We’re going to take a close look at all the common problems across every generation of the Ford F-150. That’s a lot of years to cover, so feel free to jump around using the table of contents below.
But if you want the quick answer, here’s what you need to know:
The Ford F-150 has several common issues across all generations, including ignition coil failure, rough engine idling, head gasket oil leaks, 10-speed automatic transmission problems, and rear differential noise.
Generation-specific problems include:
10th Gen (1997-2004): Spark plug ejection and front brake caliper sticking are common.
11th Gen (2004-2008): Exhaust manifold cracking is a prevalent issue.
12th Gen (2009-2014): Sudden transmission downshifting and electronic power assist steering failure are the most reported problems.
13th Gen (2015-2020): Aluminum body panel damage and rearview camera issues have been noted.
14th Gen (2021-Present): Windshield wiper motor failure, loose underbody insulators, steering gear damage, and brake fluid leaks have been reported by some owners.
That’s enough to keep you dangerous on the lot or Facebook Marketplace when shopping for a used F-150. But if you want to dive deeper into the details, see the breakdown of problems by owner, and learn how much these issues cost, keep reading.
We Used Real World Data To Create This List Of Problems
Before we dive into the most common problems, let’s quickly explain how we created this list.
First, we asked 489 owners (via Facebook) about their Ford F-150 to get a feel for what kind of problems they’ve run into. All owners had their Ford F-150 for at least a year and we saw a wide range of mileage from 43,000 to 189,000. You can see our findings in the pie chart a little further down.
Then, we turned to resources like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and many others, to review the most common complaints issues by owners along with the full history of recalls and active investigations.
Next, I fact-checked everything against my almost two decades of automotive experience working everywhere from dealerships to your local shops.
Lastly, our team of automotive experts takes a closer look into each problem and breaks down why it happens, what you can do to prevent it, and how to fix it.
We review the data and interpret the results to make your life easier. Now that you understand how we came up with this list, let’s get into it!
What 489 Ford F-150 Owners Told Us
Here’s what we found to be the most common problems based on our survey of 489 Ford F-150 owners (click to enlarge):
27% of owners surveyed had a 12th generation F-150 (2009-2014), known for transmission downshifting issues and electronic power assist steering failures. 22% of owners had an 11th generation F-150 (2004-2008), with exhaust manifold cracking being the most common problem reported.
Some owners reported multiple problems or no problems.
Problems Common To All Generations of Ford F-150
When it comes to the Ford F-150, there are a handful of problems that seem to pop up across all generations. These issues can range from minor annoyances to major headaches, and they can affect everything from the engine to the transmission to the electrical system.
In this section, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most common problems that plague the F-150, regardless of the model year.
Ignition Coil Failure
One of the most frequent issues I see with the Ford F-150 is ignition coil failure. The symptoms of this problem are pretty straightforward: you’ll likely experience misfires, rough running, and a check engine light. In some cases, you may even feel like the truck is “stumbling” or losing power.
The culprit behind this issue is usually a worn-out spark plug or an excessively wide spark plug gap. Over time, these components can degrade, causing the ignition coil to work harder than it should. Eventually, the coil just can’t keep up, and it fails altogether.
The solution to this problem is to replace the faulty ignition coil (or coils) along with the spark plugs. In some cases, you may also need to replace the coil boots. Depending on how many cylinders are affected, this repair can cost anywhere from $150 to $700 or more.
The fix is pretty straightforward if you’re handy:
Rough Engine Idling
Another common problem across all generations of the Ford F-150 is rough engine idling. You might notice your truck’s RPMs fluctuating or the engine stuttering when you’re stopped at a light or sitting in traffic. This can be especially pronounced when the engine is cold.
More often than not, a faulty EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) sensor or valve is to blame. The EGR system helps reduce NOx emissions by recirculating a portion of the exhaust gases back into the engine. When the sensor or valve gets stuck, it can cause all sorts of issues, including rough idling.
To fix this problem, you’ll need to replace the EGR sensor and/or valve. In some cases, you may also need to clean out the EGR passages if they’re clogged with carbon buildup. Plan on spending between $300 and $400 for this repair.
Head Gasket Oil Leak
Head gasket oil leaks are another issue that seems to crop up across all generations of the F-150. The most common symptom is oil pooling on the passenger side of the engine, often dripping onto the starter.
The cause of this leak is usually a failing head gasket. Over time, the gasket can deteriorate, allowing oil to seep out. This is especially common on higher-mileage trucks.
To fix this problem, you’ll need to replace the leaking head gasket. In some cases, you may be able to get away with just re-sealing the gasket, but more often than not, a full replacement is necessary. Budget around $1,000 to $1,500 for parts and labor.
