Does the Ford F-150 Have a Good Suspension?

When it comes to the Ford F-150, one of the key questions many car enthusiasts and buyers have is whether its suspension system is up to par. Let's break down the different aspects of its suspension, including load carrying ability, overall simplicity, ease of maintenance, and cost, as well as the implications for ride comfort.

Types of Suspension and Comparison

The current 2015–2019 Ford F-150 utilizes a leaf spring rear suspension system, which is a very common yet somewhat unsophisticated approach. This design is essentially a carryover from the early 20th century Model T, albeit with a more refined version. While the Model T featured transverse leaf springs, the modern F-150 uses a longitudinal leaf spring system.

Leaf springs are renowned for their durability and proven track record. They are also more cost-effective, as the parts involved are flat stamped steel sheets that are cheap to manufacture and simple to install. However, there are trade-offs to consider.

One of the advantages of leaf springs is their ability to effectively and progressively alter the spring rate as the suspension is loaded. Progressive-rate coil springs are also used in modern vehicles but, due to their single coil design on each side, they provide a less firm transition under heavy load conditions.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages:
Durability and Reliability: Leaf springs are known for their robust construction and long service life. Cost-effectiveness: The use of simple steel components makes this suspension system relatively inexpensive. Load Carrying Ability: Leaf springs can handle significant loads, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications.

Disadvantages:
Hydroplaning at High Torque: When used on a driven axle, leaf springs are prone to 'wrap' under high-torque conditions, which can lead to 'wheel hop' or even suspension component failure. Comfort When Unloaded: With a 1/2-ton truck like the F-150, the suspension can be harsh and uncomfortable when the truck is driven empty. This is an important consideration for daily commuters or those who frequently drive alone. Unsprung Weight: The leaf spring design adds more unsprung weight to the rear axle, which can negatively impact the overall ride quality and handling. Control and Compliance: Leaf springs are more likely to deflect sideways under hard cornering due to the use of rubber bushings and spring shackles. This can lead to a less controlled and compliant ride, especially in an unloaded or lightly loaded truck.

Manufacturer Add-Ons and Customizations

To mitigate some of the drawbacks, most manufacturers, including Ford, offer various add-ons and customizations. For instance, adding a pinion snubber to the differential can help prevent wrap under high-torque applications, but this comes at the cost of additional unsprung weight.

Ultimately, the F-150's leaf spring suspension system is not without its merits, but it has notable limitations. While there is nothing fundamentally 'wrong' with it, the system may not deliver the same level of controlled and compliant ride experience as more advanced suspension designs, particularly when the truck is unloaded or lightly loaded.

The question remains: Is this type of suspension system suitable for the majority of F-150 drivers? Those who primarily use the truck for work or occasional heavy-duty tasks may find the leaf spring system to be sufficient and reliable. However, for daily drivers or those who frequently drive alone, the suspension may be too harsh, leading to a less enjoyable driving experience.

It's important for potential buyers to consider their specific needs and driving habits when assessing whether the F-150's suspension system is right for them.