The thirteenth-generation Ford F-150 (2015–2020) marked a major shift for the Blue Oval — an aluminum-alloy body, a choice of four engines (including the 2.7L and 3.5L EcoBoost V6s, the 5.0L Coyote V8, and the 3.0L Power Stroke diesel), and the introduction of the 10-speed automatic transmission halfway through the generation.
It's a great truck. But no truck is perfect — and this generation has its share of well-documented issues.
This entry breaks down the known problems by model year so you know what to look for, whether you're buying one or already own one.
The Big Picture — Issues That Span Multiple Years
Before we get into year-by-year specifics, here are the cross-generational issues that affect multiple model years in this range:
Issue | Affected Years | Summary |
|---|---|---|
Transmission downshifting | 2015–2017 (6-speed), 2017–2020 (10-speed) | Unexpected, unrequested downshifts at highway speed, sometimes causing rear-wheel lockup |
Windshield wiper linkage corrosion | 2015–2020 | Linkage corrodes and seizes, wipers stop working |
5.0L V8 oil consumption | 2018–2020 | Excessive oil consumption, class action lawsuits filed |
Cam phaser failure | 2017–2020 (EcoBoost) | Rattling noise on cold start, timing issues, expensive repair |
Swollen lug nuts | 2015–2020 | Two-piece lug nuts swell, making removal difficult or impossible |
Now let's break it down by year.
2015 Ford F-150 — The First Year of the Aluminum Body
The 2015 model year introduced the aluminum-alloy body, saving weight but introducing new teething issues.
Key Issues
Transmission — Unexpected Downshifts (6R80)
The 2015–2017 F-150s with the 6R80 six-speed automatic are under investigation for unexpected downshifts at highway speed. Over 1.27 million trucks are covered by the investigation. Owners report the transmission downshifts from 6th to 1st gear without warning, causing rapid deceleration and rear-wheel lockup. One owner described it as "nearly throwing me through the windshield".
Turbo Lines (3.5L EcoBoost)
Owners report leaking turbo lines costing upwards of $4,000 to repair.
Throttle Body Failure (5.0L V8)
The throttle body can fail early — one owner reported failure at 17,000 miles, causing the truck to not downshift properly and start in 3rd gear.
Climate Control Backlighting Drain
Some 2015s have an issue where the climate control backlighting stays on after the door is closed, draining the battery.
Electrical Gremlins (BCM Issues)
Random warning lights for traction control, ABS, tailgate issues, and windows not functioning properly have been traced to Body Control Module (BCM) problems.
Recalls
18 recalls total, affecting suspension, brakes, engine, structure, seat belts, and steering
2016 Ford F-150 — More of the Same, Plus New Issues
Key Issues
Transmission — Unexpected Downshifts (6R80)
Same as 2015 — the investigation covers 2015–2017 models with the six-speed.
Brake Failure
Some 2016s have experienced brake failure due to brake fluid leaking from the master cylinder into the brake booster — a "very dangerous defect" according to owners.
Exhaust Manifold Bolts
Broken bolts on the exhaust manifold are a known issue. The replacement part has an extra bolt location to strengthen and prevent the bolt from snapping.
Wiring Harness Failure
Wiring harnesses — both under the dash and under the hood — have been reported to melt, with one owner reporting 73 days to repair due to parts availability.
Window Switches & Door Locks
Window switches that stick and door locks that freeze in winter are common complaints.
Windshield Washers Freezing
The washer fluid system can freeze in winter, making it impossible to clean the windshield when salt is used on the roads.
Rough Idle
Extremely rough idle, to the point the truck won't run, has been reported.
Recalls
19 recalls total, affecting brakes, suspension, engine, structure, seat belts, and air bags
2017 Ford F-150 — The Transition Year
2017 is a transition year — early builds have the 6R80 six-speed transmission, while later builds (and all 2018+) have the 10R80 ten-speed. This makes it a particularly complicated year for transmission issues.
