Find the depreciation rate of your Ford F-150 in the graph below.
A new car starts to depreciate as soon as you drive away from the dealership. This means that new vehicles decrease in value almost immediately after you purchase them. It’s common for a vehicle to drop in value around 20% in the first 12 months of ownership, and this is typically the steepest stage of depreciation. Within the first five years, it’s typical for a vehicle to depreciate a total of 60% from its original value at the time of purchase. This depreciation can be affected by several factors, including routine wear and damage from collisions.
Keep in mind that just because the vehicle costs the least to own in the sweet spot we have outlined here, you still may not want to own the vehicle during these depreciation sweet spot years. Although vehicles depreciate less as they get older, they have more repairs. Duh right? However, keep in mind that repairs don’t just cost you money, they cost you time. Reliability is the difference between being able to make it to your destination on time or missing an opportunity because the car broke down.
Check out our article on the best and worst years of the Ford F-150 to see our reliability ratings for all years of the F-150 between 2001-2021. We also cover MPG, safety ratings, and a number of other factors. We pulled data from F-150s registered in our app and surveyed owners to get you data-backed answers on just how good or bad each year of the F-150 is.
If you want to know the depreciation and maintenance costs for your particular vehicle, use our free “Total Cost of Ownership” tool available in the FIXD App – Android or IOS.
If you like our online tools and articles consider purchasing our FIXD sensor for $19.99 (this is 67% OFF). It’s our flagship product. With it, you scan your car for common engine problems.
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Ford F-150 Depreciation
Model Years | Mileage | Amount Depreciated | Residual Value Percentage | Resale Value |
| 2001 | 264,000 | $19,968.78 | 6.5% | $1,391 |
| 2002 | 252,000 | $21,602.51 | 6.9% | $1,599 |
| 2003 | 240,000 | $23,158.00 | 4.2% | $1,019 |
| 2004 | 228,000 | $26,304.94 | 4.6% | $1,260 |
| 2005 | 216,000 | $23,622.50 | 6.7% | $1,700 |
| 2006 | 204,000 | $22,350.94 | 8.1% | $1,970 |
| 2007 | 192,000 | $22,489.15 | 8.4% | $2,069 |
| 2008 | 180,000 | $21,033.80 | 10.2% | $2,382 |
| 2009 | 168,000 | $24,449.01 | 11.7% | $3,250 |
| 2010 | 156,000 | $24,026.67 | 12.9% | $3,562 |
| 2011 | 144,000 | $24,115.68 | 14.3% | $4,018 |
| 2012 | 132,000 | $23,118.50 | 18.6% | $5,267 |
| 2013 | 120,000 | $22,655.25 | 22.6% | $6,607 |
| 2014 | 108,000 | $22,157.59 | 27.3% | $8,309 |
| 2015 | 96,000 | $20,594.56 | 33.1% | $10,172 |
| 2016 | 84,000 | $20,632.63 | 35.7% | $11,441 |
| 2017 | 72,000 | $17,266.88 | 47.4% | $15,577 |
| 2018 | 60,000 | $14,571.62 | 56.8% | $19,155 |
| 2019 | 48,000 | $13,808.68 | 59.3% | $20,150 |
| 2020 | 36,000 | $13,128.00 | 63.8% | $23,176 |
| 2021 | 24,000 | $6,973.56 | 80.0% | $27,944 |
| 2022 | 12,000 | $1,800.02 | 94.5% | $30,723 |
| 2023 | 0 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| 2024 | 0 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
The chart above shows the approximate depreciation for a Ford F-150. This representation is based on Kelley Blue Book data since 2001, and it considers a vehicle with a standard trim, mileage of 12,000 per year, and a generic color, such as white or black.
Keep in mind that the auto market was heavily affected in 2020 and beyond. Automakers selling new cars during the COVID pandemic raised prices which caused a spike in demand in the used car market as people tried to save money. Many automakers, however, did not drop prices after the pandemic, they kept them so they could make a larger profit.
This is why the most recent years of many vehicles have seemingly experienced less depreciation. Some, such as 2018, may have even appreciated due to the heightened levels of inflation created.
Factors That Impact the Ford F-150 Depreciation Rate
Ford vehicles are renowned for their resiliency and high quality, and F-150s often have lower depreciation rates than other similar vehicles. As one of the best-selling models from the manufacturer, the F-150 can be a great investment for someone looking for a vehicle that they can keep for a long time while maintaining a strong resale value. However, other factors can affect the F-150’s depreciation rate aside from its make and model, including:
Age
One of the first factors that automatically contributes to a vehicle’s depreciation rate is its age. The age of a vehicle is indicated by its model year, which is the year it was originally released and priced. For many manufacturers, it’s common to release new models in the year before their model year, meaning you can potentially purchase a new 2024 Ford vehicle in 2023. When you purchase a vehicle, the model year can help determine the depreciation rate, as most vehicles incur the highest depreciation immediately after purchase, then slowly depreciate as the years go on.
