The 2011 Ford F-150 is a large truck with a price range of $12,193 to $31,534. It’s an average priced used truck, and dependable engine choices make it a good value for shoppers.
2011 Ford F-150: Quick Overview
- Changes for the 2011 Ford F-150 include all-new engines, and an LCD driver information display in the instrument cluster.
- Reliability ratings are average according to J.D. Power. It has fewer problems than other full-size trucks.
- Four engines are available. The base 3.7L V6 feels underpowered, the 5.0L is the latest modular V8 from Ford, and the 6.2L V8 and 3.5L V6 have the highest towing capacities.
- The 2011 F-150 ranks 4th for fuel efficiency, with a combined rating of up to 19 miles per gallon with the EcoBoost engine.
- Safety ratings are above average, earning four stars in government crash tests. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awards it a Top Safety Pick.
- The F-150 ranks 6th out of 15 full-size trucks, but is up against larger three-quarter-ton and one-ton trucks. The F-150 is the best-selling vehicle in the United States since it has reliable engines and a comfortable cabin.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2011 Ford F-150 Have?
The 2011 Ford F-150 has fewer complaints than the 2010 model, but more than the 2012. It also has a lower number of complaints than other full-size trucks. The most common problem owners report is the engine stalling while accelerating. Replacing the spark plugs and coils fixes the problem, and Ford has issued technical service bulletins instructing dealerships to change them on affected trucks. Owners also report the rear window shattering when using the defroster. It’s usually a manufacturing defect in the glass causing it to break with the change in temperature. Electronic power steering problems also exist on the F-150, but are not as common as on other Ford vehicles. Replacing the power steering motor and steering rack fixes the problem.
There are six recalls affecting the 2011 F-150, average for a truck its age. Recalls include the body control module, transmission shift lever, transmission downshifts, and issues with the gear selector lamp in the dash. The most serious is the transmission downshifting since it can cause damage to the transmission or cause the rear tires to lock up. Six recalls and four investigations reveal serious problems with popular pickup.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2011 Ford F-150 is average-priced for a full-size truck, and available from $12,193 to $31,534, depending on the mileage and model. When new, it had a retail price of $22,720 to $51,770. It depreciates slower than average, losing only 39% of its value in the first five years.
- XL is the base model. It’s designed to be a work truck purchased by fleet operators and has 17-inch steel wheels, manual door locks, vinyl bench seating, and an AM/FM stereo system.
- XLT is above it. Included features are power locks, cloth seats, remote entry, power windows, and an upgraded stereo with CD and AUX playback.
- Lariat is next in the lineup. Added features include leather seats, 18-inch alloy wheels, an LCD driver information display, and Sync infotainment system.
- King Ranch is a luxury version with a rugged two-tone exterior that looks at home on a farm. Features include remote start, power seats, ventilated front seats, a rearview camera, and upgraded leather.
- Platinum is a luxury model with a refined exterior suited to city driving. It features second-row heated seats, satin metallic trim, supple leather seating, and wood trim throughout the truck.
- SVT Raptor is built for off-road performance. Upgrades include skid plates, a long-travel suspension, larger off-road tires, a redesigned front-bumper, flared fenders, and improved rear differential.
How Long Will the 2011 Ford F-150 Last?
The 2011 Ford F-150 will last over 250,000 miles when properly cared for, average for a full-size truck. Trucks are usually built to last longer than regular vehicles since they travel more miles in a year for work. Maintenance costs are more expensive than other vehicles in its class. Repair Pal estimates it will cost $830 per year to maintain.
It is very reliable. We had a minor problem, so minor I cannot remember right after we bought it but the dealership fixed it. Like I said, very minor and nothing that would be a safety issue. We never have trouble, never break down, never have had a flat tire, etc.
It is very reliable. I think the transmission is slipping but it is 8 years old with no other major issues.
No ford is one of the best dealers in Texas there are no problems with this truck that I have bought. I love this truck more than any.
We have had problems with a computer in the transmission. We have replaced the switch in the fan control 4 times and it's going out again. The lug nuts are junk and round off when they rotate tires which gets expensive at 120 dollars a time. We have had brakes many times. Tie rods, bearings and it uses oil. I am sure I am missing things but I can't remember it all.
My 2011 ford f150 has been reliable so far. I haven't had any major problems with my vehicle. It gets praised for it is looks and handling even in 2019.
Yes, once it hits about 150,000 miles it begins to break down. I have had to do many repairs on it. I don't know how much longer it has.
Have not had to have anything fixed since I got it in 2015. Normal maintenance and it is great. As seemingly with all ford products as it ages you start to develop some electrical glitches, but so far nothing major.
It is very reliable and has had minimal problems. Aside from regular maintenance we have not had to do any major repair work.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Technology in the 2011 F-150 is good for a full-size truck, but it’s not class-leading. A redesign in 2015 adds more technology, but is more expensive on the used market.
- Base technology includes an AM/FM stereo system in the XL model. A CD player and AUX port are added to the XLT.
- Upgraded technology includes Sync navigation with an eight-inch touch screen, and Bluetooth connectivity.
- For safety, there are airbags, stability and traction control systems, and antilock brakes. Optional features include a rearview camera.
What Engine Options are Available?
The 2011 Ford F-150 engine options include two V6s and two V8s, with the former going toe-to-toe with the latter. Performance is good in the 2011 Ford F-150, and it has the highest towing capacity of any half-ton truck. Both the 6.2L V8 or 3.5L EcoBoost V6 tow up to 11,300 pounds depending on the cab configuration.
- The base engine is a 3.7L V6 with 302 horsepower and 278 lb.-ft. of torque.
- Above that is the 5.0L V8 producing 360 horsepower and 380 lb.-ft. of torque.
- A 6.2L V8 is the most powerful, making 411 horsepower and 434 lb.-ft. of torque.
- The fuel-efficient 3.5L EcoBoost V6 has 365 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque.
What Colors Options are Available?
How Big is the F-150?
The 2011 Ford F-150 is a half-ton truck, similar in size to other vehicles like the Chevy Silverado 1500 and Ram 1500. Three cabin configurations are available including a two-door regular cab, 2.5-door SuperCab, and four-door Super Crew. The SuperCab has limited legroom in the second row, best suited for children or short trips. Passenger room is excellent in the Super Crew, and adults easily fit in the second row. A 5.5 foot, 6.5 foot, or eight foot bed is available as well.
How Does the 2011 Ford F-150 Compare to Other Trucks?
Owners rank the 2011 F-150 6th out of 15 full-size trucks. At the top of the lineup is the Ford F-350, which is a larger and more expensive truck than the F-150. It has features not found on the F-150, including a diesel engine, gooseneck trailer attachment in the bed, and optional dual rear wheels. The F-350 is built to tow much more than the F-150, and is a better choice if you need a serious work truck. An F-150 is a better choice if you want a regular daily driver, and do not need to tow construction or farm equipment.
Another half-ton truck close to the F-150 is the Toyota Tundra. It’s more expensive than the F-150 with a higher starting price, but has a lower cost of ownership with fewer problems. The F-150 has better styling, technology, and can tow more than the Tundra. Overall, if you need a more capable work truck, the F-150 is the better choice, but if you want a longer-lasting truck, the Tundra is the way to go.
Final Verdict: Is the 2011 Ford F-150 a Good Truck?
Based on our research and owner reviews, we say yes, the 2011 Ford F-150 is a good truck. It does everything a shopper needs from a truck. It has a roomy four-door cabin, and reliable engine choices. Where it falls short is with a rough ride, and higher ownership costs compared to other large trucks. Overall, if you need a half-ton truck, the F-150 is a fantastic choice.