My GarageWhat is the best used Ford to buy?
The Ford F-150 is our top pick: The safest used truck pick — especially the 5.0L Coyote.
Buyer's Guide · Ford
The Best Fords to Buy Used
13 min read
Also worth reading: Ford Reliability Guide, Ford F-150 Buying Guide and Ford Mustang Buying Guide.
This guide ranks the best used Ford models for buyers who want to know exactly which trucks, SUVs, and sedans hold up long-term — and which ones need a closer look before you sign anything. Every ranking here is based on how these vehicles actually behave in a shop, not on brochure copy.
Ford's lineup is unusually polarized. Its best products — the 5.0L Coyote F-150, the S550 Mustang GT, the Maverick Hybrid, and the current-gen Explorer — are genuinely excellent long-term buys. Its worst — the DPS6 dual-clutch Focus and Fiesta, and the first years of the 3.5L EcoBoost F-150 — are the reason many used-car buyers approach the brand cautiously.
This guide separates the two. Every ranking is based on what a working mechanic actually sees on a lift: how these vehicles wear, what fails, what costs money at 150,000 miles, and which model years are worth the extra dollars.
How we rank
Every ranking on this page is based on:
- Reliability — real-world failure patterns, not brochure claims.
- Ownership costs — insurance, fuel, and typical annual repair spend.
- Longevity — how many of these trucks and SUVs comfortably clear 200,000 miles.
- Common problems — the two or three things that consistently break, and how expensive they are.
- Overall value — how much car you get for a given used price.
- Ease of maintenance — parts availability, shop familiarity, DIY-friendliness.
- Used market value — depreciation curve and resale strength.
Quick Answer
If you're shopping used, the strongest Fords are the F-150 with the 5.0L Coyote V8, the Maverick Hybrid, and the Fusion Hybrid, with the 2020-and-newer Explorer and Escape Hybrid close behind. They earn those spots on drivetrain durability, parts availability, and what they actually cost to keep on the road.
- Ford F-150 (5.0L, 2018+)Highest-scoring Ford here at 9.2/10 — V8 durability, a proven 10-speed, and 250k+ mile expectations.
- Ford Maverick Hybrid (2022+)The cheapest Ford to run: $400–$600 a year in maintenance and 37–42 mpg from a pickup.
- Ford Fusion Hybrid (2013–2020)40–43 mpg midsize sedan, $450–$650 a year to maintain, and now badly undervalued used.
The model year still matters more than the badge — the rankings below give the specific years to buy and the ones to research before you commit.
Quick Verdict
The Best Used Ford — At a Glance
Skip straight to the pick that fits how you drive.
Best Overall Ford
V8 durability, proven 10-speed, and the deepest parts and aftermarket network in trucks.
Best Sedan
Fusion Hybrid (2013–2020)
42 mpg midsize sedan that's now one of the best used-car values on the road.
Best SUV
Rear-drive-based platform, refined ride, and materially better than the 2011–2019 car.
Best Truck
The whole segment's benchmark for capability, comfort, and long-term ownership.
Best Budget Ford
Fusion Hybrid (2013–2018)
Sub-$12k gets you a comfortable, 40+ mpg sedan with a proven eCVT.
Best Family Ford
Explorer for three-row duty; Maverick Hybrid for smaller families who want fuel economy plus utility.
Research Carefully
Focus & Fiesta (2011–2018 DPS6) and early 3.5L EcoBoost F-150
Not scams — but these need documented service records and a pre-purchase inspection more than most.
Quick Picks
At a Glance
The best Ford for each kind of buyer.
🏆
Best Overall
F-150 5.0L Coyote
Naturally aspirated V8, proven 10-speed, huge aftermarket.
💰
Best Value
Fusion Hybrid
42 mpg midsize sedan for well under $15k used.
🚙
Best SUV
Explorer
6th-gen (2020+) with EcoBoost is finally refined.
🛻
Best Truck
F-150
The best-selling truck in America — for good reason.
⚡
Best Enthusiast Pick
Mustang GT
5.0L Coyote in a rear-drive coupe under $30k.
Ranked
The Best Used Ford Models, Ranked
Every entry includes a Verdict Reliability Score, ownership costs, and the specific years to research more carefully.