The availability of parts can also affect a vehicle’s depreciation rate. When manufacturers release new vehicles, they typically complete redesigns before announcing them to the market. This can result in the discontinuation of parts for older models, as well as the addition of more long-lasting parts or features that can help the newer model depreciate more slowly. For example, if you have a 2004 F-150 that requires replacement of specific parts, it will likely have depreciated faster than some other models, as some of the older parts may be obsolete.
Body Type
Another factor that can impact a vehicle’s depreciation rate is its body type. This refers to the vehicle type according to its size, shape, and uses. There are many vehicle body types, such as sedan, convertible, coupe, hatchback, or pickup truck, in the F-150’s case. The body type of a vehicle can affect its depreciation rate because some vehicle types maintain their functionality better than others. For example, a luxury convertible may depreciate more quickly than a truck, as trucks typically have sturdier builds and stronger exterior hardware, preserving the vehicle more effectively.
The Ford F-150 is a pickup truck with reliable mechanics and strong features. Therefore, many F-150s stay consistent over the years regarding the frequency of maintenance or repairs. This can help slow the depreciation rate compared to vehicles that break down frequently or are easily damaged.
Mileage
Mileage can also affect a vehicle’s depreciation rate. The mileage of a vehicle refers to the number of miles it’s been driven, as shown on the odometer. Whenever you drive a car, the odometer number increases, and as the mileage rises, the resale value decreases. This is because a vehicle with exceptionally high mileage can indicate a lot of wear, and in many cases, frequent repairs.
Our estimates consider an F-150 driven 12,000 miles per year, as this is often a good average mileage for strong resale value. If your Ford F-150 has fewer miles, it may depreciate at a slower rate than the average. In the same way, an F-150 driven more than 12,000 miles per year may show a faster depreciation rate.
Overall Condition
Perhaps one of the most obvious contributors to a vehicle’s depreciation is its overall condition. When a vehicle is kept in excellent condition, showing little to no wear and no accident history, it’s more likely to maintain a higher resale value than a vehicle that’s been in a collision or repaired frequently. The integrity and functionality of a vehicle can be affected by repairs and collisions, even if the issue is fixed at the time. Routine wear also occurs on any vehicle, but trying to minimize it may slow your car’s depreciation.
Color
Even a vehicle’s color can add to its depreciation value. Many vehicles offer a range of options for color when purchasing new, from neutral tones to bright, metallic hues. Choose your color carefully, as vehicles with yellow colors on the exterior typically hold their value the best. A study shows that yellow cars can depreciate 60% less than other vehicle colors. Other colors that depreciate more slowly include beige, green, orange, and green.
Other Costs of Ford F-150 Ownership
Depreciation is just one of many costs involved with owning a car. Here are some other factors that can affect the cost of ownership:
Insurance
One of the most important costs to consider when purchasing an F-150 is the price of insurance. Insurance is crucial, as it can protect you in the case of an accident. The annual cost for auto insurance for a Ford F-150 averages to $1,760. Since these costs can add up over time, potentially rising if you’re involved in an accident, you should budget for insurance when planning your next vehicle purchase. Different years of the same model may cost more in repairs as well, depending on their age and condition.
Maintenance
Vehicle maintenance can also add costs to new and used vehicle buyers. Even new vehicles will need routine maintenance, and there’s always the potential for surprise repairs. By considering and planning for the type of maintenance trucks typically require, you can prepare for these costs and keep up your budget. The average maintenance cost for a Ford F-150 is $665 annually.
The Best Model Year To Buy a Ford F-150
Based on factors including price and reliability (but not depreciation), our choice for the best Ford F-150 model years to buy are the 2007-2008, 2012-2014, and 2017-2020, but check out our article on the best and worst years of the F-150 to get the whole story.
Buying a Ford F-150 New vs. Used
| 20-Year Projection | ||
| Years Since Purchased | Depreciated Value | With Inflation |
| 1 | $32,683 | $36,080 |
| 2 | $27,668 | $32,332 |
| 3 | $22,065 | $25,919 |
| 4 | $20,509 | $24,181 |
| 5 | $19,644 | $23,051 |
| 6 | $16,393 | $19,188 |
| 7 | $12,347 | $14,474 |
| 8 | $11,448 | $13,498 |
| 9 | $9,442 | $11,171 |
| 10 | $7,816 | $9,347 |
| 11 | $6,433 | $7,820 |
| 12 | $4,946 | $6,181 |
| 13 | $4,461 | $5,674 |
| 14 | $4,046 | $5,201 |
| 15 | $3,528 | $4,466 |
| 16 | $2,905 | $3,642 |
| 17 | $2,801 | $3,504 |
| 18 | $2,317 | $2,916 |
| 19 | $1,591 | $1,991 |
| 20 | $1,453 | $1,790 |
The original MSRP for a new Ford F-150 is $34,585. The total depreciation for a new F-150 after three years of ownership is $22,065, while the total depreciation for a used model after three years can be around $23,176
To maximize your savings and resale potential when looking for used models, review the model year and compare it to depreciation data for other models to see how they’ve held their value. You can also use a vehicle valuation tool and take your car in for an inspection to ensure you get the best deal.
