EngineHigh
3.5L EcoBoost cam phaser rattle / timing components on cold start.
- Typically appears
- 60,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Cold-start the truck and listen for a rattle in the first few seconds.
2015–2020 Ford F-150 · common problems & known faults
The aluminum-body F-150 is capable and popular, but the EcoBoost V6s and 10-speed automatic have specific issues worth checking.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed July 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2015–2020 Ford F-150 are 3.5L EcoBoost cam phaser rattle / timing components on cold start, 3.5L EcoBoost internal water pump — a failure can leak coolant into the engine and Excessive oil consumption and top-end ticking on the 5.0L V8 Coyote engine. 3 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
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Build the inspection planReliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Ford F-150.
4.3/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 3
- Medium
- 4
- Low
- 1
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Ford F-150 problems by year
Which faults an average example has usually reached depends on its age. Pick a model year for the faults that matter on that build.
Known faults to check
EngineHigh
3.5L EcoBoost internal water pump — a failure can leak coolant into the engine.
- Typically appears
- 80,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check coolant level and history; ask about any pump replacement.
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Build the inspection planTransmissionMedium
10-speed automatic harsh or erratic shifts.
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Test-drive through varied speeds and feel for harsh 1-2 or clunky downshifts.
BodyLow
Aluminum panel corrosion / dissimilar-metal reactions at fasteners.
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Inspect panel edges, tailgate and around body seams for bubbling paint.
EngineHigh
Excessive oil consumption and top-end ticking on the 5.0L V8 Coyote engine.
- Typically appears
- 30,000-60,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Pull the dipstick to check the oil level. Start the engine from cold and listen closely for a pronounced metallic ticking or knocking from the top end while idling.
DrivetrainMedium
Grinding noise from the front wheels due to Integrated Wheel End (IWE) vacuum hub failure.
- Typically appears
- 50,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Drive the truck at low speed in 2H and listen for a metallic ratcheting noise from the front wheels. Switch to 4H; if the noise instantly disappears, the IWE system is failing.
InteriorMedium
Twin-panel panoramic sunroof tracks cracking, leading to jamming or water leaks.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-70,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Operate the sunroof through its full tilt and slide functions. Listen for crunching plastic noises and inspect the headlining around the glass for dampness or water stains.
BodyMedium
Door latches freezing or failing to catch, preventing doors from closing securely.
- Typically appears
- 3-5 years
- What to inspect
- Open and firmly shut all four doors to ensure the latches catch properly. Inspect the latch mechanisms for signs of water ingress, rust, or retrofitted weather shields.
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Build my inspection planFrequently asked questions
Which F-150 engine is most reliable?
The 5.0L V8 and 3.5L EcoBoost are both strong; the EcoBoost needs cam-phaser and water-pump attention with age.
Is the 10-speed transmission a problem?
Many are fine, but some shift harshly; a test-drive and fluid check are essential.
Does the aluminum body rust?
The aluminum won't rust like steel, but watch for corrosion where dissimilar metals meet.
Are the 2.7L EcoBoost engines prone to the same timing chain issues as the 3.5L?
The 2.7L EcoBoost uses a different architecture and is generally less susceptible to the cam phaser and timing chain stretch issues that plague the 3.5L variant. However, early 2015-2017 models can suffer from oil pan leaks due to the plastic pan design. Always check the undertray for fresh oil residue.
What should I look out for on models equipped with the Max Trailer Tow Package?
Inspect the rear leaf springs and shock absorbers for premature wear or sagging. Additionally, check the integrated trailer brake controller on the dashboard for fault codes. Heavy towing can also accelerate wear on the rear differential, so listen for whining noises from the rear axle during a short test drive.
How can I tell if the four-wheel-drive transfer case is functioning correctly?
Engage the four-wheel-drive system on a loose surface or during a straight-line test on the forecourt. The transition from two-wheel drive to four-wheel drive should be seamless, with no clunking or hesitation. If the dashboard displays a warning, suspect a faulty shift motor or a vacuum leak in the hubs.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.
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