Thinking about buying a Ford Raptor… advice?

I’m planning to buy a Ford Raptor next year and wanted to get some advice from those who own or have owned one. Any tips on what to look for, what to expect, and which models are better would be super helpful. Thanks in advance!

Edit: I’m leaning toward a used Raptor with a budget of around $50k, preferably 2018 or newer.

You might want to double-check tech-related issues on used Raptors. Older owner settings can be a pain to reset if the dealer doesn’t handle it.

Taliesin said:
You might want to double-check tech-related issues on used Raptors. Older owner settings can be a pain to reset if the dealer doesn’t handle it.

What exactly do you mean? I’m dealing with this on a 2024 I just got.

@Aspen
Yeah, I drove it home and noticed the navigation didn’t work, and I couldn’t connect to FordPass because it’s still tied to the previous owner’s account. Dealer said they couldn’t fix it without a ‘red line ticket’ from Ford. Two months later, still no resolution.

@Aspen
I had a similar experience. Dealer had to escalate it to Ford, and it took ages. It’s a known issue that Ford really needs to streamline.

Taliesin said:
@Aspen
I had a similar experience. Dealer had to escalate it to Ford, and it took ages. It’s a known issue that Ford really needs to streamline.

At least I’m not alone in this mess. Thanks for the heads-up.

If you’re trying to keep track of pricing and deals, check out the Facebook group ‘No Markup Ford Raptor.’ Dealers post allocations there, and the group helps keep things honest.

Nuri said:
If you’re trying to keep track of pricing and deals, check out the Facebook group ‘No Markup Ford Raptor.’ Dealers post allocations there, and the group helps keep things honest.

Totally agree. I got my 2024 Raptor for $4k under sticker because I knew what the fair price was thanks to that group.

Thanks for asking this—I’m in the same boat and appreciate the advice here.

Shiloh said:
Thanks for asking this—I’m in the same boat and appreciate the advice here.

No problem! I want to make sure I’m fully prepared before pulling the trigger.

I just bought one last week, and I love it. Paid sticker price with no markup. My only advice: make sure it fits in your garage, and have your partner check if they’re comfortable getting in—it’s pretty high up.

@Rory
Thanks, and congrats! Funny you mention that—I work in a building with an underground garage, and I’ve been worried about the height clearance. Definitely something I’ll check before buying.

Bevin said:
@Rory
Thanks, and congrats! Funny you mention that—I work in a building with an underground garage, and I’ve been worried about the height clearance. Definitely something I’ll check before buying.

The antenna is a good reference—it gives you about an inch of clearance above the roof. If you’re considering the R version, keep in mind it’s 2 inches taller.

Bevin said:
@Rory
Thanks, and congrats! Funny you mention that—I work in a building with an underground garage, and I’ve been worried about the height clearance. Definitely something I’ll check before buying.

Mine doesn’t fit in the parking garage at work. It’s something to think about.

@Rin
Do you know how tall the clearance is?

@Rory
Saw three Raptors in my work garage today, so I’m feeling pretty relieved!

@Rory
Same here—mine didn’t fit in the garage after I got the 37 package. Check those dimensions before you buy.

Go for a 2019 or newer. The 2019 model introduced live valve shocks and adaptive cruise that works all the way to a full stop. Not sure the 2018s have that.

I bought a 2018 Raptor with 91k miles last month. It came with the 802A package and a 3-month warranty from the dealer. After a month of driving, I noticed an oil pan leak, cam phaser noise, and some other minor issues. The dealer replaced the cam phasers, oil pan, and timing chain cover, plus fixed a wheel bearing.

Now it’s running great, but I highly recommend getting an extended warranty for peace of mind with Gen 2 Raptors.

I picked up a used 2023 Raptor with 15,000 km for $70,000 CAD ($49,000 USD). I use it a lot for off-road trips to my remote cabin, which involves 70 km of rough dirt roads. It tows my snowmobile trailer in winter and my side-by-side in summer. If you’re buying used, look for a single-owner trade-in from a reputable dealer. Mine came with a tonneau cover and tinted windows, and it’s an absolute beast in the snow.