation DP05005
All complaintsAbout the visibilityRecall (red: the visibility)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 2004 F-150 peaked in 2010, with 455 filed that year. No recall on file covers the visibility, the subject of 40% of the complaints. In 2026 owners filed 3 so far.

16 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Fuel System, Gasoline › Storage › Tank Assembly › Mounting11V385000
Filed Jul 29, 20111,100,000 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN 1997 THROUGH 2003 MODEL YEAR FORD F-150, 2004 MODEL YEAR FORD F-150 HERITAGE, 1997 THROUGH 1999 MODEL YEAR F-250 LESS THAN 8,500 LBS. GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT RATING (GVWR), AND 2002 AND 2003 LINCOLN BLACKWOOD VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JUNE 20, 1995, THROUGH AUGUST 4, 2004, ORIGINALLY SOLD, OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN, CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, KENTUCKY, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN, AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. PROLONGED EXPOSURE TO ROAD DEICING CHEMICALS MAY CAUSE SEVERE CORROSION OF THE FUEL TANK STRAPS WHICH SECURE THE TANK TO THE VEHICLE.

Risk. AS A RESULT OF THE CORROSION, ONE OR BOTH STRAPS MAY FAIL ALLOWING THE FUEL LINES TO SEPARATE FROM THE TANK, OR IN SOME CASES, CAUSING THE TANK TO CONTACT THE GROUND. EITHER SCENARIO MAY RESULT IN A FUEL LEAK PRESENTING A FIRE HAZARD.

Remedy. FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND INSTRUCT THEM TO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO A FORD OR LINCOLN DEALER TO HAVE THE FUEL TANK STRAPS REPLACED WITH STRAPS THAT HAVE INCREASED CORROSION PROTECTION. EARLY IN THIS CAMPAIGN, IF REPLACEMENT STRAPS ARE NOT AVAILABLE, DEALERS MAY INSTALL A CABLE SUPPORT UNDER THE STRAP AS AN INTERIM REPAIR OR A STEEL REINFORCEMENT OVER THE EXISTING STRAP AS A PERMANENT REPAIR. ANY REPAIRS WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 16, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD MOTOR COMPANY CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP CENTER AT 1-866-436-7332. FORD'S RECALL CAMPAIGN NUMBER IS 11S21

Air Bags › Frontal › Driver Side › Inflator Module11V107000
Filed Feb 23, 20111,325,000 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004-2006 F-150 PICK UP TRUCKS AS WELL AS CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006 LINCOLN MARK LT VEHICLES. IF THE CLOCKSPRING JUMPER WIRE COMES IN CONTACT WITH THE DRIVER SIDE FRONTAL AIR BAG LOWER HORN PLATE, THE WIRE INSULATION MAY BECOME CHAFED, CREATING A POTENTIAL FOR A SHORT CIRCUIT. IF THIS OCCURS THE AIR BAG WARNING LAMP MAY ILLUMINATE INDICATING THAT SERVICE IS REQUIRED.

Risk. THE DRIVER SIDE FRONTAL AIR BAG COULD INADVERTENTLY DEPLOY INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY OR LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL IF OCCURRING WHILE IN MOTION.

Remedy. FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND INSTRUCT THEM TO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO A FORD OR LINCOLN/MERCURY DEALER TO HAVE A NEW CLOCKSPRING JUMPER WIRE INSTALLED THAT INCORPORATES A PROTECTIVE MESH COVER. REPAIRS WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THIS SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON SOME VEHICLES IN MARCH 2011. THE RECALL CAMPAIGN ON THE EXPANDED POPULATION IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT MAY 9, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT THE FORD MOTOR COMPANY CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP CENTER AT 1-866-436-7332.

Exterior Lighting › Headlights09E025000
Filed May 11, 200942,540 vehiclesDope, Inc.

Defect. DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.

Risk. DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.

Exterior Lighting09E012000
Filed Apr 7, 200916,270 vehiclesSabersport

Defect. SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.

Risk. DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.

Exterior Lighting › Headlights07E089000
Filed Oct 25, 2007238 vehiclesSpyder, Inc.

Defect. CERTAIN SPYDER HEADLAMP REPLACEMENT ASSEMBLIES SOLD FOR USE ON 2004 THROUGH 2007 FORD F150 PICKUP TRUCKS. DURING PRODUCTION, THE HEADLAMPS WERE INTERNALLY MISALIGNED AND THEY FAIL THE PHOTOMETRY REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

Risk. THE PURPOSE OF THIS STANDARD IS TO REDUCE TRAFFIC CRASHES AND DEATHS AND INJURIES BY PROVIDING ADEQUATE ILLUMINATION OF THE ROADWAY.

Remedy. SPYDER WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REIMBURSEMENT FOR ANY NONCOMPLIANT HEADLAMPS. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING NOVEMBER 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT SPYDER AT 866-558-4264.

Exterior Lighting › Headlights07E080000
Filed Sep 25, 2007700 vehiclesSonar Auto Parts Co., Ltd.

