Ford F-150 research: recalls, reliability and buyer's guide

The F-150 covers everything from basic work trucks to luxury and off-road Raptors. 2011-2014 trucks introduced the EcoBoost turbo V6 and a 5.0L V8 with a 6-speed. The 2015 redesign brought an aluminum body that saved weight, and 2017-2018 added a 10-speed automatic and stronger engines. The 2021 generation added a nicer cabin, the PowerBoost hybrid and a built-in generator, and 2024 made the 2.7L EcoBoost, LED headlights and a 12-inch screen standard.

Model years covered: 2011–2026. Verify 2026 specs against current Ford data; trims and packages change often, and Ford has indicated the 2.7L EcoBoost is replaced by a 3.0L EcoBoost for 2027.

Last updated 2026-10-15.

Strengths

Wide choice of cabs beds and trims
Strong ecoboost towing torque
Simple 5.0 liter V8 option
Lighter aluminum body 2015 and later
Powerboost hybrid with onboard generator
Raptor off road performance
Huge parts and service network

Things to know before you buy

Exact configuration drives towing and payload
2011 2013 downshift recall
Early ecoboost condensation reports
3.5 liter ecoboost cam phaser reports
10 speed shift quality varies
Aluminum body repair costs
Recall status should be checked by VIN

Generations

Generation 12 (2009–2014)

The 12th-generation F-150 (2009-2014) got an all-new engine lineup for 2011: a 302-hp 3.7L V6, 360-hp 5.0L V8, the first 365-hp 3.5L EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 and a 411-hp 6.2L V8 (SVT Raptor and select trims), all with a 6-speed automatic. 2013 added HID headlights and the Limited; 2014 added the Tremor and was the last steel-bodied F-150.

Buyer takeaway: A 5.0L V8 truck is the simplest choice; an EcoBoost tows better. Confirm the 2011-2013 downshift recall and inspect for rust.

Generation 13 (2015–2020)

The 13th-generation F-150 (2015-2020) introduced an aluminum-alloy body and the 2.7L EcoBoost. For 2017 a second-generation 3.5L EcoBoost (375 hp) and the 10-speed automatic arrived along with the 450-hp Raptor. The 2018 refresh added a 290-hp 3.3L V6, a 395-hp 5.0L V8, the 10-speed on most engines and the 3.0L Power Stroke diesel.

Buyer takeaway: 2018-2020 trucks are the sweet spot for power and the 10-speed; confirm seat-belt and door-latch recalls on 2015-2018 trucks and check aluminum-body repair history.

Generation 14 (2021–present)

The 14th-generation F-150 (2021-present) brought a new interior, over-the-air updates, Pro Power Onboard and the 430-hp, 570 lb-ft 3.5L PowerBoost hybrid; the 5.0L V8 and 3.5L EcoBoost rose to 400 hp. The diesel ended after 2021, the 700-hp Raptor R arrived for 2023, and the 2024 refresh dropped the 3.3L V6 and made LED headlights and a 12-inch screen standard.

Buyer takeaway: Choose the PowerBoost for onboard power and city mpg, the 5.0L V8 for simplicity, and the 3.5L EcoBoost for heavy towing. 2024+ trucks have the most standard tech.

Ford F-150 by model year

2026 Ford F-150

The 2026 F-150 continues the refreshed 14th-generation truck with the 325-hp 2.7L EcoBoost, 400-hp 5.0L V8, 400-hp 3.5L EcoBoost and 430-hp PowerBoost hybrid with the 10-speed. Ford has indicated a 3.0L EcoBoost will replace the 2.7L for 2027. Trims, packages and pricing change often, so verify 2026 specs against current Ford data.

