2008 Ford F-150

Vehicle Specs & Maintenance Data

Engine Size
Engine
4.2L V6
Oil Type & Capacity
5W-20 Full Synthetic (6 qts)
Transmission
Automatic 6-spd
Wheel Torque
150
ft-lbs

The 2008 Ford F-150 maintenance specs on this page cover the key fluids, torque values, and wear items you need for routine service. Use these numbers as a quick reference when performing oil changes, tire rotations, brake jobs, and other scheduled maintenance on your Ford F-150.

For oil changes, the 2008 Ford F-150 takes 5W-20 Full Synthetic motor oil with a capacity of 6 quarts. Brake fluid type is DOT 3, the recommended coolant is Motorcraft Gold (OAT), and transmission fluid is Mercon LV. Always use the manufacturer-recommended fluids to maintain warranty coverage and engine longevity.

When mounting wheels on the Ford F-150, torque the lug nuts to 150 ft-lbs using a calibrated torque wrench. Over- or under-torquing can lead to warped brake rotors or loose wheels. Re-torque after 50 to 100 miles on newly installed wheels.

Owners of the 2008 Ford F-150 have reported 5 common issues including "Engine Runs Rough at Idle", "Little or No Heat in Cabin" and "TSB For Possible Ejection of Spark Plug From Cylinder Head". Scroll down to the Diagnostics tab for detailed descriptions, solutions, and estimated repair costs.

There is 1 NHTSA safety recall on file for the 2008 Ford F-150. Check the Recalls tab below for full details.

Specifications on this page are compiled from multiple publicly available sources including manufacturer documentation, NHTSA data, and automotive databases. Always cross-reference with your owner's manual or official factory documentation before purchasing parts or performing any service.

The 2008 Ford F-150 uses 5W-20 Full Synthetic motor oil (6 qt capacity), requires lug nuts torqued to 150 ft-lbs, takes DOT 3 brake fluid.

2008 Ford F-150 Specifications
Motor Oil5W-20 Full Synthetic
Oil Capacity6 qt
Lug Nut Torque150 ft-lbs
Brake FluidDOT 3
CoolantMotorcraft Gold (OAT)
Transmission FluidMercon LV
Transmission Fluid
Fluid Type
Mercon LV
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Coolant
Fluid Type
Motorcraft Gold (OAT)
Shop
Brake Fluid
Fluid Type
DOT 3
Shop
Washer Fluid
Windshield
Shop
DTC Code Lookup

Enter a diagnostic trouble code to see causes, symptoms, and fixes for the 2008 Ford F-150.

Common problems reported by 2008 Ford F-150 owners, with recommended fixes and estimated repair costs.

1

Engine Runs Rough at Idle

The engine runs rough or stalls when idling due to a faulty idle air control valve or vacuum leaks.

Solution

TSB #CSP-092908CS-01, Replace the idle air control valve and inspect for vacuum leaks.

Est. Cost: $500-$1,000
2

Little or No Heat in Cabin

The heating system fails to provide adequate heat due to a faulty heater core, thermostat, or coolant leak.

Solution

Replace the heater core and thermostat, and inspect for coolant leaks.

Est. Cost: $1,000-$2,500
3

TSB For Possible Ejection of Spark Plug From Cylinder Head

The spark plug can become dislodged from the cylinder head due to a faulty spark plug wire or ignition coil.

Solution

Replace the spark plug wire and ignition coil, and inspect for any signs of damage to the cylinder head.

Est. Cost: $500-$1,000
4

Transmission Problems

The transmission may slip or hesitate due to a faulty torque converter, solenoid pack, or software issue.

Solution

Replace the torque converter and solenoid pack, and update the software.

Est. Cost: $1,500-$3,000
5

Accessory Stick-On Keyless Entry Keypad Failure

The keyless entry keypad may fail to function due to a faulty battery or electrical issue.

Solution

Replace the battery and inspect for any signs of damage to the keypad.

Est. Cost: $200-$500

1 NHTSA safety recall for the 2008 Ford F-150. Check your VIN at NHTSA.gov

1

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Campaign: 08V523000 Date: 08/10/2008

ROUSH 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.

Consequence

THIS FAILURE MAY RESULT IN A LOSS OF PERFORMANCE, ILLUMINATION OF THE MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) AND, IN EXTREME CASES, A STALLING OF THE VEHICLE DURING OPERATION WITHOUT NOTICE, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE AIRBOX LID WITH A NEW ONE THAT INCLUDES THE HYDRO-CARBON PAPER WHICH HAS BEEN AFFIXED USING AN ADHESIVE PROMOTER AND GREATER PRESSURE AS RECOMMENDED BY THE MANUFACTURER FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 21, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT ROUSH AT 1-866-307-6788.

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See Also
2008 Ford F-150 Lug Nut TorqueBest Oil for 2008 Ford F-150All Vehicles Using 5W-20 Full Synthetic OilAll Vehicles Using DOT 3Oil Change Guide: 2008 Ford F-150Wiper Replacement: 2008 Ford F-150