Is the Ford F-150 a safe truck?

The Ford F-150 is generally regarded as a safe pickup, backed by strong crash-test results in recent model years and a broad set of standard and optional safety features. However, safety ratings can vary by year, trim level, and equipment, so it’s important to check year-specific data from major safety agencies.

In this report, we evaluate official crash-test outcomes, the safety technologies available across different trims, and practical guidance for buyers. The goal is to provide a clear picture of how the F-150 performs in protection, prevention, and real-world safety outcomes, while noting where results may differ by configuration.

Crash-test ratings and official assessments

Official crash-test results come from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Ratings vary by model year and trim, and some features or headlights can influence IIHS category results. The latest widely sold F-150 configurations generally show strong performance in crash tests, with variations tied to equipment and design updates over time.

• NHTSA overall rating for recent F-150 configurations tends to be high (commonly four or five stars, depending on year and variant).


• IIHS crashworthiness ratings for many trims are Good in major test categories, though some trims with specific headlights or options may affect the Top Safety Pick+/Good/Acceptable distinctions.


• Forward-collision prevention and automatic emergency braking features tied to Ford’s safety suite influence IIHS outcomes and are often standard or widely available.


• Rollover and structural integrity ratings have historically been strong for the F-150, aided by a high-strength steel construction in newer generations.

Overall, the F-150’s official crash-test performance is solid across recent years, but buyers should verify the exact year and trim to understand the precise ratings for that configuration.

Safety features that come with the F-150

Ford outfits the F-150 with a broad safety and driver-assist package known as Co-Pilot360 (and evolved versions in later years). Availability and standard status vary by trim and model year, so it’s important to confirm what’s included on a given truck.

• Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Detection


• Lane-Keeping System (with lane-centering on some trims)


• Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Tourism Alert


• Automatic High Beam Headlamps


• Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go (on higher trims or with packages)


• Trailer-related safety features such as Pro Trailer Backup Assist (availability varies by trim)

These features are designed to aid in both accident avoidance and mitigation, but they complement rather than replace careful, attentive driving. The exact feature set depends on the model year and trim, so prospective buyers should verify the equipment list for the specific vehicle they are evaluating.

Model-year and trim considerations

Safety data, technology suites, and rating outcomes shift with updates to the F-150. The 2021 redesign, for example, introduced a newer safety framework and updated driver-assist technologies, and subsequent years have expanded or refined those offerings. When shopping, it’s important to confirm the exact year/trim pairing to understand which features and ratings apply.

• Year-specific NHTSA and IIHS ratings can differ, even within the same generation, due to updated software, sensors, and headlights.


• Different trims bring different levels of standard safety features; some are standard on higher trims and optional or unavailable on base models.


• Recall history and any ongoing service campaigns can impact real-world safety and reliability; verify current status with Ford’s recall database and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

In practice, this means a well-equipped, late-model F-150 tends to offer the strongest safety performance, but a lightly equipped or older truck may not provide the same level of protection or the same suite of safety aids. Always review year- and trim-specific data before purchase.

Summary

The Ford F-150 stands as a strong safety option within the full-size pickup segment, combining robust crash-test performance with a broad array of driver-assist features. Ratings and available equipment, however, are not uniform across all years and trims, so the safest choice is to check the exact model year and equipment on a vehicle you’re considering—and to verify the latest NHTSA and IIHS ratings for that configuration. With careful selection, the F-150 can offer substantial protection and preventive safety for both drivers and passengers.

What Ford F-150 to stay away from?

You should stay away from Ford F-150 model years that are prone to engine, transmission, and electrical issues, specifically 2004–2008, 2010, and 2015–2018. The 2004–2008 models are plagued by 5.4L Triton V8 engine problems like broken spark plugs and cam phaser failures, as well as transmission and electrical issues. The 2010 model continues with engine and transmission issues, while the 2015–2017 models had problems with EcoBoost engines and the six-speed automatic transmission.
 