Ford F-150
★★★★★4.5/5Verdict Score 9.2/10
Best model years
2018–2020, 2021+ (14th gen with 5.0L Coyote)
Years to research
2011–2014 (early 3.5L EcoBoost), 2017 (10AT teething)
Typical lifespan
250,000+ miles with routine maintenance
Avg. annual maintenance
$700–$900
Pros
- 5.0L Coyote V8 is one of the most durable modern gas engines
- Aluminum body resists rust better than any competitor
- Enormous parts network keeps repair costs reasonable
- Extreme resale value protects long-term ownership cost
Cons
- 3.5L EcoBoost turbo maintenance is unforgiving of skipped oil changes
- Aluminum body panels raise collision repair costs
- 10-speed automatic prefers earlier fluid changes than Ford's spec
Best for: Buyers who want the most capable, most-supported full-size truck on the used market.
Common issues to inspect
- • 3.5L EcoBoost timing chain wear on 2011–2014 examples
- • Cam phaser rattle on 2018–2020 5.0L (extended-warranty covered on many)
- • 10R80 10-speed harshness — largely resolved by TSB software updates
Ford Mustang GT
★★★★★4.5/5Verdict Score 8.8/10
Best model years
2015–2023 (S550, Gen 2 & 3 Coyote)
Years to research
2011–2014 (5.0L Gen 1 with early oil-pump gear concerns on tracked cars)
Typical lifespan
200,000+ miles for street-driven examples
Avg. annual maintenance
$600–$850
Pros
- 5.0L Coyote V8 is bulletproof on the street
- Independent rear suspension transformed long-term drivability
- Massive enthusiast community and parts network
- Holds value better than most sport coupes
Cons
- MT-82 manual synchros dislike aggressive shifting
- IRS bushings wear faster on tracked cars
- Insurance costs run higher than a comparable sedan
Best for: Enthusiasts who want a V8 rear-drive coupe without exotic ownership costs.
Common issues to inspect
- • MT-82 3rd-gear synchro wear on hard-shifted manuals
- • IRS subframe bushings on tracked or high-mileage cars
- • MagneRide dampers can leak on early Performance Pack cars
Ford Maverick Hybrid
★★★★★4.4/5Verdict Score 8.7/10
Best model years
2022+ (2.5L hybrid)
Years to research
First-model-year 2022 examples — verify recall completion on the 12V battery cable.
Typical lifespan
200,000+ miles projected (Toyota-style hybrid architecture is proven)
Avg. annual maintenance
$400–$600
Pros
- 40+ mpg from a pickup, real-world
- Small footprint parks like a compact sedan
- Genuinely useful bed and 1,500-lb payload rating
- Lowest total cost of ownership in the Ford lineup
Cons
- AWD version drops the hybrid — different value proposition
- Interior materials are honest but plain
- Early production had scattered supply-chain part variations
Best for: Buyers who want a small truck for occasional hauling and everyday commuting without paying full-size fuel bills.
Common issues to inspect
- • 12V battery cable recall on early 2022 builds
- • Rear-view camera software glitches (fixed via update)
- • Minor rattles on early examples — cabin trim, tailgate
Ford Explorer
★★★★★4.0/5Verdict Score 8.1/10
Best model years
2020+ (6th gen, CD6 platform)
Years to research
2011–2019 (5th gen with 3.5L EcoBoost and PTU concerns); very early 2020 build-quality complaints (addressed)
Typical lifespan
200,000+ miles
Avg. annual maintenance
$750–$1,000
Pros
- 6th-gen ride and handling finally competitive with import 3-rows
- 2.3L EcoBoost and 3.0L twin-turbo are both strong engines
- Real 3-row usability without the bulk of an Expedition
- Ford SYNC 4 is a genuine improvement over MyFord Touch
Cons
- 5th-gen PTU (power transfer unit) is a documented weak point on AWD
- Early 2020 6th-gen models had assembly issues (now addressed)
- AWD fluid intervals are shorter than most owners realize
Best for: Families who want a three-row SUV with rear-drive dynamics and modern tech, at used pricing.
