Thinking about an F-150… what years and engines should I avoid?

Hi everyone! Looks like I’ll be replacing my Forester sooner than expected. It’s in the shop for another head gasket replacement (yes, even on the newer models, high mileage is still an issue). I’ve decided to join the F-150 club about a year earlier than planned.

Since I have some time to research, I’ve noticed people online talk about certain engines and model years being better or worse. I don’t need the high-output options but wanted to ask—what years should I avoid for the 2.7, 3.5, and 5.0 engines? Ideally, I’m looking at a 2021 or newer since I drive about 25k miles a year (mostly highway).

If there’s already a discussion here about this, feel free to link it—I couldn’t find anything specific.

Thanks for the advice!

I saved a post a while back that sums up the 2.7 pretty well:

The 2.7L engine is built like a tank: compacted graphite iron block, forged internals, and a monolithic head and exhaust manifold to help with cooling. It’s reliable, easy to maintain, and performs well, especially for towing. The only major suggestion is to treat it like a diesel—change the oil every 6,500 miles or sooner if you do short trips or tow a lot. It might be one of the best engines Ford has made.

@Zora
Good summary! I got a 2015 2.7L for the fuel efficiency, and it’s been amazing—175k miles and still going strong.

If you’re looking at 2021+, they come with the 10-speed transmission. Just know it’s a bit of a gamble.

SherryJune2 said:
If you’re looking at 2021+, they come with the 10-speed transmission. Just know it’s a bit of a gamble.

They supposedly fixed it on trucks built after August 16, 2022, but you still see people reporting issues.

@Iman
Yeah, it was a problem with the CDF drum, but even with the fix, people still report problems.

SherryJune2 said:
@Iman
Yeah, it was a problem with the CDF drum, but even with the fix, people still report problems.

Makes sense. Ford went from 4-speed to 6-speed (which was great) to a 10-speed co-designed with GM. It’s no surprise there’s some trial and error.

@Iman
I’ll stick with my 6R80 paired with the 3.5 twin turbo—zero complaints.

SherryJune2 said:
If you’re looking at 2021+, they come with the 10-speed transmission. Just know it’s a bit of a gamble.

A tune can fix the shifting issues. The stock tune is garbage.

From what I’ve seen, the 2021+ engines are solid. The cam phasers on the 3.5 were updated, and the 5.0 oil consumption issues were mainly on 2018–2020 models. The 2.7 has always been reliable. The transmission revision in late 2022 is something to keep in mind, though.

I’ve got a 2015 3.5L and it’s been a blast. The newer models (2021 and 2022) had some transmission problems, but they’ve mostly been fixed by 2022 or 2023. If you’re considering older models, make sure to check for maintenance records.

@Blake
I got my PowerBoost in late 2021 and have had no issues. Maybe I’m lucky, but I keep up with maintenance, so that might help too.

Everything after 2018 feels experimental. They say, ‘It’s fixed now,’ every year. My trucks have always been naturally aspirated and have lasted. I’d go for a 2015–2017 model.

Would you recommend getting an extended warranty for 2021+ models to cover any transmission issues?

Dell said:
Would you recommend getting an extended warranty for 2021+ models to cover any transmission issues?

Absolutely. My 2021 XLT has 1,700 chips in it, and parts are expensive. One headlight costs $1,200, and a transmission replacement is $5k–$7k. An extended warranty is worth it.

The 2.7 is solid. Not perfect, but definitely more reliable than the 3.5 and more fuel-efficient than the 5.0. If you’re looking at older trucks, a 2016 with low miles could be a great choice.

Iman said:
The 2.7 is solid. Not perfect, but definitely more reliable than the 3.5 and more fuel-efficient than the 5.0. If you’re looking at older trucks, a 2016 with low miles could be a great choice.

Sure, but then you’re trading transmission issues for engine issues.

Avoid anything made after 2018.

Val said:
Avoid anything made after 2018.

Why? I have a 2019 Coyote and love it.

Corey said:

Val said:
Avoid anything made after 2018.

Why? I have a 2019 Coyote and love it.

I’ve got a 2007, but I’m glad yours works for you!