2015–2024
Ford F-150
America's truck for 47 years running.
Est. annual cost
$600–$1,200
The F-150 is the best-selling vehicle in the United States. With powertrain options ranging from the EcoBoost twins to the 5.0 Coyote V8, maintenance varies by engine. The aluminum body reduces rust concerns but increases repair costs in collisions. Budget $600–$1,200/year depending on powertrain.
Service intervals
Recommended schedule for normal driving conditions.
| Service | Interval | Est. Cost | DIY |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oil change (5W-30 synthetic for EcoBoost) | Every 10,000 miles or 12 months (OLM) | $65–$110 | Easy |
| Tire rotation | Every 10,000 miles (sync with oil change) | $25–$60 | Moderate |
| Engine air filter | Every 30,000–40,000 miles | $25–$50 DIY | Easy |
| Spark plugs (3.5 EcoBoost) Left bank spark plugs require intake manifold removal | Every 60,000 miles | $250–$450 (labor intensive) | Professional only |
| Fuel injector cleaning | Every 50,000 miles | $100–$200 | Moderate |
| Rear differential fluid | Every 30,000–50,000 miles (check towing interval) | $80–$150 | Moderate |
| Transfer case fluid (4WD) | Every 60,000 miles | $80–$160 | Moderate |
| Transmission fluid (10R80) | Every 60,000 miles | $150–$250 | Professional only |
Common issues
Known failure patterns for this model.
3.5 EcoBoost carbon buildup (pre-2017)
SoonSymptoms: Rough idle, hesitation on acceleration, misfires
Typical repair cost: $300–$700 (walnut blast cleaning)
10-speed transmission harsh shifts
MonitorSymptoms: Clunky 1–2 shift, hunting between gears
Typical repair cost: $0–$300 (software updates, fluid change)
Door latch recall (multiple years)
UrgentSymptoms: Door opens unexpectedly while driving
Typical repair cost: $0 (active recall)
Maintenance tips
- 01
If you tow frequently, halve all fluid change intervals — the OLM is calibrated for normal driving.
- 02
3.5 EcoBoost: the 2017+ redesign improved the cooling and is significantly more reliable than the first-gen unit.
- 03
Check the Frame and running boards annually for rust, especially in salt-belt states — the aluminum body doesn't rust, but the steel frame and suspension components do.
- 04
Use Ford Motorcraft parts for the 10-speed AT — third-party fluid can cause harsh shift behavior.
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