I’m looking at two preowned F150 trucks…
2013 F150 XLT with 5.0 V8 and 53k miles for $20k
2020 F150 XLT with 3.5L EcoBoost V6 and 82k miles for $24k
I’m prioritizing reliability above all, so newer electronics aren’t a huge factor for me. If both are in good condition, with regular maintenance, which one would you choose? I’ve heard about cam phaser issues with the EcoBoost, so I’m leaning toward the '13 with the 5.0…
Appreciate any feedback!
If reliability is a priority, the 5.0 with the 6R80 transmission and fewer miles for less money is the way to go.
Marston said:
If reliability is a priority, the 5.0 with the 6R80 transmission and fewer miles for less money is the way to go.
Got it 
Marston said:
If reliability is a priority, the 5.0 with the 6R80 transmission and fewer miles for less money is the way to go.
Got it
For that price, you might find a 2015-2017 5.0 with low miles too. I had similar priorities and ended up with a '15 5.0. I’m glad I avoided an '11-'14 model.
I’ve got a 2013 with the 5.0, and it’s still running great at 221k miles. I haven’t been perfect with maintenance, like never flushing the transmission, but no major engine problems. Just routine things like brakes, rotors, tires, and some small parts like o-rings on the plastic hose from the thermostat.
@Remy
That’s great to hear, thanks!
@Remy
I’ve had a similar experience with my 2016 5.0 at 202k miles. Only had to replace a heater hose assembly and a speed output sensor. Added an intake just for fun—it sounds awesome!
I drive a 2020 Sport edition. The 10-speed transmission is a bit of a weak point. I’m seeing rough shifts between 3-4-5 and hard downshifts from 6-5-4. I’m probably looking at a $7k repair soon.
Amos said:
I drive a 2020 Sport edition. The 10-speed transmission is a bit of a weak point. I’m seeing rough shifts between 3-4-5 and hard downshifts from 6-5-4. I’m probably looking at a $7k repair soon.
Sorry to hear that, thanks for the heads-up.
Go with the Coyote engine, trust me.
I’ve got a 2018 5.0 Coyote. It’s got 270k km, but I had to rebuild the top end at 240k because the intake valves were softer on that generation. Besides that, it’s been pretty reliable.
DennisMartin3 said:
I’ve got a 2018 5.0 Coyote. It’s got 270k km, but I had to rebuild the top end at 240k because the intake valves were softer on that generation. Besides that, it’s been pretty reliable.
Good info, thanks! 
Go for the 2020.
You might want to wait for a 2021 (14th gen). It’s got much better tech if you care about that.
I drive a 2013 F150 with the 3.7L V6, and it has 211k miles. Original brakes. The only issue has been the transmission speed sensor for $208. It’s been super reliable—great ride and towing power, just not a fan of the cloth seats.
@Neve
That’s good to hear, thanks 
Go with the Coyote engine and get a two-door.
5.0 all the way.
2013 model for sure.
I wouldn’t buy the 3.5 EcoBoost unless it had a solid extended warranty. The 10-speed transmission is risky, and the 12th gen F150s (2009-2014) have some issues like lead frame, fuse 27, and trans cooler hoses. They’re good trucks, but you need to be aware of those problems. Rust is an issue too, but the prices have dropped recently.