The 13th generation of the Ford F-150 (codename P552) marked a true revolution in the full-size pickup segment by adopting a military-grade aluminum alloy body, mounted on a high-strength steel frame. This innovation allowed a weight saving of up to 300 kg, improving payload, towing, and fuel consumption. Facelifted in 2018 (new grilles, headlights, and the widespread use of the 10-speed automatic gearbox), it remains the best-selling vehicle in North America. While the aluminum body solved the rust problems of the exterior panels, this generation experienced temperamental beginnings mechanically and electronically, before stabilizing. Overall rating: 7.5/10.
The 13th generation Ford F-150 is a technologically advanced pickup, whose aluminum body is a major asset against corrosion. However, its mechanical reliability is uneven. Data from ADAC and J.D. Power (VDS 2023: average with ~185 PP100, behind the Ram 1500) confirm a difficult start (2015-2016) before an improvement (2017-2020). The choice of engine is crucial: avoid the 3.5L EcoBoost without a clear history of the chains/phasers, and be wary of the 2018-2020 5.0L V8s (oil consumption). The naturally aspirated V6 versions or the 2.7L EcoBoost (post-2018) are the most pragmatic choices. The 6-speed gearbox of the early years is significantly more reliable than the temperamental 10-speed gearbox introduced later.