Defect. CERTAIN HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES IMPORTED AND SOLD AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT BY SONAR AUTO PARTS FOR USE ON 2004-2007 FORD F150 PICKUP TRUCKS. DURING PRODUCTION, THE HEADLAMPS WERE INTERNALLY MISALIGNED AND THEY FAIL THE PHOTOMETRY REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

Risk. THE PURPOSE OF THIS STANDARD IS TO REDUCE TRAFFIC CRASHES AND DEATHS AND INJURIES BY PROVIDING ADEQUATE ILLUMINATION OF THE ROADWAY.

Remedy. SONAR WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REIMBURSEMENT FOR ANY NONCOMPLIANT HEADLAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 14, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT SONAR AT 866-558-4264.

Exterior Lighting › Headlights07E075000
Filed Sep 14, 20072,388 vehiclesEagle Eyes Traffic Industrial Co. Ltd

Defect. CERTAIN EAGLE EYES HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES, P/NOS. FR390-B001L AND FR390-B001R, SOLD FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE THICKNESS IS UNSTABLE INHIBITING THE PERFORMANCE OF THE UPPER AND LOWER BEAMS WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM TO THE PHOTOMETRIC REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

Risk. DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. EAGLE EYES WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER REIMBURSEMENT FOR ANY NONCOMPLIANT HEADLIGHTS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 6, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT EAGLE EYES AT 1-800-568-1098.

Equipment › Electrical07E066000
Filed Aug 28, 2007175 vehiclesCequent Electrical Products

Defect. CERTAIN CEQUENT 90 DEGREE 7-WAY RIGHT ANGLE ADAPTORS SOLD BY DISTRIBUTORS IN TOW PACKAGES FOR AFTERMARKET SALES TO TOW 5TH WHEEL RV TRAVEL TRAILERS. DUE TO INCORRECT WIRING OF THE HARNESS, THE TRAILER LIGHTS MAY NOT OPERATE PROPERLY.

Risk. IF THE TRAILER LIGHTS ARE NOT WORKING PROPERLY, A VEHICLE CRASH CAN OCCUR.

Remedy. ALL OF THE DEFECTIVE TOW PACKAGES ARE STILL AT THE DISTRIBUTOR LEVEL AND HAVE NOT BEEN SOLD TO ANY CONSUMERS.

Vehicle Speed Control07V336000
Filed Aug 3, 20073,600,000 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS, PASSENGER VEHICLES, SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, AND MOTOR HOMES CHASSIS, THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH MAY, UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, LEAK INTERNALLY AND THEN OVERHEAT, SMOKE, OR BURN.

Risk. THIS COULD RESULT IN AN UNDERHOOD FIRE.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSTALL A FUSED WIRING HARNESS. OWNERS OF THE PASSENGER CARS INCLUDED IN THIS CAMPAIGN WILL BE INSTRUCTED TO RETURN THEIR VEHICLES TO THEIR DEALERS TO HAVE THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH DISCONNECTED AS AN INTERIM REPAIR. AS SOON AS REPAIR PARTS ARE AVAILABLE (EXPECTED OCTOBER 2007), OWNERS WILL BE INSTRUCTED TO RETURN TO THE DEALERS FOR INSTALLATION OF A FUSED WIRING HARNESS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 13, 2007, AND MAILING COMPLETED BY SEPTEMBER 19, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-888-222-2751.

Exterior Lighting06E064000
Filed Jul 17, 20064,029 vehiclesTradesonic

Defect. CERTAIN TRADESONIC COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

Risk. LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. TRADESONIC WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JULY 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TRADESONIC AT 626-934-8884.

Exterior Lighting06E060000
Filed Jun 29, 200687,745 vehiclesAai Motorsports USA, LLC

Defect. CERTAIN AAI MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LIST PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."

Risk. LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH

Remedy. AAI MOTORSPORTS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AAI MOTORSPORTS AT 909-923-9188.

Fuel System, Gasoline06E056000
Filed Jun 13, 200658,640 vehiclesUfi Filters USA

Defect. CERTAIN AFTERMARKET FUEL FILTERS SOLD UNDER THE PUROLATOR BRAND NAME, P/N F65277, SHIPPED FROM JANUARY 16 THROUGH JUNE 2, 2006, FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. DUE TO INCORRECT DESIGN, THE QUICK CONNECTORS MAY NOT FULLY SEAT WITH THE TUBE INTERFACE, EVEN THOUGH THE PERSON MAKING THE CONNECTION MAY BELIEVE THAT THE QUICK CONNECTOR IS FULLY ATTACHED.

Risk. FAILURE OF THIS CONNECTION COULD LEAD TO FUEL SPILLAGE AND, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.

Remedy. UFI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 4, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT UFI FILTERS USA AT 800-230-5876.

Exterior Lighting › Headlights06E052000
Filed Jun 12, 200614,616 vehiclesSabry Lee, Inc.

Defect. CERTAIN EAGLE EYES HEADLAMPS, P/NOS. FR208-B101R, FR208-B101L, FR208-B001R, AND FR208-B001L, SOLD FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE PHOTOMETRIC REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

Risk. DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. SABRY LEE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER FULL CREDIT FOR ANY NONCOMPLIANT HEADLAMP. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON JUNE 14, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABRY LEE ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE AT 1-866-467-2279.

