2018 Ford F-150 Factory Maintenance Schedule

Maintenance is key to the longevity and reliability of your 2018 Ford F-150. Following the factory-recommended maintenance schedule ensures your truck performs optimally, maintains its resale value, and helps prevent unexpected repairs. This guide compiles the essential service intervals for your F-150, covering everything from basic oil changes to major component inspections and fluid flushes.

Quick reference

Severe-duty schedule

If your 2018 Ford F-150 regularly experiences conditions such as towing heavy loads, driving in dusty or sandy environments, frequent short trips (less than 10 miles in freezing temperatures), or prolonged idling, it falls under the "severe duty" category. These conditions place additional stress on your truck's components and fluids, necessitating more frequent maintenance.

• Engine oil and filter: Change every 5,000 miles or every 6 months, or based on the Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor (IOLM) which will likely recommend earlier changes under severe conditions.
• Tire rotation: Rotate every 5,000 miles.
• Engine and cabin air filters: Inspect and replace more frequently, potentially every 15,000 miles or annually, especially in very dusty conditions.
• Brake fluid: A full flush and replacement every 30,000 miles or 3 years is a good practice, especially if engaging in heavy towing which can stress the braking system.
• Transmission fluid and filter: Consider servicing every 60,000 miles, particularly if you routinely tow or frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic or hot climates.
• Differential and transfer case fluids: Service these components every 60,000 miles if regularly towing, off-roading, or driving in extreme conditions.
• Spark plugs: For EcoBoost engines, consider replacing spark plugs closer to 40,000 – 50,000 miles if experiencing reduced performance or fuel economy under severe conditions.

Always refer to your owner's manual for the most accurate severe-duty recommendations specific to your F-150's engine and drivetrain configuration.

Known issues by mileage (2018 Ford F-150, 13th Generation)

The 13th generation Ford F-150 (2015-2020) is generally a robust truck, but like any vehicle, some common issues can arise with mileage.

• 20,000-60,000 miles: Potential for HVAC blend door actuator failures, leading to inconsistent or incorrect temperature control. This often presents as clicking noises from the dashboard. IWE (Integrated Wheel End) actuator issues can also start to appear, causing grinding or humming noises, particularly in 4x4 models, often due to vacuum leaks or actuator failures.
• 60,000-100,000 miles: Cam phaser issues can become prevalent, especially in EcoBoost engines, manifesting as a "cold start rattle" that lasts for a few seconds. This is a common and well-documented issue. Automatic stop/start system malfunctions can also occur, often related to the auxiliary battery or sensor issues. Power steering assist (EPAS) issues can occasionally arise, leading to a stiff steering feel or error messages.
• 100,000+ miles: While timing chains are designed for the life of the engine, extended mileage can see timing chain stretch or wear, particularly if oil changes have been neglected, potentially leading to engine performance issues or codes. Transmission solenoid failures or general wear can occur, potentially causing harsh shifts or delayed engagement. Suspension components like shocks, struts, and control arm bushings will likely be nearing the end of their service life and may require replacement.

Regular maintenance, especially timely oil changes, can mitigate the severity and frequency of some of these issues.

Estimated cost per service

Maintenance costs can vary significantly based on your location, the repair shop, and whether you use OEM parts or aftermarket alternatives. The following are general estimates.

• Oil Change: $50 - $100 (conventional to synthetic, depending on engine capacity)
• Tire Rotation: $20 - $40 (often included with an oil change at many shops)
• Cabin Air Filter Replacement: $40 - $80 (parts $15-$30, labor $25-$50)
• Engine Air Filter Replacement: $40 - $90 (parts $20-$40, labor $20-$50)
• Brake Fluid Flush: $100 - $180
• Spark Plug Replacement: $250 - $600 (V6 EcoBoost engines typically more expensive due to labor and number of plugs)
• Transmission Fluid Service: $200 - $400 (drain and fill; full flush could be more)
• Differential Fluid Service: $100 - $200 per differential
• Transfer Case Fluid Service: $80 - $150
• Coolant Flush: $150 - $250
• Accessory Drive Belt Replacement: $100 - $200 (parts $40-$80, labor $60-$120)

These are estimates, and it's always best to get a specific quote from your chosen service provider.

What you can DIY vs shop

Many routine maintenance tasks on your F-150 can be handled by a moderately skilled DIY enthusiast, saving you labor costs. However, some services are best left to professional technicians.

DIY-Friendly Tasks:

• Oil and Filter Change: With basic tools, ramps or jack stands, and knowledge of proper disposal, this is a straightforward task.
• Tire Rotation: Requires a jack, jack stands, and a lug wrench. Always follow proper safety procedures.
• Cabin Air Filter Replacement: Typically located behind the glove box, very easy to access and replace.
• Engine Air Filter Replacement: Usually involves unclipping the air filter housing; a very simple task.
• Fluid Level Checks: Regularly checking engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid (if applicable), and washer fluid is easy and highly recommended.

Shop-Recommended Tasks:

• Brake Fluid Flush: While theoretically possible for DIY, it requires specific bleeding tools and knowledge to ensure no air enters the system, which can compromise braking safety.
• Transmission Fluid Service: Can be messy and requires specific fluid types and often specific fill procedures or temperature checks for accurate levels. Full flushes are best done with professional equipment.
• Differential and Transfer Case Fluid Service: Involves specific fluid types, proper draining, and refilling to the correct level, which can be tricky without a lift.
• Spark Plug Replacement: Especially on EcoBoost engines, accessing all plugs can be challenging, and improper installation can lead to engine misfires or damage. Requires specific torque values for installation.
• Coolant Flush: Proper disposal of old coolant is crucial, and ensuring all air is bled from the system after refilling is vital to prevent overheating.
• Timing Chain Inspection/Service: This is an internal engine component and requires extensive disassembly, definitely a job for a qualified mechanic.
• Accessory Drive Belt Replacement: While simple in concept, routing the new belt correctly can be difficult without experience, and some vehicles have tensioners that require specific tools.

When in doubt, consult your owner's manual or a certified Ford technician. For more complex services or if you lack the necessary tools or experience, trusting a professional shop is always the safest option.

Book service on Repairius.