Hey, I’m looking to get a pre-digital gauge cluster F150, without the big infotainment screens. I’ve heard that the reliability can be pretty hit or miss depending on the model year and engine choice. I’m leaning towards a naturally aspirated engine. What model years should I avoid?
2015-2017 5.0 is the way to go.
Freddie said:
2015-2017 5.0 is the way to go.
This year range is also very solid for the 2.7 and 3.5 EB.
Freddie said:
2015-2017 5.0 is the way to go.
This year range is also very solid for the 2.7 and 3.5 EB.
2.7? Yes! 3.5? I’d avoid it if you plan on keeping it past 200k. 5.0 is all day, every day (except for 2018-2020).
@Taylor
Tell us more. Why would you avoid the 3.5 EB for the 2015-2017 models if you want to keep it past 200k?
Harper said:
@Taylor
Tell us more. Why would you avoid the 3.5 EB for the 2015-2017 models if you want to keep it past 200k?
Cam phasers are still a concern with these years for the 3.5, I believe.
@Taylor
Solid point. The cam phaser transitions between the 2017-2018 models aren’t fully clear globally. Some markets got the bad/new phasers early in 2017, and other markets weren’t affected until 2018 models.
EDIT: Though the cam phaser repair is expensive, once it’s done with the updated parts, it’s done for good.
@Taylor
I think it’s an easy fix if anyone picks one up. Just swap the newer style phasers. You will have to pull the front cover though.
Freddie said:
2015-2017 5.0 is the way to go.
Love my 2017 5.0. Never had any issues, always hauls ass with a full crew and a 6’6" box. Does what I need it to do and has never let me down.
2023 is the last to have the analog speedometer and tachometer. They’re the best because they have the revised CDF drum in the 10R80 transmission.
Harmon said:
2023 is the last to have the analog speedometer and tachometer. They’re the best because they have the revised CDF drum in the 10R80 transmission.
Some of the early 2023 models still have the old CDF drum. They switched it mid-2023.
Harmon said:
2023 is the last to have the analog speedometer and tachometer. They’re the best because they have the revised CDF drum in the 10R80 transmission.
I second this. I own a 2023, and it’s been rock solid.
Harmon said:
2023 is the last to have the analog speedometer and tachometer. They’re the best because they have the revised CDF drum in the 10R80 transmission.
This! I have the 2023 XLT RCSB. Best truck ever.
Harmon said:
2023 is the last to have the analog speedometer and tachometer. They’re the best because they have the revised CDF drum in the 10R80 transmission.
Job 2 trucks, all earlier '23s have the CDF defect. Source: 2023 Platinum trans failed just like our 2019.
@Reagan
Which build date for 2023s is considered Job 2? I can’t find that info online.
2015 and earlier come with the terrible MyFord Touch infotainment.
Cameron said:
2015 and earlier come with the terrible MyFord Touch infotainment.
But you can swap it out. For $600, I upgraded to a Sync 3 system with CarPlay in my 2014.
The 2011-2014 gen 1 5.0 Coyotes have issues with the intake and exhaust valves. They’re made of soft metal and don’t get cooled enough, causing them to misshape and become ‘tulip shaped’. Mine made it 215k miles, probably 20k towing, before I got a cylinder 4 misfire and compression loss from valves. I bought the truck at 145k miles. Now it’s at 215k with no issues until now.
I would avoid any 5.4 3-valve, especially the 2011 models. I hear the 2012 models are better, but you could get a 5.0 in the same generation, so why risk it?
2017 5.0 Lariat (no sunroof) is the best bang for your buck as far as features and reliability. It’s the first year with Android Auto/CarPlay from the factory, but also the last year with the 6-speed. They revised the 5.0 in 2018, which caused an oil consumption issue. Any of the early 10-speed models from 2018-2020 should be avoided at all costs unless you really like the idea of a recurring $8000 repair every 60k miles. All pre-2015 3.5 engines have the Turbo Grenade™ feature.