Methodology
The data in this article applies only to the base-level trim for the Ford F-150. With a higher-level trim, especially one with optional add-ons, the F-150 may maintain its value for a longer period. Other aspects that can affect resale value include the vehicle’s condition and your selling option (private party or dealership).
Keep in mind, there are large economic factors at play here too and the sale of new cars has caused shifts in the used market too. There is a stark difference in the cost of vehicles due to car manufacturers seeking higher profit margins after COVID as detailed by CNN and posted by CBS channel 58:
“The auto industry saw sky-high profits even as sales plummeted. Domestic manufacturers of cars and car parts saw a profit of $32 billion through the third quarter of 2022 (the latest data available) — their largest profit since 2016. Car dealerships also reported record-breaking profits through Q3, according to auto-retail advisers Haig Partners.
That’s because pandemic-era pent-up consumer demand remained strong as supply shifted, allowing automakers to increase their prices and their profit margins. Cars and trucks were sold nearly as soon as they hit dealership lots, and the average price paid for a vehicle in December soared to a near-record high of $46,382, according to J.D. Power.
Data from the Labor Department’s November Consumer Price Index shows American consumers are paying about 20% more for cars than they were in 2019.
The trend could continue into next year — research website Edmunds expects new-car sales to hit 14.8 million in 2023, a marginal increase from last year but well below pre-pandemic levels.
The auto industry has entered a new era: Less choice, higher prices and larger profit margins. So far it seems to be working for them.”
This shift by car companies to create higher profit margins by taking advantage of the heavily-reported-on chip shortage panic of COVID has had rebounding effects upon the value of used cars.
Be aware that newer years (the latest 3-4 model years) may be inflated in price because of this and depending on how big this problem is for the model you are considering – it may even be inflating the price of the older model years.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vehicle Depreciation
Do Ford F-150s hold their value?
As Ford is known for vehicles that are built to last, the F-150 typically has a strong potential to hold its resale value. The exact value can vary, depending on factors such as age, condition, and color. You may also get different price estimates depending on where you sell your F-150 and whether you sell to a private party or dealership.
For instance, the value for a black, standard-trim 2023 F-150 with 12,000 miles is approximately $34,043 when trading it in at a dealership. For the same vehicle, the value when selling with a private party is around $37,126 according to Kelley Blue Book.
What are the best years of the Ford F-150 to buy and which ones should you avoid?
The best years of the F-150 to purchase used are typically the 2007-2008, 2012-2014, and 2017-2020 models. In terms of years to avoid, you should refrain from purchasing the 2001-2006 models, as well as the 2009-2011, 2015-2016, and 2021 models. Vehicles from these years have a history of low engine reliability, expensive repairs, and manufacturer recalls.
What's high mileage for a Ford F-150?
The exact mileage you get on a Ford F-150 can vary, depending on which trim you choose and whether you opt for a hybrid model. For standard F-150s manufactured after 2015, the average top fuel economy is 20 mpg, which is impressive for a truck of its size.
How old of a Ford F-150 should you buy to avoid most of the depreciation?
If you want to stay in the sweet spot with the lowest potential for depreciation, you should avoid buying a Ford F-150 older than 2006. For even more peace of mind, you can stick with F-150s that are from 2010 or later, while staying away from 2021 models.
References
(2023.) My Car’s Value: 2023 Ford F150 Regular Cab. Kelley Blue Book. Retrieved August 3, 2023, from https://www.kbb.com/ford/f150-regular-cab/2023/xl-pickup-2d-6-1-2-ft/?condition=verygood&intent=trade-in-sell&mileage=12000&modalview=false&options=11135345%7ctrue&pricetype=private-party&vehicleid=463473
(2023.) Best & Worst Years of Ford F-150: Graphs & Owner Surveys. Fixd. Retrieved August 3, 2023, from https://www.fixdapp.com/car-reviews/best-worst-years-of-ford-f-150-graphs-owner-surveys/
(2023.) What is a Ford F-150’s estimated depreciation? Jerry. Retrieved August 3, 2023, from https://getjerry.com/questions/what-is-a-ford-f-150s-estimated-depreciation
(2023.) What is car depreciation? Progressive. Retrieved August 3, 2023, from https://www.progressive.com/answers/what-is-car-depreciation/#:~:text=Certain%20factors%20will%20influence%20how,faster%20than%20a%20used%20car.
(2023.) Ford F-150 Costs. CarEdge. Retrieved August 3, 2023, from https://caredge.com/ford/f-150#insurance
(2022.) How to Beat Car Depreciation. Kelley Blue Book. Retrieved August 3, 2023, from https://www.kbb.com/car-advice/how-to-beat-car-depreciation/
(2021.) 12 Factors That Affect Your Car’s Resale Value. Money Crashers. Retrieved August 3, 2023, from https://www.moneycrashers.com/factors-affect-used-cars-resale-value
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