Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2021 Ford F-150 SL
The 2021 Ford F-150 SL is a truck that earns a Carivo score of 7.6/10 — rated Recommended. Its strongest dimension is Performance at 8.4/10, while Reliability at 7.1/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. The reliability picture is solid rather than spectacular: 7.1/10, which puts it comfortably above the class median. Safety lands at 8.2/10 — solid, though some rivals offer more advanced driver-assist features as standard. Confirm official results for your trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Few rivals match it for performance: 8.4/10. Expect handling and power delivery that make this one of the more entertaining trucks to actually drive. At 7.2/10 for technology, the infotainment and driver-assist package does its job without setting benchmarks — check which features cost extra on lower trims.
Priced from $43,729–$58,765, 19 MPG, seating 5, the Ford F-150 SL sits in the mid-market bracket of the truck segment. At 7.2/10 for value, it delivers fair pricing for what's on offer, though the best alternatives in this price range score slightly higher. At 5 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Verdict: Nothing about the 2021 Ford F-150 SL will scare a sensible buyer off. It scores consistently across the board, and it does what a good truck should — quietly and competently.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Trucks
The 2021 Ford F-150 SL ranks #127 of 515 trucks in the Carivo database — better than 76% of the segment. Its 7.6/10 overall score is 0.2 points above the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $43,729 starting price is about 24% above the segment's median of $35,138.
Smart-money pick: the 2018 Ford F-150 SL scores 7.5/10 — within striking distance of the 2021's 7.6 — and starts roughly $4,500 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Competent performance that satisfies most everyday driving demands
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Reliability scores are mid-pack; some owners report higher-than-expected maintenance needs
Tech suite is functional but lags behind segment-best options; some features cost extra
Fuel economy at 19 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
Common Questions — 2021 Ford F-150 SL
Is the 2021 Ford F-150 SL reliable?
We rate the 2021 Ford F-150 SL's reliability 7.1/10 — above the middle of the pack for this class.
Is the 2021 Ford F-150 SL worth buying?
It scores 7.6/10 overall, ranking #127 of 515 trucks in our database (better than 76% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2021 Ford F-150 SL cost?
The 2021 Ford F-150 SL starts at $43,729 and ranges up to $58,765 across trims (MSRP when new). At 19 MPG, expect roughly $2,763/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Owner Essentials — Ford F-150 SL
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