More affordable than rivals with used prices ranging from $11,132 to $21,524, the 2009 model is a good year with fewer complaints than other half-ton trucks. Mechanical problems are rare, giving the F-150 excellent long-term reliability ratings, and an above-average 300,000 mile lifespan.
2009 Ford F-150: Quick Overview
- The 2009 Ford F-150 is all new with redesigned exterior and interior styling, as well as updated engine choices.
- We rate the reliability as very good, and agree with J.D. Power’s great rating when the truck was new. No widespread problems have developed as the truck has aged.
- Three engine choices are available. All are V8s, two share the same platform, and the largest V8 being the best option for towing.
- Fuel economy is average for the class, ranking 3rd out of 7 full size trucks from 2009 with a combined rating of up to 17 miles per gallon.
- Safety ratings are excellent for a full size truck, getting a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests, and earning a Top Safety Pick award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
- The 2009 Ford F-150 ranks 6th out of 13 full size trucks based on owner reviews. With a class-leading towing capacity, comfortable cabin, and good technology 2009 is a good year for the F-150.
Expert Ratings
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2009 Ford F-150 Have?
There are fewer problems with the 2009 Ford F-150 than many other full size trucks from the same year. Both the 2008 and 2010 models have more complaints from owners, making 2009 a better year to buy.
Engine problems, including spark plugs ejecting, are a problem on some trucks around 105,000 miles. Spark plug ejection problems have been a common issue across the F-150 lineup, and are a component owners should check regularly. If the spark plugs do come out of the engine, repairing the problem costs about $2,600.
A faulty door ajar sensor is another problem happening, in some cases around 130,000 miles. There are two main sources to the problem including a damaged wire, and failed sensors. Replacing the sensor costs only $20 on average, and is an easy part to change.
There are rare transmission problems, including hard shifting between gears which show up in the first 15,000 miles. If the transmission is regularly shifting hard and there are signs of damage to the gears, then the unit will need to be replaced. A new transmission can cost over $3,000 to install, depending on local labor rates.
There are 3 recalls, which is fewer than other full size trucks from 2009. They include brake stop lamps, and interior door handle springs. The lamps are the most important item to address for safety.
How Much is the 2009 Ford F-150 Worth?
Ranging in price from $11,132 to $21,524, the 2009 Ford F-150 is more affordable than other half-ton trucks on the market including the Silverado and Ram. When new, the price range was $21,565 to $44,355. Depreciation is average for a full size truck and in current market conditions only loses about 5% of its current value per year.
What Are the Models & Specs?
XL is the entry-level model with:
- 17-Inch Steel Wheels
- Vinyl Bench Seating
- AM/FM Radio
- Air Conditioning
XLT adds useful features including:
- Cloth Interior Seating
- Chrome Exterior Trim
- Cruise Control
- Power Windows and Locks
FX4 is a good model to go with in the middle of the lineup and has:
- 18-Inch Wheels
- Skid Plates
- Leather Steering Wheel
- Improved Shocks
- Bucket Seats
- 6-Way Power Adjustable Driver’s Seat
Lariat offers some good luxury, adding:
- Two-Tone Paint Job
- Wood Interior Trim
- Leather Seating
- 10-Way Power Driver’s Seat
- SYNC Voice Control
- Heated Front Seats
Platinum is the flagship model with:
- 20-Inch Chrome Wheels
- Premium Leather Seating
- Heated and Cooled Front Seats
- Upgraded Wood Trim Interior
- Chrome Exterior Accents
How Long Will the 2009 Ford F-150 Last?
A properly cared for 2009 Ford F-150 will last almost 300,000 miles, which is longer than many of the other full size trucks. Repair Pal estimates annual maintenance costs to be over $100 more expensive than the Ram or Silverado 1500 series, at $812 per year.
As the truck ages and passes 100,000 miles, there are a few common maintenance items buyers should be prepared for. They include thermostat replacements for $550, wheel hubs costing around $500, as well as drive belt tensioners which cost around $150.
My 2009 ford f-150 XLT is very reliable. I do not have any issues out of it. If you keep your vehicle serviced regularly then you'll never have problems.
So far, it has been very reliable. Aside from one instance where the battery failed (which ended up being at the fault of the dealership), I have had no problems with it.
It is very reliable and keeping up with regular maintenance has successfully helped to avoid major problems.
What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?
Technology in the Ford F-150 is average for a truck from 2009, but feels very dated to use as the vehicle has aged.
- Base technology includes a 4-speaker stereo system with AM/FM playback on the XL model. Upgrading to the XLT adds CD playback, and a 3.5mm AUX input.
- Optional upgrades include 6 and 8-speaker stereo systems, an 8-inch touchscreen navigation, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, as well as SYNC voice control.
- Standard safety features include antilock disc brakes, air bags, stability control, and trailer sway control. There’s an optional rear view camera available on models with navigation.
What Engine Options are Available?
Performance is not as good as some of the competitors in the F-150, taking 7.4 seconds to go from 0 to 60 miles per hour with the largest engine. Although the F-150 has less power than rivals from Toyota, Chevrolet, and Dodge, it still has the highest towing capacity at up to 11,300 pounds.
- The base engine is a 4.6L V8 with 248 horsepower and 293 lb.-ft. of torque.
- A re-tuned high-output version of the 4.6L V8 is available with 292 horsepower and 320 lb.-ft. of torque.
- The flagship engine is the 5.4L V8 with 320 horsepower and 390 lb.-ft. of torque.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the F-150?
The 2009 Ford F-150 is a half-ton truck, similar in size to the Silverado and Ram 1500. There are three cabin configurations available including a 2-door regular cab, 4-door SuperCab, and larger 4-door SuperCrew. Passenger room is excellent in the backseats of the SuperCrew, but is limited in the SuperCab.
Three bed lengths are also available including a 5-foot-6-inch short bed, 6-foot-5-inch regular bed, and 8-foot long bed.
How Does the 2009 Ford F-150 Compare to Other Trucks?
Ranking 6th out of 13 full size trucks, based on owner reviews, the 2009 Ford F-150 is in the middle of the class.
The highest-rated half ton truck from 2009 is the more expensive Toyota Tundra. The Tundra offers similar long-term reliability, but has more powerful engines as standard. Where the Ford stands out is with a higher towing capacity, and better optional technology. Overall, both are good trucks, and the decision comes down to personal preference.
Another close rival is the Chevrolet Silverado, which also has a higher starting price. The Silverado has fewer complaints from owners, and a higher-quality interior. Where Ford wins out is with a higher towing capacity, and more technology available. Both trucks are good choices, but the refreshed F-150 gives you more for your money.
Final Verdict: Is the 2009 Ford F-150 a Good Truck?
Yes, the 2009 Ford F-150 is a good truck. We reached our conclusion after considering 154 verified owner reviews, with owners having a generally positive view of the F-150, rating it 4.4/ 5. The positives include outstanding safety scores, and a higher towing capacity than rivals. Where the F-150 misses the mark is with less power than other half-ton trucks, and the interior materials are cheaper on entry-level models. Overall, the 2009 F-150 is a good choice for shoppers looking for a dependable half-ton truck.
Yes, it is an amazing vehicle. It rides very smooth and looks very good. I have four wheel drive so that I can even use it hunting.
Yes. It suits all of my needs, whether it be work relating, using it to help someone move/transport large items, or just being my typical, day to day vehicle.