2019 vs 2020 Raptor… which one should I buy?

I’m trying to decide between two Raptors:

  1. 2019 Ford Raptor (Agate Black):

    • 47k miles
    • $54,000 (no transfer fee)
    • Original MSRP: $68,000 with add-ons
  2. 2020 Ford Raptor (White/Black):

    • 57.5k miles
    • $53,000 + $1,800 transfer fee
    • Original MSRP: $73,000 with add-ons

Both look great, but I can’t decide. What would you guys recommend? Have you had experience with either model year?

The 2020 might have fewer issues with cam phasers compared to the 2019. My 2019 had the phasers replaced at 49k, but the issue came back at 108k miles. Loved the truck, but the repairs added up, and I ended up trading it in.

@Skyler
I’m at 50k miles on my ‘18 with no phaser issues so far :crossed_fingers:. But yeah, Raptors can be noisy sometimes, which makes me paranoid. I guess it comes with owning a performance truck.

Sloan said:
@Skyler
I’m at 50k miles on my ‘18 with no phaser issues so far :crossed_fingers:. But yeah, Raptors can be noisy sometimes, which makes me paranoid. I guess it comes with owning a performance truck.

True, performance vehicles always have their quirks. Mine needed phasers at 49k, the screen went out at 70k, and by 108k the startup rattle returned. It’s part of the deal with these trucks, but I still loved it.

Sloan said:
@Skyler
I’m at 50k miles on my ‘18 with no phaser issues so far :crossed_fingers:. But yeah, Raptors can be noisy sometimes, which makes me paranoid. I guess it comes with owning a performance truck.

Cam phaser issues seem to mostly affect 2017s, but I’d bet it’s related to the start/stop system wearing out the pins faster.

@Rowan
Funny timing… I just started hearing the rattle. Looks like I’ll be spending $3k soon. :sweat:

@Skyler
There was a mid-2019 cam phaser update. Trucks built after May 2019 should have fewer issues.

Zen said:
@Skyler
There was a mid-2019 cam phaser update. Trucks built after May 2019 should have fewer issues.

Yeah, mine was built in February 2019, so I missed that update.

Zen said:
@Skyler
There was a mid-2019 cam phaser update. Trucks built after May 2019 should have fewer issues.

So depending on the build date, the 2020 might be the safer choice.

I’d go for the 2019. It’s cheaper, has 10k fewer miles, and only $4k less in options. Most of the difference is probably cosmetic upgrades like decals, bed liners, or trim, which you can do yourself.

Sloan said:
I’d go for the 2019. It’s cheaper, has 10k fewer miles, and only $4k less in options. Most of the difference is probably cosmetic upgrades like decals, bed liners, or trim, which you can do yourself.

I just love the white and black look of the 2020. The carbon fiber trim is nice but not a dealbreaker. I’ll have to call and see if I can get an extended warranty wherever I buy.

I’d probably go with the 2020. It’s less likely to have cam phaser or water pump issues compared to the 2019. Both are costly repairs, and an extended warranty will definitely be worth it.

I bought a 2020 with 30k miles last year for $65k. I’ve had zero issues with it, and I’m super happy. Just tuned it at 70k miles. Planning to get a new one at the end of the year.

Check the Carfax for maintenance records, previous owners, and accidents. Crawl underneath the truck to check the condition. Personally, I’d go for the 2020, but it’s your money.