Should I get a high-mileage Raptor or play it safe?

I’ve been tempted to get a used Raptor, especially since older models (2017-2018) are now dipping into the $20k range. Most of these have over 130k miles on them, though. I already have other cars, but this would be used occasionally by my wife, like for trips to visit her parents.

I want to know if these are still reliable with that kind of mileage. I know maintenance is important, but I don’t want my wife and kids stranded somewhere.

I’m looking at older models because I can pay cash for them. Anything over $40k means taking out a loan. For those who’ve owned Raptors with over 100k miles for more than six months, what has your experience been like?

They’re reliable if they’ve been maintained well, but keep in mind they require more care than a regular F150. Shocks, tires, premium fuel—all of that adds up. I’m at over 100k miles and still love mine, but it hasn’t been cheap to own. For example, replacing cam phasers or the transmission can easily cost $5k or more. If budget is a concern, you might want to keep $10k in reserve for potential repairs.

@Ren
I just replaced my transmission on a 2018 Raptor for $12k at a Ford dealership. Definitely something to consider.

@Ren
Is driving with bad cam phasers really that big of an issue? I’ve read some people just deal with it and say it affects smoothness and fuel economy but isn’t catastrophic.

Budget is kind of a concern. I’d rather pay cash than take a loan for a newer truck. Honestly, I want a Raptor for the spacious cabin—it’s more comfortable for my growing kids than my Model S. Plus, it would be great for out-of-town trips.

@Darwin
If comfort and utility are your main goals, you should consider a regular F150. It’ll give you the space and practicality you need without the high maintenance costs of a Raptor.

Zev said:
@Darwin
If comfort and utility are your main goals, you should consider a regular F150. It’ll give you the space and practicality you need without the high maintenance costs of a Raptor.

Fair point, but I love the Raptor’s look and stance. I wasn’t a truck guy until I saw the Raptor and TRX.

@Darwin
Some people never have cam phaser issues, but it’s rare. Mine needed replacement at 75k miles. If they go bad, you’ll hear a grinding noise on startup, and leaving it unrepaired can cause timing chain wear.

Make sure you’re okay with the costs involved because Raptors are not cheap to maintain. A regular F150 can do almost everything you want, just without the Raptor flair.

@Ren
You’re right. The best financial decision would be not buying one at all. I already have several cars, but none of them can haul bulky items. Maybe an F150 is the better choice.

If you’re buying an older model just to make it affordable and also want it to be super reliable, you’re making a risky choice. You’d be better off buying something newer, even if it’s not a Raptor.

Whit said:
If you’re buying an older model just to make it affordable and also want it to be super reliable, you’re making a risky choice. You’d be better off buying something newer, even if it’s not a Raptor.

Fair point. Didn’t realize a 2018 could be considered ‘ancient.’

@Darwin
For high-mileage trucks, it is. You get what you pay for. Save yourself the headache and go for something newer, maybe a 2019 or later, to avoid cam phaser issues.

Nuri said:
@Darwin
For high-mileage trucks, it is. You get what you pay for. Save yourself the headache and go for something newer, maybe a 2019 or later, to avoid cam phaser issues.

I don’t usually resell my vehicles. If I buy one, I keep it or give it to someone who needs it. Out of the 12 cars I’ve owned, I’ve only sold two and given away four.

Try to find a 2019 model and put some cash down. The newer shocks are much better.

Storm said:
Try to find a 2019 model and put some cash down. The newer shocks are much better.

Yeah, I’ve been looking at 2019 models. I heard Ford fixed the cam phasers in 2020. Is that true?

@Darwin
Ford started addressing the cam phaser issues in late 2019. Don’t let that scare you, though. A lot of trucks already had the phasers replaced. Just get a good aftermarket warranty if possible. These days, nothing lasts forever—not even new vehicles.

Go for a Gen 1 Raptor, or if you want a Gen 2, make sure the cam phasers have already been replaced.

I had my cam phasers replaced under warranty at 75k miles. If you buy one, get an extended warranty and maybe a radar detector for good measure!

Finlo said:
I had my cam phasers replaced under warranty at 75k miles. If you buy one, get an extended warranty and maybe a radar detector for good measure!

Do they even offer extended warranties for Raptors with over 100k miles?

If you love the Raptor look but don’t need all the features, get a V8 F150 and customize it. Add a quality lift, wheels, and accessories to make it unique. The V8 will sound better, be more durable, and cost less to maintain.

Fox shocks on Raptors are great but need rebuilding or replacing over time. The active dampers on 2019+ models are fantastic, though.

@Emory
I really like the live suspension on the 2019+ Raptors. I’ve gotten used to the smooth ride of my Tesla Model S, so comfort is important.

But if I went with a regular F150 and added upgrades, I know I’d go overboard and end up with a full build. That’s why I’d rather get a Raptor—it’s already built the way I’d want. Plus, the 2021+ digital screens are tempting, but those trucks are over $40k.