Engines: 2.7 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 325 hp 400 lb ft; 5.0 liter V8 400 hp 410 lb ft; 3.5 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 400 hp 500 lb ft; 3.5 liter powerboost full hybrid V6 430 hp 570 lb ft; 3.5 liter high output ecoboost V6 450 hp 510 lb ft raptor; 5.2 liter supercharged V8 700 hp raptor r
Transmissions: 10 speed automatic; 10 speed automatic with integrated motor powerboost
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Part time 4x4; Automatic 4wd on select trims
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Supercab extended cab pickup; Supercrew crew cab pickup

What changed:

Largely carryover verify against current ford data
Reported final year of the 2.7 liter ecoboost

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine cab bed and axle by VIN; Ecoboost turbo and intercooler condition if ecoboost; Oil change records; 10 speed shift quality and software updates; Hybrid system and pro power onboard if powerboost; Driver assistance sensors and cameras; Frame and underbody rust; Towing hitch and trailer wiring wear; 4x4 engagement and front hubs if 4x4; Suspension steering and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2025 Ford F-150

The 2025 F-150 carries over the 2024 refresh with the 325-hp 2.7L EcoBoost, 400-hp 5.0L V8, 400-hp 3.5L EcoBoost and 430-hp PowerBoost hybrid, all with the 10-speed. PowerBoost trucks now come with standard 4x4 and were priced in line with the 3.5L EcoBoost, making the hybrid an easier choice for buyers who use onboard power.

Engines: 2.7 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 325 hp 400 lb ft; 5.0 liter V8 400 hp 410 lb ft; 3.5 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 400 hp 500 lb ft; 3.5 liter powerboost full hybrid V6 430 hp 570 lb ft; 3.5 liter high output ecoboost V6 450 hp 510 lb ft raptor; 5.2 liter supercharged V8 700 hp raptor r
Transmissions: 10 speed automatic; 10 speed automatic with integrated motor powerboost
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Part time 4x4; Automatic 4wd on select trims
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Supercab extended cab pickup; Supercrew crew cab pickup

What changed:

Powerboost hybrid gets standard 4x4
Hybrid pricing aligned with 3.5 liter ecoboost

2024 Ford F-150

The 2024 refresh dropped the 3.3L V6, making the 325-hp, 400 lb-ft 2.7L EcoBoost the base engine. Other choices are the 400-hp 5.0L V8, 400-hp 3.5L EcoBoost, 430-hp PowerBoost hybrid, plus Raptor and Raptor R. LED headlights and a 12-inch touchscreen became standard, and a new Pro Access tailgate with a swing-out door was introduced.

Engines: 2.7 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 325 hp 400 lb ft; 5.0 liter V8 400 hp 410 lb ft; 3.5 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 400 hp 500 lb ft; 3.5 liter powerboost full hybrid V6 430 hp 570 lb ft; 3.5 liter high output ecoboost V6 450 hp 510 lb ft raptor; 5.2 liter supercharged V8 700 hp raptor r
Transmissions: 10 speed automatic; 10 speed automatic with integrated motor powerboost
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Part time 4x4; Automatic 4wd on select trims
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Supercab extended cab pickup; Supercrew crew cab pickup

What changed:

3.3 liter V6 dropped 2.7 liter ecoboost becomes standard
Standard LED headlights and 12 inch touchscreen
New pro access swing out tailgate
Refreshed front styling

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine cab bed and axle by VIN; Ecoboost turbo and intercooler condition if ecoboost; Oil change records; 10 speed shift quality and software updates; Hybrid system and pro power onboard if powerboost; Pro access tailgate operation if equipped; Driver assistance sensors and cameras; Frame and underbody rust; Towing hitch and trailer wiring wear; 4x4 engagement and front hubs if 4x4; Suspension steering and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2023 Ford F-150

For 2023 Ford added the Raptor R with a 700-hp supercharged 5.2L V8. Mainstream F-150s continue with the 290-hp 3.3L V6, 2.7L and 3.5L EcoBoost, 400-hp 5.0L V8 and 430-hp PowerBoost hybrid, all with the 10-speed. It is the last year of the 3.3L V6, so a 2023 base truck may be cheaper than a 2024 with the 2.7L.

