Ford F150 (2015 – 2020)
Reliability score : 6.0/10
The 13th-generation Ford F-150 (2015-2020) marked a revolutionary shift in the pickup truck industry by introducing a military-grade aluminum-alloy body mounted on a high-strength steel frame. This drastic change shed up to 700 lbs (317 kg) compared to its predecessor, significantly improving payload, towing capacity, and fuel efficiency. Throughout its lifecycle, Ford heavily pushed its turbocharged 'EcoBoost' V6 engines, which eventually outsold the traditional V8. The generation also saw the introduction of the 10-speed automatic transmission (10R80), co-developed with General Motors. While the aluminum body solved the notorious rust issues of older trucks, this generation is plagued by specific, well-documented powertrain issues—most notably cam phaser failures on the 3.5L EcoBoost, se
✅ Strengths
- Aluminum body completely eliminates traditional body panel rust.
- Class-leading towing and payload capacities.
- Spacious and highly ergonomic interior (especially SuperCrew).
- SYNC 3 infotainment (2016+) is responsive and supports Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
- Excellent crash test and safety ratings.
- 2.7L EcoBoost offers an impressive balance of torque and fuel economy.
⚠️ Weaknesses
- 10-speed automatic transmission (10R80) is notoriously clunky, hesitates, and suffers from CDF clutch drum failures requiring rebuilds.
- 3.5L EcoBoost cam phaser failures are incredibly common and expensive to fix.
- 2018-2020 5.0L V8 suffers from excessive oil consumption.
- IWE (Integrated Wheel Ends) vacuum system for 4WD frequently fails, causing grinding noises.
- Panoramic sunroof tracks are made of fragile plastic, prone to breaking and leaking.
- Frozen door latches in cold weather (doors won't latch shut or won't open).
🎯 Verdict
The 2015-2020 Ford F-150 is a highly capable, innovative truck, but it is a minefield of powertrain configurations. The aluminum body is a massive advantage for long-term ownership in rust-prone areas. However, Ford's push for complex technology resulted in significant reliability issues. The Best Buy: A 2015-2017 model with the 5.0L V8 and the 6-speed automatic transmission. This combination avoids the oil consumption of the Gen 3 V8 and the clunkiness of the 10-speed auto. Alternatively, the 2.7L EcoBoost (especially 2018+) is an excellent daily driver.
The One to Avoid: The 2018-2019 5.0L V8 (due to severe oil consumption) and any 3.5L EcoBoost without documented proof of a recent cam phaser replacement.
Common issues
Problèmes de transmission (boîte automatique 10 vitesses)
High
🔧 60 000 – 150 000 km
💶 2 500 – 6 000 $USD
Tester la transmission à froid et à chaud, vérifier l'historique d'entretien.
Problèmes de chaîne de distribution et de phaseurs (moteurs EcoBoost)
High
🔧 80 000 – 180 000 km
💶 1 500 – 3 000 $USD
Écouter attentivement le moteur au démarrage à froid, vérifier l'historique des vidanges.
Corrosion de la carrosserie en aluminium
Medium
🔧 50 000 km et plus
💶 500 – 2 000 $USD par panneau
Inspecter attentivement les bords des panneaux et sous la peinture pour des bulles.
Problèmes de bougies d'allumage et bobines (moteurs EcoBoost)
Medium
🔧 60 000 – 100 000 km
💶 300 – 800 $USD
Remplacer les bougies plus fréquemment que l'intervalle recommandé par Ford.
Estimated maintenance costs
| Oil change |
£90 – 160 |
| Complete brakes |
£380 – 650 |
| Estimated annual budget |
£650 – 1 200 |
Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.