The Ford F-150 is widely recognized as one of the best-selling pickup trucks in the United States. It stands out for its exceptional durability, reliability, and versatility. The F-150 also impresses with its powerful performance, robust towing and payload capabilities, as well as remarkable off-road capabilities.

However, as with most pickup trucks, Ford F-150 reliability and towing capacity can vary across different model years. Hence, we have ranked the best Ford F-150 years based on their reliability and towing capacity to help buyers determine which truck they should pick.

UPDATE: 2023/12/13 20:14 EST BY MONDAY GOMA

How we chose and scored our model selections: HotCars analyzed used and new Ford F-150 models available on the market today. We scored each of the models in two key categories: reliability (based on J.D. Power's Quality & Reliability rating), max towing capacity, max payload capacity, and total number of recalls (reported on the NHTSA's website).

Additional information such as average yearly maintenance costs (RepairPal) and estimated maintenance costs during the first 10 years of ownership (CarEdge) were included but not factored into the scoring. Scores were assigned by HotCars' Rating Team; visit our methodology page for more information.

2:21
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Best Ford F-150 Model Years: Scoring Methodology

Reliability

Rating

Max Towing Capacity

Rating

Max Payload Capacity

Rating

Recalls

Rating

91-100

10

13,000-14,000 lbs.

10

2700+

10

0-1

10

81-90

9

12,000-12,999 lbs.

9

2600-2699

9

2

9

71-80

8

11,000-11,999 lbs.

8

2500-2599

8

3

8

61-70

7

10,000-10,999 lbs.

7

2400-2499

7

4-5

7

51-60

6

9,000-9,999 lbs.

6

2200-2399

6

6-7

6

41-50

5

8,000-8,999 lbs.

5

1900-2199

5

8-9

5

31-40

4

7,000-7,999 lbs.

4

1600-1899

4

10-11

4

21-30

3

6,000-6999 lbs.

3

1300-1599

3

12-13

3

11-20

2

5,000-5,999 lbs.

2

1000-1299

2

14-15

2

1-10

1

4,000-4,999 lbs.

1

900-999

1

16+

1

12 2017 Ford F-150: 6.5/10

2017 Ford F-150 Raptor - Front Angle
Ford

2017 Ford F-150 Ratings

Here’s how our team rated the 2017 F-150 in four key categories:

Rating Category

2017 Ford F-150 Score

Reliability

9

Max Towing Capacity

9

Max Payload Capacity

6

Recalls

2

As far as Ford F-150s go, two words you’re likely to find in the same sentence are ‘safe’ and ‘reliable,’ and that’s certainly the case with the great 2017 Ford F-150, which boasts a J.D. Power reliability score of 84 out of 100.

While that's great, where the 2017 Ford F-150 really shines is in the safety department. The IIHS awarded it the highest rating of "Good" in all tested categories, while the NHTSA gave it an overall safety score of 5 out of 5 stars, with 5 stars for frontal and side crash protection. The truck also earned 4 out of 5 stars for rollover prevention.

Recalls & Maintenance Costs

  • Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs : $647
  • Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years : $10,245
  • J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Rating: 84/100
  • Recalls : 15

2017 F-150 Towing Capacity By Trim Level

Trim Level

Towing Capacity

Payload Capacity

XL

12,000 - 12,200 lbs.

1,570 - 1,910 lbs.

XLT

12,000 - 12,200 lbs.

1,600 - 2,070 lbs.

Lariat

12,200 lbs.

1,640 - 2,070 lbs.

King Ranch

12,200 lbs.

2,080 - 2,230 lbs.

Platinum

12,200 lbs.

2,080 - 2,230 lbs.

Limited

12,200 lbs.

2,230 lbs.

Raptor

8,000 lbs.

2,020 lbs.

11 2015 Ford F-150: 6.5/10

2015 Ford F-150 FX4 - Front Angle
Ford

2015 Ford F-150 Ratings

Here’s how our team rated the 2015 F-150 in four key categories:

Rating Category

2015 Ford F-150 Score

Reliability

9

Max Towing Capacity

9

Max Payload Capacity

6

Recalls

3

The 2015 Ford F-150 was the first-ever full-size pickup truck to use a high-strength, military-grade aluminum-alloy body. This resulted in significant weight reduction, with the full-size truck shedding off an impressive 700 pounds compared to the previous model.

In addition to reducing weight, the use of a high-strength, military-grade aluminum-alloy body in the 2015 Ford F-150 also improved overall performance, efficiency, and reliability, which is further supported by the vehicle's great J.D. Power reliability score of 82 out of 100, making it one of the most reliable Ford F-150 models available.

