How many miles is a 2013 F150 good for?

A well-maintained 2013 Ford F-150 can commonly reach about 200,000 miles, with many trucks enduring longer and some surpassing 300,000 miles. Actual longevity depends on maintenance, usage, and environmental factors.

In this article we’ll explore what drives a 2013 F-150’s lifespan, how different engines affect durability, and practical steps owners can take to maximize miles. We’ll also look at what to watch for when buying a higher-mileage example and how to plan for long-term reliability.

Realistic mileage expectations for the 2013 F-150

Understanding how far a 2013 F-150 can go starts with a baseline of typical maintenance and typical driving patterns. The following factors help predict whether a specific truck will hit the 200k, 250k, or even higher mile marks.

• Regular, manufacturer-recommended maintenance is the strongest predictor of longevity. This includes timely oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid flushes.


• Driving duty matters. Highway-dominant miles tend to be gentler on wear items than frequent heavy towing or stop-and-go city driving.


• Maintenance history and quality of parts used for repairs play a major role—skimping on fluids, belts, or sensors can accelerate wear.


• Rust prevention and care are important for the truck’s undercarriage and frame, especially in regions with road salt or heavy moisture exposure.


• Overall health of the cooling system, transmission, and drivetrain components influences how long the vehicle remains reliable.

With attentive care, a 2013 F-150’s life can extend well beyond the 200,000‑mile mark, though the likelihood of major repairs tends to rise as mileage climbs. Individual results vary based on how the truck was used and how diligently it was serviced.

Engine options and longevity patterns

The 2013 F-150 offered multiple engines, each with its own maintenance profile. The engine choices can influence long-term reliability and service needs, which in turn affect how far the truck can go with proper care.

3.7L V6

The 3.7L V6 is a straightforward, mechanical design that many owners have used for high-mileage service. With regular maintenance, this engine can reach substantial mileage, though long-term durability benefits are closely tied to consistent oil changes, cooling system upkeep, and timely component replacements as the truck ages.

5.0L V8

The 5.0L V8 has a reputation for rugged durability and a simple, robust bottom end. When properly maintained—especially cooling, oil, and spark plug service—the 5.0 can deliver strong mileage performance and remain dependable into the 200k–300k range.

3.5L EcoBoost

The 3.5L EcoBoost combines turbocharged power with direct injection, which can introduce additional maintenance considerations. With vigilant maintenance—particularly coolant management, intake/turbocharger care, and timely spark plug and fuel system service—the EcoBoost can also achieve high mileage, though some owners report higher ongoing maintenance demands than naturally aspirated engines.

Practical tips to maximize miles on a 2013 F-150

To push a 2013 F-150 toward higher mileages, prioritize proactive maintenance, thoughtful operation, and timely repairs. The following practices are widely recommended by independent repair shops and owners alike.

• Follow a strict maintenance schedule: oil changes with the correct grade, transmission fluid changes, coolant flushes, and regular brake inspections.


• Address issues early: drivetrain noises, leaks, or warning lights should be diagnosed and repaired promptly to prevent collateral damage.


• Keep cooling and charging systems healthy: regularly inspect hoses, radiators, and the battery; ensure the radiator cap and fans operate correctly.


• Maintain fuel and air systems: replace spark plugs at recommended intervals (especially on EcoBoost models) and use quality fuels and filters.


• Protect against rust and corrosion: wash and protect the undercarriage in salty or humid environments; treat exposed metal to slow rust progression.


• Use high-quality fluids and parts: OEM or equivalent parts with proper torque specs help ensure longevity compared with cheaper substitutes.

By applying disciplined maintenance and mindful operation, owners can maximize the chances of reaching higher mileage milestones with a 2013 F-150.

What to look for when buying a higher-mileage 2013 F-150

When shopping for a 2013 F-150 with significant miles, buyers should verify the maintenance history, inspect critical wear items, and consider the vehicle’s overall condition to gauge future reliability.

• Full maintenance records, including service on the cooling system, transmission, and ignition components.


• Signs of proper rust prevention and body/frame corrosion treatment.


• Condition of the engine and transmission, including any unusual noises, vibrations, or fluid leaks.


