USED FORD F-150 BUYING GUIDE
Best Year for a Used Ford F-150? Our Picks by Engine, Features and Budget
Start with a 2022 or 2023 F-150 for modern all-around value, or a 2020 for a great balance of capability and price. A 2017 is worth shopping on a tighter budget, and the refreshed 2024 makes sense when technology is a priority.
At J.C. Lewis Ford Savannah, we match F-150 buyers with trucks that fit the work, driving and weekends ahead. The trick is choosing the right year, engine and configuration together. We will show you where each generation shines, what deserves a closer look and how to put your money toward the features that matter.
OUR YEAR-BY-YEAR PICKS
The best used F-150 years to shop
Each of these years earns its place for a different reason. Move through the cards to see what you gain, who we recommend it for and what to check on the truck itself.
OUR FIRST PICK
2022–2023
Best modern used value
You get the redesigned F-150 cabin, SYNC 4, available 12-inch touchscreen, excellent engine choices and a truck that feels at home as a daily driver or weekend hauler. Compare equipment and condition to decide between the two years.
Look for: XLT and Lariat SuperCrew trucks, plus PowerBoost models with the power equipment you want.
PREVIOUS-GENERATION FAVORITE
2020
Best blend of capability and price
The final year of the 2015–2020 generation gives you the aluminum-alloy body, an established selection of EcoBoost and V8 engines, and available SYNC 3 and driver-assistance features. Spend on the cab, engine and trailer equipment you need instead of newer screens.
Look for: A well-kept XLT or Lariat; review 10-speed shifting and 3.5L EcoBoost cold-start history where applicable.
TECHNOLOGY UPGRADE
2024+
Best for updated features
The 2024 refresh brought a standard 12-inch center display and digital gauge cluster, updated styling, the 2.7L EcoBoost as the base engine and an available Pro Access Tailgate. Shop these years when you want the newer dashboard and convenience features.
Look for: The equipment difference that justifies the price step over a comparable 2022 or 2023.
GREAT ENGINE SELECTION
2018–2019
Best for a later 13th-generation truck
Ford updated the 2.7L EcoBoost and 5.0L V8 for 2018, with 10-speed automatics on those engines and the 3.5L EcoBoost. These trucks deliver the familiar F-150 driving experience with a wide range of trims and cab styles.
Look for: The right engine and maintenance history rather than an equipment package you will not use.
EARLIER-GENERATION VALUE
2017
Best earlier aluminum-body pick
The aluminum-body design was already established, and the updated 3.5L EcoBoost arrived with Ford’s 10-speed automatic for that engine. You’ll find genuine truck capability without paying for the latest generation’s electronics.
Look for: Clear cold-start, drivetrain and service history on the exact engine configuration.
OLDER-BUDGET FAVORITE
2014
Best for traditional truck appeal
This final year of the preceding generation offers available 5.0L V8 and 3.5L EcoBoost power in a familiar, straightforward pickup. An attractive starting point when purchase cost matters more than the newest cabin technology.
Look for: Service documentation, underbody condition and the kind of use the truck has seen.
Swipe, scroll or use the arrows to compare model years. A well-equipped 2021 also brings the redesigned cabin and the first PowerBoost hybrid; include it when the price and history are right.
ENGINE COMPARISON
Which F-150 engine would we recommend?
The engine makes a bigger difference than a trim badge. Here’s how we’d steer you through the four powertrains many used F-150 shoppers ask about.
EVERYDAY ALL-ROUNDER
2.7L EcoBoost
Quick response and plenty of torque in a package that’s easy to enjoy every day. This is a favorite for commuting, weekend supplies and trailers within the truck’s actual rating.
Best pairing: An XLT SuperCrew that balances comfort and utility. The 2018 update and 2024 standard-engine change make the year worth checking.
REGULAR TOWING
3.5L EcoBoost
Strong low-rpm torque is the draw when you’re pulling a boat or camper. For a trailer you use often, this is the engine we’d compare first.
Best pairing: The correct axle ratio and tow equipment. The 2017 engine update is notable; verify cold-start history on applicable older models.
CLASSIC V8 CHARACTER
5.0L V8
Naturally aspirated power with the sound and throttle response that keep V8 fans coming back to Ford trucks. Excellent for a buyer who wants a familiar, capable gasoline V8.
Best pairing: XL, XLT or Lariat, depending on the cabin you want. Compare 2014-era examples with the revised engine offered beginning in 2018.
HYBRID VERSATILITY
3.5L PowerBoost
Gasoline and electric power work together for smooth performance and useful fuel-economy potential. An available 7.2-kW Pro Power Onboard system adds practical electricity at a campsite or work area.
Best pairing: A 2021-or-newer truck with the actual onboard-power capacity and features you need.
Used F-150s also include other powertrains, including the 3.3L V6 and 3.0L Power Stroke diesel in certain years. Engine availability, output and transmission pairing depend on model year and configuration.
FORD F-150 GENERATION GUIDE
What changed between the model years?
Some upgrades change how a truck drives. Others change what you see and use every day. These are the turning points worth knowing when you’re comparing listings.
2011
New engine lineup. The 5.0L V8 and 3.5L EcoBoost joined the F-150 family.