Engines: 3.3 liter V6 290 hp 265 lb ft; 2.7 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 325 hp 400 lb ft; 5.0 liter V8 400 hp 410 lb ft; 3.5 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 400 hp 500 lb ft; 3.5 liter powerboost full hybrid V6 430 hp 570 lb ft; 3.5 liter high output ecoboost V6 450 hp 510 lb ft raptor; 5.2 liter supercharged V8 700 hp raptor r
Transmissions: 10 speed automatic; 10 speed automatic with integrated motor powerboost
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Part time 4x4; Automatic 4wd on select trims
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Supercab extended cab pickup; Supercrew crew cab pickup

What changed:

Raptor r with 700 hp supercharged 5.2 liter V8
Last year of the 3.3 liter base V6

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine cab bed and axle by VIN; Ecoboost turbo and intercooler condition if ecoboost; Oil change records; 10 speed shift quality and software updates; Hybrid system and pro power onboard if powerboost; Infotainment and software updates; Frame and underbody rust; Towing hitch and trailer wiring wear; 4x4 engagement and front hubs if 4x4; Suspension steering and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2022 Ford F-150

The 2022 F-150 continues with the 290-hp 3.3L V6, 325-hp 2.7L EcoBoost, 400-hp 5.0L V8, 400-hp 3.5L EcoBoost and 430-hp PowerBoost hybrid, all with the 10-speed; the diesel is gone. The new-generation Raptor uses a 450-hp high-output EcoBoost. The all-electric F-150 Lightning launched this year and is evaluated as a separate model.

Engines: 3.3 liter V6 290 hp 265 lb ft; 2.7 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 325 hp 400 lb ft; 5.0 liter V8 400 hp 410 lb ft; 3.5 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 400 hp 500 lb ft; 3.5 liter powerboost full hybrid V6 430 hp 570 lb ft; 3.5 liter high output ecoboost V6 450 hp 510 lb ft raptor
Transmissions: 10 speed automatic; 10 speed automatic with integrated motor powerboost
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Part time 4x4; Automatic 4wd on select trims
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Supercab extended cab pickup; Supercrew crew cab pickup

What changed:

Diesel dropped
Electric f 150 lightning launches as a separate model
New generation raptor with 450 hp

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine cab bed and axle by VIN; Ecoboost turbo and intercooler condition if ecoboost; Oil change records; 10 speed shift quality and software updates; Hybrid system and pro power onboard if powerboost; Infotainment and software updates; Frame and underbody rust; Towing hitch and trailer wiring wear; 4x4 engagement and front hubs if 4x4; Suspension steering and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2021 Ford F-150

The redesigned 2021 F-150 brought a new interior with an available 12-inch screen, over-the-air updates and Pro Power Onboard, a built-in generator. Engines: 290-hp 3.3L V6, 325-hp 2.7L EcoBoost, 400-hp 5.0L V8, 400-hp 3.5L EcoBoost, and the new 430-hp, 570 lb-ft PowerBoost hybrid, all with a 10-speed. 2021 is the last year of the 3.0L diesel.

Engines: 3.3 liter V6 290 hp 265 lb ft; 2.7 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 325 hp 400 lb ft; 5.0 liter V8 400 hp 410 lb ft; 3.5 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 400 hp 500 lb ft; 3.5 liter powerboost full hybrid V6 430 hp 570 lb ft; 3.5 liter high output ecoboost V6 450 hp 510 lb ft raptor; 3.0 liter power stroke turbodiesel V6 250 hp 440 lb ft final year
Transmissions: 10 speed automatic; 10 speed automatic with integrated motor powerboost
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Part time 4x4; Automatic 4wd on select trims
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Supercab extended cab pickup; Supercrew crew cab pickup

What changed:

All new 14th generation with new interior
New 3.5 liter powerboost full hybrid 430 hp
Pro power onboard built in generator
Available 12 inch touchscreen and fold flat max recline seats
Over the air updates and available bluecruise hands free driving later

