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    Ford F-150

    EPA MPG: 17 mpg

    RECALL ALERT:
    There are 3 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

    Reliability

    Overall Reliability

    The 2013 F-150 is less reliable than other cars from the same model year.

    The 2013 Ford F-150 has been recalled 3 times by NHTSA. View Recalls
    Most Common Trouble Spots
    Common Trouble Spot
    Common Trouble Spot

    Owner Reported Trouble Spots

    The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2013 Ford F-150 owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.

    Climate System

    AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.

    What Owners Say

    A/C compressor

    "There was a refrigerant leak that was causing the system to blow hot air. The compressor was replaced a couple of times which did not solve the problem."

    Anonymous A., FL (2013 Ford F-150 Lariat 5.0-L V8)

    "This is the third time since we purchase this truck new that the AC compressor failed. Plus a a compressor failure often destroys other components in the AC system."

    Anonymous, CA (2013 Ford F-150 Lariat 5.0-L V8)
    Blower (fan) motor

    ""Blower motor began major rattling when on, and required replacement.""

    Anonymous, FL (2013 Ford F-150 Lariat 3.5-L V6 turbo)

    "A hinge that operates outside and inside air broke and fell into the fan causing a very loud noise and vibration"

    Anonymous, AL (2013 Ford F-150 Lariat 6.2-L V8)
    Evaporator

    ""I finally had to have the AC fixed. After an extensive test, it was found that the evaporator was where the refrigerant leak was. The interior of the cabin had to be disassembled to access the evaporator. An entirely new AC system ended up being installed to fix the problem.""

    Anonymous A., FL (2013 Ford F-150 Lariat 5.0-L V8)
    Heater system

    "The gear that moves the door internal to the HVAC system failed, requiring partial dismantling of the dash to access and replace it."

    Anonymous, OR (2013 Ford F-150 Lariat 3.5-L V6 turbo)
    Other climate system problem

    ""The left (driver-side) air flow diverter valve broke in the heat position. The repair cost was excessive at $600, requiring the removal of much of the dashboard.""

    Anonymous A., TN (2013 Ford F-150 Lariat 5.0-L V8)

    "I do t recall what they fixed"

    Anonymous A., FL (2013 Ford F-150 Lariat 3.5-L V6 turbo)

    "The cam which rotates and changes from outside to recirculated air broke making the feature useless"

    Anonymous, TN (2013 Ford F-150 Lariat 5.0-L V8)

    "Blender doors started clicking when starting truck. Now vents are stuck on defrost."

    Anonymous A., CO (2013 Ford F-150 STX 5.0-L V8)
    Refrigerant leaks

    "Last week the A/C quit blowing cool air. Took it to my local mechanic who refilled with refrigerant/coolant. It worked for a couple of days then quit again. I have yet to take it to an A/C specialist to get it repaired."

    Anonymous A., LA (2013 Ford F-150 Lariat 3.5-L V6 turbo)

    In-car Electronics

    Infotainment system (audio, GPS, phone), rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display.

    What Owners Say

    Backup or other camera/sensors

    "It only works about 1/2 the time"

    Anonymous A., CA (2013 Ford F-150 Lariat 3.5-L V6 turbo)
    CD player

    "Died with the radio."

    Anonymous, TX (2013 Ford F-150 STX 5.0-L V8)
    External music device interface (e.g., smart phone, MP3 player)

    "Sync has stopped working reliably"

    Anonymous, AL (2013 Ford F-150 STX 5.0-L V8)
    Hardware replacement

    "Sync control module prevented hands-free operation of the system, particularly the phone microphone interface."

    Anonymous, TX (2013 Ford F-150 Lariat 5.0-L V8)
    In-dash navigation system (GPS)

    "It still works, but seems to get slightly off quite often, making it difficult to depend on. Screen often shows me slightly off the road I am on, which causes problems with directions."

    Anonymous A., CA (2013 Ford F-150 Lariat 3.5-L V6 turbo)
    Phone pairing (e.g., Bluetooth)

    "Sync does not consistently work"

    Anonymous, AL (2013 Ford F-150 STX 5.0-L V8)
    Radio

    "The radio and everthing that goes with it died."