10-Speed Automatic Transmission Issues
If you own a newer F-150 with the 10-speed automatic transmission, you may have experienced some rough shifts, clunking noises, or even a sudden loss of power. These issues seem to be most common on trucks from the 2017 model year and newer.
The culprit behind these problems is often a faulty transmission control module or a software issue. Ford has released several TSBs (technical service bulletins) related to the 10-speed transmission, including TSB 18-2274 and TSB 19-2174. These bulletins describe issues with harsh or delayed shifts, as well as a potential loss of motive power.
In some cases, updating the transmission software can resolve the issue. However, if the problem persists, you may need to have the transmission control module replaced. This can be a costly repair, with estimates ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 or more.
It’s worth noting that some F-150 owners have reported success with aftermarket transmission tuners, which can be used to modify the shift points and firmness. However, this is not a guaranteed fix, and it may void your warranty, so proceed with caution.
Rear Differential Noise
Another issue that plagues many F-150 owners is rear differential noise. You might hear a whining, howling, or grinding sound coming from the rear of the truck, especially when accelerating or decelerating. This problem seems to be most common on 4×4 models, but it can affect any F-150.
The most likely cause of this noise is a worn-out or damaged rear differential. Over time, the gears and bearings inside the differential can start to wear down, leading to increased friction and noise. This is especially true if you frequently tow heavy loads or drive in harsh conditions.
If you catch the problem early enough, you might be able to have the differential serviced or rebuilt. This typically involves replacing the worn-out parts and adding fresh gear oil. However, if the damage is severe, you may need to replace the entire differential. This can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,000 or more, depending on the extent of the damage and the cost of the replacement parts.
To prevent differential problems from occurring in the first place, make sure to have the gear oil changed regularly (usually every 30,000 to 50,000 miles). You should also avoid overloading your truck or towing more than the recommended weight limit.
Problems Specific To 1997-2004 10th Generation Ford F-150
While the 10th generation of the Ford F-150 is known for its durability and reliability, there are still a few issues that owners should be aware of. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at two of the most common problems that affect these trucks: spark plug ejection and front brake caliper sticking.
Spark Plug Ejection
One of the most notorious issues with the 10th generation F-150 is spark plug ejection. This problem is most common on trucks with the 2-valve 4.6L and 5.4L V8 engines, and it can cause serious damage to the cylinder head.
The root cause of this issue is a design flaw in the cylinder head. The spark plug holes are too shallow, and the threads are too weak to hold the spark plugs in place under high pressure. As a result, the spark plugs can literally shoot out of the cylinder head, leaving behind a stripped or damaged hole.
If you’re lucky, you might be able to re-tap the spark plug hole and install a threaded insert. However, in many cases, the only solution is to replace the entire cylinder head. This can be a very expensive repair, with costs ranging from $1,500 to $3,000 or more.
To prevent this problem from occurring, make sure to use high-quality spark plugs and avoid over-tightening them. You should also be careful not to overtorque the plugs when installing them, as this can damage the threads in the cylinder head.
Again, this can be a quick fix, even with limited experience and this is the best video I could find (I watched about a dozen):
Front Brake Caliper Sticking
Another common issue with the 10th generation F-150 is front brake caliper sticking. This problem is usually caused by corrosion on the caliper pins, which can cause the caliper to bind up and not release properly.
The most obvious symptom of a sticking caliper is a pulling sensation when braking, as well as a burning smell coming from the front wheels. You may also notice that the brake pedal feels spongy or that the truck takes longer to stop than usual.
To fix this problem, you’ll need to remove the caliper and clean or replace the pins. In some cases, you may also need to replace the caliper itself if it’s too badly corroded. This repair can cost anywhere from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the extent of the damage and the cost of the replacement parts.
To prevent caliper sticking from occurring, make sure to have your brakes serviced regularly and keep an eye out for any signs of corrosion or wear. You should also avoid driving through deep water or exposing your brakes to excess moisture whenever possible.
Problems Specific To 2004-2008 11th Gen Ford F-150
The 11th generation of the Ford F-150 brought a new level of refinement and luxury to the pickup truck market. However, it also brought a few new problems, including issues with the exhaust manifolds.
Exhaust Manifold Cracking
One of the most common issues with the 11th generation F-150 is cracking or warping of the exhaust manifolds. This problem is most common on trucks with the 5.4L V8 engine, but it can affect other engines as well.
The exhaust manifolds are responsible for carrying the hot exhaust gases away from the engine and into the exhaust system. Over time, the extreme heat and pressure can cause the manifolds to crack or warp, leading to an exhaust leak.
The most common symptom of a cracked exhaust manifold is a ticking or popping noise coming from the engine bay, especially when the engine is cold. You may also notice a decrease in engine performance or fuel efficiency, as well as a burning smell coming from under the hood.
