Since its debut in 1948, the F-series pickup truck defined and dominated the car-buying market in the United States. The top-selling truck in America for the last 40 years, the F-series – now in its thirteenth generation – has been the best-selling passenger vehicle in the United States for thirty years running. In 2016 alone, 820,799 F-series Fords were sold. This is more than 240,000 more than the second-place finisher, the Chevrolet Silverado.
Despite a controversial switch from steel to aluminum in the body’s construction, the F-150 is selling strong. It even saw a sale increase of 5.2 percent from 2015, challenging the perception that aluminum is only good for cans and baseball bats!
The new aluminum F-150 managed to bring in a weight saving and raise fuel efficiency without sacrifices to towing, payroll capacities, and safety ratings.
The current generation is one of the most powerful pickups available due to the combination of the new 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine and a new 10-speed automatic transmission. This led to “Kelley’s Blue Book” naming the F-150 its “Pickup Truck Best Buy” for three years in a row.
With a long shelf-life and low maintenance costs, there are more used F-150s on the road than any other vehicle. While the F-150 – as a class – regularly tops the “top truck lists,” there are winners and losers in each generation. For those considering buying a used F-150, we have compiled a buyer’s guide to point out what a potential buyer should look for in a used F-150 and what he/she should look out for.
2003 Ford F-150 Regular Cab (Courtesy:WikiMedia)
A Look At Recent F-150s
2017 F-150
This lighter version of the iconic F-150 – the first production pickup to have an all-aluminum body – has more power and torque than previous generations.
The 2017 F-150 continues the F-150’s legacy of versatility by offering multiple trim packages, and alternative 385-hp 5.0-liter V8 or 2.7-liter turbo V6 engines. The 2017 F-150 also offers additional options including forward-collision warning, blind-spot warning, and lane departure warning.
It won “A Car and Drivers” “Ten Best Trucks and SUVs” for 2017.the F-150 has top rankings for luxury, comfort, visibility, and repair costs. However, a less-than-speedy steering response time, rough suspension, and a wide turning arc make driving challenging, denying the 2017 F-150 perfect marks.
Estimated Costs: A 2017 Ford F150 Super Cab XL Pickup four-door 6 ½ feet bed has a used KBB price of $26,761 to $31,824. A 2017 Ford 150 Super Cab XLT Pickup four-door 6 ½ feet bed averages from $29,819 to $35,464.
Specifications At-A-Glance
- Towing capacity of 9,100 pounds
- A curb weight between 4,500 and 5,900 pounds
- And a 282 to 375 horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 EcoBoost engine
2016 F-150
The 2016 F-150 ranks number one on the “U.S. News & World Report’s” “Used Full Size Trucks $25K and Up” and “2016 Full Size Pickup Trucks” lists. The last of the partial-steel F-150s, the 2016 F-150 ranks best of the pack in safety and towing capability. Having the precision steering that would be lost on the 2017 model, the 2016 F-150 has outstanding handling and safety features. The truck is less luxurious than its next-year successor, particularly in regards to cab space.
The 2016 model featured both the SYNC 3 infotainment system and “Pro Trailer Backup Assist.” With 282 to 385 horsepower from the engine, the 2016 F-150 modestly underperforms the 2017; however, the weight difference translates in lags in acceleration and top speed. The options available for the F-150 can easily price this vehicle outside many buyers’ price range, with a fully-loaded F-150 exceeding $60,000 new.
Estimated Costs: A 2016 Ford F-150 Regular Cab XL Pickup two-door 6 ½ feet bed has a used KBB price of $19,905 to $23,234. A 2016 Ford F-150 SuperCrew Cab Platinum Pickup four-door 6 ½ feet bed has a used KBB price of $38,444 to $45,563.
2015 F-150
The first entry in the 13th generation, the 2015 F-150 is a “U.S. News & World Report’s” finalist for the “2015 Best Full Size Truck for the Money.” It ranked number one on the magazine’s “Used Full Size Trucks $25K and Up” and their“2015 Full Size Pickup Trucks” lists.
This was the first Ford truck to use aluminum in any part in a truck body. the 2015 F-150 has exceptional fuel efficiency for its class, high rankings in hauling and towing capabilities, and the highest torque ranking of any passenger truck in 2015. The 2015 F-150 can haul 3,000 pounds and tow 12,200 pounds.
Shipping standard with rear-wheel drive, the 2015 F-150 is also available in four-wheel drive with a six-speed transmission. The 2015 F-150 has the best handling and cornering of any member of the 13th generation but also has sensitive braking. The cabin is an upgrade from previous generations, with options available for power-adjustable, heated, and cooled front seats. However, the cabin quality is a step down from other competitors.
