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The 2020 Ford F-150 races down a sandy road

Used Ford F-150s Are Incredibly Popular Despite Low-Reliability Ratings

Apparently, used Ford F-150 models can’t be stopped. The Ford F-150 has been the most popular vehicle for over 40 years, but that’s new models. But in 2020, the F-150 was also the most popular used pickup truck.  Why are used Ford F-150 models so popular?  According to iSeeCars, the most popular used vehicle in …

Apparently, used Ford F-150 models can’t be stopped. The Ford F-150 has been the most popular vehicle for over 40 years, but that’s new models. But in 2020, the F-150 was also the most popular used pickup truck. 

Why are used Ford F-150 models so popular? 

According to iSeeCars, the most popular used vehicle in the United States for 2020 was the Ford F-150. This study analyzed over 12.9 million vehicle sales in 2020 to determine the most popular used options for the national, state, and metro levels. 

While used Ford F-150 trucks were the most popular options, used Chevy Silverado and Ram 1500 models also made the list. On the top 10 list, these trucks secured first, second, and third place. So in 2020, Americans bought a lot of used trucks. 

A bright blue 2020 Ford F-150 driving through the sand.
2020 Ford F-150 | Ford

But why are Ford F-150 pickup trucks so great? We know there is an ongoing pickup truck shortage, so maybe people went ahead and scooped up used models. Due to the ongoing Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, auto manufacturers are facing production delays on new models. 

Perhaps people get rid of their Ford F-150s faster than other models. More used options could have been available. People could also be fans of the name. Ford is an American icon at this point. 

Are Used F-150s good trucks? 

Yes, a majority of Ford F-150 models are great truck options to buy. According to Driving, Ford F-150 trucks provide the most value for the money. Plus, there are a variety of builds to suit people’s needs. For example, a V6 F-150 is a great towing option for beginners, while V8s are hardworking powerhouses. 

But are used F-150’s reliable? We got on Consumer Reports to see how reliable Ford F-150 options are based on owner experiences. Unfortunately, the results let us down. The 2018 Ford F-150 has a score of one out of five for its reliability rating. This is below average, and it also has 11 recalls. 

The 2015 Ford F-150 has a reliability rating of two out of five, which is better but still below average. The 2012 Ford F-150 finally becomes average with a reliability rating of three out of five. 

Are used F-150s reliable? 

We picked the model years at random and made us wonder how long F-150 models last. According to Motor And Wheels, the average F-150 lasts about 150,000 to 300,000 miles. This feels a bit low. The Toyota Tundra can comfortably reach 300k miles. 

With proper care and maintenance, the F-150 can last about 17 years with an average accrual of 12,000 miles. However, on average, vehicles accrue 15,000 miles on an annual basis. 

2018 F-150 Power Stroke Diesel driving on the road
2018 F-150 Power Stroke Diesel | Ford

But there’s no telling what owners did to a truck before you unless you receive an extensive history report. So, do your homework and definitely take a comprehensive test drive before settling on a used F-150. 

Also, to make matters worse, the Ford F-150 has the worst resale value. It has a five-year depreciation rate of 46.5-percent. This could be because so many used F-150s are usually available, saturating the market. Also, the average vehicle deprecated by 49.6-percent.

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