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine cab bed and axle by VIN; Ecoboost turbo and intercooler condition if ecoboost; Oil change records; 10 speed shift quality and software updates; Hybrid system and pro power onboard if powerboost; Infotainment and software updates; Frame and underbody rust; Towing hitch and trailer wiring wear; 4x4 engagement and front hubs if 4x4; Suspension steering and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2020 Ford F-150

The 2020 F-150 is the last of the 13th generation, with the 290-hp 3.3L V6, 325-hp 2.7L EcoBoost, 395-hp 5.0L V8, 375-hp 3.5L EcoBoost, 250-hp 3.0L diesel and the 450-hp Raptor. A late, well-sorted 13th-generation truck can be a good value against the redesigned 2021, though it lacks the newer interior and Pro Power Onboard generator.

Engines: 3.3 liter V6 290 hp 265 lb ft; 2.7 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 325 hp 400 lb ft; 5.0 liter V8 395 hp 400 lb ft; 3.5 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 375 hp 470 lb ft; 3.0 liter power stroke turbodiesel V6 250 hp 440 lb ft; 3.5 liter high output ecoboost V6 450 hp 510 lb ft raptor
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic 3.3 liter V6; 10 speed automatic other engines
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Part time 4x4
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Supercab extended cab pickup; Supercrew crew cab pickup

What changed:

Last year of the 13th generation
Largely carryover

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine cab bed and axle by VIN; Ecoboost turbo and intercooler condition if ecoboost; Oil change records; 10 speed shift quality and software updates; Cold start rattle cam phasers if 3 5 ecoboost; Diesel DEF and emissions system if diesel; Frame and underbody rust; Towing hitch and trailer wiring wear; 4x4 engagement and front hubs if 4x4; Suspension steering and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2019 Ford F-150

The 2019 F-150 carries over the 2018 lineup (290-hp 3.3L V6, 2.7L and 3.5L EcoBoost, 395-hp 5.0L V8, 3.0L diesel) and gives the luxury Limited the Raptor's 450-hp high-output 3.5L EcoBoost. Most engines use the 10-speed automatic. Check for cam-phaser rattle on 3.5L EcoBoosts and shift quality on any 10-speed truck.

Engines: 3.3 liter V6 290 hp 265 lb ft; 2.7 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 325 hp 400 lb ft; 5.0 liter V8 395 hp 400 lb ft; 3.5 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 375 hp 470 lb ft; 3.0 liter power stroke turbodiesel V6 250 hp 440 lb ft; 3.5 liter high output ecoboost V6 450 hp 510 lb ft raptor; 3.5 liter high output ecoboost V6 450 hp limited trim
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic 3.3 liter V6; 10 speed automatic other engines
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Part time 4x4
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Supercab extended cab pickup; Supercrew crew cab pickup

What changed:

Limited trim gets 450 hp high output ecoboost
Largely carryover

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine cab bed and axle by VIN; Ecoboost turbo and intercooler condition if ecoboost; Oil change records; 10 speed shift quality and software updates; Cold start rattle cam phasers if 3 5 ecoboost; Diesel DEF and emissions system if diesel; Frame and underbody rust; Towing hitch and trailer wiring wear; 4x4 engagement and front hubs if 4x4; Suspension steering and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2018 Ford F-150

The 2018 refresh brought new styling and broader 10-speed use: a 290-hp 3.3L V6 (6-speed), 325-hp/400 lb-ft 2.7L EcoBoost, 395-hp 5.0L V8, 375-hp 3.5L EcoBoost and, midyear, a 250-hp, 440 lb-ft 3.0L Power Stroke diesel, all others with the 10-speed. Pre-collision assist with automatic braking became available. 2018 is a strong used choice.