Common issues to inspect
- • PTU fluid neglect leading to failure on 5th-gen AWD
- • Water pump on 3.5L V6 (internal, expensive if it fails)
- • Early 6th-gen software bugs — verify latest updates installed
Ford Escape
★★★★★4.1/5Verdict Score 7.9/10
Best model years
2020+ Hybrid (4th gen)
Years to research
2013–2019 (1.6L / 2.0L EcoBoost coolant intrusion on some examples)
Typical lifespan
200,000 miles
Avg. annual maintenance
$500–$750
Pros
- Current Hybrid is genuinely efficient (up to 41 mpg combined)
- Comfortable, roomy for the segment
- Cheap parts, easy to service
- Strong safety scores across recent model years
Cons
- 1.5L / 1.6L EcoBoost history includes coolant-intrusion recalls
- Interior materials trail the segment leaders
- 3-cylinder 1.5L in 2020+ non-hybrid runs rough for some buyers
Best for: Buyers who want an efficient, affordable compact crossover and are comfortable sticking to the hybrid trims.
Common issues to inspect
- • Coolant intrusion into cylinder on 1.5L/1.6L EcoBoost (recall coverage exists)
- • Infotainment lockups on pre-SYNC 3 examples
- • Rear brake wear rate above class average
Ford Fusion Hybrid
★★★★★4.2/5Verdict Score 7.8/10
Best model years
2013–2020 Hybrid
Years to research
2013 first-year build (steering rack, door-latch recall)
Typical lifespan
225,000 miles on the hybrid drivetrain
Avg. annual maintenance
$450–$650
Pros
- Real-world 40+ mpg from a comfortable midsize sedan
- eCVT and hybrid architecture licensed from proven Toyota-style design
- Deeply undervalued on the used market
- Quiet, well-isolated cabin
Cons
- Discontinued — long-term parts support depends on Ford's ongoing supply
- Non-hybrid 1.5L/2.0L EcoBoost variants have more issues than the hybrid
- Trunk space reduced by the hybrid battery
Best for: Budget buyers who want a comfortable, efficient midsize sedan and don't need cutting-edge tech.
Common issues to inspect
- • Door-latch actuator recall on 2013–2016 examples
- • Steering rack on early 2013 units
- • 12V battery replacement more frequent than expected on hybrids
Side by side
Used Ford Models Compared
Reliability, ownership costs, fuel economy, and lifespan across the top picks.
| Model | Reliability | Maint. Cost | Fuel Economy | Avg. Lifespan | Best For | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| F-150 (5.0L Coyote) | 4.5 / 5 | $700–$900/yr | 17–22 mpg | 250k+ mi | Full-size truck buyers | 9.2 / 10 |
| Mustang GT | 4.5 / 5 | $600–$850/yr | 16–24 mpg | 200k+ mi | Enthusiasts | 8.8 / 10 |
| Maverick Hybrid | 4.4 / 5 | $400–$600/yr | 37–42 mpg | 200k+ mi | Efficient utility | 8.7 / 10 |
| Explorer (2020+) | 4.0 / 5 | $750–$1,000/yr | 20–24 mpg | 200k+ mi | 3-row families | 8.1 / 10 |
| Escape Hybrid | 4.1 / 5 | $500–$750/yr | 34–41 mpg | 200k mi | Compact crossover shoppers | 7.9 / 10 |
| Fusion Hybrid | 4.2 / 5 | $450–$650/yr | 40–43 mpg | 225k mi | Budget commuters | 7.8 / 10 |
Best by category
Which Ford Should You Buy?
Pick a category and jump straight to the model that fits.
Best Ford Trucks
Ford's truck lineup is the strongest reason to shop the brand used. Both picks below are proven long-haul buys.
The default answer for full-size. Naturally aspirated V8, proven 10-speed, endless aftermarket.
- Maverick Hybrid (2022+)
The most fuel-efficient pickup on the market and one of the lowest total ownership costs in the Ford lineup.
Best Ford SUVs
SUVs are the mixed part of the Ford lineup — the current generation is materially better than what came before.
Rear-drive-based platform, real 3-row usability, and the first Explorer in a decade that competes with the Japanese benchmarks.
- Escape Hybrid (2020+)
Legitimately efficient, comfortable, and cheap to run — the current hybrid is the pick, not the older 1.5L/1.6L EcoBoost cars.
Best Ford Sedans
Ford has largely exited the sedan business, which makes the last generation of Fusion the value play of the moment.
- Fusion Hybrid (2013–2020)
Discontinued and undervalued. 42 mpg midsize sedan for well under $15k in good condition.
Not a sedan, but for buyers who want a 4-seat V8 daily, the S550 Coyote is remarkably livable.