To fix this problem, you’ll need to replace the damaged exhaust manifold. This can be a tricky job, as the manifolds are often located in tight spaces and can be difficult to access. Expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1,500 or more for this repair, depending on the extent of the damage and the cost of the replacement parts.
To prevent exhaust manifold problems from occurring, make sure to have your exhaust system inspected regularly and address any issues as soon as they arise. You should also avoid running your engine at high RPMs for extended periods of time, as this can put extra stress on the exhaust system.
Problems Specific To 2009-2014 12th Generation Ford F-150
The 12th generation of the Ford F-150 introduced a number of new features and technologies, including the EcoBoost turbocharged engine and the electronic power assist steering (EPAS) system.
However, it also brought a few new problems, including issues with the transmission and steering.
Transmission Downshifting
One of the most serious issues with the 12th generation F-150 is sudden and unexpected transmission downshifting. This problem is most common on trucks with the 6R80 6-speed automatic transmission, and it can cause the truck to lurch or jerk violently while driving.
The root cause of this issue is a faulty transmission output speed sensor, which can send incorrect signals to the transmission control module. As a result, the transmission may unexpectedly downshift into first or second gear, causing a sudden loss of speed and control.
Ford issued a recall for this problem in 2019, covering over 1.5 million F-150 trucks from the 2011-2013 model years. The recall involves reprogramming the transmission control module and replacing the transmission if necessary. If you own a truck that’s affected by this recall, make sure to take it to your local Ford dealer as soon as possible.
If your truck is not covered by the recall, you may still be able to have the problem fixed under warranty. If not, you may need to pay for the repair out of pocket, which can cost anywhere from $500 to $3,000 or more depending on the extent of the damage.
Electronic Power Assist Steering Failure
Another issue that affects some 12th generation F-150 trucks is failure of the electronic power assist steering (EPAS) system. This problem is most common on trucks from the 2011-2012 model years, and it can cause the steering to feel heavy or unresponsive.
The EPAS system uses an electric motor to provide steering assistance, rather than a traditional hydraulic system. When the system fails, it can cause the steering to feel heavy or difficult to turn, especially at low speeds. In some cases, the steering may even lock up completely, making it impossible to steer the truck.
The most common cause of EPAS failure is a faulty steering gear or steering column. Ford has issued a number of TSBs related to this problem, including TSB 12-7-12 and TSB 13-2-8. These bulletins describe a range of symptoms, including a loose or off-center steering wheel, a binding or locking steering column, and a loss of power steering assist.
To fix this problem, you may need to replace the steering gear, steering column, or other related components. This can be a complex and expensive repair, with costs ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 or more depending on the extent of the damage and the cost of the replacement parts.
Problems Specific To 2015-2020 13th Gen Ford F-150
The 13th generation of the Ford F-150 introduced a number of significant changes, including a new aluminum body and a range of advanced driver assistance features. While these changes helped to improve the truck’s fuel efficiency and safety, they also brought a few new problems, including issues with the aluminum body panels and the rearview camera.
Aluminum Body Panel Damage
One of the most significant changes to the 13th generation F-150 was the switch from a steel body to an aluminum one. While this change helped to reduce the truck’s weight and improve its fuel efficiency, it also made the body more susceptible to damage from impacts and collisions.
Unlike steel, which can often be repaired relatively easily, aluminum body panels are more likely to crack or dent when hit. This can make repairs more difficult and expensive, as the damaged panels may need to be completely replaced rather than simply hammered out and repainted.
If you own a 13th generation F-150 with aluminum body panels, it’s important to be extra careful when driving in tight spaces or on rough roads. You should also make sure to have any damage repaired promptly by a qualified collision repair shop that has experience working with aluminum.
The cost of repairing aluminum body panels can vary widely depending on the extent of the damage and the cost of the replacement parts. In some cases, you may be looking at a repair bill of several thousand dollars or more.
Rearview Camera Issues
Another problem that affects some 13th generation F-150 trucks is failure of the rearview camera system. This problem is most common on trucks from the 2015-2018 model years, and it can cause the camera display to go blank or show a distorted image.
The rearview camera is an important safety feature that helps drivers see behind the truck when backing up or parking. When the camera fails, it can make it more difficult to see obstacles or hazards, increasing the risk of a collision.
The most common cause of rearview camera failure is a faulty wiring harness or a damaged camera lens. Ford has issued a recall for this problem, covering over 620,000 F-150 trucks from the 2015-2018 model years. The recall involves replacing the wiring harness and camera if necessary.
If your truck is not covered by the recall, you may still be able to have the problem fixed under warranty. If not, you may need to pay for the repair out of pocket, which can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,000 or more depending on the extent of the damage and the cost of the replacement parts.
To prevent rearview camera issues from occurring, make sure to keep the camera lens clean and free of dirt, snow, or other debris. You should also be careful not to damage the camera or wiring harness when loading or unloading cargo from the truck bed.