Engines: 3.3 liter V6 290 hp 265 lb ft; 2.7 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 325 hp 400 lb ft; 5.0 liter V8 395 hp 400 lb ft; 3.5 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 375 hp 470 lb ft; 3.0 liter power stroke turbodiesel V6 250 hp 440 lb ft; 3.5 liter high output ecoboost V6 450 hp 510 lb ft raptor
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic 3.3 liter V6; 10 speed automatic other engines
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Part time 4x4
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Supercab extended cab pickup; Supercrew crew cab pickup

What changed:

Refreshed grille bumpers and tailgate
New 3.3 liter base V6
10 speed automatic on most engines
5.0 liter V8 rises to 395 hp
First 3.0 liter power stroke diesel arrives midyear
Available automatic emergency braking

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine cab bed and axle by VIN; Ecoboost turbo and intercooler condition if ecoboost; Oil change records; 10 speed shift quality and software updates; Cold start rattle cam phasers if 3 5 ecoboost; Diesel DEF and emissions system if diesel; Seat belt pretensioner recall status; Frame and underbody rust; Towing hitch and trailer wiring wear; 4x4 engagement and front hubs if 4x4; Suspension steering and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2017 Ford F-150

For 2017 a second-generation 3.5L EcoBoost (375 hp, 470 lb-ft) arrived with a new 10-speed automatic, and the Raptor returned with a 450-hp high-output EcoBoost in place of the old V8. Other engines (282-hp V6, 325-hp 2.7L EcoBoost, 385-hp 5.0L V8) keep the 6-speed. Early 10-speeds and 3.5L EcoBoost cam phasers draw owner complaints, so test drive carefully.

Engines: 3.5 liter V6 282 hp 253 lb ft; 2.7 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 325 hp 375 lb ft; 5.0 liter V8 385 hp 387 lb ft; 3.5 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 375 hp 470 lb ft; 3.5 liter high output ecoboost V6 450 hp 510 lb ft raptor
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic most engines; 10 speed automatic 3.5 liter ecoboost and raptor
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Part time 4x4
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Supercab extended cab pickup; Supercrew crew cab pickup

What changed:

Second generation 3.5 liter ecoboost 375 hp 470 lb ft
New 10 speed automatic with ecoboost
Raptor returns with 450 hp high output ecoboost

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine cab bed and axle by VIN; Ecoboost turbo and intercooler condition if ecoboost; Oil change records; 10 speed shift quality and software updates; Cold start rattle cam phasers if 3 5 ecoboost; Door latch and seat belt recall status; Frame and underbody rust; Towing hitch and trailer wiring wear; 4x4 engagement and front hubs if 4x4; Suspension steering and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2016 Ford F-150

The 2016 F-150 carries over the aluminum-body truck with the 282-hp 3.5L V6, 325-hp 2.7L EcoBoost, 385-hp 5.0L V8 and 365-hp 3.5L EcoBoost, all with the 6-speed automatic. Ford's quicker SYNC 3 system began replacing MyFord Touch, so confirm the infotainment version. 2015-2016 trucks are covered by door-latch and seat-belt pretensioner recalls.

Engines: 3.5 liter V6 282 hp 253 lb ft; 2.7 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 325 hp 375 lb ft; 5.0 liter V8 385 hp 387 lb ft; 3.5 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 365 hp 420 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Part time 4x4
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Supercab extended cab pickup; Supercrew crew cab pickup

What changed:

Largely carryover
Sync 3 infotainment phases in on some trims

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine cab bed and axle by VIN; Ecoboost turbo and intercooler condition if ecoboost; Oil change records; Aluminum body repair quality and accident history; Door latch and seat belt recall status; Frame and underbody rust; Towing hitch and trailer wiring wear; 4x4 engagement and front hubs if 4x4; Suspension steering and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2015 Ford F-150

The 2015 F-150 switched to an aluminum-alloy body on a stronger steel frame, cutting up to roughly 700 lb. Engines are a 282-hp 3.5L V6, a new 325-hp 2.7L EcoBoost, a 385-hp 5.0L V8 and the 365-hp 3.5L EcoBoost, all with a 6-speed automatic. A 360-degree camera and LED headlights were available. Aluminum body repairs can cost more, so check accident history.

