What is the recommended 100,000 mile maintenance on a Ford F-150?
At the 100,000‑mile mark, a Ford F-150 typically enters a major service window that focuses on replacing key wear items, refreshing fluids, and inspecting critical systems. Exact items and intervals depend on the model year, engine, and drivetrain, so always consult your owner's manual or a Ford dealer for your truck’s precise schedule.
Engine and ignition maintenance
The following items address wear components and performance around the 100k mile point, helping to maintain power, efficiency and reliability.
Spark plugs and ignition components
Many F-150 engines list spark plug replacement around 100,000 miles. If due, replace all plugs and inspect ignition coils or wires for signs of wear. Performance, fuel economy and misfire symptoms should guide the decision to replace.
- Replace spark plugs with the OEM-equivalent plugs recommended for your engine.
- Inspect ignition coils and spark plug wires; replace any that show wear or misfire signs.
Replacing the plugs at or near 100k can prevent rough running and protect against longer-term engine damage, and it is a common recommendation from Ford for many engines.
Air and cabin filtration; PCV and related items
Maintaining clean air intake and proper crankcase ventilation supports engine efficiency and interior air quality.
- Engine air filter: Replace if dirty or on the 100k maintenance plan for your model.
- Cabin air filter: Replace to maintain HVAC performance and interior air quality.
- PCV valve: Inspect and replace if clogged or sticking.
Clean air delivery and proper crankcase ventilation help preserve fuel economy and engine health over the long term.
Fluids and cooling system
Fluid maintenance at 100k miles often includes coolant care, transmission service, and checks of brake, steering and differential fluids. Timely servicing helps prevent overheating, slipping and wear.
Coolant and cooling system service
Coolant replacement or a coolant flush is commonly recommended around the 100k mile milestone on many F-150 engines. Use the correct coolant spec for your engine and check hoses for wear.
- Coolant replacement or flush with Ford-recommended coolant.
- Inspect radiator hoses and clamps for leaks or deterioration.
Proper cooling system maintenance reduces the risk of overheating and protects the engine temperature management system.
Transmission and transfer case/differential fluids
Fluid service in the drivetrain helps ensure smooth shifting and robust torque delivery, especially in heavy use or towing scenarios.
- Automatic transmission fluid and seal/service as specified by the manual or dealer (may include a fluid and filter change).
- 4WD transfer case fluid: check and service if your truck uses a transfer case.
- Front and rear differential fluids: check levels and replace if due.
- Power steering fluid: check level and condition; replace if recommended.
Drivetrain fluid maintenance supports reliable shifting, steering response and differential protection under load.
Belt, hose, brake and tire wear
By 100k miles, belts, hoses, brakes and tires are key wear items that affect safety and drivability. Inspection and replacement where needed prevent roadside failures and improve handling.
Belt and hose inspection
Serpentine belts and engine hoses should be inspected for wear, cracks and signs of aging at the 100k milestone.
- Serpentine belt: inspect for cracks, fraying or glazing; replace if worn or per schedule.
- Radiator, heater, and vacuum hoses: check for cracks, swelling or leaks; replace as needed.
- Battery and charging system: test battery health and alternator output.
Worn belts or damaged hoses can cause accessory failures or overheating; addressing them at 100k helps maintain reliability.
Brakes and tires
Brake components and tires are critical for stopping distance and vehicle stability. Expect a thorough check and replacements as needed at this milestone.
- Brake pads and rotors: inspect for wear; replace or resurface rotors as needed.
- Tires: check tread depth and wear; rotate or replace tires to maintain even wear and safety.
- Wheel alignment: verify alignment to prevent uneven tire wear and improve handling.
Properly functioning brakes and tires are essential for safe operation, especially under load or in adverse conditions.
Electrical systems and safety features
Electrical checks ensure reliability of starting systems and safety features a Ford F-150 relies on for daily use and towing capability.
- Battery health, cold-cranking amps and charging system test.
- Electronic safety systems and sensors: verify operation as part of routine diagnostics.
- Wiper blades and lighting: inspect and replace as needed for visibility and safety.
Maintaining electrical components reduces the likelihood of unexpected failures and helps preserve overall vehicle reliability at higher mileages.
What to do next and how to verify your specific schedule
Because 100,000-mile maintenance can vary by engine type (for example, 5.0 V8 vs. EcoBoost variants), transfer case options, 2WD vs. 4WD, climate, and how you drive (towing vs. daily commuting), always reference your exact Ford maintenance schedule. Your dealer or trusted independent shop can tailor the plan to your VIN and usage.
Summary
Reaching 100,000 miles on a Ford F-150 typically marks a major service window that covers engine wear items (spark plugs, filters), fluids (coolant, transmission, differentials, steering), belts and hoses, brakes and tires, and safety/electrical systems. The specific items and intervals depend on the model year, engine and drivetrain, so consult the owner's manual or a Ford service advisor to build a precise plan tailored to your vehicle and conditions. Regularly performing these maintenance steps helps maximize reliability, performance and resale value.
What is the maintenance on a 100 000-mile F150?
100,000 miles: When you reach 100,000 miles in your truck, there's a variety of new services that you'll need to add to your vehicle's maintenance. At this point, you should have your orange coolant changed and your spark plugs replaced. You may also want to have your accessory drive belt inspected for any wear.
What maintenance should be done at 100,000 miles?
A 100,000-mile service also includes flushing and replacing all the engine fluids including the engine oil, coolant, power steering, brake, and transmission fluids.
What is the Ford recommended 100000 mile service?
Change automatic transmission fluid. Replace accessory drive belts (if not replaced within last 100,000 miles) Rotate and inspect tires; check wheel end play and turning noise. Change engine oil and replace oil - Up to 6.0 quarts of oil.
What year Ford F-150 should you stay away from?
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.
