You can choose the most appropriate Ford F-150 model for your generation by avoiding the bad years.
This guide will analyze Ford F-150’s latest generations and reveal the best Ford F-150 models to purchase, as well as the years you should avoid.
I have meticulously examined each Ford F-150 generation, using reliable sources such as NHTSA and Consumer Reports. In addition, vehicleHistory has been used to highlight key features, recalls, and problems.
Ford F-150 Years to Avoid, F-150 Years with Transmission Issues, and the Most Reliable Ford F-150 Years.
Let’s get started.
Related:
Lincoln Navigator Years: Best and Worst
Ford F-150 Gens
In 1975, the Ford F-150 began its long journey. For the purposes of this article we will start with the 10th generation introduced in 1997.
Here’s a table that outlines the F-150 generations between 1997 and the present.
| The Generation of the Right to Generate | The Year |
|---|---|
| 10th generation (PN-96) | 1997-2003 |
| 11th generation (P221) | 2004-2008 |
| 12th generation (P415) | 2009-2014 |
| 13th generation (P552) | 2015-2020 |
| 14th generation (P702) | 2021-Present |
It is important to be aware of generational shifts, whether they are subtle or dramatic. They can have a significant impact on purchasing decisions.
Ford F150 Neutral Years, Best and Worst,
In order to determine the best and worst Ford F-150 years, we consider these factors:
- Owner-reported reliability surveys
- Maintenance costs
- Safety Ratings
- Consumer Reports reliability score
- Consumer Reports scores of owner satisfaction
- NHTSA investigations, recalls and complaints
- Edmunds Owner Ratings
- JD Power Owner Ratings
- Kelley Blue Book owner ratings
- Owner ratings for VehicleHistory
- Owner ratings on Cars.com
A graph will be shown in the future that shows the ratings combined from all the sources above. Our unique research has taken many hours.
Based on our research, we’ve created a table that categorizes each Ford F-150 year into best, neutral or worst.
| The Generation of the Right to Generate | Best Years | Neutral Years | The Worst Years |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10th generation (PN-96) | 2002 2003 | 2001 | 1997 1998 1999 2000 |
| 11th generation (P221) | 2007 2008 | N/A | 2004 2005 2006 |
| 12th generation (P415) | 2009 2010 | 2014 | 2011 2012 2013 |
| 13th generation (P552) | 2019 2020 | N/A | 2015 2016 2017 2018 |
| 14th generation (P702) | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 |
The “Neutral Year” is a blend of both strengths and weaknesses that falls between the best and worse categories.
NHTSA Recalls are a key factor in the reliability of a car. More complaints or recalls for a particular model will lead to a lower reliability score.
Let’s now dive in to the specs of the Ford F150’s best, neutral and worst years.
Ford F-150 10th Generation: Best and Worst Years (1997-2003).
The 10th Generation Ford F-150, introduced in 1997, ushered in an era of innovation and tradition for Ford’s flagship pick-up truck.
Ford F-150s from 1997, 1998 and 1999 are best avoided due to the high volume of NHTSA-mandated recalls. Ford F-150s of 2002 and 2003, on the other hand, are among the most reliable and affordable of the current generation.
The best years: 2002 and 2003
The 10th-generation Ford F-150 has undoubtedly performed best in 2002 and 2003, with good Kelley’s Blue Book as well as Edmunds.
The models featured a variety of engine choices, such as the Triton 4.6L V8 or the 4R70W 5.4L V8 with a 5-speed R2 M5OD manual.
Although these engines are generally reliable, potential buyers need to be aware that there have been instances where spark plugs have blown out.
In these years, technological and safety advances included the introduction on all four wheel of Anti-lock Brakes that provided greater stopping power and better control.
Fuel efficiency was still a problem, with a rating of 10 mpg in the city and 19 mpg when driving on highways.
The Neutral Years 2001
Ford F-150 2001 represents a period of transition. While there were improvements, the truck was not without issues. This is especially true when it comes to engine performance and technology integration.
Like its successors, the 2001 model was equipped with the same 4.6L or 5.4L Triton engines.
This year was not without its problems and recalls. These included fuel leaks and fuel tank straps that failed due to corrosion. There were also issues with the deactivation of speed control switches.
The worst years: 1997,98, 1999, and 2000
Ford F-150 years to avoid: 1997, 1998, 1999 and 2000. Ford F150s should be avoided in the early years of tenth-generation – 1997-1998, 1999-2000.
Ford F-150 1997 was not without its challenges. It was not only the top recall list by the NHTSA, but there were also many complaints from owners.
The electrical system, engine, transmission, brakes and steering were all areas that warranted concern.
