2020 Ford F-150 used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• Harsh or hard shifting114 owner complaints, usually around 88,000 miles, owners paid about $8,800

  On a test drive from a cold start, check that shifts are smooth, with no slipping, delays, shudder or jerking at low speed. Ask for transmission fluid service records.

• Jerking or lurching79 owner complaints, usually around 59,000 miles, owners paid about $7,000

  On a test drive from a cold start, check that shifts are smooth, with no slipping, delays, shudder or jerking at low speed. Ask for transmission fluid service records.

• Complete transmission failure73 owner complaints, usually around 70,000 miles, owners paid about $8,630

  On a test drive from a cold start, check that shifts are smooth, with no slipping, delays, shudder or jerking at low speed. Ask for transmission fluid service records.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• Exterior lightingRecall number 26V373000, Jun 9, 2026
• Back over preventionRecall number 25V442000, Jun 27, 2025
• EquipmentRecall number 24V852000, Nov 8, 2024
• VisibilityRecall number 22V250000, Apr 14, 2022
• Back over preventionRecall number 20V575000, Sep 23, 2020
• Electrical systemRecall number 20V467000, Aug 10, 2020
• Power trainRecall number 20V197000, Apr 3, 2020
• Exterior lightingRecall number 20V097000, Feb 21, 2020
• TiresRecall number 19V903000, Dec 18, 2019
• Electrical systemRecall number 19V805000, Nov 12, 2019
• SeatsRecall number 19V633000, Aug 28, 2019

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• Some 2020-2026 Aviator/Explorer/F-150/Bronco/Ranger vehicles equipped with a 2.7L or 3.0L (non-diesel)...Oct 8, 2026
• 25E10-S1Sep 30, 2026
• New vehicle delivery holdJul 2, 2026
• Various 2020-2026 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with blind spot information system (BLIS) may...Apr 2, 2026
• Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with wired keyless entry keypad systems and accessory wireless keyless...Feb 24, 2026
• For 20172026 vehicles equipped with a 10R transmission, a revision to the Road Testing Vehicle procedure...Feb 17, 2026

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.