Exterior Lighting › Headlights06E023000
Filed Mar 13, 2006292,000 vehiclesAnzo USA, Inc.

Defect. CERTAIN ANZO COMBINATION HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS WHICH FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."

Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. ANZO WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE HEADLAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN MAY 9, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT ANZO USA AT 909-468-3688.

Fuel System, Gasoline › Storage › Tank Assembly › Mounting04V443000
Filed Sep 13, 20041,689 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. ON CERTAIN TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH 4.2L, 4.6L AND 5.4L GASOLINE ENGINES, THE FUEL TANK MAY HAVE A DEPRESSION AT THE SEAM BETWEEN THE TOP AND BOTTOM HALVES OF THE TANK. IF A DEPRESSION IS LARGE ENOUGH, FUEL MAY PERMEATE THE FUEL TANK WALL RESULTING IN A FUEL ODOR, ILLUMINATION, OF THE "SERVICE ENGINE SOON" INDICATOR LIGHT, OR A FUEL LEAK.

Risk. FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL TANK. THE RECALL BEGAN SEPTEMBER 17, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.

Fuel System, Gasoline › Storage › Tank Assembly04V200000
Filed Apr 26, 2004371 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS MAY HAVE A FUEL TANK WITH LOCALIZED DEPRESSIONS IN THE FUEL TANK WALL AT THE SEAM BETWEEN TOP AND BOTTOM HALVES OF THE TANK. IF A DEPRESSION IS LARGE ENOUGH, FUEL MAY PERMEATE THE FUEL TANK WALL RESULTING IN A FUEL ODOR, OR THE "SERVICE ENGINE SOON" INDICATOR LIGHT IN THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER MAY ILLUMINATE.

Risk. IF LEFT UNCORRECTED, A FUEL LEAK COULD EVENTUALLY DEVELOP.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL TANK ON THESE VEHICLES. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON MAY 6, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-248-0186.

All 16 campaigns on file, newest first.

NHTSA investigations

Office of Defects Investigation

Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 4 name the 2004 F-150.

Fuel Tank Strap Failure Due to CorrosionEngineering analysis EA11006Closed
Opened May 4, 2011Closed Aug 19, 2011Led to recall 11V385000fuel system

One or both of the steel straps holding up the fuel tank and attaching it to the truck frame can corrode and fail (break or separate).If one strap fails, the tank may tilt and drop and possibly contact the road surface.If both straps break, the entire tank may drop to the road.If either failure occurs while the vehicle is being driven, contact with the road can abrade the tank and create a hole from which gasoline can spill.When the tank drops, it remains attached to the vehicle only by the fuel filler hose and/or supply lines, or in rare instances, by the skid plate, if present.In some cases …

Inadvertent airbag deploymentEngineering analysis EA10001Closed
Opened Jan 13, 2010Closed Apr 25, 2011Led to recall 11V107000airbags

ODI opened this investigation based on reports of inadvertent airbag deployment.Data provided by Ford indicated that the airbag clockspring jumper wire, which is situated inside the steering wheel assembly, was installed in a manner that would allow it to rub (abrade) against a sharp metal edge on the nearby horn plate.Because the horn plate is electrically grounded the abrasion of an airbag wire on the sharp edge could cause a short circuit condition.As a result the airbag light may illuminate and/or the airbag may inadvertently deploy.Inadvertent deployments are most likely to occur during …

CNG REGULATOR LEAKPreliminary evaluation PE08063Closed
Opened Oct 31, 2008Closed Feb 27, 2009fuel system

The agency has closed this investigation based on its review of complaint reports, discussions with complainants and field and technical data provided by FORD.the subject vehicles are 1/2 ton pickup trucks and are natural gas vehicles (ngv) that are fueled by gasoline or compressed natural gas.the agency has received reports alleging improper operation of the natural gas fuel pressure regulator allowing release of excess amounts of natural gas into the engine compartment.FORD reports that the regulator contains an over pressure relief valve that will vent natural gas should the pressure …

SPARK PLUG EJECTION FROM CYLINDER HEADDefect petition DP05005Closed
Opened Sep 22, 2005Closed Jan 4, 2006engine

On september 6, 2005, odi received a petition requesting that the agency investigate allegations of engine spark plug ejection in certain model year 1997 through 2004 FORD vehicles with triton v-8 and v-10 engines.odi received a total of 474 non-duplicative complaints on the subject vehicles where the complainant, or the dealer repairing the vehicle, reported that a spark plug detached from the cylinder and/or ejected from the engine.as of december 8, 2005, odi is not aware of any allegations where the alleged defect resulted in a loss of vehicle control, a crash, an injury, or a fatality in …

Technical service bulletins

149 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2004 F-150. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

engine 37transmission 25electrical system 22body and frame 14suspension 10brakes 9equipment 6fuel system 6
04B23Service campaignDec 7, 2005body and frame

AN ALUMINUM-BACKED BUTYL PAD MAY HAVE BEEN ADDED TO THE INSIDE SURFACE OF THE RIGHT HAND SIDE BOX OUTER PANEL IN FRONT OF THE TAIL LAMP. CUSTOMER SATISFACTION PROGRAM 04B23. BUTYL PAD REMOVAL. *TT SUPPLEMENT #1. *TT SUPPLEMENT #2. *TT

