Hello so I am looking to buy a used 2015-2018 f 150 with the 3.5 EcoBoost engine. I am wondering if the 10 speed is worth the premium I’ll be paying for a 18? I know they also updated the engine in 18. Is the updated engine that much improved? Was there issues with the old engine? did they change anything else between these years? Thanks

 

I’m not sure if this interest you but, does the infotainment system matter to you?

 

what all changed in the infotainment system?

 

Remember the updated 3.5 and 10 speed debuted in 2017. Its night and day difference from the prior combination and has more power.

 

2015 doesn't have Android Auto and Car Play.. 2016 only had Android Auto.. 2017 and after had both. Totally worth it. I'm into that.

People swear by the newer 3.5L of 2017 and after, not the older one. If I were you, I'd stick with 2017 and after. I had the 2016 with the V8 and loved it.

 

The 2016 and newer F150’s use SYNC 3 whereas the 2015 F150 still used SYNC 2 MFT which is a Microsoft based infotainment system.

Ford wised up with and dropped the Microsoft based system for a Blackberry based system in SYNC 3.

If you go with a 2016 F150, you should replace the actual USB HUB in the vehicle so you
l have the option of using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

No worries, it’s a cheap part that can be replaced in less than 10 minutes in your driveway.

The 2017 and newer F150’s have the updated USB HUB as stock so they’re ready to go.

The SYNC 3 is the more advanced system.

 

I have a 2015 without all the new technology.
I’m super happy to be able sync my phone wirelessly to play my music and also being able to make a phone call hands free. Dam thing even turns down my music fer me automatically when momma calls! Guess i’m getting old, seems advanced as hell to me!

 

^^^^^^THIS^^^^^^ I 100% totally agree with the above. Everyone makes a big deal out of Android Auto and Apple Car play... Phht. If I need directions I just use Waze or Google maps on my phone. I help create tech, I don't use it. My stereo is tubes and a turntable....


I built this. 2 layers of soapstone, 1957 Garrard 301 and 12" Thomas Schick tonearm.

 

The most worthwhile changes to me are in 2017, with the more powerful 3.5EB and 10-speed transmission.
OP may not consider that important, but it would dictate my decision.

 

does anyone have any input how much better the 2017 power train is in real world driving? On paper it is definitely a better setup. But I can find some 2016s for a lot cheaper then 17+

 

The 2017 3.5L EcoBoost is technically a more powerful motor, but I can tell you our 2015 is not lacking for power. I occasionally am looking for that gear in between 2 and 3 or between 3 and 4 or between 4 and 5, but it's not like I am hurting or anything.

 

To make it clear you don't have to replace anything to use Android Auto. You just need a good quality USB cable.

 

Like GlueGuy said...the 2017+ is a better setup, but that shouldn’t be interpreted as the 2016 is lacking power or isn’t a good setup. It is just more of a good thing. 2016 = really good. 2017 = even better.

 

I never said one did hence the reason for the word “option” in my reply.

Also, it’s always best to use the “OEM” USB cable that came with ones phone and this is especially true of iPhone owners.

 

I agree with the above posts. I have a 2019 3.5 and my dad has a 2015 3.5. Both are great, but the 2nd gen with the 10 speed makes a little more power with slightly better fuel economy. Having direct and port injection, along with redesigned timing and valvetrain setups should help long term reliability. The 10 speed has proven to be good, so far at least.

I would prioritize 2018+, but wouldn't pass up the right deal on a 2013-2017 if i were back in the market for another f150.