As a Ford F150 truck owner, you’re looking to keep your truck for the “long haul”. So, what exactly is the life expectancy of a Ford F – 150 and how many miles can you expect from your beloved truck? We have the information that you need!
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How Long Do Ford F-150 Trucks Last?
Since the debut of the Ford F-150 back in 1975, the truck has managed to integrate itself as an American staple. You see the truck in commercials, movies and on the roads. Many of us are either Ford F150 truck owners or know someone who is. As part of the F-Series, the Ford F150 continues to topple the rest of the lineup when it comes to revenue, sales and even popularity. So, why are so many people Ford F150 truck lovers? What is it about the Ford F-150 that makes it one of the most popular trucks ever?
To begin with, perhaps the longevity of the F150 truck is a huge draw. On average, the Ford F-150 can last between 150,000 miles, to 300,000 miles– depending on maintenance and other factors. May experts that the Ford F-150 can last up to 300,000 miles, before there is an engine rebuild that is needed. If you are an F-150 owner using your truck as work vehicle and you average about 15,000 miles per year, you can count on reliable performance from your F-150 for about 20 years. Are you an F150 truck owner who takes tremendous care of your truck? Then you may be in for several decades of F-150 performance- from 20 to 30 years. The F-150 has been one of the bestselling pickup trucks in America, for over 40 years.
How Many Miles Can I Expect from my Ford F-150? – Life Expectancy of a Ford F-150
According to gathered data, the F-150 can last up to 200,000 miles before expensive upgrades are required. This comes to an average of about 17 years, should you average 12,000 miles annually- a common mark for lots of contractors to reach each year. For the size that the F150 is, the truck provides efficiency, a sturdy frame and a body that can endure lots of days of rough and tough handling. Newer models of the F-150 have more advanced engineering designs, enhanced durability, and more competent powertrains. Many late-model F150 models will likely surpass the 300k mile mark- with very little issue or trouble. But just about any F150 truck can reach 300,000 miles, with proper and routine maintenance and repair costs.
“When Do You Think I Will Get Rust on my F-150?”
Rust can form on an F-150 at any time, in any condition. Whether your car is an older model, or even a newer model, rust can begin to form on the shell whenever. Several F-150 owners have documented issues of corrosion and rust on their trucks, right after the purchase of the truck! Some people own the truck for years, then suddenly notice corrosion on the body panels. Other folks have even found corrosion on the body panels at dealerships.
The Class Action Lawsuit Regarding Corrosion – Life Expectancy of a Ford F-150
Speaking of rust and corrosion on the F-150, a class action lawsuit was formed to address the premature rust and corrosion on the F-150. In the class action lawsuit, the claim stated that the Ford F-150 trucks have defects in their paint primer, paint, and aluminum body panels. Each one was cited as a component that causes the trucks to corrode and rust prematurely. Tina Nelson filed the Ford F-150 paint /rust/ corrosion class action lawsuit. As the owner of a 2014 Ford F-150 “SuperCrew” that she bought in 2015, Nelson identified some serious issues with the paint of her F150. The suit alleges that Nelson’s vehicle began to experience peeling paint as well as severe corrosion. Nelson also alleged that rust and corrosion found its way onto her F150 truck’s roof, hood and even side panels. As Nelson took her F-150 to an authorized Ford dealership to receive repairs, she reportedly did not get assistance she desired. Ford reportedly stated that the rust was due to faulty paint and primer.
“What Are Some Great Tips for Maintaining My Ford F-150?”
Whether you live in the South, North, East or West, great maintenance of your Ford F150 can prove to help with your truck’s longevity. Let’s take a look at some Ford F150 tips to increase life expectancy and even the miles you get.
Tire Pressure
As you do all of your towing and hauling, you want to ensure that your F-150 has the correct tire pressure. Tire pressure aids in optimizing your F 150’s fuel economy. The correct tire pressure also helps to keep tire wear and tear at bay. While Ford suggests that you keep your truck’s tire pressure at 35 PSI or 241 KPA, you may be able to go up to 40 PSI or 276 KPA. So, be sure that whether it’s cold or warm outside, you have the correct tire pressure for your Ford F-150. With the right pressure, you increase the traction, fuel efficiency and traction of your truck.
Check Tire Tread Too – Life Expectancy of a Ford F-150
While you’re checking your F-150’s tire pressure, don’t forget to check your truck’s tire tread too. If you do a lot of towing, and hauling, you may want to give a bi-weekly check of your tire tread, ensuring that there is strong and deep tread. One of the easiest ways to check tread, is to take a penny. Take that penny and then place it in between the tire’s tread groove. Do you see all of Lincoln’s head on the penny? Then it may be time to replace your tires. Be sure to take your car to a tire shop or specialist who can examine your tread, and replace your tires, if need be.
Look At Your Spark Plugs
After checking your tire pressure and tread, you want to turn your attention to your F150’s spark plugs. While you may end up replacing them once a month, you want to ensure that they are always in great shape. If your F150 lacks strong and durable spark plugs, your truck will have very little sustaining power. You’ll also begin to develop problems with starting your truck in extreme weather conditions and temperatures.
Oil Changes
Be sure that you never skip the oil changes for your truck. Regular oil changes are vital in the health and longevity of your F150. Whether you go to a “Quick Lube” place for your oil change, or you take care of them yourself, regular oil changes make the difference in keeping most truck issues away, as well as costly repair bills. Additionally, with those oil changes, you want to ensure that you check your fluids on your F150 truck too. Fluids such as engine fluid, transmission fluid, brake fluid, windshield wiper fluid and more all need to be checked too.
Tire Rotations – Life Expectancy of a Ford F-150
With that oil change, don’t forget to rotate the tires on your F-150. In addition to the tire tread and pressure checks, add tire rotation to the list. Tire rotations help to ensure that uneven tire wear is not a factor, as you tow and haul items in your F-150. A good rule of thumb when it comes to rotating your tires, is to get them rotated each time the oil is changed. Depending on how you travel in and use your F-150, front tires are prone to more wear and tear. Tire rotations not only extend the life of your F-150’s tires, but you can be assured of a smoother ride. You’ll also help to reduce the load of the vehicle’s suspension that come from uneven tires. You can even spot and fix alignment issues with freshly rotated tires. Check with your local tire specialist for the best course of action to rotate your tires.
Remember Those Inspections
Want to increase the longevity and miles of your F150? Then make sure that you take your car for regular inspections. Many Ford dealerships offer specific checks at dealerships. Ford offers a multi-point evaluation, so if your F150 is eligible for one, take full advantage of that. You want to get an inspection of your truck battery, spark plugs, brake pads and more. You also want your mechanic to alert you to potential issues as well as upgrades too. Certified techs can spot potential problem areas fast and early, based on wear and tear. Regular inspections help to keep your F-150 running longer and stronger.
Remember Those Regular Washes – Life Expectancy of a Ford F-150
Remember to wash your F-150 regular. From the dirt, mud, snow, salt and other elements that can corrode your truck and diminish its luster, you want those elements washed off of the truck. Salt from winter can cause rust and corrosion. Dirt and mud can detract from the appearance of your truck. Snow can cause moisture to enter into your truck. So, keep that F150’s exterior as clean as possible.