Looking for a used Ford F-150 but don’t know where to start? Let us help! Our used F-150 buying guide takes a look at how these pickups have continued to evolve over the years. Read on, and you’ll be able to narrow down your search for a used light-duty truck.
14th Generation Used Ford F-150: 2021-Current Model
The latest F-150 trucks put a modern spin on towing and hauling, with a newly available hybrid powertrain that earns up to 25 mpg combined. They also add available features designed to make your workday simpler. For example, the Pro Power Onboard station helps you set up an electrified work area wherever you go. Inside, the Interior Work Surface is a great spot to set up your laptop. And the Max Recline seats lean nearly flat, so you can take a very comfy nap at any rest stop.
In addition to the PowerBoost hybrid engine, a supercharged V8 also joins the lineup. It’s exclusive to the Raptor R trim model, designed to take off-roading to new extremes. Here’s a list of all the powertrains that were available for these used trucks:
- 3.3-liter V6 (290 horsepower, 265 lb-ft of torque)
- Turbocharged 2.7L V6 (325 hp, 400 lb-ft)
- 5.0L V8 (400 hp, 410 lb-ft)
- Turbo 3.0L diesel V6 (250 hp, 440 lb-ft)
- Turbo 3.5L V6 (400 hp, 500 lb-ft)
- PowerBoost 3.5L hybrid V6 (430 hp, 570 lb-ft)
- High-output turbo 3.5L V6 (450 hp, 510 lb-ft) (Raptor only)
- Supercharged 5.2L V8 (700 hp, 640 lb-ft) (Raptor R only)
During every F-150 generation, Ford makes important updates to its best selling truck. Here’s a look at the important changes to the 14th generation so far:
- 2023: The Raptor R debuts with a supercharged V8 engine. The base XL truck is available with the new off-road-ready Rattler package.
- 2022: The 3.0-liter diesel engine has been discontinued.
13th-Generation Used Ford F-150: 2015-2020
These were the first F-150 trucks to include aluminum paneling. This new body structure means greater towing and hauling capabilities, increased agility, and better fuel economy compared to previous trucks.
At the outset, four engine options were available:
- 3.5L V6 (282 hp, 253 lb-ft)
- Turbo 2.7L V6 (325 hp, 375 lb-ft)
- 5.0L V8 (385 hp, 387 lb-ft)
- Turbo 3.5L V6 (375 hp, 470 lb-ft)
Starting with the 2018 Ford F-150, you’ll find a host of stronger engine options:
- 3.3-liter V6 (290 horsepower, 265 lb-ft of torque)
- Turbocharged 2.7L V6 (325 hp, 400 lb-ft)
- 5.0L V8 (400 hp, 410 lb-ft)
- Turbo 3.0L diesel V6 (250 hp, 440 lb-ft)
- Turbo 3.5L V6 (400 hp, 500 lb-ft)
- High-output turbo 3.5L V6 (450 hp, 510 lb-ft) (Raptor only)
This generation also saw some changes from model year to model year. Here’s a look at the highlights:
- 2020: High-tech driver safety aids are grouped into packages, with some features standard on the Lariat and up, and others standard for the Limited only. Every truck now includes 4G LTE Wi-Fi connectivity. /li>
- 2019: Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking is now standard. Two new engines are available: a turbodiesel V6 and a high-output version of the 3.5-liter V6. The latter is standard for the Limited and Raptor models only.
- 2018: These trucks feature updated exterior styling. From here on out, the F-150 offers a more powerful engine lineup. The10-speed transmission is now paired with all but the base engine.
- 2017: A new 10-speed transmission debuts, paired with the 3.5-liter V6. The rugged Raptor model rejoins the F-150 lineup.
- 2016: The MyFord Touch infotainment system is replaced by the new SYNC 3. The Pro Trailer Backup Assist system debuts, helping drivers back a trailer in the right direction.
12th-Generation Used Ford F-150: 2009-2014
This crop of F-150s offer a wide variety of options. You’ll find luxurious trim levels available, along with a variety of powerful engine options. Although these trucks aren’t quite as capable as more recent models, you’ll be impressed with their towing and hauling capabilities.
When this generation began, shoppers could choose from three engine options:
- 4.6L V8 (248 hp, 293 lb-ft)
- High-output 4.6L V6 (292 hp, 320 lb-ft)
- 5.4L V8 (320 hp, 390 lb-ft)
Beginning with the 2011 F-150, these trucks became more powerful, thanks to a new engine lineup:
- 3.7L V6 (302 hp, 380 lb-ft)
- 5.0L V8 (360 hp, 380 lb-ft)
- 6.2L V8 (411 hp, 434 lb-ft)
- Twin-turbo 3.5L V6 (365 hp, 420 lb-ft)
Here are the important changes from this generation of used F-150 trucks:
- 2013: Xenon headlights, hill descent control, and the MyFord Touch infotainment system are now available. The top-of-the-line Limited trim model debuts. The Harley-Davidson trim model is no longer available.
- 2012: Four-wheel-drive trucks now have neutral tow capability, so you can tow your F-150 behind a motorhome. Upper trim levels are available with a two-speed automatic transfer case. A new electronic locking rear axle replaces the available limited-slip differential for some F-150 models.
- 2011: A new engine lineup debuts, along with the luxurious Lariat trim model. Drivers can now option their SVT Raptor with the crew cabin.
- 2010: The Harley-Davidson trim model rejoins the lineup. The off-road-ready SVT Raptor trim model debuts, featuring an exclusive 6.2-liter V8 engine (400 hp, 434 lb-ft).