The Ford 5.4 Triton and the Dodge 5.7 Hemi were rival V8s in full-size pickups through the 2000s. The three-valve 5.4 in F-150s is rated at about 300 to 310 hp, while the 5.7 Hemi was rated at 345 hp from 2003 to 2008, 390 hp from 2009 to 2012 with variable cam timing, and 395 hp in most later versions. The Hemi makes more power; each has well-known weak points, cam phasers and spark plugs on the 5.4 and lifters and the Hemi tick on the 5.7, so maintenance history matters more than the badge.
5.4 Triton vs 5.7 Hemi at a glance
| Ford 5.4 Triton | Dodge 5.7 Hemi | |
|---|---|---|
| Layout | V8, single overhead cam per bank | V8, pushrod with two valves per cylinder |
| Displacement | 5.4 L (330 cu in) | 5.7 L (345 cu in) |
| Rated power | About 300-310 hp (three-valve F-150) | 345 hp (2003-2008), 390 hp (2009-2012), 395 hp in most later versions |
| Cylinder deactivation | No | MDS on many versions |
| Known issues | Cam phasers and timing chain, spark plugs, oil quality sensitivity | Lifter and cam wear (Hemi tick), MDS lifters, exhaust manifold bolts |
Reliability
The three-valve 5.4’s cam phasers and timing components depend on clean oil at the right level and viscosity; neglected engines rattle at start-up and set timing codes. Its two-piece spark plugs can break on removal if not serviced correctly. See 5.4 Triton problems and how long a 5.4 Triton lasts. The Hemi’s most common complaint is lifter and camshaft wear, heard as a tick; see 5.7 Hemi problems, Hemi tick and how long a 5.7 Hemi lasts.
Towing and fuel economy
The Hemi’s extra power helps with heavier trailers, and later versions with MDS can save fuel on the highway. Real-world economy depends far more on gearing, tires and load than on the engine choice.
Which should you buy?
For a used truck, buy the better-maintained engine. Ask for oil change records on a 5.4, and listen for start-up rattle; on a Hemi, listen for a tick at idle and check for misfire codes.
Replacement engines we list
- Ford 5.4L V8 Engine 2004-2008: $3,999.00
- Ford 5.4L V8 Engine 2008-2016: $3,999.00
- Dodge 5.7L V8 Hemi 2005-2009 (Non MDS): $4,299.00
- Dodge 5.7L V8 Hemi 2005-2009 (with MDS): $4,899.00
- Dodge 5.7L V8 Hemi 2010-2012: $4,999.00
See also 5.4 Triton specs, 5.7 Hemi specs, 5.4 Triton vs 5.3 and 5.7 Hemi vs 5.3.
More guides: Dodge 4.7 vs 5.7 Hemi · bad cam phaser symptoms · Eagle vs pre-Eagle 5.7 Hemi.
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