    Anonymous, TX (2013 Ford F-150 STX 5.0-L V8)

    "The radio stopped working about a year ago. I tried replacing the fuse but I could not get it to operate."

    Anonymous A., TN (2013 Ford F-150 XL 3.7-L V6)

    ""Radio Electrical System. Necessary to replace radio. Additionally, a new battery as the radio was draining the battery""

    Anonymous, TX (2013 Ford F-150 FX4 3.5-L V6 turbo)

    ""Total failure. Display stopped working, couldn't connect bluetooth, and it didn't even pull in radio stations, nothing but static. Replaced the entire unit with an aftermarket stereo.""

    Anonymous, WI (2013 Ford F-150 STX 3.7-L V6)

    Brakes

    Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.

    What Owners Say

    Antilock braking system (ABS)

    ""The ABS light and others related to brake systems came on about 110000 miles. My local full service shop was unable to fully diagnose because of proprietary Ford code reading system their code reader couldn't read. I took it to the dealer service who diagnosed the Hydraulic Control Module (HCM) needed replacement at a whopping $3500, over half of which was just the part. The truck works fine and brakes normally, just not automatically. I have this far opted not to fix the automatic automatic systems, although it is annoying to have to clear the warnings on the dash computer screen every time I start the truck.""

    Anonymous A., WA (2013 Ford F-150 Platinum 3.5-L V6 turbo)

    "Sudden error messages approx. 8 mos. ago. Control module for the ABS system needed to be replaced. No after-market replacement and must be reprogrammed. $$$"

    Anonymous A., IN (2013 Ford F-150 FX4 5.0-L V8)
    Master cylinder

    ""The pedal did not go all the way to the floor but, the pedal did seem to need to be depressed again. I had to keep doing this to ensure the truck would not roll away""

    Anonymous, WA (2013 Ford F-150 FX4 3.5-L V6 turbo)
    Other brakes problem

    "Front flex hose from wheel cylinder to frame would hold pressure after brake pedal was released."

    Anonymous, ME (2013 Ford F-150 FX4 3.7-L V6)
    Parking brake

    "Frozen"

    Anonymous, MA (2013 Ford F-150 Platinum 5.0-L V8)
    Premature brake wear

    "Needed a complete brake job including rotor and pad replacement at less then 30000 miles"

    Anonymous, MD (2013 Ford F-150 XLT 3.5-L V6 turbo)

    "Had to replace at 25000 miles"

    Anonymous, MI (2013 Ford F-150 XLT 3.5-L V6 turbo)
    Pulsation or vibration

    ""Front brake pads and rotors were replaced, but the pulsating and vibration quickly reappeared.""

    Anonymous A., CO (2013 Ford F-150 XLT 3.5-L V6 turbo)
    Rotors

    "Needed new pads and calipers"

    Anonymous, WA (2013 Ford F-150 XLT 5.0-L V8)

    "rotors needed prematurely with less than 30000 miles"

    Anonymous, MD (2013 Ford F-150 XLT 3.5-L V6 turbo)

    Electrical Accessories

    Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, USB ports, alarm or security system, remote engine start, heated or cooled seats, heated steering wheel, headlights, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, wireless charging pad.

    What Owners Say

    12V battery

    "6 yr old motorcraft batt"

    Anonymous, MO (2013 Ford F-150 XLT 5.0-L V8)
    Automatic headlights

    "Automatic headlight system totally stopped working"

    Anonymous, TX (2013 Ford F-150 STX 5.0-L V8)
    Horn

    ""Horn stopped working, needed to replace horn assembly""

    Anonymous, WI (2013 Ford F-150 STX 3.7-L V6)
    Keyless entry

    "Doors would not lock Both lock assemblies replaced, $1000"

    Anonymous A., CO (2013 Ford F-150 STX 5.0-L V8)
    Other electrical system problem

    "Replaced starter at 130,000 miles."

    Anonymous, FL (2013 Ford F-150 XLT 3.7-L V6)

    "The rear passenger door will not lock with key remote"

    Anonymous A., GA (2013 Ford F-150 Lariat 3.5-L V6 turbo)

    ""Since new, Warning light of Battery low when turning off vehicle""

    Anonymous, MI (2013 Ford F-150 XLT 3.5-L V6 turbo)

    ""Sliding roof, rear window and steering wheel adjustment controls all had to be replaced""

    Anonymous A., VA (2013 Ford F-150 Platinum 3.5-L V6 turbo)

    "There's a short in the rear window defroster circuit which also affected my heated mirrors. I had to disconnect the rear window defrost connector so that at least I could have heated mirrors."