Recalls & Maintenance Costs

  • Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs : $701
  • Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years : $10,245
  • J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Rating: 82/100
  • Recalls : 13

2015 F-150 Towing Capacity By Trim Level

Trim Level

Towing Capacity

Payload Capacity

XL

11-100 - 12,200 lbs.

1,600 - 1,910 lbs.

XLT

11,100 - 12,200 lbs.

1,600 - 2,070 lbs.

Lariat

12,200 lbs.

1,640 - 2,070

King Ranch

12,200 lbs.

2,080 - 2,230 lbs.

Platinum

12,200 lbs.

2,080 - 2,230 lbs.

10 2011 Ford F-150: 6.8/10

2011 Ford-F-150 SVT Raptor SuperCrew
Ford

2011 Ford F-150 Ratings

Here’s how our team rated the 2011 F-150 in four key categories:

Rating Category

2011 Ford F-150 Score

Reliability

8

Max Towing Capacity

8

Max Payload Capacity

5

Recalls

6

You won't find the Ford F-150 Limited grade here, but there are several other trim levels to choose from, including the unique Harley-Davidson model, which offers a wide array of luxuries. These range from heated and ventilated front seats, to heated second-row seats, leather upholstery with contrasting Harley-Davidson embroidery, a voice-activated navigation system, power-folding mirrors, and similar.

The 2011 Ford F-150 also has a good safety score, with high ratings in crash tests conducted by organizations like the IIHS and NHTSA, a well-made interior, and powerful engine options.

Recalls & Maintenance Costs

  • Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs : $750 - $917
  • Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years : $10,245
  • J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Rating: 80/100
  • Recalls : 6

2011 F-150 Towing Capacity By Trim Level

Trim Level

Towing Capacity

Payload Capacity

XL

8,000 - 11,300 lbs.

1,510 - 1,900 lbs.

XLT

8,000 - 11,300 lbs.

1,560 - 1,900 lbs.

STX

8,000 - 9,500 lbs.

1,510 - 1,710 lbs.

FX2/FX4

11,200 - 11,300 lbs.

1,560 - 1,820 lbs.

Lariat

11,200 - 11,300 lbs.

1,560 - 1,820 lbs.

Lariat Limited

11,100 - 11,300 lbs.

1,680 - 1,770 lbs.

King Ranch

11,200 - 11,300 lbs.

1,560 - 1,800 lbs.

Platinum

11,200 - 11,300 lbs.

1,560 - 1,660 lbs.

Harley-Davidson

11,100 - 11,300 lbs.

1,680 - 1,770 lbs.

SVT Raptor

6,000 - 8,000 lbs.

930 - 1,030 lbs.

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9 2016 Ford F-150: 6.8/10

2016 Ford-F-150 Limited Trim - Front Angle
Ford

2016 Ford F-150 Ratings

Here’s how our team rated the 2016 F-150 in four key categories:

Rating Category

2016 Ford F-150 Score

Reliability

9

Max Towing Capacity

9

Max Payload Capacity

6

Recalls

3

The thirteenth-generation Ford F-150 lineup includes several reliable models, and the 2016 Ford F-150 is among them. Alongside its reliability, the 2016 edition was the first F-150 to offer Ford's updated Sync 3 infotainment system. Compared to the MyFord Touch system, the Sync 3 infotainment system provides faster performance, improved voice recognition, a more intuitive user interface, as well as compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

In addition, the 2016 Ford F-150 is available with advanced safety technologies. These include adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree camera system.

Recalls & Maintenance Costs

  • Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs : $646
  • Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years : $10,245
  • J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Rating: 81/100
  • Recalls : 13

2016 F-150 Towing Capacity By Trim Level

Trim Level

Towing Capacity

Payload Capacity

XL

9,100 - 12,200 lbs.

1,570 - 2,100 lbs.

XLT

9,100 - 12,200 lbs.

1,570 - 2,100 lbs.

Lariat

11,500 - 12,000 lbs.

1,640 - 2,100 lbs.

King Ranch

11,500 - 11,900 lbs.

2,100 - 2,280 lbs.

Platinum

11,500 - 11,900 lbs.

2,100 - 2,280 lbs.

Limited

10,700 - 11,800 lbs.

1,450 - 1,720 lbs.

8 2022 Ford F-150: 7/10

2021 Ford F-150 - Front Angle
Ford

2022 Ford F-150 Ratings

Here’s how our team rated the 2022 F-150 in four key categories:

Rating Category

2022 Ford F-150 Score

Reliability

9

Max Towing Capacity

10

Max Payload Capacity

6

Recalls

3

With a reliability score of 86 out of 100, the 2022 Ford F-150 is the highest-rated F-150 model by J.D. Power, meaning it is also the most reliable Ford F-150 available.