This video explains which Ford F-150 models to avoid and why: 58sThe SUV GuyYouTube · Jul 19, 2025
Model years to avoid and why

• 2004–2008: These models are known for major problems with the 5.4L Triton V8 engine, including spark plugs that break off and cam phaser failures, leading to rough running and power loss. They also had frequent transmission failures and electrical issues like faulty window regulators. 
• 2010: This model year continued to suffer from engine problems with the final version of the 5.4L 3-valve engine and experienced transmission issues like harsh shifting. You may also find issues with door handles, master cylinders, and rear window leaks. 
• 2015–2018: This period is associated with EcoBoost engine problems like carbon buildup and turbo issues, along with early concerns with the six-speed automatic transmission. These years are considered riskier due to structural issues and catastrophic engine/transmission failures reported by some owners. 
• 2021: As the first year of a major redesign, the 2021 model had several problems. Owners reported electrical issues, infotainment glitches, and concerns with the new hybrid system. It also had recalls for things like windshield bonding and drive shaft concerns. 

What to consider instead

• Best years to buy: For a reliable used truck, look for years like 2009, 2014, and 2019–2020. These models are known for better reliability.
• Recommended engines: If you're looking at the 2014 or 2019–2020 models, the 5.0L V8 or 2.7L EcoBoost are often recommended for avoiding costly issues. 

How safe is the Ford F-150?

The 2025 Ford F-150 Crew Cab earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) Top Safety Pick designation by performing well in key crash tests: Small Overlap Frontal (Driver and Passenger Sides): Rated Good on both sides.

What is the #1 safest vehicle?

There is no single "number one" safety-rated vehicle; safety ratings are categorized by vehicle type and a vehicle's overall safety score depends on its performance in crash tests and its standard safety features. However, the 2025 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Mazda3, Toyota Camry, and Toyota Prius all received top "Top Safety Pick+" ratings from the IIHS and 5-Star ratings from the NHTSA. Many other models also earned high marks in their respective categories. 
Top-rated vehicles for 2025 

• Mercedes-Benz C-Class: Earned a 2025 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating and a 5-Star rating from the NHTSA. 
• 2025 Mazda3 (Sedan and Hatchback): Also received both a 2025 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating and a 5-Star rating from the NHTSA. 
• 2025 Toyota Camry: Both the standard and hybrid models are rated as 2025 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and 5-Star from the NHTSA. 
• 2025 Toyota Prius: Achieved a 2025 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating. 
• Ford Mustang Mach-E: This electric SUV earned a 2025 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating and a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA. 
• Honda Accord: The hybrid model is highlighted by U.S. News & World Report as one of the safest cars with a 9.8/10 safety score, along with standard safety features like traffic-jam assist and forward-collision warning. 

How to choose

• Check the official ratings: Consult the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) for the latest ratings on the specific models you are interested in. 
• Consider vehicle type: Safety ratings are often broken down by vehicle type, such as small cars, midsize cars, SUVs, and luxury vehicles. 
• Prioritize specific safety features: Some ratings, like the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, require specific optional equipment to achieve the highest ratings. 

What is the safest truck in a crash?

The safest trucks in a crash, based on safety ratings and crash tests, include the 2024 Toyota Tacoma, 2025 Ford F-150, 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, and 2021 Honda Ridgeline. The 2025 Ford F-250 Super Duty and 2025 Ram 2500 are also highlighted for heavy-duty models. Safety features like advanced airbags, reinforced frames, and driver-assistance systems such as automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist are key factors in their high safety scores. 
Top-rated trucks

• 2024 Toyota Tacoma: Earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick award, rebuilt on the new TNGA-F platform for 2024, and received perfect scores in all side-impact categories from the NHTSA. 
• 2025 Ford F-150: Has top ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, featuring a reinforced frame, military-grade aluminum construction, and advanced airbags. 
• 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500: Received a perfect five-star overall score from the NHTSA, indicating top performance in crash tests. 
• 2021 Honda Ridgeline: Received top ratings in crashworthiness, including high marks for side and roof strength, and scored "superior" in front crash prevention. 
• 2025 Toyota Tundra: Achieves "Good" ratings in most IIHS tests, supported by strong and sturdy construction and effective airbags. 
• 2025 Ford F-250 Super Duty and 2025 Ram 2500: Named the best heavy-duty trucks for 2025 by U.S. News & World Report. 

Key safety features

• Structural integrity: Reinforced frames and crumple zones are designed to absorb impact energy. 
• Driver assistance: Features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring help prevent collisions. 
• Airbag systems: Advanced airbag systems provide comprehensive protection for occupants in various crash scenarios. 
• Electronic stability: Systems like electronic stability control, traction control, and rollover prevention help maintain stability.