    Anonymous A., AB (2013 Ford F-150 Unsure Unsure)
    Warning lights

    "Airbag warning light showed a non existing problem"

    Anonymous, TX (2013 Ford F-150 STX 5.0-L V8)

    Exhaust

    Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Exhaust manifold

    "Broken manifold bolts are common in Ford F-150 engines and are costly"

    Anonymous A., PA (2013 Ford F-150 XLT 3.5-L V6 turbo)

    "Waiting for replacement parts"

    Anonymous, BC (2013 Ford F-150 XLT 3.5-L V6 turbo)
    Loose/rattling heat shield

    "Noisy rattle at low speed. Waiting for parts to repair."

    Anonymous, BC (2013 Ford F-150 XLT 3.5-L V6 turbo)
    Other/unsure

    "It has been parked since 2022 due to my husband's illness. I think the chipmunks chewed the wires."

    Anonymous A., OH (2013 Ford F-150 Unsure Unsure)

    "Replaced both turbos $4300"

    Anonymous, NC (2013 Ford F-150 XLT 3.5-L V6 turbo)

    ""rear brake cylinders froze up often, causing brake overheating""

    Anonymous, IA (2013 Ford F-150 XLT 5.0-L V8)

    "Control arm and caliper issues. Also a constant 02 sensor issues at 100k miles"

    Anonymous A., MD (2013 Ford F-150 King Ranch 3.5-L V6 turbo)

    "The rear window had to be replaced because the water seal had deteriorated."

    Anonymous, TX (2013 Ford F-150 Lariat 5.0-L V8)

    "radio failed (not fuses)"

    Anonymous A., WA (2013 Ford F-150 STX 5.0-L V8)

    "Eco boost turbo failures"

    Anonymous, FL (2013 Ford F-150 XLT 3.5-L V6 turbo)

    Engine Electrical

    Alternator, starter, hybrid battery replacement, hybrid battery related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, spark plugs and wires failure, auto stop/start.

    What Owners Say

    Battery cables

    "OEM Battery cable has rubber cover over positive terminal. Cable wears through plastic shield exposing terminal to grounding against hood in event of even minor deformation of hood."

    Anonymous, MD (2013 Ford F-150 FX4 3.5-L V6 turbo)
    Coil

    "The coils were replaced when the spark plugs were replaced."

    Anonymous, KS (2013 Ford F-150 XLT 3.7-L V6)
    Heated or cooled seats

    "heated seat on driver's side failed"

    Anonymous, TN (2013 Ford F-150 Lariat 5.0-L V8)
    Ignition switch

    "Car would suddenly drop the power steering. Also would randomly stop running. Had to be towed 3 times in the first couple of months. Lucky I purchased the extended warranty. Will not by a ford truck again."

    Anonymous, CA (2013 Ford F-150 Lariat 5.0-L V8)
    Spark plugs or wires failure

    "2 spark plugs and coils were replaced the previous year due to misfires. I had the remaining plugs and coils replaced because I was experiencing occasional misfires."

    Anonymous, KS (2013 Ford F-150 XLT 3.7-L V6)

    Drive System

    Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, four-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive components, driveline vibration, electrical failure, traction control, electronic stability control.

    What Owners Say

    Differential

    ""Out of the blue, driving on a highway the rear end had a "meltdown". Heard gears mashing and the wheels lockup. Luckily no other cars nearby.""

    Anonymous, MN (2013 Ford F-150 XLT 5.0-L V8)
    Driveshaft or axle

    ""Bearing in the rear differential was replaced in 2025, even though it was replaced in 2023. That said, we do own & tow a travel trailer which probably contributed to this bearing problem.""

    Anonymous A., VA (2013 Ford F-150 Lariat 5.0-L V8)
    Other driveline problem

    "The truck kept popping in to 4WD while driving. Mechanic unable to fins issue. Had to take it to dealer they found a sensor in the 4WD needed to be replaced. $600"

    Anonymous, NH (2013 Ford F-150 FX4 Unsure)

    "4wd inoperative."

