CarBrief

NHTSA has 2,990 owner complaints on file for the 2013 Ford F150, more than any other model year of this truck[1][2]. The truck also has 3 recalls, for sudden downshifts and brake fluid loss[3][4][5].

2,990owner complaints[1]
3recalls[2]
13–19MPG combined (EPA)[6]

Most reported problems

NHTSA has 2,990 owner complaints on file for the 2013 F150[1]. Of those, 78 mention a crash, 35 a fire, 64 injuries and 4 deaths[1]. These are unverified reports from owners, and one complaint can name several parts of the truck[1].

Here are the biggest groups of complaints:

Component group Complaints Median mileage at failure
Power train[7] 1,343 94,350
Engine[8] 567 56,400
Brakes[9] 363 60,000
Electrical system[10] 324 67,500
Speed control[11] 302 69,073
Unknown or other[12] 226 65,000
Steering[13] 216 74,500
Visibility/wiper[14] 146 56,000

We read a small sample of complaint texts for four of these groups. It is not a count of all owners, so treat it as a flavor of what people report.

Power train. In a sample of 12 complaints we read, 9 describe shaking, hesitation or a loss of power when the driver pressed the pedal to accelerate or pass, often with the check engine light on[7]. Two others describe mileage below the window sticker[7]. The group lists 25 crashes and 29 injuries[7].

Engine. In a sample of 12 complaints we read, 8 describe a sudden loss of power or hard shuddering during acceleration, often while passing on a highway[8]. Some say it cleared after a restart or after a few minutes[8]. Two describe fuel economy below the sticker[8]. The group lists 4 crashes and 9 fires[8].

Brakes. In a sample of 12 complaints we read, 7 describe a hard pedal or a loss of braking[9]. Four of the 12 say a dealer found a problem with the master cylinder or brake booster[9]. Two describe pulsing or vibration when braking, which the owners link to warped rotors[9]. The group lists 30 crashes, 14 injuries and 4 deaths, the most crashes of any group on the list[9].

Electrical system. In a sample of 12 complaints we read, 9 describe the engine cutting out, stalling or dropping into a reduced power mode, often with warning lights[10]. Two mention a dead battery or battery warnings[10]. The group lists 16 fires, the most of any group on the list[10].

Recalls

NHTSA lists three recalls for the 2013 F150, newest first[3][4][5]. In each one the fix is a free dealer repair[3][4][5].

Because 16V345 covers only trucks built in that window, not every 2013 F150 is included[5]. Ask the seller for proof that the recall work was done.

Fuel economy

EPA ratings depend a lot on the engine and drive. Combined ratings run from 13 MPG for the 6.2L 4WD and Raptor[15][16] to 19 MPG for the 3.7L 2WD flex fuel[6][17]. EPA estimates yearly fuel cost at $5,150 for the 13 MPG trucks and $3,550 for the 19 MPG ones[15][6]. The cost uses EPA's current fuel price assumptions, not the price when the truck was new.

Version City / hwy / combined MPG EPA yearly fuel cost
2WD, 3.7L 6-cyl, gasoline or E85[6][17] 17 / 23 / 19 $3,550
2WD, 3.5L 6-cyl turbo, regular[18][19] 16 / 22 / 18 $3,700
2WD, 5.0L 8-cyl, gasoline or E85[20][21] 15 / 21 / 17 $3,950
2WD, 6.2L 8-cyl, regular[22] 13 / 18 / 15 $4,450
4WD, 3.7L 6-cyl, gasoline or E85[23][24] 16 / 21 / 18 $3,700
4WD, 3.5L 6-cyl turbo, regular[25][26] 15 / 21 / 17 $3,950
4WD, 5.0L 8-cyl, gasoline or E85[27][28] 14 / 19 / 16 $4,200
4WD, 6.2L 8-cyl, regular[16] 12 / 16 / 13 $5,150
Raptor 4WD, 6.2L 8-cyl, regular[15] 12 / 16 / 13 $5,150

All ratings are for automatic transmissions[20][22][15].