The 2015 Ford F-150 was highly rated by “Kelley’s Blue Book.” The 2015 Ford F-150 Regular Cab was ranked first on “KBB’s Expert Top Rated” list, with the SuperCab being named number two, and the SuperCrew Cab number three. The SuperCab was also named fourth on KBB’s 2015 Most Fuel Efficient, with the SuperCrew Cab coming in fifth and the Regular Cab eleventh.
Estimated Costs: A 2015 Ford F-150 Regular Cab XL Pickup two-door 6 ½ feet bed has a used KBB price of $17,644 to $20,885. A 2015 Ford F-150 SuperCrew Cab Platinum Pickup four-door 6 ½ feet bed has a used KBB price of $39,038 to $45,504.
2014 F-150
The final member of the twelfth generation, the 2014 F-150 was more of a work vehicle than a personal vehicle. Ranking 12th on the “U.S. News’s Used Full Size Trucks $25K and Up” and number four on the “2014 Full Size Pickup Trucks” lists, the truck featured a smooth, powerful ride in exchange of a cheaply-made cabin and a glitch-prone entertainment system.
With only a basic stereo and air conditioning standard, any added features could raise the price of this model beyond what is expected. At 3,120 pounds hauling capacity and 11,300 pounds towing, the 2014 F-150 is a reliable workhorse. However, as the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and the GMC Sierra 1500 both beat the Ford F-150 in reliability this year, the 2014 F-150 was not the best value for the dollar.
The 2014 Ford F-150 was highly rated by “Kelley’s Blue Book”. The 2014 Ford F-150 Regular Cab was ranked first on “KBB’s Expert Top Rated” list, with the SuperCab being named number two, and the Supercrew Cab number three. The Regular Cab was also named sixth on KBB’s 2014 Most Fuel Efficient, with the SuperCab coming in seventh.
Estimated Costs: A 2014 Ford F-150 Regular Cab XL Pickup two-door 6 ½ feet bed has a used price of $16,215 to $19,266. A 2014 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab Platinum Pickup four-door 6 ½ feet bed has a used KBB price of $31,630 to $37,989.
2013 F-150
Ranking 13th on “U.S. News’ Used Full Size Trucks under $25K” and fourth on its “2013 Full Size Pickup Trucks” lists is the 2013 Ford F-150, which had one of the model’s most impressive engine ratings and rear-seat legroom. With a turbocharged V6 engine and power ratings between 302 and 411 horsepower, the 2013 F-150 is one of the most powerful trucks in its class – although the V8 option is preferred for towing.
Typical of the generation, the braking is sensitive, but the ride is comfortable. The 2013 F-150 also has outstanding off-road capabilities. However, the F-150 is sparsely equipped in its base package.
Estimated Costs: A 2013 Ford F-150 Regular Cab XL Pickup two-door 6 ½ feet bed has a used KBB price of $14,267 to $17,018. A 2013 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab Platinum Pickup four-door 6 ½ feet bed has a used KBB price of $31,464 to $37,059.
2012 F-150
With three recalls listed, the 2012 Ford F-150 is one of the weaker components of the F-150 portfolio. Subpar reliability mars a reasonably powerful work truck, which ranked 22nd on U.S. News’ Used Full Size Trucks under $25K and fifth on the 2012 Full Size Pickup Trucks lists.
Good fuel economy, a spacious cabin, and a powerful engine all made this truck a critic’s darling. However, the sparse offering in base features diminishes the appeal of the 2012 F-150.
A 2012 Ford F-150 Regular Cab XL Pickup two-door 6 ½ feet bed has a used KBB price of $13.651 to $16.352. A 2012 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab Platinum Pickup four-door 6 ½ feet bed has a used KBB price of $29,853 to $34,668.
2011 F-150:
Introducing a new engine configuration for 2011, 2011 F-150 represent a return to form. High torque and horsepower ratings, a comfortable ride, good off-road handling, excellent safety, and fair reliability made the 2011 F-150 U.S. News’ 13th best for Used Full Size Trucks under $25K and third in the 2011 Full Size Pickup Trucks lists.
The 2011 Ford F-150 was also acknowledged by “Kelley’s Blue Book”. The 2011 Ford F-150 was ranked first through sixth on KBB’s Expert Top Rated list, with the Super Cab getting the top spot.
A 2011 Ford F-150 Regular Cab XL Pickup two-door 6 ½ feet bed has a used KBB price of $11.584 to $13,949. A 2011 Ford F150 SuperCrew Cab Platinum Pickup four-door 6 ½ feet bed has a used KBB price of $29,141 to $34,512.
Ford F-150 SVT Lightning (Courtesy: WikiMedia)
How F-150 Ranks Against Other Used Trucks
The Ford F-150 is regarded to be one of the best model lines in American automotive history. According to Edmunds’ “The 21 Greatest Trucks of All Time” list, the F-150 appears four times. The 2008 Ford F-150 was named to “U.S. News’ Most Reliable Used Pickup Trucks” list. The Boston Globe noted about the 2008 F-150 that it was “a utilitarian truck that can go to the construction site, haul plenty of lumber for weekend projects, beat its way through bad weather and rough terrain, but also provide a family of six with all the comforts of a luxury SUV."
