The new Ford F-150 is a great pickup truck. It is available in a variety of configurations, including an electric model. And it really is a reflection of what makes modern full-size trucks great. At the same time, the 2023 F-150 is anything but cheap. That’s where used Ford trucks come in, particularly the 2012 Ford F-150. 

Is the 2012 Ford F-150 a good truck?

Although it is ten years old, the 2012 F-150 is a good truck to explore. It offers four different engine options, has decent reliability ratings, and you can find one for under $20,000. Because of that, this used full-size pickup does deserve to be on your radar. Even if that means compromising on some modern features. 

In terms of owner complaints, the 2012 Ford F-150 had about the same amount as other trucks during that time. There were some recalls issued, so that is something to look for if you are interested in a used pickup. 

How long will a 2012 F-150 last?

The average lifespan for an F-150 is between 150,000 and 300,000 miles. But, there are a lot of factors that play into that. Even the most reliable full-size truck will face problems if it is not treated right. Especially if it is as old as a 2012 Ford F-150. 

With the proper maintenance and timely repairs, you can make an F-150 run until it becomes too expensive to maintain. Generally speaking, most truck owners do hold on to their pickup for a while. 

A 2012 Ford F-150 can be relatively affordable

When it comes to cost, the 2012 F-150 can be an affordable option. Low mileage examples with sought-after features will still be fairly expensive. But, you can find a truck from this era for less than $20k. Sometimes, they even pop up for under $15,000. In comparison to a new F-150, that is a solid bargain. 

For used trucks, price is often a reflection of quality. So if you see a deal that is too good to be true, it probably is. Overall, this 2012 Ford truck offers a good mix of modern features and an old-school feel. 

Is a V8 truck better than a V6 truck?

Even in the past, the Ford F-150 offered a plethora of engine options, and the 2012 version is no exception. Two V8 engines could be had on this Ford truck. Those include a 5.0-liter V8 and a 6.2-liter V8. The V8 engines certainly offer more capability, but the optional twin-turbo V6 is actually the quickest engine. 

According to Vehicle History, it gave the F-150 a 0 to 60 mph time of under seven seconds. And that is impressive for a vehicle of this size. Depending on your needs, a V6 truck might be better, or you might need the power of a V8. 

The 2012 Ford F-150 is not immune to problems. Notable issues include engine components and power steering problems. So be sure to check this used truck’s service records to make an informed decision.