Thinking of buying a 2024 Timberline - Mistake?

I’m close to getting a 2024 Timberline, but I’m second-guessing because of all the stories I’ve read about cam phaser and transmission issues. I’ve also heard that the 2023 and newer models have had fewer issues. Is that true, or am I getting myself into a headache?

You should be good! I have a 2024 Limited myself. I weighed the issues between Ford, Chevy’s lifter/transmission problems, Sequoia engine issues, and Wagoneer problems and decided on the Ford. Real question is, how much are you getting off MSRP? Should be a decent amount. I got an extended 125k mile warranty online for $1400 and a 7-year maintenance plan for $2000, so I’m all set for 7 years and 125k miles for just $3k extra. You should be looking at about $10k-$14k off MSRP on the Timberline. Get a good warranty, and you’ll be all set, even for the electronics.

@Shan
That’s pretty much my plan! I’m looking at about $14k off MSRP when all’s done and planning to get the warranty online after I buy. Appreciate the advice!

Freeman said:
@Shan
That’s pretty much my plan! I’m looking at about $14k off MSRP when all’s done and planning to get the warranty online after I buy. Appreciate the advice!

Nice to see someone being grateful on here! Glad the info helped!

Freeman said:
@Shan
That’s pretty much my plan! I’m looking at about $14k off MSRP when all’s done and planning to get the warranty online after I buy. Appreciate the advice!

You’re getting a solid deal. Don’t even think twice. With the warranty, you’ll be covered, and you’re getting a full-size SUV for what some midsize ones go for. Can’t beat that.

@Shan
Where did you get the extended warranty? Zeigler? I’m shopping for one myself.

Vern said:
@Shan
Where did you get the extended warranty? Zeigler? I’m shopping for one myself.

I used Flood Ford ESP this time, but I’ve bought from Zeigler before for my old F-150. Flood had a discount on the maintenance plan if you got the ESP through them. Granger Ford is another option you could check.

My wife’s 2019 had both cam phaser and transmission issues. We got the cam phasers replaced under the powertrain warranty, and the transmission was supposed to get fixed too, but a flood hit the dealership before they could finish. Ended up getting her a 2024 XLT, so we’ll see how it goes. I’ve heard the newer models have fewer issues, but I guess time will tell.

Vern said:
@Shan
Thanks, I was actually considering Fidelity, but it’s pricey compared to Ford’s ESP. I bought my last warranty through Zeigler too.

Yeah, I’d skip third-party warranties on a Ford. They have decent options through online dealers.

@Dexter
Let’s hope the new ones are improved!

2024 should be good. Earlier models had issues, like my 2018 Navigator, which needed a new transmission and cam phaser fix, but now it’s running fine. Only ongoing issue I’ve had is the heater hoses—I’m on my third one at 85k miles. Just make sure to get PremiumCARE. They’ll try to sell you on a 100k mile plan, but it goes up to 175k if you want long-term coverage. Loving my Navigator now—rides smooth, got nice Michelins on it, and it’s a pleasure to drive.

@Kai
Thanks for sharing! You’re echoing my thoughts exactly.

I’ve heard they’ve mostly fixed these issues on newer models. I just got a 2024 XLT myself, so we’ll see how it goes. Be sure to post some pics when you get yours!

Amari said:
I’ve heard they’ve mostly fixed these issues on newer models. I just got a 2024 XLT myself, so we’ll see how it goes. Be sure to post some pics when you get yours!

Will do! Can’t wait to show it off.

Do you buy the warranty now, or wait until the factory warranty expires?

Lennon said:
Do you buy the warranty now, or wait until the factory warranty expires?

It’s cheaper if you buy it before the factory warranty runs out. Plus, the price goes up each year.

@Shan
Thanks for the tip!