What makes the 2022 F-150 even more impressive is that you won't have to sacrifice modern features for reliability. Being a late model truck, it naturally combines reliability with the latest advancements in technology. This means you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your truck is dependable, while also benefiting from cutting-edge features and innovations that are designed to enhance the driving experience.

Recalls & Maintenance Costs

  • Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs : $788 (model average)
  • Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years : $10,245
  • J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Rating: 86/100
  • Recalls: 12

2022 F-150 Towing Capacity By Trim Level

Trim Level

Towing Capacity

Payload Capacity

XL

9,100 - 14,000 lbs.

1,765 - 2,205 lbs.

XLT

9,100 - 14,000 lbs.

1,765 - 2,205 lbs.

Lariat

12,300 - 14,000 lbs.

1,745 - 2,205 lbs.

Tremor

10,900 lbs.

1,885 lbs.

King Ranch

13,800 - 14,000 lbs.

2,135 - 2,235 lbs.

Platinum

13,800 - 14,000 lbs.

2,135 - 2,235 lbs.

Limited

13,900 - 14,000 lbs.

2,050 - 2,100 lbs.

Raptor

8,200

1,410

7 2014 Ford F-150: 7/10

2014 Ford F-150 Tremor Trim - Front Angle
Ford

2014 Ford F-150 Ratings

Here’s how our team rated the 2014 F-150 in four key categories:

Rating Category

2014 Ford F-150 Score

Reliability

9

Max Towing Capacity

8

Max Payload Capacity

5

Recalls

6

The last model of the twelfth F-150 generation, the 2014 F-150 is yet another option to consider if you're on the hunt for a reliable Ford F-150 model. It boasts a J.D. Power reliability score of 83 out of 100. Plus, it comes with powerful engine choices.

The standard V6 engine delivers an impressive 302 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. If you need more power, there's a 5.0-liter V8 with 360 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque. Ford also offers a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 with 365 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque, along with a 6.2-liter V8 that makes 411 hp and 434 lb-ft of torque.

Recalls & Maintenance Costs

  • Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs : $793
  • Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years : $10,245
  • J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Rating: 83/100
  • Recalls : 6

2014 F-150 Towing Capacity By Trim Level

Trim Level

Towing Capacity

Payload Capacity

XL

10,000 - 11,300 lbs.

1,570 - 1,930 lbs.

XLT

10,000 - 11,300 lbs.

1,510 - 1,900 lbs.

STX

10,000 lbs.

1,510 - 1,710 lbs.

FX2/FX4

11,300 lbs.

1,440 - 1,870 lbs.

Lariat

11,300 lbs.

1,570 - 1,839 lbs.

King Ranch

11,300 lbs.

1,700 lbs.

Platinum

11,300 lbs.

1,700 lbs.

Limited

7,500 lbs.

1,480 lbs.

SVT Raptor

8,000- 11,300 lbs.

980 - 1,180 lbs.

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6 2013 Ford F-150: 7.3/10

2013 Ford F-150 - Front Angle
Ford

2013 F-150 Ratings

Here’s how our team rated the 2023 F-150 in four key categories:

Rating Category

2013 Ford F-150 Score

Reliability

8

Max Towing Capacity

8

Max Payload Capacity

5

Recalls

8

The 2013 model year Ford F-150 brought several key additions to the F-150 lineup. It was the first model to offer features like MyFord Touch, hill-descent control, and xenon headlights. Also, if you're in the market for a used F-150 Limited trim, this is where to begin your search, as the 2013 model year marked its debut.

In addition to these firsts, the 2013 F-150 had a good safety rating. It received the highest score of "Good" in all tested categories by the IIHS, while the NHTSA awarded it an overall safety score of 4 out of 5 stars, including 4 stars for frontal crash and rollover tests, and 5 stars for side crash.

Recalls & Maintenance Costs

  • Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs : $870
  • Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years : $10,245
  • Quality And Reliability Rating: 80/100
  • Recalls : 3

2013 F-150 Towing Capacity By Trim Level

Trim Level

Towing Capacity

Payload

XL

8,000 - 11,300 lbs.

1,570 - 1,930 lbs.

STX

8,000 - 9,500 lbs.

1,510 - 1,710 lbs.

XLT

8,000 - 11,300 lbs.

1,510 - 1,930 lbs.

FX2/FX4

11,100 - 11,300 lbs.

1,570 - 1870 lbs.

Lariat

11,100 - 11,300 lbs.