Engines: 3.5 liter V6 282 hp 253 lb ft; 2.7 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 325 hp 375 lb ft; 5.0 liter V8 385 hp 387 lb ft; 3.5 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 365 hp 420 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Part time 4x4
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Supercab extended cab pickup; Supercrew crew cab pickup

What changed:

All new aluminum alloy body on steel frame
Weight savings of up to about 700 lb
New 2.7 liter ecoboost V6
Available 360 degree camera and LED headlights
No raptor for 2015 2016

2014 Ford F-150

The 2014 F-150 is the last steel-bodied F-150 and added the Tremor, a regular-cab sport truck with the 3.5L EcoBoost. Engines remain the 302-hp V6, 360-hp 5.0L V8, 365-hp EcoBoost and 411-hp 6.2L V8 (SVT Raptor and select trims), all with a 6-speed automatic. A well-kept 2014 is often cheaper than a 2015 aluminum-body truck.

Engines: 3.7 liter V6 302 hp 278 lb ft; 5.0 liter V8 360 hp 380 lb ft; 3.5 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 365 hp 420 lb ft; 6.2 liter V8 411 hp 434 lb ft raptor and select trims
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Part time 4x4
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Supercab extended cab pickup; Supercrew crew cab pickup

What changed:

Tremor sport truck with ecoboost
Last steel body f 150
Last year of the first svt raptor

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine cab bed and axle by VIN; Ecoboost turbo and intercooler condition if ecoboost; Oil change records; Frame and underbody rust; Towing hitch and trailer wiring wear; 4x4 engagement and front hubs if 4x4; Suspension steering and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2013 Ford F-150

For 2013 Ford added available HID headlights and the luxury Limited trim (with the 3.5L EcoBoost), plus more technology options. Engines carry over: 302-hp 3.7L V6, 360-hp 5.0L V8, 365-hp EcoBoost and 411-hp 6.2L V8, with the 6-speed automatic. Like 2011-2012, check the unexpected-downshift recall by VIN.

Engines: 3.7 liter V6 302 hp 278 lb ft; 5.0 liter V8 360 hp 380 lb ft; 3.5 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 365 hp 420 lb ft; 6.2 liter V8 411 hp 434 lb ft raptor and select trims
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Part time 4x4
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Supercab extended cab pickup; Supercrew crew cab pickup

What changed:

Hid headlights available
New limited top trim
Updated myford touch and tech options

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine cab bed and axle by VIN; Ecoboost turbo and intercooler condition if ecoboost; Oil change records; 6 speed shift quality and downshift recall status; Frame and underbody rust; Towing hitch and trailer wiring wear; 4x4 engagement and front hubs if 4x4; Suspension steering and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2012 Ford F-150

The 2012 F-150 carries over the 2011 lineup: 302-hp 3.7L V6, 360-hp 5.0L V8, 365-hp 3.5L EcoBoost and 411-hp 6.2L V8, all with a 6-speed automatic. The 3.5L EcoBoost offers the most towing torque; the 5.0L V8 is the simpler choice. 2011-2013 trucks were recalled for possible unexpected downshifts, so confirm the remedy by VIN.

Engines: 3.7 liter V6 302 hp 278 lb ft; 5.0 liter V8 360 hp 380 lb ft; 3.5 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 365 hp 420 lb ft; 6.2 liter V8 411 hp 434 lb ft raptor and select trims
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Part time 4x4
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Supercab extended cab pickup; Supercrew crew cab pickup

What changed:

Largely carryover
Minor equipment updates

2011 Ford F-150

The 2011 F-150 got an all-new engine lineup, all with a 6-speed automatic: a 302-hp 3.7L V6, a 360-hp 5.0L V8, the first 365-hp, 420 lb-ft 3.5L EcoBoost twin-turbo V6, and a 411-hp 6.2L V8 on the SVT Raptor and select upper trims. Regular, SuperCab and SuperCrew cabs and many trims were offered. Early EcoBoost trucks had reports of stumbling in humid weather, later addressed by Ford service fixes.

