2004 Ford F-150

Founded in 1903, Ford is a multinational automobile company that has released hundreds of automobile models so far. This company has produced cars, trucks, and SUVs in various trim levels and several designs to serve the public needs and demands. This article focuses on the 2004 Ford F-150.

Ford was at its peak in the last decade of the previous century and has sold millions of vehicles so far. Some of the models were the beginning of a better era for Ford, and one such model is the 2004 Ford F-150. Our focus for this blog is the Ford F-150’s new model that outperformed to the point that company had to produce it in thousands of numbers.

Overview of 2004 Ford F-150 Heritage:

Ford featured the newer version of the F-150 in Detroit’s North American International Automobile Show in the first month of 2003. It was the Ford F-150 pickup truck’s redesigned version. It differed from its previous counterpart in having a wider base, four-wheel disc brakes, and the new rack-and-pinion steering for both 4*4 and 4*2 models. People loved the 2004 Ford F-150’s heritage model, and thus, Ford assured that the new model only added to the already present features of the F-150 heritage.

Power and Torque:

The 2004 F-150 features a 5.4-liter V-8 engine that held around three valves per cylinder; it generated 300 hp, which was great enough for that era. Magnesium cam addition greatly reduced the noise, and this variable cam ranges around 50 –degrees. You can switch your engine with the 4.6-liter V-6 engine. The new model had a torsional stiffness nine-time better than the previous one. You could get it in any of the three available bodies, I.e., Regular Cab, SuperCrew, and SuperCab. The heritage feature of the high-performance SVT lightning pickup is equipped with a supercharged V-8 engine.

Trim Levels

The 2004 Ford F-150 offered the following trim levels to serve different requirements.

• The “workhorse” XL
• The XLT
• The FX4
• The youth-oriented STX
• Luxurious Lariat edition

The regular cab models also come with narrow access doors, and the CrewCab even features a DVD player to add fun to the journey.

Under the Hood:

Although the basic F-150 engine produced 231 hp, the newer models were way too efficient with their V-8 engines that had the potential to exceed the power up to 300 hp. You get a four-speed transmission feature with this engine. The transfer case lever resides on the floor of four-wheel vehicle models, allowing you to shift to and from the 4WD on the move. The additional dashboard switch may help you activate an electrical transfer case.

F-150’s Updated Safety:

Ford’s 2004 F-150 was all about the best safety equipment. The buyer got four-wheel antilock brakes, load-limiting retractors, seat-top tether anchors for child safety, seat belt pretensioners, and dual-stage front airbags. These dual-stage front airbags had an occupant classification system sensor for prompt activation.

Exterior of F-150:

Looking at a Ford– F-150 from 2004, you will feel its resemblance with Mighty F-350 Tonka Truck. The evident dips in each side window gave the vehicle a tougher look and increased the car’s visibility. The honeycomb structure and chrome went up to the trim level. Even the grille of the F-150 is taller for larger badge support.

Cargo Beds

Regular Cab and Supercab were stretched by 6 inches. The 6.5-8 feet Cargo bed offered a great space. Nonetheless, Supercab and Supercrew had shorter cargo beds, I.e., 5.5”. However, one could get an 8-footer cargo bed with the SuperCrew. 

Tail Gates

The 2004 model has tailgates that impart convenience for the opening. It gave an impression of a huge monstrous, sturdy car with taller taillamps, a larger rear badge, and a hood raised by 3 inches.

Rear Doors

Regular and Supercabs have hinged rear doors that can be opened only when the front doors are opened. It features a power sliding rear window for the first time. You could get two-tone paint on XLT, FX4, and Lariat.

Interior of Ford F-150:

Seating

The regular cabs of the 2004 model year had three-seat bench space with cloth upholstery; the supercab included a three-door rear seat, while the four-door Supercrew also featured a rear bench. A storage bin was featured in the car, and the center armrest could be flipped upwards.

Overhead Rail and Storage

SuperCab and SuperCrew versions possessed a new modular overhead rail system that could hold a DVD player and other counterparts. SuperCab also featured new power-down quarter windows; these are not the flip-out ones common on pickup trucks.

Storage and Floorboards

Some panels feature metal strips that run upward. A floor-mounted console with a shifter is also available. The Lariat model has round, large, bright-rimmed gauges but differs from other series. The Lariat also takes pride in a sewed-in French seam over the hood. The XL boasts hose-out rubber floormats at a lower price in a plainer interior that supports a column-mounted gearshift.

Manuals

A mechanic will need a 2004 Ford F-150 service manual that helps you maintain it for best functioning. You can even purchase the 2004 Ford F-150 owners manual from reliable auto publishers for further assistance. Other years of the owners manual are also available on the secondary market.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the life expectancy of the 2004 F-150?

From 150,000-300,000 Depending on care and maintenance

How much is a 2004 F-150 Worth?

Depending on miles and condition, anywhere from $959-$16,679

What are some common problems with the 2004 F-150?

Rough IdleExhaust manifold cracking, rear end noise, ignition coil failure