04189Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsDec 13, 2004visibility

REAR WINDOW DEFROSTER GRID/INTEGRAL ANTENNA DIAGNOSIS AND REPAIR - TERMINAL TAB REPAIR. *TT

041514Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsAug 9, 2004visibility

REAR WINDOW DEFROSTER GRID/INTEGRAL ANTENNA DIAGNOSIS AND REPAIR - TERMINAL TAB REPAIR. *TT

0426Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsFeb 9, 2004visibility

RATTLING AND/OR SQUEAKING NOISE COMING FROM THE POWER SLIDING REAR WINDOW. *TT

Crash test ratings

NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version testedOverallFrontalSideRolloverRollover risk
2004 Ford F-150 Regular Cab———★★★★★19.8%
2004 Ford F-150 Supercab———★★★★★19.8%

New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Air BagsCrash
Filed Sep 16, 2026WA

Vehicle was in an accident with major front and damage and none of the airbags deployed

Seat Belts
Filed Jul 9, 202649,800 milesPA

The contact owns a 2004 Ford F-150. The contact stated that the seatbelt pretensioners for all seats failed, and the frontal airbags for the driver seat and front passenger seat were inoperable. The seatbelt warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with faulty seatbelt pretensioners. A dealer was contacted and informed that parts were unavailable for the failure. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 49,800.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jan 9, 2026WI

Rear-end. The rear drivers side tire fell off while driving on a side street. With no noise or wobble or evidence of a problem. 2 days earlier my family and I were going 70 on an express way. Upon shops inspection the bearing was no longer working but wheel kept rolling, it egged out the housing of the axle shaft and heated up that point of axle and snapped the shaft at that spot. The picture will show this point.

Air Bags
Filed Dec 21, 2025ID

There is a recall on this vehicle

Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Oct 1, 2025VA

My Teenage daughter was in a car accident and the airbags did not deploy and her seatbelt did not lock , and smashed into her steering wheel.

Service Brakes
Filed Jun 24, 2025TX

Electrical malfunction with fuses , problems with brake light, engine light and air bag light . Some fuses blown out after brake light fuse popped wipers don't work at all air bog turns on and off every day not sure why

Seat BeltsCrash1 killed
Filed May 7, 2025MO

The vehicle rolled and killed the occupant because the roof caved in. The shoulder portion of the seat belt did not hold the occupant (only the lap portion) and the occupant was partially ejected out of the rear of the cab. The vehicle was inspected and purchased by State Farm insurance since the vehicle was totaled. The 2000's Ford F-150s have roofs that are too weak to support the weight of the vehicle, thereby putting the occupants in danger of injury or death. This is well documented. There were no warnings.

Engine
Filed Mar 10, 2025100,000 milesNJ

The contact owns a 2004 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds, the vehicle shuddered and failed to accelerate while the accelerator pedal was depressed. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact pulled over to the shoulder of the roadway and was able to restart the vehicle. The contact scanned the vehicle with a scanner and retrieved an unknown camshaft phaser error code. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jan 20, 2025OH

Frame on 2004 new body style ford f-150 rusted to the point no longer safe to drive according to 2 licensed repair shops. There is no recall on vin number [XXX] However I have been told there are other recalls on frame rust on this same model from 2004-2008. Please know I bought this truck brand new and only have operated on roadway no off roading. This is my primary vehicle. Please advice what can be done. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Power Train
Filed Dec 11, 2024145,000 milesVA

The contact owns a 2004 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 50 MPH, the engine began revving: however, the vehicle to accelerate properly. The transmission fault warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the residence. The vehicle was inspected by independent mechanic at the residence, and it was determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 145,000.

Service Brakes
Filed Jun 23, 2024WA

I have a suspect that keeps adding air in brake lines of this vehicle. Police gave me permanent case number, but the guy is still breathing. Idk what to do, as he has done it on all our cars and on this F150 about 4 different times. The name of suspect is [XXX] , [XXX] . INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Electrical System › Ignition › Coil › Spark Plugs
Filed May 9, 2024364,000 milesPA

The contact owns a 2004 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle made an abnormal popping sound and then lost motive power. The contact was able to drive to the residence. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that the spark plug had blown out of the cylinder and determined that the spark plug needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to file a complaint with the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 364,000. The VIN was unavailable.

Electrical System
Filed Apr 18, 2024PA

I get a warning message which indicates the the Crash Sensor is not working on my Ford truck - this component inflates the Air Bag in the event of a crash. The part number for the Crash Sensor is Motorcraft 6L3Z-14B004-AA. I attempted to purchase a replacement Crash Sensor from a local Ford dealer. I was told that Ford no longer makes this part. The parts manager suggested that I check with local aftermarket parts stores; Advance Auto Parts, AutoZone, Fisher and NAPA. Nobody makes an aftermarket Crash Sensor for my vehicle. I also searched Amazon without success. I am therefore driving a vehicle with Air Bags which will not deploy - possibly causing a fatality. It seems like the manufacturer, Ford, should be required to sell replacement Crash Sensors until they become available as an Aftermarket Product.

