What is the body material of the Ford F-150?
The Ford F-150 uses an aluminum-alloy body for most exterior panels, with a high-strength steel frame. This combination was introduced with the 2015 redesign and remains in current models.
In this article, we describe the material makeup of the F-150's body, how aluminum and steel are used, and what it means for performance, durability, and maintenance.
Material breakdown by component
Below is a breakdown of which body components use aluminum versus steel on the modern F-150.
- Cab and doors: aluminum-alloy panels, designed to save weight while maintaining rigidity.
- Hood, fenders, and bed sides: aluminum-alloy panels for weight reduction and range.
- Bed: aluminum-alloy bed in most models, with steel reinforcements in key load-bearing areas.
- Frame: high-strength steel ladder frame, providing the structural backbone and towing capability.
- Other structural components: a mix of aluminum and steel, with steel used for critical mounting points and brackets.
The material mix is chosen to balance weight savings with durability and repair practicality, enabling improved payload and efficiency while preserving rugged capability.
Historical context and current status
The shift to an aluminum body began with the 2015 F-150 redesign, a move Ford described as a weight-reduction initiative combined with improved corrosion resistance and efficiency. Ford uses a military-grade aluminum alloy for many exterior panels and the cargo bed, while the frame remains steel to preserve load-bearing strength. Since then, Ford has refined joining methods, paint, and repair techniques to accommodate the all-aluminum body across model years, including updates for 2021 and beyond.
What this means for owners
For owners, the aluminum body offers weight savings that translate to better fuel economy and handling, as well as potential improvements in payload-to-weight ratios. It also changes maintenance and repair considerations, requiring specialized tools and repair processes for aluminum panels and fasteners. Most common panels can be replaced or repaired at dealerships or shops equipped for aluminum body work; the steel frame remains the primary load-bearing element, and some components are steel for durability.
Ultimately, the F-150's material strategy — aluminum body panels with a steel frame — aims to balance efficiency with capability, allowing the truck to perform heavy-duty work while offering improved everyday driving efficiency.
Summary: The Ford F-150 uses an aluminum-alloy body for most exterior panels, paired with a high-strength steel frame. This combination, introduced in 2015, remains in current models and influences repair, maintenance, and performance considerations.
Why did Ford switch to aluminum bodies?
Ford switched to an aluminum body for its F-150 truck to save significant weight, which improves fuel economy, enhances performance, and increases capability. The goal was also to meet stricter government fuel-economy standards and to create a more durable, corrosion-resistant vehicle. This was a risky move, but it was a strategic effort to gain a competitive advantage in the truck market.
Key reasons for the switch
- Weight savings: Using military-grade aluminum alloys saved approximately 700 pounds per truck compared to the previous steel version, which allowed for the benefits listed below.
- Improved fuel economy: A lighter vehicle requires less energy to move, leading to better fuel efficiency.
- Enhanced performance: The weight reduction improved acceleration, braking, and handling.
- Increased capability: Lighter weight allows the truck to have a higher payload and towing capacity.
- Durability and corrosion resistance: Aluminum is resistant to rust and corrosion, which can extend the vehicle's lifespan.
- Meeting fuel economy standards: This was a primary driver for the change, as automakers needed to reduce the mass of their vehicles to comply with stricter regulations.
- Competitive advantage: Ford took a bold step to differentiate its F-150 and gain an edge over competitors by using the lighter material so widely.
What are Ford body parts made of?
Yep, aluminum main body, steel frame work and various other materials for other components, real leather, plastic, foo leather, kevlar, etc.... All the weight is low. That's why there's lower than expected body roll. Ford started this years ago with their pickup trucks.
When did the F-150 change to an aluminum body?
In 2015, Ford introduced the aluminum-bodied F-150 and spent the last six years refining mass market aluminum manufacturing best practices.
What are Ford F-150 bodies made of?
Since 2015, Ford has made their popular F-150 truck out of aluminum. Then, in 2017, they also started creating their F-Series Super-Duty trucks out of aluminum as well. This trend continues until today, with these two models using aluminum bodies, and all other Ford trucks having the typical steel bodies.
