With car prices still higher than they should be, it is important to choose wisely when looking to buy. In addition to not spending a fortune, you are probably looking for a vehicle that you can rely on for many years ahead. This is why it makes so much sense to shop for a used Ford for sale. Ford has a well-deserved reputation for building durable cars that can last for years—and even decades. And the toughest of the bunch may be the F-150. For almost 50 years, this versatile truck has been loved by everyone from farmers and landscapers to construction workers and soccer moms. Of course, this pickup has changed quite a bit over all that time, as every generation has introduced new amenities. This guide takes a look at models from the three most recent generations and why they are all fantastic used trucks.
2014 Ford F-150
2014 marked the last year of the F-150’s 12th generation. Introduced in 2009, this generation saw a variety of aesthetic changes, including a new grille with an additional horizonal bar, inspired by Super Duty models. The headlights also got a refresh and were now reminiscent of the ones found on SUVs like the Expedition and Edge. One of the most exciting additions to this generation was the SVT Raptor, which delighted off-road enthusiasts with its numerous hard-nosed features that made it a dream for exploring rough and rocky terrain.
An area that the F-150 really put a focus on was fuel economy, as all models improved in this department. In 2011, in addition to the new base 3.7-liter V6, Ford unveiled a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6. This EcoBoost direct-injection engine was designed to offer more power and torque compared to a naturally aspirated engine but, at the same time, get better fuel efficiency with fewer carbon emissions.
The 2014 F-150 comes with three cab choices: Regular, SuperCab, and SuperCrew. The base Regular Cab seats three people, but you can fit up to six in either of the other two. Upper trims have a host of tech goodies, like a touchscreen for the infotainment system, satellite radio, and even a power moonroof. When work is to be done, this truck will be ready, as it can tow up to 11,300 lbs and haul up to 3,120 lbs when properly equipped.
2020 Ford F-150
The F-150 entered its 13th generation in 2015, and again, it underwent a variety of changes. Most notably, it was made a little differently, as it was now constructed with much more aluminum, which reduced its curb weight by almost 750 lbs. The frame, however, was still constructed of high-quality steel, making this truck exceptionally strong.
Under the hood, the F-150 received more alterations. That 3.7-liter V6 was now swapped out for a 3.5-liter V6 as the base engine. Another EcoBoost engine joined the lineup as well, and this was a 2.7-liter V6. The 2017 model added a new 10-speed transmission, and the 2018 truck saw a Power Stroke diesel engine added to the lineup. Also for 2018, the base engine became a 3.3-liter V6. Several safety features were added to this generation, including lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and pedestrian detection.
Thanks to its meatier powertrains, the 2020 F-150 has even better workhorse abilities compared to previous generations. When properly equipped, it can tow up to 13,200 lbs, and it has a maximum payload of 3,270 lbs. Inside, you will find a big and spacious interior that can fit up to six people, depending on which cab you go with. Cloth upholstery is standard, but leather comes in upper trims. You can also find features like heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats and a heated steering wheel there. Navigation, HD and satellite radio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot are all available as well. Forward Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, and a rearview camera are standard in the 2020 model.
2024 Ford F-150
In 2021, the F-150 began its 14th and most current generation. While this pickup may not have looked much different compared to the 2020 model, its exterior panels were revised to make the model more aerodynamic. As a sign of the times, Ford introduced an available PowerBoost powertrain consisting of a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 along with an electric motor. However, that was far from Ford’s only “green” innovation, as 2022 was the year that the F-150 Lightning came out. This fully electric pickup has immense power and can even keep the lights (and other things) on in a sizable house for many days during a blackout.
The 2024 model saw a number of refreshes, including revisions to the grille and head- and taillights. LED headlights are now standard across the board. No matter which cab you go with, all passengers will have plenty of space. Cloth upholstery and manually adjustable front seats are standard, and upper trims can have power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and leather upholstery. Technology is a strong suit of the 2024 F-150, as it comes with numerous components, including multiple USB ports, a 12-inch digital gauge cluster, and a 12-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system. Smartphone connectivity is now wireless, along with access to a Wi-Fi hotspot.
The 2024 F-150 is also focused on helping protect passengers. It comes loaded with advanced safety features, including Pre-Collision Assist, a Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert, and Reverse Brake Assist. To further augment your safety, you can equip your truck with BlueCruise, which is a partially automated highway driving system that supports Lane Change Assist and In-Lane Repositioning.
When it is time to put your truck to work, you will appreciate what it can do. When properly equipped, it can tow up to 13,500 lbs and haul up to 2,445 lbs, which are both class-leading numbers. You can also find a trim eager to get dirty, as features like skid plates, a locking rear differential, an off-road suspension, monotube rear shocks, all-terrain tires, and Hill Descent Control are all available.
Which Used Ford F-150 Is Right for You?
Over the last eight decades, Ford has proven that it knows a thing or two about producing world-class vehicles. And whatever you need a truck for, it is clear that the F-150 will deliver. Plus, as this guide shows, you don’t have to purchase a new model to get a fantastic pickup that will give you everything you require. Even if you go with one that is a decade old or older, there is no reason why it can’t continue to offer excellent performance for a very long time.
Just a visit to your local Ford dealer and the exploration of its diverse truck lineup will show you why this iconic brand is celebrated for its reliability. Getting behind the wheel of a powerful workhorse doesn’t mean you have to break the bank. Investing in a pre-owned F-150 is one of the most cost-effective choices you can make when looking for your next pickup, allowing you to bypass the initial depreciation that comes with a new vehicle, and reaping all of the rewards that come with this legendary truck lineup.