Best Budget Ford Models
Sub-$15k Fords that hold up if you buy the right example.
- Fusion Hybrid (2014–2018)
Best sub-$12k Ford on the market — comfortable, efficient, and mechanically simple.
- Escape Hybrid (2020–2022)
Efficient compact SUV in the low-$20k range on the used market.
Regular-cab 5.0L work trucks are among the best cheap trucks money can buy.
Best Family Ford
For families, the calculus is space, safety, and long-term ownership cost.
The right answer for 3-row family duty.
- Maverick Hybrid (2022+)
Small families who want fuel economy and pickup utility in one vehicle.
- Escape Hybrid (2020+)
Compact SUV with 40 mpg — a sensible commuter for a growing family.
Longest-Lasting Ford Models
These are the Fords most likely to comfortably clear 250,000 miles with routine maintenance.
Naturally aspirated V8 F-150s regularly reach 300,000 miles on original engines.
Same engine, less mileage per year — expect the drivetrain to outlast the chassis.
- F-250/F-350 with 6.7L Power Stroke (2015+)
Not covered above, but this diesel is one of the longest-lived engines Ford has ever produced.
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Do your homework
Ford Models to Research Carefully
Not blanket avoids — but these deserve extra inspection and documented service history.
Focus & Fiesta with DPS6 dual-clutch (2011–2018)
Why it needs extra research
The DPS6 automated dual-clutch transmission has documented shudder, premature clutch wear, and control-module failures. Ford settled a class-action lawsuit over it.
What to inspect
Confirm the transmission is the 5-speed or 6-speed manual, or skip these cars entirely. Automatic examples are only worth considering with full documentation of clutch and TCM replacements under warranty.
3.5L EcoBoost F-150 (2011–2014)
Why it needs extra research
First-generation 3.5L EcoBoost engines developed timing chain stretch and cam phaser wear well before 150,000 miles on many examples.
What to inspect
Cold-start rattle, listen for phaser tick on warm idle, and pull a full service history. Later builds (2015+) largely resolved the issue but still benefit from short oil intervals.
5th-gen Explorer AWD PTU (2011–2019)
Why it needs extra research
The power transfer unit shares fluid with nothing and is designed as sealed-for-life. In practice, fluid degrades and the PTU fails.
What to inspect
Ask whether the PTU fluid has been serviced (aftermarket procedure), and inspect for fluid weeping around the PTU housing.
1.5L / 1.6L EcoBoost Escape (2013–2019)
Why it needs extra research
Coolant intrusion into the cylinder from head cracks on certain builds. Ford extended coverage, but not every example has been remediated.
What to inspect
Verify recall completion history, sniff-test the coolant for exhaust gases, and check for chronically low coolant with no visible leak.
MyFord Touch (2011–2016)
Why it needs extra research
Software instability was the single most common owner complaint in this window.
What to inspect
Nice-to-have rather than mechanical, but confirm SYNC has been updated or the head unit replaced with a SYNC 3 unit.
Match yourself
Which Model Is Right For You?
Truck duty
F-150 5.0L Coyote
V8 durability with a proven 10-speed.
Family duty
Explorer (2020+)
6th-gen is finally competitive with the Japanese 3-rows.
Fuel economy
Maverick Hybrid or Fusion Hybrid
40+ mpg from a Ford — a real thing in the used market.
Enthusiast
Mustang GT
Coyote V8, IRS, and a huge parts network.
Lowest maintenance
Maverick Hybrid
Small hybrid drivetrain with light-truck utility.
Ownership
Maintenance Expectations
Ford parts are cheap and available at every parts counter. Independent shops handle Ford without difficulty.
Coyote V8 and Duratec-based engines are inexpensive to service. Turbo EcoBoost variants need shorter oil intervals to stay healthy.
10R80 10-speed automatic (F-150, Mustang) benefits from a fluid change earlier than Ford's spec — 60k–80k is the smart interval.
Before you buy
What to Check Before Buying a Used Ford
Bring this to every test drive. If a seller won't let you check these areas, walk away.
- ✓Service historyFull oil-change records — especially on any EcoBoost. Short intervals matter far more than the sticker on the windshield.
- ✓RustInspect frame rails, rear wheel arches, and rocker panels on any truck or SUV from a Rust Belt state. Aluminum F-150 bodies help, but the frame is still steel.
