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Is the 2004 Ford 4.6 engine reliable?

The 2004 Ford 4.6 engine is generally considered a reliable and durable engine, with many owners reporting long service lives and few major issues. However, like any engine, it can experience some common problems over time that should be addressed to maintain its reliability.


Overview of the 2004 Ford 4.6 Engine


The 4.6-liter V8 engine was a staple in many Ford vehicles in the early 2000s, including the F-150 pickup, Mustang, and Crown Victoria. It was known for its smooth power delivery, good fuel economy, and relatively low maintenance requirements compared to some other V8 engines of the era.


Common Issues and Reliability Considerations


While the 2004 Ford 4.6 engine is generally reliable, there are a few common issues that owners should be aware of:



  • Spark Plug Fouling: The 4.6 engine is known to experience spark plug fouling, which can lead to misfiring and reduced performance. Regular spark plug replacement is recommended to prevent this issue.

  • Oil Leaks: Some owners have reported minor oil leaks, particularly from the front and rear seals. These leaks are usually not severe but should be addressed to prevent larger problems.

  • Timing Chain Wear: The timing chain in the 4.6 engine can wear over time, leading to potential issues with engine timing and performance. Regular inspections and replacement of the timing chain and tensioner are recommended.

  • Intake Manifold Gasket Failure: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing coolant leaks and potential engine damage. This is a relatively common issue that should be addressed promptly.


Overall, with proper maintenance and attention to these common issues, the 2004 Ford 4.6 engine can be a reliable and long-lasting powerplant. Many owners report getting well over 200,000 miles from their 4.6 engines with proper care.

How long does a 4.6 Ford engine last?


4.6 2V engines are considered indestructible, they were used in vehicles like Crown Vic's, and f150's pre 2003. 4.6 3V is not as good, but not a horrible engine either. Keep them maintained an there is no reason they won't last 200k or longer.



How many miles can you get out of a 4.6 Ford engine?


You can get 400,000 miles out of the 4.6 liter Mustang GT engine if you change the oil every 3,000 miles and if you also maintain your vehicle. It all depends on how much that you take care of your car. Police cruisers go up to 200,000 and 250,000 miles on these same engines.



How many miles will a 4.6 F-150 last?


around 200,000 to 300,000 miles
How long do Ford F-150s last on average? With a typical annual mileage of around 15,000 miles, Ford F-150s last around 200,000 to 300,000 miles. You might even see models around 400,000 miles on the odometer!



What was the failure of the Ford 4.6 engine?


Timing chain tensioners in the 4.6 Ford engine have been known to fail, especially in high-mileage vehicles. This failure can lead to timing chain slack, resulting in improper engine timing, decreased performance, and even the risk of severe engine damage if the chain slips or breaks.



What are the most common problems in a 4.6 Ford engine?


We'll also cover how to avoid the issues and what to look for when shopping for a vehicle with this engine.

  • The Most Common Problems With Ford 4.6L Engines:
  • Intake Manifold Failure.
  • Timing Chain Guide Failure.
  • Spark Plug Failure.
  • Oil Pressure Drop.
  • Product Speedbumps.
  • Avoiding 4.6 Engine Problems.



What mileage does a Ford F-150 become unreliable?


GetJerry.com – “The average Ford F150 can last between 150,000 and 300,000 miles depending on the model year and the truck's usage and environment.



How many miles is a 4.6 V8 good for?


Apparently about 26 years or 300,000 miles.



Is the Ford 4.6 V8 engine a good engine?


The 4.6 is generally regarded to be one of the most reliable engines ever made. There are many million mile Crown Vic taxis with the 4.6.



What year did Ford stop using the 4.6 engine?


2014
The final 4.6 L engine was produced in May 2014 and installed in a 2014 model year Ford E-Series van.



How many miles is a 4.6 Ford motor good for?


Apparently about 26 years or 300,000 miles.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.