Lasting over 300,000 miles, 2006 is a good year for the F-150 with only minor spark plug issues reported. It’s an affordable half-ton truck, valued at $5,778 – 11,757.
2006 Ford F-150: Key Points
- The 2006 Ford F-150’s reliability is average, with some engine problems showing up over the years. The 2006 model is an okay choice, and buyers should avoid the 2005 since there are 3 times the number of complaints.
- Three engine choices are available, including a fuel-conscious V6, and two more powerful V8s that are built to tow.
- Fuel economy is poor at 16 MPG combined.
- Safety ratings are great, getting a perfect 5-stars in government crash tests.
- The 2006 Ford F-150 earns our recommendation, ranking 12th out of 20 full size trucks according to owner reviews. Although it’s in the middle of the pack the truck is a good value, with only rare mechanical problems.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
Top Critics Reviews
- Consumer Reports finds the truck to be an improvement over earlier years with average owner satisfaction ratings.
- Edmunds rates the F-150 at 4.4 stars out of 5, as the best truck regarding ride and handling, but is missing safety features.
What Problems Does the 2006 Ford F-150 Have?
There are a similar number of complaints on the 2006 Ford F-150 compared to trucks, including the Ram 1500 and Silverado 1500. The 2006 model is an okay choice, with a similar number of issues from 2006 through 2009.
Engine problems, leading to spark plugs blowing out of the head, are a complaint around 88,000 miles. The plugs and threads are weaker, causing them to break. Changing the plugs with higher-quality ones costs about $1,200.
Transmission issues are not widespread, but something owners should know at around 75,000 miles. The gears slip sometimes, which can cause the transmission to get damaged and fail. Refurbishing the transmission costs about $1,400 and a replacement is roughly $3,000.
Peeling paint is another complaint from owners of trucks with around 60,000 miles. Paint inadequately cared for will peel as the truck ages. The only solution is repainting affected areas, costing around $1,000 per panel.
There are 14 recalls, way more than some other trucks from 2006. They include the wiper motor, tires, instrument cluster, reflectors, tow assembly, headlamps, brake vacuum boost, and air bags. Most serious is the brake vacuum booster, which can reduce braking force.
How Much is the 2006 Ford F-150 Worth?
Blue book prices range from $5,778 to 11,757, and the F-150 is more affordable than other half-ton trucks, including the Sierra 1500, and Tundra. When new, prices ranged from $18,930 to $40,055. Depreciation is average for a large truck, only losing 5% of its current value per year.
How Long Will the 2006 Ford F-150 Last?
A well maintained 2006 Ford F-150 will last over 300,000 miles, about 50,000 miles longer than rivals including the Ram 1500 and Titan. Maintenance costs are average for a half-ton truck at $640 per year, according to Repair Pal.
As the 2006 F-150 ages and passes 150,000 miles, there are some components owners should prepare to replace. They include intake manifold gaskets for $700, suspension control arm bushings which cost $250, and the throttle body costing around $400.
Very reliable. The only problem I have is sometimes the power locks do not work and I lost the wireless key entry. Other than that, no issues at all.
The only problems I have is the fuel injectors need to be replaced, other than that it's a very reliable truck.
Yes it is very reliable. I haven't had any major problems or issues with mine. With almost 200k miles on a vehicle you usually encounter problems.
No problems whatsoever. Good use truck that can get you from a-z as far as you want without having issues.
It is very reliable I have almost 300,000 miles on it and it has only broke down on me one time because of a fuel pump ignition module.
It is extremely reliable! I have had no issues other than a 12 year old battery dying. Backing up can be difficult but that is a simple fix.
Very reliable and so far no problems ford knows trucks and f-150 series is best in this class. It is comforting to know that it is been voted best and put safety first. Plus with xl cab lots of room.
Only had to do routine maintenance and repairs general upkeep oil changes and rotating tires I would buy another ford.
What Are the Models & Specs?
XL is the fleet-focused model with:
- 17-Inch Steel Wheels
- Vinyl Bench Seating
- Manual Locks
SXT adds features, including:
- 17-Inch Aluminum Alloy Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- Body Colored Bumpers
XLT is the most popular model with:
- 17-Inch Chrome Wheels
- Power Windows and Locks
- Interior Trim Upgrades
FX4 focuses on off-road performance, adding:
- 18-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Skid Plates
- Off-Road Suspension
Lariat is the luxury model and offers:
- Unique 18-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Leather Seating
- Automatic Climate Control
- Wood Interior Trim
What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?
Technology is extremely basic in the Ford F-150, but is similar to other full size trucks from 2006.
- Base technology includes an AM/FM stereo system with 4 speakers.
- Optional upgrades include a CD player, and premium 6 or 8-speaker stereo systems.
- Standard safety features include antilock disc brakes, and air bags. Optional upgrades include traction control.
What Engine Options are Available?
Performance in the 2006 F-150 is average for a full-size truck, but not exciting to drive. The largest engine takes the truck from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 7.4 seconds and tows up to 9,900 pounds.
- The base engine is a rather weak 4.2L V6 with 202 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque.
- A step up is the 4.6L V8 with an average amount of power at 231 horsepower and 293 lb.-ft. of torque.
- The most powerful engine is the 5.4L V8, which has 300 horsepower and 365 lb.-ft. of torque.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the F-150?
The 2006 Ford F-150 is a half-ton truck, similar in size to the Silverado 1500 and Tundra.
Three cabin configurations are available, including a 2-door regular cab, 4-door extended cab, and larger 4-door crew cab. Passenger room is tight in the backseats of the extended cab and easily fits adults in the crew cab.
There are also three bed lengths available including a 5-foot-6-inch short bed, 6-foot-6-inch regular bed, and 8-foot long bed.
How Does the 2006 Ford F-150 Compare to Other Trucks?
The highest-rated half-ton truck from 2006 is the more expensive Silverado 1500 series. Both trucks are remarkably similar for the 2006 model year, but the Silverado has fewer owner complaints. Overall, the decision comes down to preference and budget.
Another close competitor is the Toyota Tundra, which is also more expensive. The Tundra offers fewer mechanical issues, but the F-150 is a better choice for towing. Both are decent trucks, but the Tundra is a longer-lasting option.
Final Verdict: Is the 2006 Ford F-150 a Good Truck?
Yes, we recommend the 2006 Ford F-150. A score of 4.3 out of 5 based on 279 verified owner reviews, and even with some spark plug problems, earns our recommendation.
Some positives include a great ride quality for a truck, and high towing capacity. Downsides are weaker engines than rivals and a longer braking distance.
Overall, 2006 is a good year for the F-150, offering substantial improvements over the 2005 model. Features and quality are similar from 2006 through 2009.
Yes. Love it. Very dependable and durable. Great on gas. Has kept me and my family protected for many years now during the harshest of weather. Love the radio in it and the power windows.
Yes. Its trustworthy although with three kids and two adults is a bit small. The only issue I have is that the doors are not separate you have to open the main door then the back door.
Yes. It is a dependable vehicle and also a classic type of vehicle to own. I have owned 2 different models and loved both of them.
Yes. I have had since college and no problem owning it. Good use truck everyday plus has 4wd so can't complain about getting stuck issues. Good on an off the highway.
Yes the only thing that I have had a problem with is the exhaust manifolds crack and then there is a loud ticking sound.
Yes it is. I have only had one issue and that was the battery dying however the battery was from 2006. It handles amazing.
Yes I love my ford, it is reliable and it is built for family that likes to work. With winter in the Midwest you cannot risk getting stuck it is worth every penny.
Great vehicle very dependable and holds valve over this many years and replacement parts not to expensive.