The Ford F-150, a staple in the American automotive landscape, has not only been a bestseller in the new vehicle market but also reigns supreme in the used vehicle sector. Its enduring popularity has cemented its position as the top choice for second-hand vehicle enthusiasts in the U.S.
Dominance in the Used Vehicle Market
For over 40 years, the Ford F-150, along with its Ford F-Series counterpart, the Ford Super Duty, has outsold every other pickup and vehicle in the U.S. This success has naturally extended to the used vehicle market, where the F-150 has become a preferred model for buyers seeking a reliable vehicle with some history. According to iSeeCars data, the Ford F-150 was the most popular used vehicle in America in 2021, 2022, and continued its streak in 2023.
2023 Sales Figures
In the last year, the Ford F-150 accounted for 3.3 percent of all one- to five-year-old used vehicle sales in the U.S., maintaining the same market share as the previous year. This steady performance kept it ahead of its closest competitor, the Chevy Silverado 1500, which ended the year at 2.6 percent. Interestingly, the Ram 1500, which held the third spot last year, fell to fourth place with 2.1 percent, surpassed by the Chevy Equinox.
Methodology Behind the Data
To derive these insights, iSeeCars scrutinized over 9.2 million used car sales from the past five model years (2018 – 2022). The analysis encompassed national sales, as well as sales data from each metro area and state, to calculate each model’s share in the used car market.
Industry Insights
Karl Brauer, Executive Analyst at iSeeCars, commented on the market dynamics, noting the unusual shift in consumer preference. “Trucks have dominated the U.S. market for decades, making Ram’s drop from the top three, especially to an SUV like the Chevrolet Equinox, quite remarkable,” he observed. Brauer attributes this change to the spike in gas prices during 2023, which prompted many consumers to opt for smaller, more fuel-efficient models over larger trucks and SUVs.
The Ford F-150’s reign as the most sought-after used vehicle in America underscores its unwavering appeal and reliability. Despite changing market trends and rising fuel costs, the F-150 continues to be a symbol of durability and trust for American drivers, whether new or pre-owned.
