Hey Guys,
Here in the next month or two I'm going to be looking for a 2011-up F-150 4x4 in the $15,000 range. Most I've seen lately are between 115k-200k in mileage. What are some recommendations and tips that I should look for on my search? I'm looking at both the 3.5 and 5.0's. Thanks!

 

The 11s and 12s had the majority of the engine and transmission failures/recalls/TSBs. So if you buy one of those model years, try to get an extended warranty with it also.

Start them up cold and then get out and listen for knocking and heavy ticking. If you hear odd noises from the engine upon startup, walk away.

Check the VIN with a dealership and make sure all TSBs and recalls have been completed before buying.

If the price is right, I wouldn't worry about mileage so much.

 

My truck is a 2011 FX4 Supercab with the 5.0L and I've never had any issues with it, other than Microsoft Sync being a pain in the *** sometimes. But otherwise, I've never had any problems with my engine or transmission, never had the bump slip issue, never had the death knock, But granted my truck only has 42,000 well manicured miles on it.

Speaking from my own personal experience my truck has been great. But as already mentioned to just make sure to back log as much as you can about Recall's and Service TSB's.

 

X2 here except mine is at 62K well manicured miles.

Just to make a point about pricing on the 2011/12 trucks: According to Edmunds.com, mine is still worth over 18K at dealer trade, over 19K at private sale and could retail for over 22K. Mine is a base model XLT 4x4 Scab with the 3.5L EB and 3.31 axles.

Good luck on a decent $15K truck. They're out there but the truck will be well used up.