Key Issues
Transmission — Both 6-Speed and 10-Speed Problems
2015–2017 models with 6R80: Unexpected downshift investigation (same as 2015–2016)
2017–2020 models with 10R80: Similar downshift issues reported to Transport Canada
TSB 18-2079 — Harsh or Delayed Shifts (10R80)
Ford issued TSB 18-2079 in March 2018 addressing "harsh or delayed shifts" in 2017 10R80 transmissions built before August 2017.
2.7L EcoBoost — Oil Pan Leaks
The 2.7L EcoBoost from 2017 has had oil pan leakage from the start of first service. Despite multiple attempts to fix it, the problem persists.
Cam Phasers (3.5L EcoBoost)
Cam phaser failure is a known issue on the 3.5L EcoBoost, requiring replacement of phasers and timing chain.
Rear Main Seal Leak
Rear main seal leaks have been reported on the 2.7L EcoBoost.
Fuel Injector Failure
Fuel injector failures have been reported.
Swollen Lug Nuts
The two-piece lug nuts swell, making tire removal difficult or impossible.
Recalls
24 recalls total — the highest of any year in this generation — affecting brakes, suspension, engine, structure, power train, air bags, and electrical system
2018 Ford F-150 — The 10-Speed Takes Over
2018 marks the full transition to the 10R80 10-speed automatic transmission across most trims. It also introduces the 5.0L V8 oil consumption issues that would become a major problem.
Key Issues
5.0L V8 — Oil Consumption
The 2018–2020 5.0L V8 engines burn oil at unusually high rates. A class action lawsuit filed in 2025 alleges Ford knew about the defect and concealed it. Owners report adding 2-3 quarts of oil between changes. The issue is caused by oil being sucked past the piston rings during deceleration.
5.0L V8 — Engine Failure
Some 2018 5.0L engines have failed at low mileage — one report of failure at 38,000 kilometers (23,600 miles).
Transmission — 10R80 Issues
The 10-speed transmission can develop "leadframe issues", with harsh shifts, gear slipping, and slamming from 3rd to 4th or 5th gear.
Transmission Shift Cable Recall
A recall was issued for a clip that locks the gear shift cable to the transmission, which might not be fully seated.
3.5L EcoBoost — Camshaft Lubrication Defect
On certain 3.5L V6 engines, cylinder heads are missing machined holes intended to supply lubrication to the camshaft bearing journals. This can cause premature engine failure.
Spark Plug and Ignition Coil Issues
Rough idling, stalling, and spark plug ejection have been reported.
Recalls
21 recalls total, affecting brakes, suspension, engine, power train, fuel system, and structure
2019 Ford F-150 — Oil Consumption Peaks
Key Issues
5.0L V8 — Severe Oil Consumption
The oil consumption issue on the 5.0L V8 continues and may be at its worst in 2019. Owners report the problem persists even after engine replacement — one owner had the engine replaced and it still burns a quart of oil between changes.
Transmission — 10R80 Slipping and Harsh Shifts
Transmission slipping and rough shifts, especially when cold, are common complaints.
Cam Phasers — Both 3.5L and 5.0L
Cam phaser failure affects both the 3.5L EcoBoost and the 5.0L V8. Repairs can cost $4,300+.
Timing Chain Failure
Timing chain failure has been reported, causing rough running and stalling.
Battery Terminal Fastener Recall
A recall was issued for 2019–2020 models because the positive battery terminal fastener may not be properly secured, causing steering/braking issues, stalling, and potential electrical shorts.
Rear Differential Leak
Rear differential leaks have been reported.
Rear Main Seal Leak
Rear main engine seal leaks are a common complaint.
Transfer Case Leak
Transfer case leaks have been reported.
Rearview Camera Electrical Issue
An electrical problem with the rearview camera can cause it to not work properly.
Recalls
8 recalls total, affecting back-over prevention, electrical system, engine, and seats
2020 Ford F-150 — The Final Year of the Generation
The 2020 model year is the last of the thirteenth generation. Many issues from 2018–2019 carry over, with a few new ones.
Key Issues
5.0L V8 — Oil Consumption (Continued)
The 5.0L oil consumption issue continues into 2020. One owner reported the engine was replaced 10,000 miles ago and it's already down a quart in 1,800 miles.
Cam Phasers — 3.5L EcoBoost
Cam phaser issues continue to plague the 3.5L EcoBoost.