Engine and size

EPA lists 360 hp for the 3.5L 6-cylinder[29] and 415 hp for the 6.2L 8-cylinder[30]. Our data has no power rating for the other engines.

Dimensions below are Canadian-market specifications from Transport Canada, converted to inches and pounds, and they can differ slightly from US trucks[31]. They cover regular cab and Super Cab versions.

Version Length Width Height Wheelbase Curb weight
Regular cab, 6.5-ft box, 2WD[31] 210 in 79 in 75 in 126 in 4,760 lb
Regular cab, 6.5-ft box, 4x4[32] 210 in 79 in 76 in 126 in 4,989 lb
Regular cab, 8-ft box, 2WD[33] 229 in 79 in 76 in 145 in 4,861 lb
Regular cab, 8-ft box, 4x4[34] 229 in 79 in 76 in 145 in 5,108 lb
Super Cab, 6.5-ft box, 2WD[35] 229 in 79 in 72 in 145 in 5,181 lb
Super Cab, 6.5-ft box, 4x4[36] 229 in 79 in 76 in 145 in 5,410 lb

How 2013 compares with other years

1995: 626 complaints, 2 recalls19951996: 324 complaints, 2 recalls1997: 2,758 complaints, 14 recalls1998: 1,381 complaints, 8 recalls1999: 1,044 complaints, 7 recalls19992000: 1,075 complaints, 6 recalls2001: 1,236 complaints, 8 recalls2002: 821 complaints, 2 recalls2003: 423 complaints, 4 recalls20032004: 2,029 complaints, 5 recalls2005: 1,112 complaints, 3 recalls2006: 585 complaints, 4 recalls2007: 488 complaints, 2 recalls20072008: 369 complaints, 1 recalls2009: 324 complaints, 2 recalls2010: 843 complaints, 1 recalls2011: 2,193 complaints, 6 recalls20112012: 1,783 complaints, 4 recalls2013: 2,990 complaints, 3 recalls2,99020132014: 1,538 complaints, 8 recalls2015: 1,737 complaints, 13 recalls20152016: 2,080 complaints, 13 recalls2017: 1,455 complaints, 17 recalls2018: 2,322 complaints, 18 recalls2019: 1,339 complaints, 9 recalls20192020: 737 complaints, 11 recalls2021: 1,296 complaints, 29 recalls2022: 813 complaints, 23 recalls2023: 510 complaints, 13 recalls20232024: 231 complaints, 11 recalls2025: 128 complaints, 16 recalls2026: 18 complaints, 7 recalls
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA for each F150 model year. The 2013 is highlighted[2].
Show the numbers
Model yearComplaintsRecalls
19956262
19963242
19972,75814
19981,3818
19991,0447
20001,0756
20011,2368
20028212
20034234
20042,0295
20051,1123
20065854
20074882
20083691
20093242
20108431
20112,1936
20121,7834
20132,9903
20141,5388
20151,73713
20162,08013
20171,45517
20182,32218
20191,3399
202073711
20211,29629
202281323
202351013
202423111
202512816
2026187

Among the 32 model years of the F150 that NHTSA lists, 2013 has the most complaints at 2,990[2]. The next highest are 1997 with 2,758 and 2018 with 2,322[2]. Next to it, 2012 has 1,783 complaints and 4 recalls, and 2014 has 1,538 complaints and 8 recalls[2].

The 2013 model year has 3 recalls, fewer than 2014 and every year from 2015 on[2]. Complaint counts are not adjusted for how many trucks were sold, so a big-selling year can show more complaints without being worse per truck[2].

Should you buy a used 2013 F150?

The 2013 F150 has a large pile of owner complaints, the largest of any model year, and the biggest groups are power train, engine, brakes and electrical[1][7][8][9][10][2]. Owners in the complaint sample we read describe sudden power loss under acceleration, so ask the seller whether it has happened[7][8]. NHTSA lists three recalls, covering transmission downshifts and brake fluid loss, and the repairs are free at a dealer[3][4][5]. Before buying, ask for proof that the recall work was done, and look at the brake history in particular[5][9]. Fuel use varies a lot by engine, so pick the version that fits your budget as well as your needs[6][16].