• History of major repairs or failures, such as timing chain/taf components, rear axle, or transfer case (for 4x4 models).


• Inspection of tires, brakes, suspension components, and steering for uneven wear or excessive play.

With careful evaluation and transparent maintenance history, a higher-mileage 2013 F-150 can still be a reliable work truck or daily driver.

Summary

The 2013 Ford F-150 can reliably reach the mid-to-high mile range with attentive care, with most examples achieving 200,000 miles or more and some surpassing 300,000 miles. Engine choice influences maintenance needs and potential longevity, but disciplined service, sensible use, and prompt repairs are the most important factors. For buyers, a complete maintenance history and thorough pre-purchase inspection are essential to gauge future reliability and remaining life.

How many miles can you drive a 2013 Ford F150?

But, how long does a Ford F-150 last? A Ford F-150 is expected to last around 200,000 miles when properly cared for.

Which F-150 years are worth avoiding?

2004-2008
We recommend avoiding 2004-2008 F150 models due to spark plug ejection issues with the 5.4L V8 engine. The 2015-2016 models, while not bad, had some early aluminum body production quirks that Ford resolved in later years. Always research specific model years and have any used truck inspected before purchase.

What is considered high mileage for a Ford F-150?

For a Ford F-150, over 100,000 miles is generally considered high mileage, though F-150s are known for their durability and can be reliable well beyond this point with proper maintenance. Vehicles with more than 20,000 miles per year on average are also often labeled as high mileage. 
What constitutes high mileage

• Over 100,000 miles: This is the general threshold for high mileage, at which point components like the engine and transmission may start to show wear. 
• Over 15,000 miles per year: A good rule of thumb is to consider a truck with more than 15,000 miles on it per year of its age as high mileage. 
• 20,000+ miles per year: A truck driven more than 20,000 miles annually is considered high mileage. 

Important considerations for high-mileage F-150s

• Maintenance history: A well-maintained F-150 with over 100,000 miles can still be a great value. A solid maintenance record is crucial. 
• Potential for more expensive repairs: As mileage increases, the likelihood of needing more significant and costly repairs for components like the engine, transmission, or other parts goes up. 
• Engine and transmission specifics: Certain F-150 engines, like the 3.5L EcoBoost, have known potential issues like cam phasers, and some transmissions can have issues with the CDF drum and valve body, notes this YouTube video. 
• Body and overall condition: A solid body, even with high mileage, can be a good indicator of a well-cared-for vehicle. 

Is 2013 a good year for a Ford F-150?

Yes, the 2013 F-150 is considered a good truck, praised for its robust construction, variety of engine options, and available modern conveniences. However, potential buyers should be aware of reported issues, particularly with transmissions and electronic interfaces. 
You can watch this video for a general review of the 2013 Ford F-150 XLT model: 1mHeritage FordYouTube · Aug 6, 2025
Pros

• Powerful and varied engine options: It is available with a strong 5.0L V8, a fuel-efficient 3.7L V6, and the popular twin-turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost V6. 
• Robust construction: The 12th generation (2009-2014) features a durable, hydro-formed chassis and robust construction, leading to high longevity. 
• Modern conveniences: Many models come with features like backup cameras, tilting and telescoping steering wheels, and a 6-speed automatic transmission. 
• Safety: It has strong safety ratings from the NHTSA, including a 5-star rating for side crashes. 
• Comfort and space: The cabin is roomy, with various configurations to choose from, and many owners report comfortable seats and good visibility. 

Cons

• Transmission issues: Some owners have reported shifting problems, erratic performance, and transmission failures on some models. 
• Electronic problems: The MyFord Touch infotainment system can be frustrating to use, and some owners have experienced issues with other electronics like the gasoline gauge. 
• Steering column: Some shorter drivers have found the steering column to feel a bit snug and wished it had more adjustability. 

Recommendation
The 2013 F-150 is a good truck if you find one in good condition with a well-maintained history. However, due to potential transmission and electronic issues, a pre-purchase inspection is highly recommended, with a specific focus on these areas. 
This video discusses potential issues with the 2009-2014 F-150 models, including transmission problems: 50sMiguel's GarageYouTube · Jan 23, 2024