1,570 - 1,870 lbs.

King Ranch

11,100 - 11,300 lbs.

1,570 - 1,790 lbs.

Platinum

11,100 - 11,300 lbs.

1,570 - 1,790 lbs.

Limited

11,200 - 11,300 lbs.

1,300 - 1,480 lbs.

SVT Raptor

8,000 lbs.

980 - 1,180 lbs.

5 2023 Ford F-150: 7.5/10

2023 Ford F-150 Raptor driving off-road
Ford

2023 Ford F-150 Ratings

Here’s how our team rated the 2023 F-150 in four key categories:

Rating Category

2023 Ford F-150 Score

Reliability

8

Max Towing Capacity

10

Max Payload Capacity

6

Recalls

6

While the 2023 F-150 may not be the most reliable among the listed Ford F-150 models (in terms of J.D. Power reliability score, at least), it stands out for its cutting-edge technology, advanced safety features, and enhanced comfort options, as it is the newest model in the lineup.

The 2023 F-150 is also suitable for a wide range of different applications, thanks to its versatility and impressive towing/payload capabilities. The full-size truck can tow up to 14,000 pounds and carry a maximum payload of 2,235 pounds, making it the leading full-size truck both in terms of towing and payload capacities.

Recalls, Reliability, & Maintenance Costs

  • Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs : $788
  • Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years : $10,245
  • J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Rating: 78/100
  • Recalls : 7

2023 F-150 Towing Capacity By Trim Level

Trim Level

Towing Capacity

Payload Capacity

XL

9,100 - 14,000 lbs.

1,765 - 2,205 lbs.

XLT

9,100 - 14,000 lbs.

1,765 - 2,205 lbs.

Lariat

12,300 - 14,000 lbs.

1,745 - 2,205 lbs.

Tremor

10,900 lbs.

2,135 lbs.

King Ranch

13,800 - 14,000 lbs.

2,135 - 2,235 lbs.

Platinum

13,800 - 14,000 lbs.

2,135 - 2,235 lbs.

Limited

13,900 - 14,000 lbs.

2,050 - 2,100 lbs.

Raptor

8,200

1,400

Raptor R

8,700 lbs.

1,400

4 2007 Ford F-150: 8.5/10

2007 Ford-F-150 Harley Davidson - Front Quarter
Ford 

2007 Ford F-150 Ratings

Here’s how our team rated the 2007 F-150 in four key categories:

Rating Category

2007 Ford F-150 Score

Reliability

9

Max Towing Capacity

8

Max Payload Capacity

10

Recalls

7

If you want the best Ford F-150 from the past, the 2007 Ford F-150 is a great choice. It has a good reliability score and looks really cool with a bold design. Inside, it's practical and has different cab and bed options to choose from.

Buyers can choose among regular cab, extended cab (SuperCab) and crew cab (also called SuperCrew) body styles. The regular cab has a choice of a 6.5-foot or 8-foot cargo bed. SuperCab variants can have those bed lengths or a smaller 5.5-foot bed, while the SuperCrew version can be equipped with either the 5.5-foot or 6.5-foot bed option.

Recalls & Maintenance Costs

  • Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs : $648
  • Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years : $10,245
  • J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Rating: 83/100
  • Recalls : 4

2007 F-150 Towing Capacity By Trim Level

Trim Level

Towing Capacity

Payload Capacity

XL

9,300 - 11,000 lbs.

1,600 - 2,710 lbs.

XLT

9,200 - 11,000 lbs.

1,430 - 2,360 lbs.

STX

6,500 - 7,100 lbs.

1,570 - 1,900 lbs.

FX2/FX4

9,200 - 9,500 lbs.

1,480 - 1,890 lbs.

Lariat

9,200 - 9,500 lbs.

1,500 - 1,890 lbs.

King Ranch

9,200 - 9,500 lbs.

1,500 - 1,780 lbs.

Harley-Davidson

9,200 - 9,500 lbs.

1,520 - 1,780 lbs.

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3 2009 Ford F-150: 8.8/10

2009 Ford F-150 FX4 - Front Angle
Ford

2009 Ford F-150 Ratings

Here’s how our team rated the 2009 F-150 in four key categories:

Rating Category

2009 Ford F-150 Score

Reliability

9

Max Towing Capacity

8

Max Payload Capacity

9

Recalls

9

The general notion is that new generation models sometimes face reliability concerns due to manufacturing challenges, design and engineering issues, as well as system integration problems. However, the highly regarded 2009 Ford F-150 proves that the first vehicle in a new generation can be as reliable as any other version, as demonstrated by its strong reliability rating of 81 out of 100 from J.D. Power.