Frequently asked questions

What are the most common problems with the 2013 Ford F150?
By complaint count, the largest groups are power train with 1,343 complaints, engine with 567, brakes with 363 and electrical system with 324[7][8][9][10]. In the small sample we read, owners describe power loss or shaking under acceleration and loss of braking[7][8][9].
Does the 2013 Ford F150 have any recalls?
Yes, three. Two cover unexpected downshifts into first gear (19V075 and 19V433) and one covers brake fluid loss from the master cylinder (16V345)[3][4][5]. Dealers fix them free of charge[3][4][5].
What MPG does the 2013 Ford F150 get?
EPA combined ratings range from 13 MPG for the 6.2L 4WD to 19 MPG for the 3.7L 2WD flex fuel[16][6]. The 3.5L turbo gets 18 MPG combined in 2WD and 17 in 4WD[18][25].
Is the 2013 F150 the worst year for complaints?
It has the most complaints on file of any model year, with 2,990[2]. Counts are not adjusted for sales, so this does not prove it is the worst year per truck[2].
How much horsepower does the 2013 F150 have?
EPA lists 360 hp for the 3.5L 6-cylinder and 415 hp for the 6.2L 8-cylinder[29][30].

Facts and sources

  1. NHTSA has 2,990 owner complaints on file for the 2013 Ford F150 (78 mention a crash, 35 a fire, 64 injuries, 4 deaths reported). NHTSA vehicle records
  2. Owner complaints and recalls for every Ford F150 model year (chart above). NHTSA recall database
  3. Recall 19V433, filed June 10, 2019: Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Control Module (Tcm / Pcm / Tecm). NHTSA recall database
  4. Recall 19V075, filed February 11, 2019: Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Control Module (Tcm / Pcm / Tecm). NHTSA recall database
  5. Recall 16V345, filed May 24, 2016: Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Fluid. NHTSA recall database
  6. EPA rating for F150 Pickup 2WD FFV, 3.7L 6-cyl, Automatic 6-spd, Gasoline or E85, Rear-Wheel Drive: 17 city / 23 highway / 19 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,550. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  7. 1,343 complaints name the power train component group (25 crashes, 4 fires, 29 injuries, median mileage at failure 94,350). NHTSA vehicle records
  8. 567 complaints name the engine component group (4 crashes, 9 fires, 5 injuries, median mileage at failure 56,400). NHTSA vehicle records
  9. 363 complaints name the brakes component group (30 crashes, 2 fires, 14 injuries, median mileage at failure 60,000). NHTSA vehicle records
  10. 324 complaints name the electrical system component group (2 crashes, 16 fires, 6 injuries, median mileage at failure 67,500). NHTSA vehicle records
  11. 302 complaints name the speed control component group (6 crashes, 1 fires, 4 injuries, median mileage at failure 69,073). NHTSA vehicle records
  12. 226 complaints name the unknown or other component group (4 crashes, 8 fires, 5 injuries, median mileage at failure 65,000). NHTSA vehicle records
  13. 216 complaints name the steering component group (7 crashes, 0 fires, 4 injuries, median mileage at failure 74,500). NHTSA vehicle records
  14. 146 complaints name the visibility/wiper component group (0 crashes, 2 fires, 1 injuries, median mileage at failure 56,000). NHTSA vehicle records
  15. EPA rating for F150 Raptor Pickup 4WD, 6.2L 8-cyl, Automatic (S6), Regular, Part-time 4-Wheel Drive: 12 city / 16 highway / 13 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $5,150. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  16. EPA rating for F150 Pickup 4WD, 6.2L 8-cyl, Automatic (S6), Regular, Part-time 4-Wheel Drive: 12 city / 16 highway / 13 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $5,150. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  17. EPA rating for F150 Pickup 2WD FFV, 3.7L 6-cyl, Automatic (S6), Gasoline or E85, Rear-Wheel Drive: 17 city / 23 highway / 19 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,550. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  18. EPA rating for F150 Pickup 2WD, 3.5L 6-cyl turbo, Automatic 6-spd, Regular, Rear-Wheel Drive: 16 city / 22 highway / 18 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,700. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  19. EPA rating for F150 Pickup 2WD, 3.5L 6-cyl turbo, Automatic (S6), Regular, Rear-Wheel Drive: 16 city / 22 highway / 18 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,700. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  20. EPA rating for F150 Pickup 2WD FFV, 5.0L 8-cyl, Automatic 6-spd, Gasoline or E85, Rear-Wheel Drive: 15 city / 21 highway / 17 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,950. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  21. EPA rating for F150 Pickup 2WD FFV, 5.0L 8-cyl, Automatic (S6), Gasoline or E85, Rear-Wheel Drive: 15 city / 21 highway / 17 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,950. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  22. EPA rating for F150 Pickup 2WD, 6.2L 8-cyl, Automatic (S6), Regular, Rear-Wheel Drive: 13 city / 18 highway / 15 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $4,450. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  23. EPA rating for F150 Pickup 4WD FFV, 3.7L 6-cyl, Automatic 6-spd, Gasoline or E85, Part-time 4-Wheel Drive: 16 city / 21 highway / 18 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,700. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  24. EPA rating for F150 Pickup 4WD FFV, 3.7L 6-cyl, Automatic (S6), Gasoline or E85, Part-time 4-Wheel Drive: 16 city / 21 highway / 18 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,700. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  25. EPA rating for F150 Pickup 4WD, 3.5L 6-cyl turbo, Automatic 6-spd, Regular, Part-time 4-Wheel Drive: 15 city / 21 highway / 17 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,950. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  26. EPA rating for F150 Pickup 4WD, 3.5L 6-cyl turbo, Automatic (S6), Regular, Part-time 4-Wheel Drive: 15 city / 21 highway / 17 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,950. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  27. EPA rating for F150 Pickup 4WD FFV, 5.0L 8-cyl, Automatic 6-spd, Gasoline or E85, Part-time 4-Wheel Drive: 14 city / 19 highway / 16 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $4,200. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  28. EPA rating for F150 Pickup 4WD FFV, 5.0L 8-cyl, Automatic (S6), Gasoline or E85, Part-time 4-Wheel Drive: 14 city / 19 highway / 16 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $4,200. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  29. EPA Test Car List, 2013 Ford F150 with 3.5L 6-cylinder: rated 360 hp. www.epa.gov
  30. EPA Test Car List, 2013 Ford F150 with 6.2L 8-cylinder: rated 415 hp. www.epa.gov
  31. Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, F-150 P/U REG CAB 6.5-FT BOX 2WD: length 210 in, width 79 in, height 75 in, wheelbase 126 in, curb weight 4,760 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
  32. Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, F-150 P/U REG CAB 6.5-FT BOX 4X4: length 210 in, width 79 in, height 76 in, wheelbase 126 in, curb weight 4,989 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
  33. Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, F-150 P/U REG CAB 8-FT BOX 2WD: length 229 in, width 79 in, height 76 in, wheelbase 145 in, curb weight 4,861 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
  34. Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, F-150 P/U REG CAB 8-FT BOX 4X4: length 229 in, width 79 in, height 76 in, wheelbase 145 in, curb weight 5,108 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
  35. Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, F-150 P/U SUPER CAB 6.5-FT BOX 2WD: length 229 in, width 79 in, height 72 in, wheelbase 145 in, curb weight 5,181 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
  36. Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, F-150 P/U SUPER CAB 6.5-FT BOX 4X4: length 229 in, width 79 in, height 76 in, wheelbase 145 in, curb weight 5,410 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov

Complaints submitted to NHTSA by owners; unverified reports, one complaint can name several components. Complaint counts are not normalized by sales; compare years of the same model, not different models. EPA annual fuel cost uses EPA's current fuel price assumptions, not the price when the car was new. Horsepower is the rating listed for EPA test vehicles. Dimensions are Canadian-market specifications and can differ slightly from US models.