Ford F-150 Safety and Maintenance Checklist

Introduction

Regular safety and maintenance checks are essential for keeping your Ford F-150 truck running smoothly and safely. This comprehensive checklist is designed to help owners and fleet managers identify potential issues before they lead to major problems, costly repairs, or safety hazards. Following this checklist will help ensure your F-150 maintains optimal performance, fuel efficiency, and longevity.

The Ford F-150 is America's best-selling truck for good reason, but even the most reliable vehicles require consistent maintenance. This checklist covers all critical systems from engine performance to safety features, helping you maintain your truck's value and dependability. Whether you're a single truck owner or managing a fleet of F-150s, this checklist serves as an important tool for preventive maintenance and safety compliance.

Vehicle Information

Pro Tips for F-150 Maintenance

  • Follow the Service Schedule: Adhere to Ford's recommended maintenance schedule in your owner's manual for optimal performance and to maintain your warranty.
  • EcoBoost Engines: For EcoBoost-equipped F-150s, be particularly vigilant about oil change intervals and fuel quality to prevent carbon buildup on intake valves.
  • 4x4 Maintenance: If your F-150 has 4WD, engage the system regularly to keep components lubricated, even if you primarily drive on pavement.
  • Transmission Care: Pay special attention to transmission fluid condition in trucks used for towing, as heat can degrade fluid more quickly.
  • Battery Health: In extreme temperatures, battery life can be significantly reduced. Check battery health more frequently in very hot or cold climates.

Exterior Checks

Tire & Wheel Inspection

Under Hood Inspection

Brake System Inspection

Suspension & Steering

Drivetrain Inspection

Fuel & Exhaust System

Interior Checks

Safety Equipment

Electrical System

F-150 Maintenance Procedures

Follow these detailed procedures for key maintenance tasks on your Ford F-150. Always consult your owner's manual for model-specific information and recommended service intervals.

Oil Change Procedure

  • Ensure engine is warm but not hot
  • Position drain pan under oil drain plug
  • Remove drain plug and allow oil to drain completely
  • Replace drain plug with new washer if needed
  • Replace oil filter with OEM-recommended filter
  • Add correct amount and type of oil (refer to manual)
  • Run engine briefly, check for leaks, verify oil level

Brake Inspection

  • Remove wheels for full brake inspection
  • Measure brake pad thickness (replace if less than 3mm)
  • Inspect rotors for scoring, cracks, or warping
  • Check brake calipers for leaks or sticking
  • Inspect brake lines and hoses for damage
  • Verify brake fluid level and condition
  • Test brake pedal feel and response

4WD System Maintenance

  • Check transfer case fluid level and condition
  • Inspect front and rear differential fluid
  • Check for leaks around seals and gaskets
  • Test 4WD engagement and operation
  • Inspect CV joints and axle boots for damage
  • Lubricate driveshafts and U-joints if equipped with grease fittings
  • Verify no unusual noises during 4WD operation

Cooling System Service

  • Check coolant level when engine is cold
  • Inspect coolant condition with test strips
  • Pressure test system for leaks
  • Inspect radiator and heater hoses
  • Check radiator fins for blockage or damage
  • Test thermostat operation
  • Verify proper fan operation

Inspection Progress

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Maintenance Notes & Issues

Recommended Maintenance Schedule

Following Ford's recommended maintenance schedule helps ensure your F-150 remains reliable and maintains optimal performance throughout its service life.

Every 5,000 Miles

  • Change engine oil and filter
  • Rotate tires
  • Inspect brake system
  • Check all fluid levels
  • Inspect steering and suspension components

Every 15,000 Miles

  • Replace cabin air filter
  • Inspect cooling system
  • Check battery and connections
  • Inspect exhaust system
  • Check driveshaft and U-joints

Every 30,000 Miles

  • Replace engine air filter
  • Inspect fuel system
  • Change automatic transmission fluid (severe duty)
  • Inspect EVAP system
  • Check spark plugs (replace at 100,000 miles)

Every 60,000 Miles

  • Change transfer case fluid (4WD models)
  • Change differential fluid
  • Replace PCV valve
  • Check engine timing and idle
  • Inspect accessory drive belts

Conclusion

Implementing this comprehensive Ford F-150 Safety and Maintenance Checklist is essential for maintaining your truck's performance, reliability, and resale value. By systematically inspecting critical components on a regular basis, you can identify potential issues before they lead to major problems, costly repairs, or safety hazards.

For optimal vehicle management, consider implementing the FleetRabbit APP to streamline your truck maintenance procedures. The FleetRabbit platform allows digital documentation of inspections, provides real-time alerts for maintenance requirements, and creates comprehensive historical records for each vehicle. With the FleetRabbit software, fleet managers can easily track compliance, monitor maintenance patterns, and ensure all vehicles are properly maintained.

Make F-150 maintenance an integral part of your vehicle care routine with the FleetRabbit software's comprehensive maintenance management solution. Whether for regulatory compliance, warranty maintenance, or operational safety, this digital approach significantly improves inspection thoroughness and documentation while reducing administrative burden on operators and maintenance personnel.

Access the digital version of this checklist through the FleetRabbit APP

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