As well as being one of the most reliable Ford F-150 models out there, the 2009 Ford F-150 boasts impressive towing capabilities, a thoughtful and functional cabin layout, and excellent safety ratings from the IIHS, scoring the highest rating of "Good" in all tested categories.

Recalls & Maintenance Costs

  • Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs : $812
  • Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years : $10,245
  • J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Rating: 81/100
  • Recalls : 2

2009 F-150 Towing Capacity By Trim Level

Trim Level

Towing Capacity

Payload Capacity

XL

5,900 - 11,300 lbs.

1,390 - 2,650 lbs.

XLT

5,900 - 11,300 lbs.

1,370 - 2,650 lbs.

STX

5,900 - 11,300 lbs.

1,420 - 1,690 lbs.

FX4

8,400 - 11,300 lbs.

1,480 - 1,680 lbs.

Lariat

8,400 - 11,300 lbs.

1,480 - 1,770 lbs.

King Ranch

11,100 - 11,300 lbs.

1,500 - 1,760 lbs.

Platinum

11,100 - 11,300 lbs.

1,500 - 1,760 lbs.

2 2010 Ford F-150: 9/10

2010 Ford-F-150 SVT Raptor R - Front Angle
Ford

2010 Ford F-150 Ratings

Here’s how our team rated the 2010 F-150 in four key categories:

Rating Category

2010 Ford F-150 Score

Reliability

9

Max Towing Capacity

8

Max Payload Capacity

9

Recalls

10

The 2010 iteration is one of the most exciting F-150 models in history, owing to the fact that it marked the introduction of the high-performance off-road-tuned F-150 SVT Raptor. Alongside the Raptor, this model year also offered the Harley-Davidson trim level, meaning there are plenty of unique options for those seeking standout performance and style.

Naturally, that also means there are plenty of engine options to choose from. The full-size truck has numerous V8 engine options, with output ranging from 248 hp and 293 lb-ft to 400 horsepower and equal torque.

Recalls & Maintenance Costs

  • Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs : $749
  • Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years : $10,245
  • J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Rating: 81/100
  • Recalls : 1

2010 F-150 Towing Capacity By Trim Level

Trim Level

Towing Capacity

Payload Capacity

XL

5,900 - 11,300 lbs.

1,390 - 2,650 lbs.

XLT

5,400 - 11,300 lbs.

1,390 - 2,650 lbs.

STX

5,400 - 9,500 lbs.

1,440 - 1,690 lbs.

FX2/FX4

9,700 - 11,200 lbs.

1,500 - 1,690 lbs.

Lariat

9,700 - 11,200 lbs.

1,500 - 1,770 lbs.

King Ranch

11,100 - 11,300 lbs.

1,500 - 1,760 lbs.

Platinum

11,100 - 11,300 lbs.

1,500 - 1,760 lbs.

Harley-Davidson

5,100 - 5,300 lbs.

1,150 - 1,170 lbs.

SVT Raptor

6,000 lbs.

1,020 lbs.

1 2008 Ford F-150: 9/10

2006 Ford F-150 - Front Angle
Ford

2008 Ford F-150 Ratings

Here’s how our team rated the 2007 F-150 in four key categories:

Rating Category

2008 Ford F-150 Score

Reliability

9

Max Towing Capacity

7

Max Payload Capacity

10

Recalls

10

Despite its age, the 2008 Ford F-150 remains one of the most reliable Ford F-150 models available, standing out in an impressive lineup of great options. It receives praise for its nicely finished interior, numerous cab and bed configurations, as well as broad model range.

In a typical F-150 fashion, the 2008 edition also offers many powertrain options, including a supercharged 5.4-liter V8 with 450 horses.

Recalls & Maintenance Costs

  • Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs : $760
  • Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years : $10,245
  • J.D. Power Quality And Reliability Rating: 85/100
  • Recalls: 1

2008 F-150 Towing Capacity By Trim Level

Trim Level

Towing Capacity

Payload Capacity

XL

8,500 - 10,500 lbs.

1,340 - 2,350 lbs.

XLT

8,100 - 9,500 lbs.

1,340 - 2,700 lbs.

STX

6,800 - 7,100 lbs.

1,650 - 1,800 lbs.

FX4

7,800 - 9,300 lbs.

1,520 - 1,730 lbs.

Lariat

8,100 - 9,300 lbs.

1,520 - 1,790 lbs.

King Ranch

9,400 - 9,500 lbs.

1,660 - 1,770 lbs.

Harley-Davidson

5,300 lbs.

1,050 lbs.

Sources: Ford, J.D. Power, RepairPal, CarEdge, NHTSA