Used Ford F-150 Buying Guide
When it comes to all-American trucking, the used Ford F-150 checks every box. This full-size, light-duty pickup truck is a strong performer, on-road and off. But it’s also sublimely modern, with a cabin chock full of high-tech features and optional luxuries. Check out our used F-150 buying guide to better understand how these trucks have evolved.
Fourteenth Generation: 2021-Current Model Year
America’s favorite full-size light-duty pickup truck just keeps getting better. The latest F-150 upgrades the lineup with an optional hybrid powertrain, cutting-edge infotainment features, and an all-new hands-free driving system.
The all-new PowerBoost V6 hybrid powertrain features what has long been the line’s most powerful engine, the turbocharged 3.5-liter V6, plus a lithium-ion battery-powered electric motor. The latter adds 47 horses into the mix. Total output numbers aren’t yet available, but this hybrid powertrain is set to be the F-150’s strongest engine ever.
Like previous F-150s, the base engine is a 3.3-liter V6. However, now it’s paired with the trusty 10-speed automatic transmission, which was previously only available for the optional engines. Current engine options also look much the same as in previous generations: the turbo 2.7-liter V6, 5.0-liter V8, 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6, and non-hybrid version of the turbo 3.5-liter V6.
A brand new Sync 4 infotainment system includes wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an all-new feature. And new over-the-air updates mean you don’t have to go to the Ford dealership to update your technology. Finally, the optional new Active Drive Assist system provides hands-free driving capabilities on thousands of miles of pre-mapped highways.
Thirteenth Generation: 2015-2020
You’ll love these used Ford F-150 trucks for their hardy tow ratings, extensive list of tech features, comfortable cabins, and rowdy performance. They’re available in six trim levels (XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited), three cabin styles (regular, extended SuperCab, and SuperCrew) and three bed options (5.5, 6.5, and 8 feet).
Compared to previous models, these F-150s add new aluminum body panels that make them about 700 pounds lighter. What does that mean for you? A lot! A lighter F-150 is easier to handle in a tight spot, for starters. But reducing bodyweight also means greater towing and hauling capabilities. Also, their reduced weight makes these F-150s are more efficient than predecessors.
Just how capable is the thirteenth-generation used Ford F-150? Depending on body style, powertrain, and equipment, these full-size trucks can tow up to 12,200 pounds. The line-topping turbocharged 3.5-lite V6 will also impress you with its speedy performance, compliments of its 375 horses and 470 pound-feet of torque. This generation’s 10-speed automatic transmission is another huge plus. It’s quick to get you going and balances fuel economy at high speeds.
Twelfth Generation: 2009-2014
If you’re already familiar with more recent models, the twelfth-generation used Ford F-150 won’t seem all that different. You’ll even recognize two of its engines, the trusty 5.0-liter V8 and the top-of-the-line turbocharged 3.5-liter V6. During this generation, though, they worked in conjunction with a six-speed automatic transmission.
There are nine twelfth-generation trim levels: the base XL, sporty STX, mid-grade XLT, off-road-ready FX2 and FX4, upscale Lariat, Western-themed King Ranch, and stylish Platinum and Limited. As you might’ve guessed, each of these trim levels offers more in comfort and convenience than the last. Inside, these used F-150s are quiet and comfortable—exactly the kind of place you want to spend a long cruise.
How have these used Ford F-150 trucks changed over the years? Great question! The 2009 and 2010 F-150s weren’t quite as powerful as later models. Early on, the base powertrain was a 4.6-liter V8 engine paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. With its 248 horses, this engine remains a viable option for modern drivers. These F-150s also offer a little extra heft, courtesy of a 4.6-liter V8 engine that sends 292 horses to the wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. Finally, a 5.4-liter V8 engine, also paired with a six-speed automatic, kicks up dust with 310 horses.