What Is The Best Year To Buy A Used Ford F-150?
The Ford F-150 has long reigned supreme as the undisputed king of the pickup truck world. Its blend of durability, power, and versatility has made it a favorite among both hardworking professionals and weekend adventurers. But with decades of production, not every Ford F-150 model year is created equal. So, if you’re in the market to find out what the best year to buy a used Ford F-150 is, understanding which years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Crossroads Ford of Fuquay-Varina is here to help you discover the model year that’s right for you!
The Best Ford F-150 Years To Buy Used: The 12th & 13th Generations
The 12th Generation
Wondering what the best year to buy a used Ford F-150 is? Look no further than the 12th generation, which marked a significant turning point for the iconic truck. Launched in 2009 and ending in 2014, it introduced a host of improvements that elevated it to new heights.
2009: This year’s model featured a redesigned interior, a high-strength exterior body, enhanced safety features, and a robust powertrain lineup, making it a solid foundation for the years to follow.
2012: The introduction of the 3.5L EcoBoost® V6 engine in 2012 was a game changer, delivering impressive power and fuel economy without sacrificing performance. Coupled with the truck’s already robust towing and payload capacities, this engine solidified its position as a top choice for both work and play.
2014: This model year concluded the 12th generation, which built upon the successes of its predecessors. Interior refinements, technology advancements, and continued engine improvements made the 2014 Ford F-150 among the best used for its reliability. While the 3.5L EcoBoost® V6 engine continued to be a popular choice among consumers, the available 5.0L V8 engine boasted an incredible display of power.
The 13th Generation
The 13th generation of Ford F-150 models was launched in 2015 and ended in 2020. It was a revolutionary leap forward, affirming the best years to buy a used Ford F-150.
2015: Ford boldly replaced the traditional steel body with an aluminum alloy frame, resulting in a lighter, more fuel-efficient truck without compromising strength. This generation also introduced a suite of advanced safety features, such as Adaptive Cruise Control and a 360-degree camera system. The 2015 Ford F-150 continued to adapt to the times, allowing for it to integrate as the reliable pickup truck anyone would want.
2018: While the entire 13th generation is commendable, the 2018 Ford F-150 deserves special mention in consideration for what the best year to buy a used Ford F-150 is. A mid-cycle refresh brought a refreshed exterior, upgraded technology, and the introduction of the powerful 3.0L Power Stroke turbo diesel engine. This engine option offered exceptional fuel economy, making the 2018 Ford F-150 an attractive choice for those who prioritize long-haul efficiency in addition to capability.
Used Ford F-150 Years to Avoid: The 11th Generation
The 11th generation of the Ford F-150 consists of the 2004-2008 model years. These are often considered the dark ages of this pickup truck because it’d been plagued by persistent issues found in the 5.4L Triton V8 engine. If you’re wondering what the best year to buy a used Ford F-150 is, the 11th generation of models isn’t it. Some issues included spark plug breakage and cam phaser failures. To add insult to injury, transmission and electrical problems further compounded the reliability woes. While Ford made attempts to address these issues in subsequent years of the 11th generation, the damage was done, making buyers question, “Should I buy a used Ford F-150?” However, it’s important to note that if you’re looking for a dependable used Ford F-150, it would be wise to steer clear of this generation and opt for the 12th and later generations, which take reliability and efficiency to a new level.
Honorable Mentions: The Best of the Rest
While the aforementioned years stand out as either exceptional or problematic, a few other model years deserve recognition for determining what the best year to buy a used Ford F-150 is. The 2010 Ford F-150 offered a good balance of features and reliability, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers. Looking ahead, the 14th and current generation of the Ford F-150 was introduced in 2021. It represents the cutting edge of truck technology, consisting of hybrid powertrains and advanced driver assistance systems. These models set new standards for finding out what the best year to buy a used Ford F-150 is.
Is Buying A Used Ford F-150 Worth It?
By carefully considering the information presented in this guide, you can significantly increase your chances of finding out the best year to buy a used Ford F-150 to suit your needs and budget. Remember, it’s essential to conduct thorough research and consider factors such as mileage, maintenance history, and overall condition when making your final decision. When you visit Crossroads Ford of Fuquay-Varina, our staff is committed to helping you find the perfect truck. With our extensive inventory, we’re confident we can help you discover the best used Ford F-150 to meet your needs. Visit our dealership for a test drive today!
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