Air Bags
Filed Feb 7, 202493,000 milesSC

The contact owns a 2004 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to report the failure to the NHTSA Hotline. The contact was also informed that the repair could not be covered under NHTSA Campaign Number: 11V107000 (Air Bags) because the VIN was not included. The failure mileage was approximately 93,000.

FirerelatedFire
Filed Jan 30, 2024FL

The contact owns a 2004 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked in the driveway, the vehicle caught on fire inside the cab. The contact stated that she attempted to put the fire out with a water hose. The fire department was called and was able to put out the fire. No injuries were reported. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to a local mechanic or dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage is unknown.

Suspension
Filed Sep 14, 2023OH

THERE ARE LARGE HOLES IN THE FRAME, AND THE SHACKLES ARE READY TO FALL OFF. SUSPENSION IS FALLING APART. BRAKES ARE NOT SAFE FOR STOPPING POWER FOR THE VEHICLE. MASTERTECH AT ZIEGLER TIRE.

Unknown or Other
Filed Sep 1, 2023TX

N/a

Engine
Filed Aug 3, 2023150,000 milesIN

The contact owns a 2004 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact observed the spark plug being ejected from the fuel compartment. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who was unable to diagnose the failure. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 150,000.

Latches/Locks/Linkages › Doors › Latch
Filed Jul 17, 2023160,472 milesVA

The contact owns a 2004 Ford F-150. The contact stated that the rear driver's side door failed to open. The contact removed the door and replaced the plastic ends with new metal ends. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 160,472.

Structure › Body
Filed Jul 7, 2023MI

The underbody frame is 95% rusted out, this vehicle is available for inspection upon request. I could have been fatally injured, not knowing the under frame was gone, until vehicle was taken in for new tires. The vehicle was inspected by Firestone tire and Gene Butman Ford. There were no warning messages and the problem was first noticed in 2019 and was told the vehicle was unsafe to drive, a hazard and should not be driven.

Engine
Filed Apr 30, 2023PA

Truck stalls in traffic. Also when hitting the brake. it stalls in reverse. it stalls while idling. Worst truck ever!! Severe safety issue 😕

Unknown or OtherCrash
Filed Apr 26, 2023NH

Got into accident I lent my vehicle to Daniel LeBlanc he has had my vehicle since October 2022 He gave permission to his girlfriend at the time she got into accident from black ice

Air Bags1 injured
Filed Mar 13, 2023CA

Air bag deployed suddenly while i was in the parked vehicle, it is available for inspection, has not been brought up to dealerships attention, no warning or light up on dash board to indicate problem

Suspension
Filed Jan 19, 2023IN

Frame Failure, A licensed technician said my vehicle is dangerous to drive and cannot be fixed because of the advanced rusting of the frame. As I read the history of some Ford Trucks I find this is a continuing problem with no recalls and wonder why they can continue to manufacture faulty, dangerous products

Air Bags
Filed Jun 25, 2022CA

Problem is already a recall item, took in to get fixed and the warning light continues to stay on.

Power Train › Shift Linkage/Cable/RodCrash1 injured
Filed Jun 16, 2022260,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2004 Ford F-150. The contact stated while starting his parked vehicle, he found that the vehicle would not start. The contact self-diagnosed and bypassed the starter solenoid using a screwdriver and started the vehicle. The vehicle slipped out of the park and rolled backward. The contact was backed over by the vehicle and had received injuries to his ribs and stomach. He had lacerations and abrasions to his back and chest. The contact was able to get out from under the vehicle and attempted to stop the vehicle which was rolling. The contact jumped into the passenger side and attempted to brake but could not. The contact attempted to push the shift lever into "park" but the gear would not engage. The vehicle rolled and crashed into the rear end of a parked vehicle. The contact's vehicle had damage to the rear bumper and the rear end of the other vehicle had the bumper and trunk crumpled. The police were not called and the contact did not seek medical attention. The contact was able to start the vehicle and drove it to his residence. The contact then examined the undercarriage and determined that the transmission linkage cable had been resting on the doughnut of the exhaust system. The contact stated that the outer cable shell had melted and the metal cable was exposed. The contact diagnosed that the exposed cable had contributed to the vehicle slipping out of gear. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle had

Structure › Body
Filed Apr 20, 2022PA

The truck has had a complete body frame failure. The entire frame is rusted through with large holes. I am unable to put it on a jack to change the tires. It has failed inspections and has not been inspected since 2019. I have a 1992 ford truck that has NO rust issue on the frame. This year is a complete design failure where they used substandard steel or other garbage. It is a safety hazard.

Suspension
Filed Apr 9, 2022IL

There hasn't been any accidents but the rails underneath of the truck bed are rotting completely off the truck and I feel that would be a safety problem if it collapses and I don't understand why they're so rusty when the rest of the truck is not it this could be a problem!

Suspension
Filed Mar 11, 2022KY

Hitch broke off due to ford common frame rot. Frame is rotted from leaf spring shackle and back

Unknown or Other
Filed Feb 5, 2022KY

Door latch not working. Doors flies open. Frozen or stuck. Doesnt latch all the time very dangerous . Happens parked and while driving

Wheels
Filed Jan 13, 2022NJ

Swollen lug nuts--- had to replace all at my expense

Engine
Filed Feb 19, 202187,000 milesIL

THROTTLE BODY CAUSES VEHICLE TO STOP DEAD WHEN SLOWING DOWN ON CITY STREET.