Problems Specific To 2021-Now 14th Gen Ford F-150
The 14th generation of the Ford F-150 is the latest and most advanced version of this popular pickup truck. While it offers a range of impressive features and capabilities, it also has a few potential problems that owners should be aware of.
Windshield Wiper Motor Failure
One issue that has been reported by some owners of 14th generation F-150 trucks is failure of the windshield wiper motor. This problem can cause the wipers to stop working suddenly, which can be a serious safety hazard in bad weather conditions.
The most common symptom of a failing wiper motor is a grinding or stuttering sound when the wipers are in use. You may also notice that the wipers move more slowly than usual or stop working altogether.
Ford has issued a recall for this problem, covering certain 2021 F-150 trucks. The recall involves replacing the wiper motor with an improved version that is less likely to fail.
If your truck is not covered by the recall, you may still be able to have the problem fixed under warranty. If not, you may need to pay for the repair out of pocket, which can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,000 or more depending on the cost of the replacement parts and labor.
Loose Underbody Insulators
Another problem that has been reported by some owners of 14th generation F-150 trucks is loose or missing underbody insulators. These insulators are designed to protect the truck’s underbody from road debris and other hazards, and when they come loose or fall off, they can cause damage to other components.
The most common symptom of loose or missing underbody insulators is a rattling or flapping sound coming from underneath the truck. You may also notice that the truck’s ride quality is rougher than usual, or that there is visible damage to the underbody or other components.
Ford has issued a service bulletin for this problem, advising dealers to inspect the underbody insulators and replace any that are loose or missing. If your truck is still under warranty, you should be able to have this problem fixed at no cost to you.
If your truck is out of warranty, you may need to pay for the repair out of pocket. The cost of replacing the underbody insulators can vary depending on how many need to be replaced and the cost of the replacement parts, but you can expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars.
Steering Gear Damage
A potentially serious issue that has been reported by a small number of 14th generation F-150 owners is damage to the steering gear. This problem can cause the steering to feel loose or unresponsive, and in some cases, it can even cause the steering wheel to lock up while driving.
The most common cause of steering gear damage is a manufacturing defect that can cause the gear to crack or break under normal use. Ford has issued a recall for this problem, covering certain 2021 F-150 trucks.
If your truck is covered by the recall, you should take it to your local Ford dealer as soon as possible to have the steering gear replaced. This repair will be done at no cost to you.
If your truck is not covered by the recall, but you are experiencing steering problems, you should have it inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Depending on the extent of the damage, you may need to have the steering gear replaced, which can be a costly repair. You can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 or more for this repair, depending on the cost of the replacement parts and labor.
To prevent steering gear damage from occurring, make sure to have your truck’s steering system inspected regularly and address any issues as soon as they arise. You should also avoid driving on rough or uneven roads whenever possible, as this can put extra stress on the steering system.
Brake Fluid Leak
Another issue that has been reported by some owners of 14th generation F-150 trucks is a brake fluid leak from the master cylinder. This can cause the brake pedal to feel soft or spongy, and in severe cases, it can even lead to a complete loss of braking power.
The most common cause of a brake fluid leak is a faulty seal in the master cylinder. Over time, this seal can wear out or become damaged, allowing brake fluid to leak out of the cylinder and into the brake booster.
If you suspect that your truck has a brake fluid leak, it’s important to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Continuing to drive with a leak can cause serious damage to the brake system and increase the risk of a crash.
To fix a brake fluid leak, you’ll need to replace the faulty master cylinder and any other damaged components. This can be a complex and time-consuming repair, and it’s best left to a professional mechanic. You can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1,000 or more for this repair, depending on the cost of the replacement parts and labor.
To prevent brake fluid leaks from occurring, make sure to have your truck’s brake system inspected regularly and address any issues as soon as they arise. You should also avoid exposing your brake system to extreme temperatures or moisture whenever possible, as this can accelerate wear and tear on the components.
Conclusion
As you can see, while the Ford F-150 is a reliable and capable pickup truck, it’s not without its share of potential problems. From engine and transmission issues to suspension and braking problems, there are a number of things that can go wrong with these trucks over time.
In my experience, most of the issues we see with F-150s tend to occur on trucks with higher mileage, usually over 100,000 miles. However, some problems, like the ones with the 10-speed automatic transmission or the electronic power assist steering, can occur on relatively new trucks as well.
There are also some smaller problems (like issues with the throttle body) that occur on more specific models. Or problems with models like the F-150 Raptor along with some 4×4 actuator problems to keep in mind.
If you own an F-150 or are considering buying one, it’s important to be aware of these potential issues and to stay on top of regular maintenance and repairs.
By catching problems early and addressing them promptly, you can help extend the life of your truck and avoid more costly repairs down the road.
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