Ford F-150 1998 continued the trend of engine issues becoming increasingly pronounced. Spark plug blowouts were a major concern. The reputation of the Ford F-150 was further damaged by fuel leakage. This problem, which is attributed to corrosion in some cases, has been blamed on corrosion.
Ford F-150 1999-2000 models continue to be recalled, primarily due to fuel system, transmission and leakage concerns.
These years are less appealing to those who prioritize reliability because of the steering, brake and external illumination issues.
Ford F-150 Recalls and Complaints 1997, 1998 1999 2000 2001
Ford F-150 11th Generation: Best and Worst Years (2004-2008).
Ford F-150 11th Generation, Launched in 2003. The iconic truck made another major leap with its all-new platforms, innovative features and refined aesthetics.
Ford F-150 is best in the later years of this generation – 2007, 2008, 2005 and 2006 are all good years, but you shouldn’t buy any Ford F-150 from 2004 onwards.
The Best Years of 2007 and 2008
The Ford F-150’s 2007 and 2008 models are the most reliable years in the 11th generation.
The engine options have increased in recent years, with the dependable 4.2L Essex and tried-and-tested 4.6L Triton engines, coupled with automatic transmissions and manual transmissions.
The new Harley-Davidson Lariat and King Ranch editions featured opulent interiors with advanced technology and modern aesthetics.
Ford has introduced advanced safety technologies, such as an antilock brake system, tire-pressure monitoring and an enhanced crash test rating by NHTSA.
The fuel efficiency of the new generation was slightly improved, although it was still similar to that of its predecessors. City driving figures were around 10 mpg, and highway numbers around 19 mpg.
The worst years: 2004 2005 2006
Due to low ratings on platforms such as VehicleHistory or Cars.com 2005 and 2006 have been rated the worst Ford-150 years in this generation. You should avoid the Ford F-150 model year 2004 like the plague.
The 2004 Ford F-150 was plagued by engine problems, including spark plugs blowing out and stalling.
Owners also complained about transmission problems such as shuddering and shifting into neutral unexpectedly.
Ford F-150 2005 has been reported to have persistent problems with the 5.4L Triton engine, such as spark plugs blowing out and camshaft sensor failure.
Owners also reported that the fuel module is susceptible to corrosion. This can cause engine issues such as stalling and restart problems.
The brake recalls have only increased concerns over safety and reliability.
In 2006, Ford F-150 owners complained about the steering column becoming sensitive to corrosion. This led to steering wheels that would lock or become difficult to turn.
There were still problems with fuel pumps and timing chains, as well as camshaft sensors that failed.
View NHTSA 2004,, 2005 and 2006 Ford F-150 complaints.
Ford F-150 12th Generation: Best and Worst Years (2009-2014).
Ford’s 12th-generation F-150 was introduced in 2008. It symbolized its commitment to innovation and modernization by integrating new technologies.
Ford F-150 is best in the years 2009 and 2010. Ford F150 owners have more complaints in 2011, 2012 and 2013 than any other years.
The best years: 2009 and 2010
The Ford F-150 has been rated highly by Edmunds, J.D. Ford F-150 2009-2010 has the highest ratings from Edmunds, J.D.
In 2009, the F-150 was equipped with the reliable 4.6L V8 2V engine. By 2010, there were more choices available including the powerful 5.4L Triton 3V 8 and 4.6L V8 3V.
Platinum features leather interiors with chrome accents and a modern infotainment.
In recent years safety technology has advanced, with features such as the trailer sway control or the Integrated Tractor Brake Controller.
Fuel efficiency is poor with 11 mpg in the city, and 22 for highways.
The Neutral Years 2014
In 2014, F-150s were on the verge of a transition to the next generation. The year of 2014 was marked by both successes and challenges.
The new TiVCT engine offers a balance between performance and fuel economy with figures of 13 mpg in the city, and 26 mpg on the highway.
Some owners have reported transmission problems and brake issues.
The worst years: 2011 2012 2013
Low J.D. Power ratings are a result of the NHTSA receiving nearly 2000 complaints from owners. Ford F150 ratings from Power, VehicleHistory and Cars.com show that 2011, 2012 and 2013 were the years to avoid.
Ford F-150 2011: There were many complaints about the performance of the engine, the transmission, as well as the steering assistance. This was especially true for the F-150s with the Ecoboost 3.5L engines.
The trucks would often downshift into first gear suddenly and without any warning. This raised serious safety issues.
Ford F-150 2012 carries forward these issues, especially with the 3.5L Ecoboost Engine, such as timing chain problems and unexpected downshifts.
Ford F-150 2013 owners have reported rear window shattering or cracking when defrosting.
Ford has recalled 2013 and 2014 F-150s with the Ecoboost 3.5L engines due to leaks at the rear master cylinder cup seal. This can lead to brake fluid leakage, and a compromised brake system.