“U.S. News & World Report” conducts extensive research on used and new cars and regularly put out ranking lists each year. These lists include an overall ranking, Critic’s Rating, Performance Rating, Safety Rating, and Reliability Rating. U.S. News calculates vehicle rankings through analysis of professional reviews, as well as the collection of data points from various sources:
- Safety: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
- Reliability: J.D. Power and Associates Vehicle Dependability Study or J.D. Power Predicted Reliability rating.
- Total Cost of Ownership: Data received from Vincentric, LLC.
- Awards: Vehicles that won industry awards, such as Motor Trend Car of the Year and North American Car of the Year, receive bumps in their recommendation scores.
- Performance: The performance score is based on a written assessment of a vehicle’s handling, braking, acceleration, ride quality, and other performance measures.
- Interior: The interior score represents the written assessment of the vehicle’s cabin comfort, build quality, and cargo space.
- Critics’ Rating: This reflects the tone of the consensus of reviews received for the vehicle.
Similarly, “Kelley’s Blue Book” calculates their rankings based on sale audit reports from wholesale auctions, financial lenders, and from various dealers. Vehicle reviews are based on KBB’s in-house reviewers and from professional outside reviews. KBB also use industry data points in their assessments, including data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and J.D. Powers.
Things To Look For When Buying A Used F-150s
It is important to know what you are looking for when purchasing your used F-150. While the truck model is known to be reliable, poor maintenance or a history of damage or misuse can rob any vehicle of its utility. It is essential that one has a game plan in place towards evaluating a potential buy.
The first step in any used vehicle inspection is to obtain the vehicle history/service record, such as a CarFax report. This report will indicate any reported accidents the vehicle had and any service work performed.
The most common problems facing F-150s are:
- Ignition coil failure due to spark plug gap;
- Spark plug ejection from cylinder head;
- Head gasket oil leak;
- Rough engine idling; and
- Brake pad and rotor wear.
Having a mechanic check for these problems before the sale may save in costly repairs down the road.
Ford F-150 SuperCrew Cab (Courtesy: WikiMedia)
F-150s to Avoid
While, as a model class, the F-150 is the industry leader, there have been low points in the model’s storied history.
When buying a used F-150, one should avoid:
- Any Ford with a 5.4-liter engine. The 2004 through 2010 5.4-liter 3-valve engines used by Ford were prone to camshaft phaser issues, particularly once the vehicle exceeded 100,000 miles. The camshaft phaser controls the camshaft’s position relative to the crankshaft. This influences piston position. The phaser governs how far ahead or behind the camshaft is to the crankshaft, which can play a role in horsepower conversion and drivability. A phaser malfunction can bleed power from an engine, leading to clogged catalytic converters. Phaser problems are hard to diagnose and costly repairs to affected systems – such as the exhaust system – may only camouflage the issue short-term, turning your 2004 to 2010 F-150 into a money trap.
- The 2004 F-150: Besides the camshaft phaser problem, the 2004 F-150, per CarComplaints.com, is the most complained about F-150, with windows/windshield problems leading the complaint list. This is followed by engine and transmission problems.
- Per FordProblems.com, the top six complained about F-150s are:
- The 2004 F-150: Windows/windshield, engine, transmission;
- The 2005 F-150: Windows/windshield, engine, transmission;
- The 2010 F-150: Windows/windshield, engine, transmission;
- The 2013 F-150: Brakes, engine, windows/windshield;
- The 2011 F-150: Engine, windows/windshield/brakes; and
- The 2015 F-150: Transmission, interior accessories, body/paint.
2010 Ford F-150 Platinum (Courtesy: WikiMedia)
Which Truck Is Right For You?
For more than forty years, the F-150 has dominated the truck-buying market in the United States on the weight of its reliability, practicality, and customizability.
An F-150 could be anything you need it to be when you need it to be. This is why it is not uncommon for twenty-year-old F-150s to still be seen running and working today; an F-150 represents a long-term investment in quality.
Despite this, there are best buys in the F-150 model series. It is typically a safe bet to buy any F-150 for the 12th (2009 to 2014) and 13th generations (2015 to present). While there has been some misses and issues in these models, their pluses far exceed their minuses. Two notable years are the 2012 and 2015 F-150s.
Regardless of the model you settle on, buying an F-150 is buying a piece of American history. This truck defines the American automotive market and is likely to continue to do so for the foreseeable future. While today’s F-150 is not your father’s F-150, it was likely bought for the same reason: it is one of the best working truck on the market.
Once you selected the right truck, be sure to get a backup camera. Camera Source offers the right backup camera for your truck.
