What was the last year of the Flareside Ford F-150?
The Ford F-150 has long been a staple in the world of pickup trucks, known for its durability, versatility, and iconic design. Among its many configurations, the Flareside bed style stood out for its unique, retro-inspired look. However, as consumer preferences shifted, Ford eventually phased out the Flareside option. In this article, we’ll explore the history of the Flareside Ford F-150 and reveal the last year this distinctive design was available.
What Is the Flareside Bed Style?
The Flareside bed style, also known as a "stepside" in other truck brands, features a narrower cargo bed with pronounced rear fenders that flare outward. This design harkens back to the early days of pickup trucks, offering a vintage aesthetic that appealed to a niche group of truck enthusiasts. While it sacrificed some cargo space compared to the more common Styleside (flat-sided) bed, the Flareside was prized for its unique appearance and nostalgic charm.
The Final Year of the Flareside Ford F-150
Ford officially discontinued the Flareside bed option for the F-150 after the 2009 model year. By this time, the majority of truck buyers were opting for the more practical Styleside bed, which offered greater cargo capacity and a more modern look. The decision to phase out the Flareside was driven by changing consumer preferences and the need to streamline production.
Why Did Ford Discontinue the Flareside?
Several factors contributed to Ford's decision to discontinue the Flareside bed style:
- Declining Popularity: As truck buyers increasingly prioritized functionality over aesthetics, the demand for the Flareside configuration dwindled.
- Production Costs: Manufacturing multiple bed styles added complexity and cost to the production process, making it less economically viable to continue offering the Flareside.
- Market Trends: The automotive market was shifting toward more streamlined and practical designs, leaving little room for niche options like the Flareside.
Ultimately, the decision to discontinue the Flareside was a reflection of evolving consumer needs and market dynamics. While it was a bittersweet farewell for fans of the design, it allowed Ford to focus on innovations and improvements in other areas of the F-150 lineup.
Conclusion
The Flareside Ford F-150 remains a beloved piece of automotive history, cherished by enthusiasts for its distinctive style and nostalgic appeal. Although the 2009 model year marked the end of the Flareside era, its legacy lives on in the hearts of truck lovers and in the used truck market. If you’re lucky enough to own one, you’ve got a piece of Ford’s rich heritage in your driveway!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Ford 5.4 to avoid?
The second generation 5.4L, produced from 2004 to 2014, has three valves per cylinder. This one has several problems, some of which are related to inadequate oiling. Upon tearing apart failing engines, mechanics discovered the buildup of sludge and debris clogging the oil passages, particularly in the cylinder heads.
Is stepside and flareside the same?
Flareside, or stepside, trucks are the more traditional style, even though they're uncommon in modern trucks. Essentially, this is the “two-box” pickup design. The cab and bed are bolted separately to a ladder frame, creating a clear division between them. The bed itself is narrow with flares around the rear wheels.
What is the most reliable F-150 year?
2009-2014: The 12th Generation
The 12th generation of the Ford F-150, produced from 2009 to 2014, is often considered one of the best years to buy a used Ford F-150. These models feature robust construction, a variety of engine choices, and modern conveniences.
What is the best year of the Ford F-150?
The 12th generation of the Ford F-150, produced from 2009 to 2014, is often considered one of the best years to buy a used Ford F-150. These models feature robust construction, a variety of engine choices, and modern conveniences. This wide selection of options makes them some of the best years for a used Ford F-150.
What year F-150 transmission to avoid?
The 2004, 2005, and 2010 models offer the most Ford F-150 transmission problems.
Does Ford still make a flareside?
Flareside beds are no longer available on newer F-150 and Super Duty models.
When was the last stepside made?
Dodge was the first to abandon the step-side style following the 1985 model year, while Chevy and Ford soldiered on with the configuration until 2006 and 2009, respectively. The reason for the extinction was multifold.
What year did they stop making dent sided Fords?
The sixth generation of the Ford F-Series, also known as the "dentside Ford" to enthusiasts, is a line of pickup trucks and medium-duty commercial trucks that were produced by Ford Motor Company from the 1973 to 1979 model years.
What was the last year of the Ford Flareside?
The manual transmission was dropped for the first time, and the Flareside bed was continued until the end of 2009 (thus making it the very last factory stepside-style pickup truck to date).
What year of F-150 to stay away from?
If you want an F-150, but also want to avoid engine problems, then avoid model years 2004-2008, 2010, and 2015-2017.
