The 2016 Ford F-150 is the most popular full size truck, with a price range of $26,968 to $44,885. It has a lower cost of ownership compared to other half-ton trucks, making it a great value for shoppers.
2016 Ford F-150: Quick Overview
- New features for the 2016 Ford F-150 include the Sync 3 infotainment system, and trailer backup assist.
- Reliability ratings are above average, according to J.D. Power. It is an improvement over the 2015 model, with fewer complaints.
- Four engines are available. The 3.5L EcoBoost V6 tows the most weight, and one V8 is available. All engines options are available with either the 2WD or 4WD drivetrain.
- Fuel efficiency is above average and the F-150 ties for 2nd place with a combined rating of up to 21 miles per gallon.
- Safety ratings are better than other full size trucks, getting a 5-star rating in government crash tests. It also earns the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Top Safety Pick award.
- The 2016 Ford F-150 ranks 6th out of 14 full size trucks based on owner reviews. It’s a capable and reliable choice, but doesn’t have the same luxury found on some of its rivals.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2016 Ford F-150 Have?
The 2016 Ford F-150 has fewer problems than the 2015 model year, and more than the improved 2017 model. It has an average number of issues compared to other full size trucks.
Engine problems, including the engine stalling while driving, are the most common complaints owners have. The most frequent issue is a failing throttle body, and a $120 replacement will fix it.
Brake problems, including brake failures are also brought up by owners. Replacing the master cylinder solves the problem, but it’s about $900 to change out.
Radio problems are also frequently mentioned by owners. There are reports of defective head units which require replacements, and software updates which can fix the problems in some cases.
There are 12 recalls affecting the 2016 Ford F-150, worse than average for a truck its age. Recalls include seatbelts, seat frames, the door latch, block heater cable, brake master cylinder, and upper ball joint. Most serious are the brake master cylinder problems since it reduces the brake force, and can cause an accident.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2016 Ford F-150’s six trim levels range from bare bones XL to luxurious Platinum and Limited. The 2016 F-150 falls in the middle of its class based on pricing, with a price range of $26,968 to $44,885, depending on the model and mileage. When new, it had a retail price of $26,540 to $62,310. Depreciation in the current market is slower than average, losing about 10% of its value in the first 5 years.
- XL is the entry-level model with 17-inch steel wheels, black front trim, manual mirrors, an AM/FM stereo with AUX input, and cloth seating.
- XLT is above it in the lineup and adds 17-inch aluminum wheels, body-colored front trim, upgraded cloth seating, power door locks, cruise control, and a 4.2-inch infotainment screen with USB connectivity.
- Lariat is near the middle and has 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, chrome trim, leather seating, and the SYNC 3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen.
- King Ranch offers rugged luxury with a 2-tone paint job, 18-inch alloy wheels, step bars, LED spotlights, LED headlights, and improved leather.
- Platinum is designed for urban luxury with body-colored exterior trim, additional chrome accents, 20-inch polished alloy wheels, and a more refined interior with contouring front seats.
- Limited is the flagship model and has all the same features as the Platinum, but adds large 22-inch wheels, and satin chrome accents.
How Long Will the 2016 Ford F-150 Last?
The 2016 Ford F-150 is a long-lasting truck, and can reach over 250,000 miles with proper care. Repair costs are average for a full size truck. Repair Pal estimates them to be $640 per year.
Yes, the 2016 ford f-150 is a very reliable truck. I have not experienced any problems with the truck. I have no complaints about the 2016 ford f-150.
I really feel safe in ford f-150, it has good gas mileage and can let me know many things before a potential accident or flat. I can always rely on my truck for many things.
I have owned the vehicle for a few months now and have zero issues. There is 50,000 miles on the vehicle and has been no mechanical issues. Starts every time.
Very reliable and no problems so far. Has 40,000 miles and drives like the day I picked it up. I highly recommend it.
It is reliable, we bought it used. There is minor cosmetic issues that the car lot fixed. Little things like scratches. As far as driving its great. Space is great.
Reliable, just makes occasional noise around the moonroof when closed with the shade. Power rear window and rear camera are excellent.
The f150 has been very reliable with no issues. We have kept the routine maintenance on it and keep it in the garage out of weather so it will last for years to come.
It is very reliable. It had a few recalls but nothing of concern. Everything is sturdy and made ford tough.
2016 Ford F-150 Road Test
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Technology is good in the 2016 Ford F-150 since it’s the second model year of the 13th generation, and features technology released in 2015.
- Base technology found only on the XL model includes an AM/FM stereo system with AUX connectivity.
- Upgrades include a 4.2-inch infotainment screen on the XLT, and an 8-inch screen on all the higher models with SYNC 3 including USB and Bluetooth connectivity.
- For safety, the F-150 comes standard with traction & stability control, anti-lock brakes, and airbags. Options include a backup camera, and advanced technology including blind spot information and trailer guidance systems.
What Engine Options are Available?
The 2016 Ford F-150 engine options include daily-driver 2.7L and powerful 5.0L V8. Performance is above average in the 2016 F-150, and it takes 5.8 seconds to go from 0 to 60 miles per hour with the most powerful engine. The towing capacity is also class-leading for a half-ton truck at 12,200 pounds.
- The base engine is a 3.5L V6 with 282 horsepower and 253 lb.-ft. of torque.
- A fuel-efficient upgrade is the 2.7L EcoBoost V6, which has 325 horsepower and 375 lb.-ft. of torque.
- There’s a 5.0L V8 engine available which produces 385 horsepower and 387 lb.-ft. of torque
- The flagship motor is the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 with 365 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the F-150?
The 2016 Ford F-150 is a full size truck, and may have some difficulty fitting in residential garages depending on the configuration. There are 3 cabin choices available, including a 2-door regular cab, a 4-door SuperCab, and a larger 4-door SuperCrew cab. Passenger room is excellent in the SuperCrew model, but tight in the SuperCab. Three bed lengths are also available including 5-foot 6-inch, 6-foot 6-inch, and 8-foot lengths.
How Does the 2016 Ford F-150 Compare to Other Trucks?
The 2016 Ford F-150 ranks 6th out of 14 full size trucks based on owner reviews, including half ton, three quarter ton, and one ton models.
In first place is the GMC Sierra 2500HD, which is a larger and more expensive truck than the F-150. Infotainment technology, and reliability are better on the Ford. The GMC has more power, a nicer interior, and can tow more weight. If you know you’re going to tow frequently, the GMC is the way to go, but if you want a daily driver, the F-150 is better.
A close competitor is the Chevy Silverado 1500, which is similar in size and price to the F-150. The Chevy has a better interior, but is the only place it beats the Ford. Between the two trucks, the F-150 is a better option with a higher towing capacity, more up-to-date technology, greater reliability, and more engine options.
Final Verdict: Is the 2016 Ford F-150 a Good Truck?
Based on our research including 646 owner reviews and 16 government and automotive websites, yes, the Ford F-150 is a good truck. It’s an efficient truck with many long-lasting engine choices, and has good technology. Where it falls short is with a stripped-down interior, and it’s noisier than other full size trucks. Overall, it’s one of the highest rated half-ton trucks and a great option for shoppers.
Photos: Ford