Structure › Frame and Members › Underbody Shields
Filed Nov 18, 2020167,000 milesMI

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 FORD F-150. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS AT AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR ROUTINE MAINTENANCE, THE TECHNICIAN NOTICED THAT THE SUBFRAME WAS SEVERELY RUSTED THROUGH. THE VEHICLE WAS LATER TAKEN TO TONY BETTEN & SONS FORD, INC (3839 PLAINFIELD AVE NE, GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49525) WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE DRIVER'S AND PASSENGER'S SIDE SUBFRAME WERE SEVERELY RUSTED, AND THAT THE SUBFRAME NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE SUBFRAME WAS NOT REPLACED NOR WAS THE VEHICLE REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 167,000.

Unknown or Other
Filed Oct 25, 202060,000 milesAL

THE TOP OF PASSENGER DASH HAS BECAME A STICKY SURFACE AND THE PAINT WILL RUB OFF. TRUCK ONLY HAS 60K MILES BECAUSE IT'S MY HUSBANDS PRIDE. VEHICLE STAYS IN A GARAGE WITH NO NATURAL LIGHT THAT COULD CAUSE PROBLEM.

Engine
Filed Sep 7, 2020154,000 milesCA

WHILE DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY I NOTICE A NOISE AND A LOSE OF POWER PULL OFF AND HAD TRUCK TOWED TO DEALER THEY CALLED ME TOLD ME NEEDED NEW MOTOR I WAS SHOCKED ONLY HAS 154000 MILES ON IT WHAT THE HELL DEALER TOLD ME $9000 TO REPLACE MOTOR WHAT TOLD THEM I WOULD BE THERE TO PICK UP TRUCK WITH TOW TRUCK WELL THEY CALLED ME BACK SAID $7000 STILL WAY TO MUCH BUT I NEED THE TRUCK CANT BUY A NEW ONE SO I HAD TO GET 2 LOANS TO REPLACE MY MOTOR THEN I FIND OUT THE MOTOR IN A 2004 F 150 HAS A MAJOR ISSUES BUT THE DEALER NEVER TOLD ME ANYTHING OF THE SORT SO NOW I HAVE A TRUCK WITH THE SAME MOTOR AS BEFORE THAT COST ME A LARGE AMOUNT OF MONEY I DIDN'T HAVE FORD SHOULD STEP UP AND TAKE CARE OF THE PROBLEM SO NOW I HAVE 2 LOANS TO PAY OFF HOPE TO HELL THIS MOTOR LAST AND THEY WONDER WHY PEOPLE GO POSTAL IF FORD DOSENT RESOLVE THIS I WILL NEVER BUY A FORD PRODUCT AGAIN !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Engine
Filed Jul 20, 202079,950 milesPA

F150 STALLS OUT RANDOMLY CAUSING A HAZARD FOR OTHER DRIVERS AND MYSELF. HAPPENS WHILE IN GEAR DRIVING, REVERSE, ETC.

Structure › Body
Filed Apr 20, 2020OH

THE FRAME IS ROTTED COMPLETELY. IT IS A SAFETY ISSUE THAT WHEN DISCOVERED AND SEARCHED SEEMS TO A HUGE ISSUE. I WAS ADVISED NOT TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE AS IT NOT SAFE TO DRIVE. I BOUGHT THIS TWO DAYS AGO.

Unknown or Other
Filed Mar 22, 202078,500 milesHI

THE DOOR LATCH OF THE REAR "SUICIDE" DOOR WILL NOT OPEN. THE LATCH ONLY MOVES BACK AND FORTH, BUT THE LATCH'S CABLE WILL NOT ENGAGE. I CHECKED AND LEARNED OTHER F-150S HAS THE SAME PROBLEM. IS THIS A "RECALL" ISSUE?

Structure › Body
Filed Mar 3, 2020167,000 milesPA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 FORD F-150. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE ROUTINE MAINTENANCE WAS BEING PERFORMED ON THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT DISCOVERED THAT THE SUBFRAME WAS EXTREMELY CORRODED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO BE DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. NEITHER THE DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 167,000.

Structure › Body
Filed Feb 24, 202055 milesCA

PAINT CRACKED ,COILS MALFUNCTION,SPRINGS FRONT

Suspension
Filed Feb 24, 202066 milesCA

FRONT SPRINGS TO LOW

Unknown or Other
Filed Jan 20, 202085,000 milesIL

DRIVERS DOOR SLUNG OPEN EVENTHOUGH IT APPEARED LATCHED WHEN I TURNED A CURVE. IT WAS 15 DEGREES OUTSIDE AT THE TIME OF INCIDENT. COULD CAUSE AN ACCIDENT .