Engines: 3.7 liter V6 302 hp 278 lb ft; 5.0 liter V8 360 hp 380 lb ft; 3.5 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6 365 hp 420 lb ft; 6.2 liter V8 411 hp 434 lb ft raptor and select trims
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive; Part time 4x4
Body style: Regular cab pickup; Supercab extended cab pickup; Supercrew crew cab pickup

What changed:

All new engine lineup
First 3.5 liter ecoboost twin turbo V6
New 5.0 liter V8
6 speed automatic on every engine
Electric power steering

Known issues and what to check

2011-2013 Unexpected Downshift Recall (2011–2013)
Ford recalled many 2011-2013 F-150s with the 6-speed automatic because a transmission sensor fault could cause an unexpected downshift to a lower gear at speed, possibly causing a skid. The remedy updates the powertrain software. Coverage depends on the build, so check the VIN.
What to do: Confirm this recall is complete before buying a 2011-2013 F-150.
Early 3.5L EcoBoost Intercooler Condensation Stumble (2011–2013)
Some early 3.5L EcoBoost trucks stumbled, misfired or went into limp mode under hard acceleration in humid weather because condensation collected in the intercooler. Ford issued service fixes, including software and intercooler changes, on affected trucks.
What to do: Ask whether the intercooler fix was done and test under hard acceleration.
3.5L EcoBoost Cam Phaser Rattle at Cold Start (2017–2023)
Many owners of second-generation 3.5L EcoBoost trucks report a brief rattle at cold start traced to the cam phasers or timing components; Ford has issued service information for it. Repairs are costly if out of warranty.
What to do: Hear the engine start cold before buying a 3.5L EcoBoost F-150.
10-Speed Automatic Shift Quality (2017–2026)
The 10-speed automatic (2017 on with some engines, most engines from 2018) has drawn complaints of harsh, clunky or busy shifts, especially at low speed. Software updates and adaptive relearns help many trucks.
What to do: Test the 10-speed in stop-and-go driving.
2015-2018 Seat Belt Pretensioner and Door Latch Recalls (2015–2018)
In 2017 Ford recalled about 1.3 million trucks, including 2015-2017 F-150s, for door latches that could freeze in cold weather, and in 2018 about 2 million 2015-2018 F-150s for front seat-belt pretensioners that could create sparks and a fire risk. Both remedies are free.
What to do: Confirm both recalls are complete on a 2015-2018 F-150.
Aluminum Body Repairs and Frame Rust (2011–2026)
2015 and later F-150s use aluminum body panels that resist rust but can cost more to repair after a crash; older steel-bodied trucks and all frames should be checked for rust in salt states, along with signs of heavy towing or off-road use.
What to do: Check accident history and inspect the frame and hitch area.
Engine, Cab, Bed and Special-Model Disambiguation (2011–2026)
F-150 engines, cabs (Regular, SuperCab, SuperCrew), bed lengths, axle ratios and tow ratings vary widely. The Raptor, Raptor R, Tremor, PowerBoost hybrid and the electric F-150 Lightning are distinct configurations, and the Lightning is evaluated separately. Decode the VIN before applying specs or tow ratings.
What to do: Confirm engine, cab, bed and axle before comparing prices or tow ratings.

Recalls

Recall applicability varies by model year, build date, engine, cab, equipment and VIN. Check the VIN for current open recalls and completed remedies.

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Questions this guide answers

Which engine does this F-150 have?
What generation is this F-150?
Is the EcoBoost or the 5.0L V8 better for me?
How much can this F-150 tow?
Does this F-150 have the 6-speed or 10-speed automatic?
What is the PowerBoost hybrid and Pro Power Onboard?
Are aluminum-body F-150s expensive to repair?
What recalls should I check by VIN?
What is the difference between the Raptor and Raptor R?
What similar trucks should I consider?