When you’re shopping for a used Ford F-150, you may find yourself overwhelmed by the sheer amount of information available on these light-duty trucks. Our used buying guide is here to help you better understand which F-150 model years have the powertrains and features you want in your used truck.
14th-Generation F-150: 2021-Current Model
If the previous generation of F-150 trucks revolutionized the game with their lightweight aluminum body panels, this latest crop of light-duty trucks is taking work-friendly technology to the next level. Available features — such as the Pro Power Onboard electrical generator, Tailgate Work Surface, and Interior Work Surface — help you set up shop wherever you go.
There are six main trim levels from this generation: XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited. The further along the list you travel, the more comfort and convenience features you’ll enjoy. The Raptor and Raptor R are also available for drivers who crave the ultimate off-road experience. If you want to spend less on a trail-friendly F-150, look for a model with the Tremor or Rattler package.
Depending on trim model, you’ll find a wide range of powertrain options available with these 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)
Ford continues to update the F-150 from year to year, helping its bestselling truck stay current. Here’s a look at the major changes from this generation, listed by model year:
- 2022: The optional turbodiesel engine is discontinued.
- 2023: A new off-road-ready Rattler package is available for the base XL trim. The Raptor R debuts, adding a supercharged V8 engine to the Raptor’s trail-friendly gear.
13th-Generation F-150: 2015-2020
Check out these used Ford F-150s for a great price on a very capable truck. This generation debuted a new body style, with aluminum paneling and a higher-strength steel frame, a combination that lends itself to greater towing capabilities, increased maneuverability, and enhanced fuel economy.
For the 2017 F-150 and earlier model years, there were four engines 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)
With the 2018 F-150 and on, used shoppers can look for these more powerful 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)
As usual, Ford updated the F-150 throughout this generation. Here’s a look at the major changes you need to know about:
- 2016: A new Pro Trailer Backup Assist system can help you back a trailer in the right direction. The new SYNC 3 infotainment system debuts, replacing the MyFord Touch system.
- 2017: A 10-speed automatic transmission debuts, linked with the turbocharged 3.5-liter V6. The rugged Raptor rejoins the F-150 trim lineup.
- 2018: The F-150 has new exterior styling. Shoppers can choose from a range of brand new engine options. All but the standard V6 are paired with the 10-speed automatic transmission.
- 2019: A turbodiesel V6 engine debuts, and forward collision mitigation is now standard. The Raptor and Limited are equipped with a high-output version of the turbo 3.5-liter V6.
- 2020: Advanced safety aids are regrouped in packages, so that some are standard on the Lariat and up, and others on the top-trim Limited. Every trim model now includes a 4G LTE Wi-Fi connection.
12th-Generation: 2009-2014
These used Ford F-150 trucks are a solid choice. With max tow ratings of up to 11,300 pounds, these trucks aren’t quite as capable as more recent models, but there are still plenty of jobs they can tackle.
When this generation began, shoppers could choose from four 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)
- Raptor: 6.2L V8 (400 hp, 434 lb-ft)
Starting with the 2011 model year, these used F-150 trucks offer four stronger engine options:
- 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 notable changes from this generation:
- 2010: The rugged SVT Raptor trim model debuts, and the Harley-Davidson trim model rejoins the lineup.
- 2011: The F-150 introduces an increasingly powerful engine lineup. The luxurious Lariat trim model joins the lineup. Shoppers can now order the SVT Raptor with the SuperCrew cabin.
- 2012: Trucks with four-wheel drive now include a neutral tow capability. Upper trim models now feature a two-speed automatic transfer case, and an electronic locking rear axle becomes available.
- 2013: The MyFord Touch infotainment debuts, along with hill descent control and xenon headlights. A new Limited trim model becomes the most luxurious option.