2015
New body design. High-strength aluminum-alloy body panels debuted on a steel frame.
2017–2018
Powertrain changes. The second-generation 3.5L EcoBoost came first, followed by 2.7L and 5.0L updates.
2021
New cabin and hybrid. SYNC 4 arrived with the redesigned F-150 and the first PowerBoost.
2024
Refreshed tech. Standard 12-inch center and instrument displays, updated styling and an available Pro Access Tailgate.
SHOP THE TRUCK, NOT JUST THE YEAR
A well-equipped F-150 beats the wrong configuration every time.
SuperCrew room, 4WD, bed length, axle ratio, trailer equipment and trim all change what you get for your money. See what’s available, then compare the details with us.
WHAT WE CHECK
Buy your F-150 with confidence
Model year gets you started. The way the truck has been serviced, equipped and driven tells you which one to take home. Here’s where we’d focus when evaluating a used F-150.
01 / ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
Listen on a cold start. Drive it warm.
On certain 2017–2020 3.5L EcoBoost trucks, check for a brief cold-start rattle and review any variable cam-timing repairs. On examples with the 10R80 automatic, pay attention to delayed or harsh engagement and shifts. Ford has service guidance for these symptoms on applicable vehicles.
02 / HISTORY & MILEAGE
Service records tell the useful story.
A truck with regular maintenance and more miles can be a better buy than one with a low odometer and missed service. Review engine oil, cooling, transmission and 4WD maintenance, accident history and completed repairs. Check the VIN for open safety recalls.
03 / LOCAL USE & TOWING
Know the load and inspect underneath.
For trucks used around Savannah boat ramps and coastal roads, look closely at the steel frame, hitch, fasteners and signs of water intrusion. Match any boat or camper’s loaded weight and tongue weight to the exact truck’s tow and payload ratings; engine choice alone doesn’t set those limits.
WHY SHOP WITH US
Find Your Used F-150 With J.C. Lewis Ford Savannah
Bring your engine, cab and towing priorities to 9505 Abercorn Street in Savannah. We’ll compare the details of the F-150 you’re considering and help you plan the purchase around your budget.
Family-Held Since 1912
Our family-held Ford dealership has served Savannah since 1912. Buy your next truck from a business with generations of local roots and an ongoing connection to the community.
Clear Purchase and Trade Guidance
We review vehicle pricing, your trade-in value and financing options together, so you can compare what each F-150 means for your budget before choosing your truck.
Help for Out-of-State Buyers
Our remote transaction specialists help you review vehicle details and organize paperwork from home. Southeast home delivery is available for eligible purchases; ask us about arrangements for your address.
Ford Service and Genuine Parts
Our Ford service team and genuine Ford parts give you a familiar place for maintenance and repairs, from your first oil change to the miles you put on your truck each year.
COMMON USED-TRUCK QUESTIONS
Used Ford F-150 Model Year and Engine FAQs
What is the best year for a used Ford F-150?
We recommend starting with a 2022 or 2023 F-150 for modern used-truck value. The 2020 is a favorite from the previous generation, 2017 and 2014 are appealing at older-truck budgets, and the 2024 refresh is an excellent technology upgrade.
Which used Ford F-150 year is the most reliable?
Our favorite newer used choices are 2022–2023, while the 2020 is a terrific previous-generation pick. For long-term dependability, we put service records, mechanical condition and completed repairs alongside model year when recommending a particular truck.
Which F-150 years need a closer inspection?
On certain 2017–2020 F-150s with the 3.5L EcoBoost, check cold-start cam-timing noise and related repair history. On certain trucks equipped with the 10R80 automatic, assess harsh or delayed shifting. Older high-mileage examples also need careful checks of service history, corrosion and previous towing use.
Is the 2.7L or 3.5L EcoBoost better for a used F-150?
We like the 2.7L EcoBoost for daily driving and everyday truck duties. For frequent towing, the 3.5L EcoBoost is our first comparison. Your trailer weight, axle ratio, cab, drivetrain and tow equipment determine the right configuration.
What year did the Ford F-150 get PowerBoost and SYNC 4?
Both arrived with the redesigned 2021 F-150. The 3.5L PowerBoost brought full-hybrid power, while SYNC 4 introduced updated infotainment with an available 12-inch center screen. A 12-inch center touchscreen became standard across the F-150 lineup for 2024.
How many miles are too many on a used F-150?
Mileage alone doesn’t decide whether an F-150 is a good buy. Compare the maintenance records, engine and transmission condition, past towing use and inspection results. A higher-mileage truck with excellent care can offer better value than a lower-mileage truck that needs major work.
Is a 2014 Ford F-150 still worth buying?
Absolutely. A well-maintained 2014 F-150 is a smart option for shoppers who want traditional truck styling and available 5.0L V8 or 3.5L EcoBoost power at an older-model price. Budget for age-related wear and inspect the chassis and service history.
Your Next Step
Keep Researching or Start Shopping
Ready to compare trucks? Browse used inventory, estimate your payment or ask us about a specific F-150. For a closer look at equipment and capability, explore the trim guides, towing information and ownership resources below.