Transmission — 10R80 Issues
The 10-speed transmission continues to have issues with rough shifting, slipping, and "buggy" performance.
Transmission Shift Cable Clip Recall
A recall was issued for 2020 models where a clip that locks the gearshift cable to the transmission may not be fully seated, potentially causing the transmission to be in drive when it appears to be in park.
Infotainment System Freezing
The infotainment screen freezes frequently, requiring a hard reset.
Door Lock Failure
The driver's door may fail to lock with the key fob or electric door lock — one owner reported a $300 repair.
911 Connection Prompts
At every startup, the system prompts the driver to answer questions about the 911 connection, even when the settings are supposedly saved.
Recalls
10 recalls total, affecting visibility, electrical system, power train, exterior lighting, tires, and seats
Quick Reference Table
Model Year | Biggest Issues | Recall Count |
|---|---|---|
2015 | 6R80 unexpected downshifts, turbo lines, throttle body, electrical gremlins | 18 |
2016 | 6R80 unexpected downshifts, brake failure, exhaust manifold bolts, wiring harness | 19 |
2017 | Both 6R80 & 10R80 issues, 2.7L oil pan leaks, cam phasers, rear main seal | 24 |
2018 | 5.0L oil consumption, 10R80 issues, camshaft lubrication defect, shift cable recall | 21 |
2019 | 5.0L oil consumption (peak), 10R80 slipping, cam phasers, battery terminal recall | 8 |
2020 | 5.0L oil consumption, 10R80 issues, cam phasers, shift cable recall, infotainment | 10 |
Common Pitfalls — What to Watch For
🚫 Pitfall 1: Buying a 2015–2017 without checking transmission history
The 6R80 unexpected downshift issue is serious — it can cause rear-wheel lockup at highway speeds. Check if the truck has had any transmission-related TSBs or recalls performed. If the transmission hasn't been addressed, budget for a potential repair.
🚫 Pitfall 2: Ignoring 5.0L V8 oil consumption (2018–2020)
This is a well-documented issue with class action lawsuits filed. Check the oil level frequently. If you're buying one, look for evidence of regular oil changes and ask if the owner has had to add oil between changes.
🚫 Pitfall 3: Not checking the lug nuts
Swollen lug nuts are a common issue across all these years. They can make tire removal impossible on the side of the road. If the lug nuts look swollen or the 21mm socket doesn't fit properly, budget for replacements.
🚫 Pitfall 4: Ignoring the cam phaser rattle
The cam phaser rattle on cold start (especially on 3.5L EcoBoost and 5.0L V8) is a warning sign. If you hear it, the phasers are failing. It's an expensive repair ($4,000+). Don't buy a truck that rattles on startup unless you've budgeted for the repair.
🚫 Pitfall 5: Buying a 2017 without checking which transmission it has
2017 is a transition year. Some have the 6R80 (affected by the downshift investigation) and some have the 10R80 (affected by TSB 18-2079). Know which one you're buying and what issues it has.
🚫 Pitfall 6: Not checking the wiper linkage
The windshield wiper linkage corrosion recall affects all 2015–2020 models. If the wipers are slow or noisy, the linkage may be corroding. Check if the recall has been performed.
🚫 Pitfall 7: Overlooking the battery terminal recall (2019–2020)
The battery terminal fastener issue can cause stalling, steering/braking issues, and even fires. Verify this recall has been completed.
Contributors
Role | Username | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Primary Author | @truck_knowledge | Based on F-150 ownership, forum research, and recall data |
Technical Reviewer | @ford_master_tech | Verified against Ford service information and TSBs |
Fact Check | @truck_shop_owner | Confirmed common failure patterns from shop experience |
Safety Review | @senior_editor_01 | Safety Critical flag approved — unexpected downshifts and brake issues are safety hazards |
Last updated: 2026-07-21. This entry is a living document. If you have additional known issues, specific engine/transmission combinations, or updated recall information, start a discussion in The Edit Bay.
📌 Important Note: This entry is for informational purposes only. Always check the specific vehicle's maintenance history, recall status, and have it inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchase. Recalls and TSBs change over time — verify current status with official sources.
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