What generation is my F-150?
Your F-150’s generation is tied to its model year. If you’re looking at a 2021 model or newer, you’re in the 14th generation; 2015–2020 marks the 13th; and older years align with earlier generations. This quick guide explains how to identify yours and what it means for parts, features, and value.
What defines an F-150 generation
Generation is the Ford-designated period during which a specific chassis, body style, interior layout, and major features persist. It’s most easily identified by the model year, but distinctive design cues evolve with each generation. Here are the broad year brackets that are commonly accepted by Ford enthusiasts and service references.
- 14th generation: 2021–present
- 13th generation: 2015–2020
- 12th generation: 2009–2014
- 11th generation: 2004–2008
- 10th generation: 1997–2003
- 9th generation: 1987–1996
- 8th generation: 1980–1986
- 7th generation: 1975–1979
These ranges provide a practical framework to identify your truck’s generation by year. For absolute confirmation, especially if your vehicle falls near a transition year, you should cross-check via the VIN or official Ford documentation.
How to identify your F-150's generation
To determine your generation with confidence, follow these steps that combine year checks with physical cues and official resources.
- Locate your vehicle’s model year. This is usually printed on the driver’s door sticker or the vehicle’s registration documents.
- Check the 10th character of the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). The year code corresponds to a specific letter or number in a 1980–present cycle. Use a VIN year-code chart to decode the model year.
- Compare the model year to the generation brackets listed above. If your year falls squarely in a bracket, you have your generation.
- Match design cues to the generation’s typical styling: exterior grille and headlamp shape, interior layout, and available technology often change with each generation.
- When in doubt, use an official VIN decoder or contact a Ford dealer; they can confirm your generation based on the VIN and production data.
With the model year and VIN decoded, you’ll know which generation your F-150 belongs to and can cross-check features, compatible parts, and service guidance accordingly.
Using the VIN and official resources
The VIN provides a precise, official path to determine your F-150’s generation, especially if your truck has a unique build or nonstandard features.
VIN decoding basics
The 10th character in the VIN represents the model year, while the 4th–8th characters encode the vehicle line, body style, and options. A VIN decoding tool or a dealer can translate these characters into the exact generation and configuration for your truck.
Where to find official information
Good sources include Ford’s official owner resources, dealership service departments, and Ford’s VIN decoder tools. These sources provide generation-by-year confirmations, part compatibility notes, and recall or service bulletin context that can be important for maintenance and upgrades.
Summary
In practice, your F-150’s generation is determined by the model year. As of 2024–2025, the current generation is the 14th (2021–present). For a quick check, look up the model year and use a VIN decoder to confirm, then compare with the generation ranges above. If you’re ever unsure, a local Ford dealer can verify your truck’s generation with the VIN and production data.
What year is your 9th gen F-150?
The 9th generation F-150 years are 1992 through 1996. While the entire 9th generation F-Series lineup ran until 1997, the F-150 model itself was replaced by the 10th generation in 1997. The 1997 model year for the heavier-duty trucks was still part of the 9th generation's body style.
You can watch this video to learn about the best and worst model years for the Ford F-150: 1m8020 AutomotiveYouTube · Jul 16, 2023
- Model years: 1992–1996 for the F-150, with the 9th generation body style continuing for heavy-duty trucks in 1997.
- Design changes: This generation introduced a more rounded and aerodynamic shape, a redesigned grille, and a new interior.
- Notable variants: The performance-oriented SVT Lightning was introduced for the 1993 model year and ran through 1995.
This video reviews the 1992 Ford F-150 OBS: 55sAtomic AutoYouTube · Aug 30, 2024
What year is the 14th gen F-150?
The 14th generation F-150 includes the model years 2021 to the present. This generation began with the 2021 model year and includes the most recent model year, which is 2025.
- Start of generation: The 14th generation was introduced with the 2021 model year.
- Current models: It is the current generation, which includes the most recently released 2025 models.
What years are the 13th generation F-150?
The 13th generation Ford F-150 includes the model years 2015 through 2020. This generation was marked by a significant redesign that introduced an aluminum-alloy body, which reduced weight and improved fuel efficiency.
You can watch this video to see a review of the 13th generation Ford F-150, including details about its exterior and interior: 57sThat's A FarmYouTube · Nov 1, 2024
- 2015: The first model year for the 13th generation, which debuted the aluminum-alloy body.
- 2018: Received a mid-cycle refresh with updated styling and the introduction of a 3.0L Power Stroke diesel engine.
- 2020: The final model year for the 13th generation before the 14th generation was released in 2021.
What are the generations of the Ford F-150?
Evolution of The Ford F-150
- History of the Ford F-150.
- First generation (1948–1952)
- Second, Third, and Fourth generations (1953–1966)
- Fifth and Sixth generation (1967–1979)
- Seventh and Eighth generation (1980–1986)
- Ninth generation (1992–1997)
- Tenth generation (1997–2004)
- Eleventh generation (2004–2008)
