Shopping for a used Ford F-150? Faced with the dilemma of which ones to choose and avoid? We’ve compiled a comprehensive list to ease your purchase decision.
The Ford F-150 has been in the market for decades. Ford introduced its F Series line of pickups back in 1948, and the fleet now includes a collection of light, medium, and heavy-duty trucks.
Here, we’ll focus on the consumer-centric F-150, which Ford sells roughly 103 of per hour, or approximately two a minute.
From a broad perspective, consumers looking to buy an F-150 don’t need to cough up the big bucks, especially for the all-new models. This is largely due to the fact that while Ford claims 2021 F-150s have 92% new parts, the differences between a used and brand-new model are hardly significant.
As a result, getting into a used Ford F-150 makes a lot more sense from a financial standpoint.
What is the Best Year for the Ford F-150?
From a consumer standpoint, buying the latest and greatest is usually the best, largely due to the added safety and reliability over the model it replaces.
However, considering how things have panned out for the F-150, it’s safe to say that models between 2013 and 2020 are the best of the bunch.
Considering a 2014 F-150 is especially advisable since it won’t break your budget, and it’s a bit newer. Part of the 12th generation, you still get the slightly outdated but adequate MyFord touchscreen infotainment paired with Xenon headlights, hill descent control, and decent towing capabilities.
2013 and 2014 F-150s Offer Reliability, Customization, and Plenty of Power
Both the 2013 and 2014 F-150s come equipped with a host of engine choices, ranging from a 302 horsepower 3.7-liter V6, a 411 horsepower 6.2-liter V8, and a 365 horsepower 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine.
Since the F-150 comes in Single Cab, Super Cab, and Crew Cab models, we’d advise you to stick with the most practical choice for your needs.
Siding with the 2014 F-150 over the 2013 model is ideal since the reliability ratings of the former are far better than the latter. Price-wise, the 2014 Ford F-150s range between $14,500 and $39,900.
Going for the 2015 F-150 is preferred if you don’t mind paying a bit extra for the added safety and technology features.
Also, 2015 introduced the 13th generation, when the F-150 switched to an all-aluminum architecture.
The 2015 F-150 comes equipped with adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, forward collision warning, a 360-degree camera, and blind-spot monitoring. When properly equipped, the 2015 F-150 can tow up to 12,200 pounds.
J.D. Power gave the 2015 F-150 a “Best” rating for driving experience and resale value. Couple that with Consumer Reports‘ four-out-of-five-stars owner satisfaction rating, and the 2015 Ford F-150 looks to be the most promising.
However, if you want features like Ford’s Sync 3 infotainment and Trailer Backup Assist, the 2016 F-150 should be on your radar. In terms of cost, the 2015 Ford F-150s range between $18,600 and $39,000 while the 2016 models sit in a slightly higher price bracket between $21,000 and $50,600.
2017 and Later F-150s Feature More Modern Technology and Comfort Features
If you can’t live without the comfort of Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, you’ll have to resort to 2017 or later F-150s.
Also, in 2017 Ford updated the F-150 Raptor, an off-road pickup that leads the lineup in terms of cost.
If you’re looking for the best utilitarian pick that still packs a mix of the latest features and doesn’t sacrifice performance, 2019 F-150s should entice you.
However, bear in mind that they are on the pricier side of the spectrum.
Starting at around $24,000 and topping at $64,000, the 2019 F-150 has the highest towing capacity of any of its contemporaries. Rated at a 13,200-pound tow capacity (when properly equipped), this F-150 is a capable workhorse.
Which F-150 Model Year F-150 Should You Avoid Buying?
As a rule of thumb, it’s important to research the car you’re getting into while going over the ones to avoid. No car in the history of the automobile industry is perfect, and the Ford F-150 is no exception.
Some of the worst model years of the Ford F-150 (and the ones you should avoid buying) are 2004, 2005, and 2010. Below we’ll explain our reasoning.
2004 Ford F-150’s 16 Recalls are Cause for Concern
The NHTSA reports that the 2004 F-150 has 16 recalls to date. While Ridgeback Bodies claim it to be the worst F-150 in history, it’s hard to overlook how many problems it had.
One of the reasons why it became the worst in the F-150 lineup was primarily due to its available engines, the 5.4-liter, and 6.8-liter Tritons.
Problems include spark plugs that may break during removal, sudden plug ejection, or even over-tightening was common. Faulty window regulators were also common with the 2004 model year, one of which includes the breaking of the plastic clips that hold each side window in place, causing them to suddenly crash into their respective doors.
2005 Ford F-150 is Marred By Spark Plug Problems Faulty Window Regulators
While the 2004 model was an engineering nightmare, things didn’t improve all that much with the 2005 Ford F-150 either, which had a total of 14 recalls.
The faulty window regulators remained, leading to mechanics thinking the 2005 build was a rushed exercise. Also, the spark plug problems persisted leading to DIY maintenance leaving pieces lodged inside the cylinder.
Lastly, the Triton 5.4-liter V8 struggled with a continuous knocking sound attributed to either the cam phaser or bad cylinder heads.
2010 Ford F-150 Has Registered Complaints Over Oil Leaks and Infotainment System Tech Glitches
Perhaps the worst modern F-150 is the 2010 model year. Consumers reported issues with the MyFord infotainment where the screen would abruptly fail and become unresponsive.
In some cases, the system fails to recognize smartphones, and the rear-view camera stops working when the reverse. Leaks were also common issues, where the gaskets in the oil pan and engine head would drip oil, which is not only messy but can quickly add up to a costly repair bill.
This model year also struggled with spark plugs that could ruin the ignition coil, often causing the engine to misfire or not start altogether.
Reports also pointed to the automatic transmission suddenly downshifting into second gear in the middle of a drive, which could potentially lead to catastrophic engine failure.
Which Ford F-150 Engine is the Most Reliable?
In terms of reliability, you may be surprised to know that the 3.5-liter EcoBoost is the best pick of the bunch.
According to Popular Mechanics, the 3.5-liter EcoBoost is the sweet spot in the F-150’s engine lineup. Thanks to its generous 375 horsepower and 475 lb.-ft. of torque, this engine could devour anything you throw at it.
Along with the performance, the EcoBoost is also one of the most efficient, sitting around 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway, depending on the model year.
Also, YouTube’s The Fast Lane Truck confirms our claim with a video showing owners comparing the Coyote V8 and the EcoBoost only to find out the 3.5-liter churner comes out to be the best overall.
As for reliability, if you’re following Ford’s recommended service schedule, you should have no problem reaching the 100,000-150,000 mile mark (if not significantly more).
Photos: Ford
