How to Keep Your Truck Reliable, Safe, and Running Strong at Every Mile

The Ford F-150 is built tough, but even the most capable trucks need consistent care. Regular maintenance isn't just about oil changes—it's about making sure every system in your vehicle is working the way it should, from the engine and brakes down to the lighting and suspension. Ford provides a detailed service schedule to help you stay on track. In this guide, we’ll break it down in simple terms so you know what to do, when to do it, and why it matters.

Related Guide: Ford F-150 Reliability & Common Problems

Understanding the Basics of Your Ford F-150 Maintenance Schedule

A maintenance schedule is your truck’s long-term health plan. It's not just a checklist—it's based on how each part of the F-150 wears over time under normal and severe driving conditions. Ford’s schedule is divided into time-based (e.g., every 6 months) and mileage-based (e.g., every 10,000 miles) intervals. You should follow whichever comes first.

Typical maintenance tasks include oil and filter changes to protect engine health, tire rotations and pressure checks to ensure even tread wear, and multi-point inspections that cover fluid levels, belts, hoses, brakes, battery, and lighting systems.

You'll also need to replace the engine and cabin air filters periodically to ensure proper airflow and clean cabin air.

Brake fluid and coolant should be flushed to keep your brakes responsive and prevent engine overheating.

For 4x4 models, services like transmission, axle, and transfer case fluid changes are especially important.

Spark plugs should be replaced for optimal engine performance, and belts and hoses inspected or replaced to prevent failures from wear or cracking.

Ford F-150 Service Intervals by Mileage: 5k to 100k Mile Breakdown

At 5,000 miles, get a multi-point inspection along with oil and filter changes.

Every 10,000 Miles:
At this interval, change the engine oil and filter, rotate and inspect the tires, check and top off all fluids, and inspect the cooling system, exhaust system, automatic transmission fluid, brake components, and heat shields. Also, lubricate all non-sealed suspension and steering joints, check the front axle lubricant for 4x4 models, and complete a multi-point inspection including lighting. It’s best to follow this schedule every 6 months even if you haven't hit 10,000 miles, especially if your driving involves short trips or heavy traffic.

20,000 Miles:

In addition to repeating the 10,000-mile tasks, replace the cabin air filter. A clean filter helps your HVAC system work efficiently and keeps interior air quality high.

30,000 Miles:
Repeat the 10,000-mile maintenance and replace the engine air filter. If you often drive off-road or in dusty environments, consider changing it more frequently to prevent debris from entering the engine.

40,000 Miles:
Repeat all services from the 10,000 and 20,000-mile intervals. You may also need brake service depending on wear.

60,000 Miles:
Complete the standard 10,000-mile service again and replace the engine air filter.

80,000 Miles:
Continue with oil changes, tire and brake inspections, and replace the cabin air filter again.

90,000 Miles:
Repeat routine maintenance and replace the engine air filter.

100,000 Miles:
This is a major service milestone. You’ll need to change the spark plugs, replace the orange-type coolant, inspect the accessory drive belt, replace the cabin air filter, and perform the standard 10,000-mile service again. If the engine starts running rough or fuel efficiency drops, new spark plugs may help.

Other Ford F-150 Maintenance Tips

Severe Driving Conditions:

If you frequently tow, idle, go off-road, or drive in harsh climates, your maintenance should be more frequent. Oil changes may be needed every 5,000 miles, and engine or cabin air filters every 15,000–20,000 miles. Lighting checks should be done monthly, not just during scheduled services.

Lighting Maintenance and Upgrades:

Lighting is crucial for safe driving—day or night. Every oil change visit should include a lighting check. Monthly, walk around your truck and test headlights (high/low beams), taillights, brake lights, turn signals, and license plate lights. For better visibility, longer lifespan, and a stylish upgrade, consider replacing your stock halogen bulbs with SEALIGHT LED bulbs. SEALIGHT offers high-performance LED headlight bulbs, fog light bulbs, and other interior/exterior bulbs designed for the Ford F-150. The plug-and-play design makes upgrading easy, and the improved brightness enhances safety in all driving conditions.

Don’t know what bulb your Ford F-150 needs? Check this Ford F-150 bulb size guide online.

Keep Service Records:

Always keep your service receipts or digital logs. They’re helpful for warranty claims, troubleshooting future issues, and improving your truck’s resale value.

Conclusion

The Ford F-150 is a workhorse—but it still needs proper care. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended schedule, rely on your Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor, and adjust maintenance frequency based on your driving habits. Doing so ensures your truck stays reliable, safe, and strong at every mile.