2013 Ford F-150

The 2013 Ford F-150 is a popular full-size pickup truck known for its versatility and capability. Engine options for the 2013 model year include the 3.7L V6 (302 hp, 278 lb-ft of torque), the 5.0L V8 (360 hp, 380 lb-ft of torque), the 6.2L V8 (411 hp, 434 lb-ft of torque), and the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (365 hp, 420 lb-ft of torque). All engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate the F-150’s comfortable ride, spacious cabin, and strong towing capacity. Common complaints include issues with certain engines, electrical glitches, and some build quality concerns.

Engine

3.5L EcoBoost V6

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, whistling or whining sound from the engine bay, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Stretch
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise on startup, especially when cold. Check engine light may illuminate.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1800 - $3000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wastegate Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of boost, reduced engine power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the wastegate actuator or turbocharger assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found

5.0L V8

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Low oil levels, blue smoke from the exhaust, need to add oil frequently.
  • Solution: In some cases, a redesigned PCV valve can help. More severe cases may require piston ring replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (PCV Valve) - $4000+ (Piston Ring Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cam Phaser Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup or idle. Rough idling, reduced power.
  • Solution: Replacement of the cam phasers and related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000
  • Recalls: None Found

3.7L V6

• No Issues Found

6.2L V8

• No Issues Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

• Harsh Shifting/Shifting Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, hard shifts between gears, slipping, or failure to shift.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update or fluid change can resolve the issue. More severe cases may require valve body replacement or transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (Fluid Change) - $3500+ (Transmission Rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Power Window Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows failing to go up or down, intermittent operation.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window motor, regulator, or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• SYNC System Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, lagging, failure to connect to devices, Bluetooth issues.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. In other cases, the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $800+ (APIM Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Complete or partial loss of information on the instrument cluster, flickering lights, inaccurate readings.
  • Solution: Replacement of the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: The door handle breaks or becomes loose, making it difficult to open the door.
  • Solution: Replacement of the door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sun Visor Sagging/Breaking
  • Description/Symptoms: The sun visor droops down or breaks at the pivot point.
  • Solution: Replacement of the sun visor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Ford F-150 has some notable issues, particularly with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine (turbocharger and timing chain problems) and the 5.0L V8 engine (oil consumption and cam phaser issues). The 6-speed automatic transmission can also experience harsh shifting and other problems. Electrical issues, such as power window and SYNC system failures, are also reported. The severity and cost of these repairs vary greatly, with engine and transmission repairs potentially costing several thousand dollars. Addressing these common issues proactively can help maintain the vehicle’s reliability and longevity.