    Anonymous, NH (2013 Ford F-150 XLT 5.0-L V8)

    Engine Major

    Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbocharger or supercharger, timing chain or belt.

    What Owners Say

    Cylinder head

    "it started 10 months ago, it kinda made A LITTLE POP AND THEN IT STARTED MISSING.checked computer readout said engine misfire cylinder #5 #6. Looked up problem on line found out that the 2013 5.0 had cylinder head problems with bad valve seats. It is all the time, I can not fix it do not have the $5000. to fix it so Im driving it until it blows up. I AM PRETTY UPSET I had planned to drive this vehicle until I die. did look up the reliability of this truck did not see this problem when I bought it used. would not of bought it if I had known"

    Anonymous A., (2013 Ford F-150 XL 5.0-L V8)
    Engine rebuild or replacement

    "1 cylinder had no compression. They put in a new sleeve"

    Anonymous, CA (2013 Ford F-150 Lariat 5.0-L V8)
    Other major engine problem

    "Replace throttle body"

    Anonymous, WA (2013 Ford F-150 Lariat 3.5-L V6 turbo)

    "At 56000 miles my turbo charger failed. two of them. $7000 repair. At this low milage, this should not have happened. Shame on Ford."

    Anonymous, CA (2013 Ford F-150 Lariat 3.5-L V6 turbo)

    Paint/Trim

    Paint (fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking), loose interior or exterior trim or moldings, rust.

    What Owners Say

    Loose interior trim or moldings

    "ac vents, seat trim, electric charger trim all broken"

    Anonymous A., CO (2013 Ford F-150 XL 5.0-L V8)
    Rust

    "Rocker panels rustingand to repair would need entire new door assebly welded in at cost of $8-10K"

    Anonymous, DE (2013 Ford F-150 Lariat 3.5-L V6 turbo)

    "Rocker panels rusted and had to be repaired. Highly costly and a recurring issue with F-150"

    Anonymous A., PA (2013 Ford F-150 XLT 3.5-L V6 turbo)

    Noises/Leaks

    Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Other noises & leaks problem

    "transmission cooler line failed; resulting in loss of trans fluid-unable to drive"

    Anonymous, CT (2013 Ford F-150 XLT 5.0-L V8)
    Powertrain cooling leaks

    ""Water Pump has begun leaking after just 160,000Km.""

    Anonymous A., AB (2013 Ford F-150 Unsure Unsure)
    Seals and/or weather-stripping

    ""third brake light seal failed and water got in, mold grew. Rear window seal is failing already at 122,000 miles and wind sound is heard and water leaks in during heavy rain""

    Anonymous, FL (2013 Ford F-150 Lariat 5.0-L V8)

    Engine Minor

    Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, fuel leaks, oil leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Oil leaks

    "Timing chain cover gasket leaking oil. Because location most of the front of the engine needed to be removed to replace the gasket, $5000 repair of a $100 part."

    Anonymous, CA (2013 Ford F-150 Lariat 3.5-L V6 turbo)

    ""Certainly oil leaks are to be expected on a vehicle with this age and mileage, but the item worth noting is that the leaking oil was trapped in the 'skid plate' and sound absorbing material under the engine and frame. The oil leak was obscured until the amount of oil exceeded the capacity of the pan and material to retain it. Instead of finding a increasing number of drip spots on my garage floor, it emerged as a pool when it abruptly drained out of the skid plate.""

    Anonymous A., CO (2013 Ford F-150 Lariat 3.5-L V6 turbo)

    "Apparently a common problem, the valve cover on the right side along with a thermostat in the same area required new gaskets."

    Anonymous, OR (2013 Ford F-150 Lariat 3.5-L V6 turbo)

    Transmission Major

    Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, premature clutch replacement.

    What Owners Say

    Other major transmission & clutch problem

    ""Transmission has random extreme hard shifts (feels like you have been rear-ended), and at times will drop down and lock in a lower gear or even "bog down" when accelerating pulling into an intersection or attempted to merge at speed.""

    Anonymous, MD (2013 Ford F-150 FX4 3.5-L V6 turbo)

    "Electronic peice hat to be replaced inside my transmission"

    Anonymous, WA (2013 Ford F-150 Lariat 3.5-L V6 turbo)

    Engine Cooling

    Radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, overheating.

