What year did Ford put airbags in trucks?

Milestones in Ford's truck airbag rollout

The following timeline highlights the key points at which Ford introduced and expanded airbag coverage in its trucks.

1. 1997 model year: Driver-side front airbag begins appearing in Ford F-Series trucks (availability varies by trim and market).


2. Late 1990s (1998–1999): Passenger-front airbags become available on a wider range of trims; dual front airbags start to appear more broadly across the lineup.


3. Early 2000s: Dual front airbags become common across most F-Series models; side airbags and other supplemental airbags begin appearing on higher trims or newer generations.


4. Mid-2000s and beyond: Ford integrates additional airbags (such as side-curtain and, in some generations, knee airbags) as part of newer truck generations and optional/safety-package offerings.

These milestones show the progression from initial driver-side protection to more comprehensive multi-airbag systems across Ford’s truck lineup as safety standards evolved.

Current status of airbags in Ford trucks

Safety technology evolution in Ford pickup trucks

As safety technology has advanced, Ford has added features such as multi-stage airbags, smarter inflator systems, and better integration with overall passive and active safety packages. This evolution reflects broader industry standards aimed at reducing injury risk across diverse driving scenarios.

Summary: Ford introduced airbags in its trucks in the late 1990s, beginning with driver-side protection around the 1997 model year and progressively expanding to dual front airbags and additional airbags in subsequent generations. Today’s Ford pickups feature multi-airbag systems as part of standard or widely available safety packages across most trims and generations.

Which F150 years to stay away from?

Years to avoid when buying a used Ford F-150 include 2004–2008, which had widespread engine and transmission issues, especially with the 5.4L V8, and 2015–2017, which had transmission problems and, in some cases, electrical or security issues. Other years to be cautious about are 2010, 2013, 2016, and 2021, which had their own specific problems like engine, transmission, or electronic issues.
 
This video discusses the F-150 years to avoid and why: 59sThe SUV GuyYouTube · Jul 19, 2025
Ford F-150 years to avoid

• 2004–2008: These models, part of the 11th generation, are often cited as problematic due to issues with the 5.4L Triton V8 engine (spark plug ejection, cam phaser failure) and the transmission. 
• 2010: The 2010 model continued to have some of the 5.4L engine's issues, along with problems with the 6-speed transmission and other components like windows and door handles. 
• 2013: This year had issues with the 6-speed automatic transmission, such as hard shifting and slipping. 
• 2015–2017: These model years are known for transmission problems, especially the 10-speed transmission in later models. The 2015 model had a bumpy ride, while the 2016 model experienced stalling and electrical issues. 
• 2021: The first year of a new generation often comes with glitches, and the 2021 model is no exception, with reported issues related to its electrical system, infotainment, and the new hybrid powertrain. 

This video discusses some common problems with the F-150, including the 2015 and 2016 models: 46scar PROblemsYouTube · Nov 8, 2024
Important considerations

• This list is based on common complaints; any used vehicle can have unique issues. 
• Always have a used truck inspected by a trusted mechanic before purchasing. 
• Research specific model years and their engines for known problems, such as the 2017–2020 3.5L EcoBoost's cam phaser issues, which can be fixed, but a pre-purchase inspection is still essential. 

Does a 1993 Ford F150 have airbags?

No, a 1993 Ford F-150 does not have a driver-side airbag, as they were not standard in this model year. The driver-side airbag was introduced starting with the 1994 model year for light-duty F-150s and F-250s. 

• No standard airbags: The 1993 F-150 did not come with a standard driver-side airbag.
• Standard in 1994: The driver-side airbag became a standard feature starting with the 1994 model year.

Does the 1993 Ford Ranger have airbags?

No, a 1993 Ford Ranger does not have airbags; they were not introduced to the model until a later year. While some sources note a driver's side airbag in the 1993 model, other reliable sources state that airbags were not available on the 1993 Ford Ranger and that driver and passenger airbags became standard on the model in 1995 or 1996. 

• Airbags not standard: Airbags were not a standard feature on the 1993 Ford Ranger. 
• Driver airbag: Some sources suggest a driver-side airbag may have been an option on some later-generation Rangers, but it was not available on the 1993 model. 
• Dual airbags: Dual airbags became standard on the Ford Ranger in 1995, while some models offered dual airbags as an option in 1996. 
• Side airbags: Side and head airbags were not available on the 1993 Ford Ranger. 

Does a 1994 F150 have airbags?

Yes, a 1994 Ford F-150 comes with a standard driver-side airbag. For the 1994 model year, Ford made a driver's side airbag a standard feature on F-150s and light-duty F-250s. Passenger-side airbags were not standard in these trucks, though some aftermarket companies offer them as upgrades.
 

• Standard driver-side airbag: The 1994 F-150 includes a standard driver's side airbag located in the steering wheel. 
• Passenger-side airbag: Passenger-side airbags were not a standard feature in the 1994 model. However, it was possible to add them as an aftermarket option. 
• Safety features: In addition to the driver's airbag, 1994 models also came with a center high-mounted stop lamp (CHMSL) and improved door safety beams.