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Dec 12, 2019135,000 milesKS

IN MID NOVEMBER 2019, I WAS ENTERING MY VEHICLE AND NOTICED THE REAR CENTER GLASS WINDOW COMPLETELY SHATTERED THE MOMENT I OPEN THE TRUCK DOOR FOR NO REASON. NO INDICATION OF AN OBJECT STRIKING OR ANYTHING. THE VEHICLE WAS COMPLETELY STATIONARY IN MY DRIVEWAY. THE TEMPERATURE HAD DROPPED DOWN PAST 20 DEGREES THE DAY THIS HAPPENED. I REPLACED THE ENTIRE REAR WINDOW AND THEN,NOT EVEN A WEEK LATER, THE REAR RIGHT SIDE OF THE WINDOW IS COMPLETELY SHATTERING AND IS ABOUT TO BREAK....THE SAME PROBLEM AGAIN! NOW, I GO OUT TODAY, 12/12/19 TO MY PASSENGER SIDE DOOR WINDOW COMPLETELY SHATTERED FOR NO APPARENT REASON! IN ALL 3 INSTANCES, THE TEMPERATURE DROPPED BELOW 35 DEGREES. I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT'S GOING ON AND IT'S DRIVING ME INSANE TRYING TO FIGURE OUT WHY THE WINDOWS ARE RANDOMLY SHATTERING WHEN THE TEMPERATURE DROPS. NOW I AM ABOUT TO BE OUT I DON'T KNOW HOW MUCH MONEY TO TRY TO REPAIR MY FORD WINDOWS.

Structure › Frame and Members
Filed Dec 3, 2019WI

2004 F150 FX4. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO DAMAGED FRAME. *LD *JS

Structure › Body
Filed Nov 27, 2019132,192 milesME

THIS VEHICLE IS OTHERWISE IN GOOD CONDITION WITH VERY LITTLE BODY RUST LIMITED TO THE BACK CORNER OF THE PASSENGER CABIN. HOWEVER THE LEFT FRAME RAIL STARTING 14 INCHES AHEAD OF THE FRONT ATTACHMENT POINT OF THE LEAF SPRING. THE RUST HOLE EXTENDS THE WIDTH OF THE FRAME RAIL FOR A DISTANCE OF 17 INCHES. ONE FINGER SIZE HOLE WAS OBSERVED. THE FRAME BOTTOM STEEL WAS EASILY STRIPPED AWAY WITH TWO FINGERS AND A THUMB TO THE LENGTH AND WIDTH DESCRIBED. THE REMAINDER OF THE FRAME HAS EXTENSIVE SURFACE RUST BUT NO HOLE AND OTHERWISE FAIR CONDITION. THE LICENSED STATE VEHICLE INSPECTION SHOP FAILED THE VEHICLE DUE TO THE FRAME RUST AT THIS LOCATION. OTHERWISE, WITH SOME MINOR MECHANICAL ISSUES, THE TRUCK IS IN GOOD CONDITION AND COULD BE SAFELY USED FOR A NUMBER OF MORE YEARS. ONLINE THIS RUST PROBLEM AT THIS POINT HAS A LARGE NUMBER OF COMPLAINTS IN FORD F-150 TRUCKS IN 2004 AND 2005. OBVIOUSLY THERE WAS A MANUFACTURING ISSUE FRAME FORMING TO CAUSE THIS RUST THROUGH IN SO MANY TRUCKS AT THIS FRAME LOCATION AND NOT ELSEWHERE.

Electrical System
Filed Nov 8, 2019125,000 milesTX

BOUGHT VEHICLE FROM INDIVIDUAL HE STATED MILEAGE ON ODOMETER 125K AND 2008 WENT TO GET INSURANCE AND IT'S A 2004 AND MILEAGE WAS 240K PLUS

Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Oct 15, 2019SC

TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2004 FORD F-150. WHILE THE CONTACT'S FIANCE WAS DRIVING 35 MPH, A DEER RAN INTO THE ROAD AND CAUSED THE DRIVER TO SWERVE AND CRASH INTO A TREE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED A BROKEN LEFT WRIST AND STRUCK HIS HEAD ON THE WINDSHIELD. THE DRIVER RECEIVED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN IMPOUND LOT AND DEEMED DESTROYED. THE CONTACT CALLED CONWAY FORD (LOCATED AT 2393 CHURCH ST, CONWAY, SC 29526, (843) 365-5596) AND INFORMED THEM OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WERE UNKNOWN. *LN*JB * PM CONSUMER STATED OWNER OF THE VEHICLE WAS HER DAD'S WHICH WAS PURCHASED IN 2000. *JB