    What Owners Say

    Radiator

    "Radiator began leaking at a seam."

    Anonymous, CA (2013 Ford F-150 Lariat 5.0-L V8)
    Water pump

    "pump seals failed"

    Anonymous, MO (2013 Ford F-150 XLT 5.0-L V8)

    Fuel System/Emissions

    Sensors (O₂, or oxygen, sensor), emission-control devices (includes EGR), fuel-injection system, fuel gauge/sender, fuel pump, problems filling up the tank.

    What Owners Say

    Fuel gauge/sender

    ""only let us fill tank 3/4 full, took multiple visits to Ford Dealership to get repaired correctly""

    Anonymous, FL (2013 Ford F-150 Lariat 5.0-L V8)
    Fuel injection system

    "The throttle body went out on this vehicle. I understand it is part of the fuel injection system. It cost $700 to replace it at a Ford dealer. Only serious issue ever with the vehicle."

    Anonymous A., TX (2013 Ford F-150 Lariat 3.5-L V6 turbo)

    Suspension/Steering

    Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.

    What Owners Say

    Steering linkage (includes rack and pinion)

    "Intermediate steering shaft required replacement."

    Anonymous, NH (2013 Ford F-150 XLT 5.0-L V8)
    Wheel bearings

    ""Both front wheel bearings were replaced in 2025. That said, we do own & tow a travel trailer which probably contributed to this bearing problem.""

    Anonymous A., VA (2013 Ford F-150 Lariat 5.0-L V8)

    Transmission Minor

    Gear selector and linkage, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission, leaks.

    Body Hardware

    Windows, locks and latches, doors or sliding doors, tailgate, trunk or hatch, mirrors, seat controls (power or manual), seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defect.

    2013 Pickup Trucks Reliability

    This Car
    vs. Similar Cars

    Ford vs. Other New Car Brands Reliability

    Reliability History
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    Overall Reliability Verdict

    POTENTIAL TROUBLE SPOTS
    Powertrain
    Engine Major
    Engine Minor
    Engine Cooling
    Engine Electrical
    Transmission Major
    Transmission Minor
    Drive System
    Fuel System/Emissions
    Exhaust
    Suspension/Steering
    Brakes
    Climate System
    Build Quality
    Electrical Accessories
    Body Hardware
    Paint/Trim
    Noises/Leaks
    In-car Electronics
    Reliability indicates how models have performed in the past, providing the basis for predicting how the vehicles will hold up in the year ahead. These charts provide the most comprehensive reliability information available to consumers. Based on information received from our latest subscriber survey for about 380,000 vehicles, our reliability history charts give you a rundown on how 2000 through 2025 vehicles are holding up in 20 potential trouble spots, ranging from the engine, transmission, electric motor, EV charging, and brakes, to power equipment and the electrical accessories.
    Recalls
    PROVIDED BY
    POWER TRAIN
    Jun 10, 2019
    Unexpectedly downshifting into first gear may result in a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013 F-150 vehicles equipped with 5.0L or 6.2L gasoline engines, that previously had the powertrain control module (PCM) software reprogrammed under recall 19V-075. The software used to reprogram the PCM did not have the necessary updates to prevent the transmission from unexpectedly downshifting into first gear, regardless of vehicle speed.
    What should you do:
    Ford will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began June 24, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19S19.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 19V433000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 107857
    POWER TRAIN
    Feb 11, 2019
    Unexpectedly downshifting into first gear may result in a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2013 F-150 vehicles equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The transmission may unexpectedly downshift into first gear, regardless of vehicle speed.
    What should you do:
    Ford will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began March 4, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19S07.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 19V075000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 1263051
    SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
    May 24, 2016
    Loss of brake fluid from the primary reservoir results in a complete loss of front brake function, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 F-150 vehicles manufactured August 1, 2013, to August 31, 2014 equipped with 3.5L engines. The master cylinder rear cup seal may roll, resulting in brake fluid leakage from the primary reservoir into the brake booster.
    What should you do:
    Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake master cylinder and, if necessary, the brake booster, free of charge. The recall began on October 28, 2016. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16S24.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 16V345000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 225012
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