Ford F-150 Safety and Maintenance Checklist

Comprehensive inspection and maintenance procedures to ensure optimal safety and performance of your Ford F-150 truck.

F-150 Maintenance Overview

The Ford F-150 is America's best-selling truck, known for its durability, capability, and advanced features. Regular maintenance is essential to preserve the performance, safety, and longevity of your F-150. This checklist covers critical safety inspections and maintenance procedures specific to F-150 trucks, including models with aluminum body construction, EcoBoost engines, and advanced driver assistance systems. Following these guidelines will help ensure your F-150 remains safe, reliable, and performs at its best.

Safety Inspection Procedures

Follow these structured procedures to ensure your F-150 meets all safety requirements.

Advanced Safety Systems

  • Test automatic emergency braking system
  • Verify forward collision warning function
  • Check blind spot information system (BLIS)
  • Test lane-keeping system operation
  • Verify adaptive cruise control function
  • Check 360-degree camera system
  • Test Pro Trailer Backup Assist (if equipped)
  • Verify hill descent control operation

Lighting & Visibility

  • Check all exterior lights for proper operation
  • Test automatic high beam function (if equipped)
  • Verify LED headlight performance
  • Check fog lights and daytime running lights
  • Inspect mirrors and glass for damage
  • Test rain-sensing wipers (if equipped)
  • Check washer fluid level and spray pattern
  • Verify proper defrosting function

Braking System

  • Inspect brake pad thickness (minimum 4mm)
  • Check brake rotors for scoring or warping
  • Test brake pedal feel and responsiveness
  • Verify electronic brake distribution function
  • Check brake fluid level and condition
  • Test ABS and traction control systems
  • Verify trailer brake controller (if equipped)
  • Check parking brake operation

Restraint Systems

  • Inspect all seat belts for proper function
  • Check seat belt pretensioners
  • Verify airbag indicator lights function
  • Inspect child safety seat anchors
  • Check seat position sensors
  • Verify seat belt reminder system
  • Test adjustable pedals (if equipped)
  • Check SOS post-crash alert system

Engine & Powertrain Maintenance

Follow these procedures to maintain optimal F-150 engine and powertrain performance.

EcoBoost Engine Service

  • Change oil and filter (5W-30 synthetic recommended)
  • Inspect for intercooler condensation
  • Check turbocharger for leaks or unusual noise
  • Clean MAF sensor and throttle body
  • Inspect charge air cooler for debris
  • Check for carbon buildup in intake valves
  • Verify proper boost pressure
  • Inspect PCV system for proper function

Naturally Aspirated Engine Service

  • Change oil and filter (5W-20 for most NA engines)
  • Inspect air intake system
  • Check fuel injector performance
  • Verify ignition system function
  • Inspect valve cover gaskets
  • Check exhaust manifolds for leaks
  • Test idle stability and performance
  • Inspect timing chain tensioners (high mileage)

Transmission Maintenance

  • Check transmission fluid level and condition
  • Inspect for transmission leaks
  • Test shift quality through all gears
  • Verify shift selector operation
  • Check transmission cooler lines
  • Test lockup torque converter function
  • Verify proper gear selection in sport mode
  • Inspect transmission mount condition

4WD System Service

  • Check transfer case fluid level
  • Verify 4WD engagement and operation
  • Test 4-Auto mode function (if equipped)
  • Inspect front and rear differentials
  • Check electronic locking differential
  • Inspect CV joints and axle seals
  • Verify hill descent control operation
  • Test 4WD indicator lights

Component Inspection Checklist

Verify the following components for thorough F-150 maintenance.

Aluminum Body Inspection

  • Check for corrosion at steel/aluminum interfaces
  • Inspect for panel deformation or damage
  • Check bed floor integrity
  • Verify tailgate function and support cables
  • Inspect cab corners for damage
  • Check door alignment and operation
  • Inspect hood and fender alignment
  • Check for paint blistering (sign of corrosion)

Suspension System

  • Inspect front coil springs and struts
  • Check rear leaf springs and blocks
  • Test shock absorbers for leaks or damage
  • Inspect control arms and bushings
  • Check ball joints and tie rod ends
  • Verify steering linkage condition
  • Test electronic damping system (if equipped)
  • Check ride height and leveling

Electrical System

  • Test battery condition and connections
  • Check alternator output (13.5-14.5V)
  • Verify starter operation
  • Test all power outlets and USB ports
  • Check Pro Power Onboard system (if equipped)
  • Verify trailer wiring connector function
  • Test all power accessories
  • Check for diagnostic trouble codes

Cooling System

  • Check coolant level and condition
  • Inspect radiator for damage or leaks
  • Test cooling fan operation
  • Check water pump for leaks
  • Inspect hoses and connections
  • Test thermostat operation
  • Verify proper coolant flow
  • Check transmission cooler (integrated in radiator)

Fuel System

  • Check for fuel leaks or odors
  • Inspect fuel lines and connections
  • Test fuel pump pressure (if accessible)
  • Check fuel filter (replace if scheduled)
  • Verify fuel cap seal condition
  • Test fuel gauge accuracy
  • Check evaporative emission controls
  • Inspect fuel tank straps and mounting

Exhaust System

  • Inspect for exhaust leaks
  • Check catalytic converter condition
  • Inspect muffler and resonator
  • Check all hangers and heat shields
  • Verify proper exhaust routing
  • Test exhaust backpressure (if equipped)
  • Inspect exhaust tips for damage
  • Check for signs of internal converter damage

Tires & Wheels

  • Check tire pressure in all positions
  • Inspect tread depth and wear patterns
  • Look for tire damage or defects
  • Verify wheel condition (no bends or cracks)
  • Check lug nuts for proper torque
  • Inspect tire sidewalls for bulges
  • Test TPMS system function
  • Verify spare tire condition and access

Interior Systems

  • Test SYNC infotainment system
  • Verify instrument cluster function
  • Check climate control operation
  • Test seat adjustments and heating/cooling
  • Verify all interior lighting
  • Check door locks and window controls
  • Test steering wheel controls
  • Verify backup camera and sensors

Advanced Technology Maintenance

Maintain and verify F-150 advanced technology features.

SYNC System Updates

  • Check for available software updates
  • Verify proper Bluetooth connectivity
  • Test voice command functionality
  • Check navigation system accuracy
  • Verify app integration
  • Test emergency assistance function
  • Check touchscreen responsiveness
  • Verify all media inputs function

Pro Power Onboard System

  • Test all power outlets for proper output
  • Verify system startup and shutdown
  • Check for error codes or warnings
  • Test under load conditions
  • Verify proper cooling function
  • Check integration with vehicle systems
  • Test power output stability
  • Verify automatic shutdown protection

Driver Assistance Systems

  • Verify radar sensor cleanliness and function
  • Check camera system clarity
  • Test system calibration status
  • Verify automated parking function (if equipped)
  • Check proximity sensors operation
  • Test Blue Cruise hands-free capability (if equipped)
  • Verify intersection assist function
  • Check evasive steering assist system

Towing Technology

  • Test Pro Trailer Backup Assist calibration
  • Verify Smart Trailer Tow Connector function
  • Check Trailer Reverse Guidance system
  • Test trailer brake controller gain settings
  • Verify trailer blind spot coverage
  • Check trailer light check system
  • Test trailer tire pressure monitoring
  • Verify trailer profiles in system memory
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