Unknown or Other
Filed Sep 23, 2019128,000 milesMI

I TOOK MY TRUCK IN TO GET THE STEERING SHAFT REPLACED AND WHEN THE LIFTED UP ON THE HOIST THEY NOTICED THAT THE FRAME IN THE FRONT HAD A SPLIT IN IT UP IN THE FRONT PART OF THE FRAME ON THE DRIVER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE AND THAT THE FRAME WAS VERY RUSTY. I THEN TOOK IT TO ANOTHER PERSON TO HAVE IT LOOKED OVER TO SEE IF THERE WAS ANY WAY TO WELD THE FRAME TO FIX THE SPLIT. UPON HIS INSPECTION, HE FOUND THAT THE ENTIRE FRAME IN THE REAR AND THE MAJORITY OF THE REST OF THE FRAME WASN'T STABLE ENOUGH TO HANDLE A WELD SINCE THE FRAME IS RUSTED SO BAD THE WELD WOULDN'T HOLD. I THEN CALLED AND TALKED TO FORD DIRECTLY AND THEY TOLD ME THAT I HAD TO BRING IT INTO AN AUTHORIZED SERVICE CENTER TO HAVE IT INSPECTED. WHICH I DID AND THEY ALSO DEEMED THE FRAME BEYOND REPAIR. I THEN CALLED FORD BACK AND THEY TOLD ME THAT THERE WAS NOTHING THAT THEY COULD DO FOR ME SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS PAST 7 YEARS. SO, NOW I HAVE AN UN-USEABLE UN-SELLABLE VEHICLE. UPON SOME RESEARCH, I FOUND THAT THAT GENERATION OF FORD VEHICLES HAS HAD SEVERAL HUNDRED THOUSAND VEHICLE RECALLS FOR THE SAME ISSUES FRAME DETERIORATION AND OR FAULTY FRAME OR CHASSIS IN MULTIPLE MODELS. UPON FURTHER RESEARCH, I HAVE FOUND THAT THIS SEEMS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM FOR THAT GENERATION FORD F150'S AS WELL HOWEVER THERE IS NO RECALL FOR THAT VEHICLE. MY TRUCK ONLY HAS 128,000 ORIGINAL MILES ON IT AND THE MOTOR ITS SELF PROBABLY WOULD LAST ANOTHER 150,000 MILES OR MORE. IF I HAD NOT TAKEN THE VEHICLE IN FOR SERVICE FOR ANY ISSUES THEN I

Power Train
Filed Sep 17, 2019130,000 milesCA

TRANSMISSION OVERDRIVE FAILED AT 130K MILES CAUSING TRANSMISSION TO BE REPLACED.

Engine
Filed Sep 12, 2019160,000 milesNC

2004 FORD F-150 ENGINE IS BAD. THE 5.4 LITER ENGINE. I BOUGHT THIS VEHICLE USED 3 YEARS AGO AND NOW THE ENGINE IS RUINED. MY HUSBAND RESEARCHED AND ALSO CONSULTED WITH SEVERAL MECHANICS AND FOUND THAT THESE ENGINES WERE KNOWN FOR THE CAM PHASERS GOING BAD SO FORD STOPPED PUTTING THIS ENGINE IN THE VEHICLES IN 2007. THE LAST TIME I DROVE THIS VEHICLE AA I WAS MAKING A RIGHT TURN, THE TRUCK CUT OFF ON ME IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD WHICH IS VERY DANGEROUS. WE OWE $8,000 ON THIS FORD WHICH IS NOW NO FOOD. SITS IN OUR YARD. WE WANT ACTION. FORD NEEDS TO STAND BEHIND THEIR PRODUCT.

Complaints 1-50 of 2,029, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2013
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20270300Routine
202612800Routine
20251091440Routine
20241951140Routine
20234181340Above average
20226042370Above average
20211,0422940Do not drive
20207421140Above average
20191,345970Above average
20182,32719333Fatalities reported
20171,46518210High concern
20162,09314250High concern
20151,74614133Fatalities reported
20141,5398161Do not drive
20132,9943354Fatalities reported
20121,7844142Fatalities reported
20112,1946190Above average
20108431350High concern
2009324280Above average
20083691122Fatalities reported
20074887131Fatalities reported
200658514181Fatalities reported
20051,11214292Fatalities reported
2004 — this page2,02916406Fatalities reported
200342311371Fatalities reported
200282110950High concern
20011,236192487Fatalities reported
20001,075173431Fatalities reported
19991,044186911Fatalities reported
19981,38118911Fatalities reported
19972,7582626214Fatalities reported
19963247752Fatalities reported
199562671142Fatalities reported
1994676131010High concern
199358613211Fatalities reported
19924709395Fatalities reported
19913046410High concern
19902755320High concern

Compare every F-150 year →

2004 Ford F-150: questions buyers ask

Is the 2004 Ford F-150 a good car?

Going by the federal record, it is one of the F-150 years to avoid: owners filed 2,029 complaints, 2.4 times as many as a typical F-150 year. The most common complaint is about the visibility (40%).

What is the most common problem with the 2004 Ford F-150?

The visibility: 814 of the 2,029 complaints (40%) are about it. Owners most often say it knocks, grinds or clunks (4%). The typical report comes at 64,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 2004 Ford F-150 have?

16 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Jul 29, 2011. The largest, 07V336000, covered 3,600,000 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2004 Ford F-150 problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 61,000 miles. For the visibility the midpoint is 64,000 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2004 Ford F-150?

Yes, 4 times. The latest, EA11006 ("Fuel Tank Strap Failure Due to Corrosion"), was opened May 4, 2011 and closed Aug 19, 2011.

Are there service bulletins for the 2004 Ford F-150?

The manufacturer filed 149 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the engine (37), the transmission (25) and the electrical system (22). They include a service campaign, 04B23, filed Dec 7, 2005. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

6 deaths reported in complaints filed with NHTSA.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Jul 29, 2011. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.