- ✓Transmission conditionOn F-150 and Mustang 10R80 10-speeds, ask whether the fluid was changed by 60k–80k. On DPS6 Focus/Fiesta, confirm clutch pack and TCM replacement history under warranty.
- ✓SuspensionCheck ball joints, sway-bar links, and shock condition on trucks and SUVs. Explorer PTU seepage is worth a specific under-vehicle look.
- ✓Engine leaksCam-cover leaks on Coyote V8s and coolant weeping on 1.5L/1.6L EcoBoost engines are the two most common tells.
- ✓ElectronicsVerify SYNC works, all cameras/sensors report clean, and there are no dashboard warning lights that reset when the key cycles.
- ✓RecallsRun the VIN through Ford's recall lookup. Door-latch actuators on Fusion, 12V battery cable on early Maverick, and coolant-intrusion coverage on Escape are the priorities.
- ✓Previous accident damagePull a full-history report and inspect for panel-gap inconsistencies and repainted areas — especially on aluminum-body F-150s, where repairs are expensive and often visible.
The Verdict
Final Verdict
If you buy one used Ford, buy an F-150 5.0L.
The 2018+ F-150 with the 5.0L Coyote V8 and 10-speed automatic is the single strongest ownership proposition in Ford's lineup. Naturally aspirated V8 durability, real capability, and an endless aftermarket. If you don't need a truck, the Maverick Hybrid is the surprise of the modern Ford lineup.
People Also Ask
Which used Ford models should I avoid?
Approach the focus & Fiesta with DPS6 dual-clutch (2011–2018), 3.5L EcoBoost F-150 (2011–2014) and 5th-gen Explorer AWD PTU (2011–2019) with extra scrutiny — they need records and a pre-purchase inspection more than the rest of the lineup.
What is the most reliable used Ford?
The Ford F-150 scores 4.5/5 for reliability, with 2015–2020 (13th gen), 2021+ (14th gen) the years worth targeting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most reliable Ford?
The F-150 with the 5.0L Coyote V8 (2018+) is the most reliable modern Ford. Naturally aspirated V8 durability, a proven 10-speed automatic, and unmatched parts availability make it the strongest long-term ownership proposition in the lineup.
What Ford lasts the longest?
The F-150 with the 5.0L Coyote V8 routinely crosses 250,000 miles on the original engine with routine maintenance. The 6.7L Power Stroke diesel in Super Duty trucks and the Toyota-style hybrid drivetrain in the Fusion Hybrid and Maverick Hybrid are the other Fords most likely to comfortably reach 200,000+ miles.
Which used Ford should I buy?
For most buyers: a 2018+ F-150 with the 5.0L Coyote V8. If you don't need a truck, the Maverick Hybrid is the surprise of the modern lineup. For a sedan, the 2014–2018 Fusion Hybrid is the best value on the used market.
Are Fords expensive to maintain?
No. Ford parts are among the cheapest at any parts counter, and independent shops all know the platform. Naturally aspirated engines (5.0L Coyote, older Duratec V6) are especially inexpensive to own. Turbo EcoBoost variants are more sensitive to oil-interval discipline but still affordable compared to European brands.
What Ford models should I avoid?
The 2011–2018 Focus and Fiesta with the DPS6 dual-clutch automatic are the clearest "research carefully" cars in the Ford lineup — Ford settled a class-action lawsuit over transmission failures. Early 3.5L EcoBoost F-150s (2011–2014) and 1.5L/1.6L EcoBoost Escapes (2013–2019) also need documented service history and recall completion before purchase.
Is the Ford F-150 reliable?
Yes, especially the 5.0L Coyote V8 versions from 2018 onward. The 3.5L EcoBoost is more powerful and tows better but demands short oil intervals. Both have earned strong reputations in the used market when maintained properly.
What is the best used Ford SUV?
The 2020+ Explorer (6th generation) is the best used Ford SUV. It moved to a rear-drive-based platform, drives noticeably better than the 2011–2019 car, and offers real 3-row usability. For a smaller SUV, the 2020+ Escape Hybrid is the pick.
Can a Ford last 300,000 miles?
Yes — the F-150 with the 5.0L Coyote V8 and the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel are the two Fords most likely to reach 300,000 miles on original drivetrains. Any Ford can get there with disciplined maintenance, but those two do it consistently.
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