Buying a Used Ford F-150 Just Makes Sense

August 11th, 2023 by

A silver 2022 Ford F-150 Limited is shown towing a boat past a lake.

Buying a used car has many benefits, making it a popular option. Used cars for sale are typically less expensive than brand-new models, which makes them easier to purchase on a budget. Plus, you increase the chance you can afford a higher trim when you buy used. Another great reason to buy used cars is that they’ve already depreciated, which means you will get more money back when it is time to sell. Additionally, the used car market is about three times larger than the new car market, giving you a wider variety of options to choose from.

Knowing all that makes it easy to see why many drivers choose to buy used. Now, you may wonder what used vehicles top the list of the most wanted models and why. The answer is easy. Drivers want a versatile vehicle with a roomy interior and top-notch technology. As more people aim to spend time with their families, they also want a car that can take them on an adventure, whether navigating the trails, camping, or off-roading.

If you’re looking for a pre-owned vehicle that can do all the above and more, it’s time to check out a used Ford F-150. With Ford’s history of reliability and focus on innovation and safety features, you get a well-rounded vehicle and the confidence of knowing you’re driving one of the most celebrated models in the automotive industry. Keep reading to learn more about why the Ford F-150 is one of the most sought-after used vehicles available.

What Makes the Ford F-150 Stand Out?

The Ford F-150 has been popular with truck fans since its introduction in 1975. The truck has gone through several generations, and each added a new set of features and improvements to its appearance while maintaining the goal of creating a dependable truck that provided drivers the tools needed to drive with confidence, no matter the terrain.

The Bonus-Built trucks from 1948 were the first F-Series trucks to be made and included the F-1 through F-8 models. Initially, they were built on car chassis, changing to a truck base over time. In 1953, the second-generation models were completely redesigned and renamed, receiving more power from new engine options and improving the interior space. But while this generation saw the introduction of the F-250 and F-350, the light-duty model was the F-100.

It wasn’t until halfway through the sixth generation of the F-Series that the Ford F-150 hit the market. Offering a higher payload than the old F-100, the new model was an instant hit. The Ford F-150 continued to change through the years, focusing on better aerodynamics and fuel efficiency before improving comfort and the driver experience when the eleventh generation was introduced in 2004. This Ford F-150 looked very little like the Bonus-Built trucks and more like the F-150 of today.

The fourteenth generation, the latest in Ford’s long history, was introduced in 2021 with user-friendly technological features, better comfort for you and your passengers, increased towing capability, and more. This long history and the incredible number of available models are part of the reason why the Ford F-150 is a true contender in the used car market and why you should consider purchasing one yourself.

Why Should You Purchase a Used Ford F-150?

First, the Ford F-150 has proven reliability. It regularly ranks as one of the most reliable full-size trucks, letting you know you can count on it. These rankings are seen through awards such as its first-place finish in the 2020 JD Power Large Light Duty Pickup dependability ratings, its 2021 Green Truck of the Year award, and its 2022 IIHS Top Safety Pick rating. By choosing a used F-150, you can take advantage of its track record and rest easy knowing that you’re driving a reliable vehicle that has already stood the test of time.

You also have a variety of trims and features available when purchasing a used Ford F-150, giving you a chance to find the right mix for you. For instance, with the 2021 redesign, you can choose six engine options, including a V8, a turbo-diesel, and a class-leading full-hybrid, each with its own benefits. You also get great available features like a stowable gear selector that creates a flat space on your center console for working while you’re waiting for soccer practice to end or when eating lunch in your car. There’s also a range of driver-assist features, including trailering technology that keeps you centered in your lane and helps you maneuver better when hauling heavy loads.

Not to mention that the Ford F-150 tends to hold its value well over time. This means you can expect a good return on your investment when you sell or trade in your used F-150. The F-150’s strong resale value comes from its long-lasting fame, high demand, and reputation for lasting a long time. This makes it a good choice for long-term ownership. Because it’s the most popular truck in the United States, finding parts and skilled mechanics for maintenance and repairs is easy. You don’t have to worry about needing specialized tools or paying premium prices to maintain your used F-150.

The Ford F-150: Breaking Down the Trims

At the end of the thirteenth generation in 2020, seven trim options were available for the Ford F-150. That number increased to eight in 2021 when the Tremor trim was introduced. With a variety of configurations across the trims, from bed length to cabin size, you’re sure to find a used model that works perfectly for you. However, to help narrow things down, the following is a brief glimpse of what each trim of the 2020 F-150 offers.

A blue 2017 Ford F-150 is shown towing a boat after looking at used cars for sale.

XL

This base model has a standard 3.3L V6 engine with auto start-stop technology and standard rear-wheel drive. The XL trim also has the option of four-wheel drive and several cab configurations. There is a plethora of driver-assist features, including a backup camera, Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Braking, and Trailer Sway Control. The 2020 F-150 XL two-wheel drive regular cab with a 6.5-foot box has a towing capacity of up to 7,700 lbs.

XLT

Also available in two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive with multiple bed configurations, the XLT has the same standard engine and towing capacity as the XL trim. However, it includes more comfort and convenience features, such as cruise control, an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and power locks and windows.

Lariat

The Lariat trim of the 2020 F-150 provides you with a standard ode2.7L EcoBoost engine and selectable drive modes, including tow/haul, slippery, and sport. Inside the cabin, you will find leather-trimmed heated and ventilated seats with 10-way power adjustment. Driver memory and dual-zone automatic climate control are also standard features for added comfort.

King Ranch

This used F-150 provides you with a standard larger engine in the form of a 5.0L V8. Drivers love the intricate Western details on the interior of the King Ranch that can only be found in this trim. It’s important to note that the 2020 King Ranch is only available as a SuperCrew with either a 6.5-foot bed or a 5.5-foot bed, while the lower trims offer an eight-foot bed.

Platinum

Like the King Ranch, an eight-foot bed is not an option for the Platinum trim. This trim also has the same standard engine as the King Ranch. Still, drivers will enjoy the added chrome accents and 20-inch polished aluminum wheels, as well as available high-tech features such as a remote tailgate release, quad-beam LED headlamps, and a voice-activated touchscreen navigation system.

Limited

The Limited trim is similar to the Platinum in many ways, but it comes with a twin-panel moonroof and 22-inch polished aluminum wheels. The standard engine is a special High-Output 3.5L EcoBoost V6 shared with the legendary F-150 Raptor, providing more power than any other 2020 F-150 trim. Inside the cabin are Multicontour seats with an Active Motion massage feature to keep you comfortable no matter how long the drive takes.

As you can see, each trim has its own set of benefits. However, all things considered, you can’t go wrong with whatever used Ford F-150 you choose. The key is to figure out what you need and choose the one that works best for you.

A white 2022 Ford F-150 is shown on a construction site.

Test Drive a Used Ford F-150 Today!

Ford is one of the longest-running automotive companies in the United States. It has a long history of creating innovative vehicles supporting work and play. It’s no wonder the Ford F-150 is a hot ticket item in the used car market. Whether you choose the base model or opt for a top-tier used F-150, you’ll get numerous safety features, premium performance, and an enjoyable drive, not to mention the history and reliability of Ford on your side. Stop by DePaula Ford today and check out a used Ford F-150!

Posted in Used Cars for Sale