Was 2013 a good year for a F150?
Yes — 2013 was generally a good year for the Ford F-150, delivering strong capability, a broad engine lineup, and solid resale value, though it carried the usual tech quirks common to the era's infotainment systems.
Key strengths in 2013
Here are the main factors that contributed to the F-150's standing in 2013.
- Broad engine lineup, including the 3.7L V6, 5.0L V8, and 3.5L EcoBoost; this mix offered a balance of power and efficiency for different buyers.
- Competitive towing and payload capabilities across configurations, making the truck versatile for work, recreation, and heavy-duty tasks.
- Improved interior comfort and technology options, with refinements in cabin materials and available features like Ford Sync and MyFord Touch in higher trims.
- Better overall fuel economy for a full-size pickup in its class, particularly with the EcoBoost option delivering strong torque while improving efficiency compared with older V8s.
- Strong resale value and a broad dealer network that supported ongoing maintenance, parts availability, and resale appeal.
Taken together, these strengths underscored the F-150's role as a reliable all-around workhorse with modern conveniences, appealing to both fleets and private buyers.
Ownership considerations for 2013 F-150
Important caveats for buyers of the time and those considering a used 2013 F-150 today.
- Toughness of in-cabin tech: The MyFord Touch system and related features offered by many 2013 models could be finicky or laggy, especially as software aged; buyers should test the system and ensure software updates were performed.
- Recalls and service history: Like many vehicles from this period, certain model builds experienced recalls; prospective buyers should review the VIN against NHTSA records and verify that corrective work was completed.
- Maintenance costs: While durable, a full-size pickup like the F-150 can incur higher maintenance and repair costs as it ages, particularly for wear items (tires, brakes, suspension) and powertrain service on older engines.
- Engine choice trade-offs: The EcoBoost option provides strong torque but may entail different long-term maintenance considerations than the natural-aspirated V8 or V6, so buyers should weigh ownership costs and reliability history for their chosen engine.
- Overall reliability: The 2013 F-150 was generally reliable for its era, but prospective buyers should review a detailed, model-specific maintenance history and consider a pre-purchase inspection to catch any age-related wear.
In sum, the 2013 F-150 offered solid value through capable performance and a flexible engine lineup, with caveats primarily around aging infotainment hardware and the usual maintenance needs of a 10+ year-old full-size pickup.
Summary
Overall, 2013 was a favorable year for the Ford F-150. It delivered strong power options, dependable towing and payload, and enduring resale strength. For buyers today, it remains a capable used-pickup option, provided they verify maintenance history, address any recalls, and manage the tech and wear considerations typical of this generation.
How many miles will a 2013 F150 last?
With proper maintenance, a well-cared-for Ford F-150 typically lasts between 200,000 and 300,000 miles, easily providing 15 to 20 years of reliable service.
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.
Does the 2013 Ford F-150 have any transmission problems?
Transmission issues are another common complaint among Ford F-150 owners. Some models, particularly those from 2011 to 2013, have been plagued by problems with their 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners have reported hard shifting, slipping, and, in some cases, complete transmission failure.
Is 2013 a good year for a F150?
Yes, 2013 is generally considered a good year for the F-150, with high owner satisfaction ratings for its performance, comfort, and interior, though some owners have noted issues with value and the 5.0L V8 engine's towing for heavy loads. It features modern engines like the turbocharged EcoBoost V6 and a strong frame, along with excellent safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS.
Pros
- Performance and engines: Praised for its powerful engines, including the base V6, the strong EcoBoost turbocharged V6, and V8 options. The EcoBoost is often cited as a compelling choice for a balance of power and efficiency.
- Safety: Received strong ratings in government crash tests, with a 4-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a "Good" rating from the IIHS in several key areas.
- Comfort and interior: Owners frequently highlight the comfortable seating, spacious interior, and quiet cab as major strengths.
- Capability: Offers excellent towing capacity and is built for various tasks, from heavy work to daily driving.
- Reliability: Many owners report good reliability, particularly with the 6R80 transmission and the 5.0L V8 engine, though some maintenance, like timing chains or water pumps, may be needed over time, especially on higher-mileage vehicles.
Cons
- Value: Some owners feel the value is a weak point.
- 5.0L V8 towing: One drawback is that the 5.0L V8 may not be powerful enough for very heavy towing compared to some rivals, though this is a subjective point.
- Brakes: A few owners have reported issues like a humming noise from the rear brakes in cooler weather.
- Maneuverability: The truck's large size can make parking and maneuvering challenging for some drivers.
