19. 12th Gen Ford F-150

The 2009 Ford F-150 Platinum represents the last generation of the traditional steel-bodied F-150 before Ford made the jump to an aluminum body. Powered by the 5.4-liter three-valve Triton V8, this particular truck has accumulated roughly 164,000 miles since being purchased by the same owners in 2011. Its comfortable interior, excellent visibility, quiet cabin, capable four-wheel-drive system, and strong towing ability make it a remarkably versatile truck, while the Platinum trim adds heated and ventilated seats, a premium Sony sound system, and plenty of luxury features for its era. The 5.4-liter isn’t particularly quick or fuel efficient, but it delivers adequate power for everyday use and has proven capable of towing an approximately 8,000-pound camper without issue.

The 5.4-liter Triton has a reputation for reliability problems, and there are several legitimate concerns to consider, including cam-phaser and timing-chain wear, oil-circulation issues, spark-plug failures, and exhaust-manifold gasket problems. Regular oil changes are particularly important, as neglected maintenance can accelerate several of these failures. Despite the engine’s reputation, this particular F-150 has required remarkably little mechanical work over its long ownership period, with exhaust-manifold gasket replacement being the primary engine repair and only a transmission software reflash reported. Rust around the cab corners and rocker panels is beginning to appear, but the frame has remained surprisingly solid despite spending its life in New England. Overall, a well-maintained 2009 F-150 can still be a capable and durable workhorse, although buyers planning to tow more than roughly 9,000 pounds would be better served by a later F-150 equipped with Ford’s 5.0-liter Coyote V8.