View NHTSA 2011, 2012 2013, 2014 and 2014. Ford F-150 complaints.
Ford F-150 (13th Generation): Best and Worst Years 2015-2020
Ford’s F-150 13th Generation, which was launched in 2015 marked a major shift in Ford’s truck design. The brand used an aluminum-intensive approach, cutting weight, and promising improved fuel efficiency.
The Ford F150’s reliability is best in 2019 and 2020, but owners have reported many problems with the previous years, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018.
2019 and 2020: The best years
Ford F-150 is undoubtedly the most reliable and best-rated model in its thirteenth-generation.
Ford F-150 2019 is equipped with the new 3.0L Power StrokeV6 turbo diesel. This engine offers impressive fuel economy and torque.
Engines were upgraded, from the lightweight 2.7L EcoBoost to the powerful 5.0L engine paired with a 10-speed transmission.
The F-150 is equipped with Ford’s Co-Pilot360. This advanced driver-assistance suite includes Automatic Emergency Braking and Lane-Keeping System. It also has the Blind Spot Information System With Cross-Traffic Alert.
The trim levels King Ranch Platinum and Limited are the most luxurious, with their luxury features.
The worst years: 2015, 2016 2017, 2018
Ford F-150 Years to Avoid: 2016-2018, with the lowest Consumer Reports scores and 2015 as the year of particular concern, these are the years that you want to avoid.
Ford F-150 2015 door latches failed, resulting in a large recall. The SYNC system for infotainment, transmission problems, and reliability concerns of the EcoBoost engines were reported by owners.
Ford F-150 2016 has its own problems. Owners reported brake problems, which led to a reduced performance as well as a recall.
Oil leaks, and even overheating of the 3.5L EcoBoost engines were under investigation. Some F-150s experienced transmission problems, including harsh shifting or delays.
There were complaints regarding the 2017 F-150’s windows. There have been several incidents of them spontaneously shattering during winter months.
Recalls were also issued due to concerns that seatbelt pretensioners could cause fires under certain collision situations.
This model year, the Ford F-150 was plagued by problems with power steering and frozen door latches.
View NHTSA 2015 and 2016. 2017. 2018. Ford F-150 complaints.
Ford F-150, 14th Generation: Best and Worst Years (2021-Present).
Ford’s F-150, the iconic truck that has become a symbol of American culture and heritage, underwent an extensive redesign in its 14th Generation. This generation’s F-150 is the most advanced technologically and features high-tech and rugged features.
According to the data available, the Ford F-150’s best year is 2023, but 2021 was plagued by recalls and should be avoided.
The best years: 2023
Ford F-150 2023 was the best year of this generation. Improvements and refinements were made based on feedback and improvements from previous years.
Powertrains are mainly the same as in previous generations, including 3.3L V6, 2.7L, 3.5L Twin-Turbo, a V8 5.0L, and 3.0L turbodiesel.
The infotainment systems are more responsive and intuitive.
Ford has improved the safety features that were introduced previously, such as CoPilot360. This resulted in a higher rating and increased consumer confidence.
The 2023 model was praised by many users, as well as critics, for its improved build quality and reduced number of issues reported. It also has a more premium look and feel than its predecessors.
The Neutral Years 2022
Model year 2022 for the F-150 is a bridge model between 2021’s foundational updates and 2023’s polished version.
F-150 Lightning, which was introduced and pushed towards electric power generation attracted attention.
The Lightning represents Ford’s vision of a future powered by electric vehicles. It combines the best features of Ford F-150 with an electric drivetrain.
The 2022 Ford F-150 continues to have some of the same problems as the model from 2021, such as the owner-reported audio complaints.
2021: The worst year.
Even though 2021 was a new model, it saw an unexpectedly high number of recalls and owner complaints. It also received low ratings from Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book and J.D. It is therefore referred to as the Ford F-150 Year To Avoid by Power and VehicleHistory.
Most owners complained of rear axle bolts that tend to snap easily, and downshifting issues.
Ford recalls numerous vehicles for a variety of reasons, including trailer brake failures and failures to wipe the windshield. Other issues include driveshafts which can break, shifts into neutral that are unexpected, and drive shafts with a fracture.
The 2021 model, however, also included features such as an onboard power generator, a redesigned and ergonomic interior and a hybrid drivetrain option.
NHTSA 2022 and 2021 Ford F-150 Recalls.
Ford F-150 Average Resale Values
This graph shows the average values of Ford F-150s.
The conclusion of the article is:
Ford F-150 reliability is best in the years 2007-2010. 2019 and 2020 are also good.
What year Ford F-150 do you like best in terms of performance, appearance, and overall experience.
Comment below to share your thoughts!
