2017 Ford F-150 vs 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 vs 2017 Ram 1500
Reliability Side-by-Side
Cost of Ownership
| Line Item | 2017 Ford F-150 | 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 | 2017 Ram 1500 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Maintenance | — | — | — |
| Moderate Repairs | — | — | — |
| MPG (City/Hwy) | 15 / 22 | 16 / 23 | 15 / 22 |
| MSRP (New) | $26,000 | $28,000 | $27,000 |
Major-failure risk and insurance outlook for each vehicle are in their full reliability reports.
Biggest Risks on Each
2017 Ford F-150
Engine & drivetrain
Electronics & infotainment
Wear items (brakes, suspension)
Specific failure patterns, mileages, and repair costs unlock with the full reliability report.
2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Engine & drivetrain
Electronics & infotainment
Wear items (brakes, suspension)
Specific failure patterns, mileages, and repair costs unlock with the full reliability report.
2017 Ram 1500
Engine & drivetrain
Electronics & infotainment
Wear items (brakes, suspension)
Specific failure patterns, mileages, and repair costs unlock with the full reliability report.
Get the Full Report on Each
7-system breakdown, mileage danger zones, repair costs, and expert verdict for each vehicle.
$9.99 each · Instant delivery · No account required
Editorial Take
The 2017 Ford F-150, 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, and 2017 Ram 1500 are commonly cross-shopped because they’re full-size half-ton pickups that cover the same core needs: daily driving, weekend towing, and worksite hauling. Buyers usually compare them on powertrain choices (including V6, V8, turbo, and diesel options), real-world fuel economy, and how they drive unloaded. Interior comfort and technology matter heavily for family and commuter use, while towing/payload ratings and bed/cab configurations drive decisions for contractors and frequent tower/haulers. The F-150 stands out for its aluminum body and broad engine lineup, the Silverado for traditional V8 performance and straightforward durability, and the Ram for ride comfort (especially with air suspension) and available EcoDiesel efficiency. HEAD-TO-
Reliability & Common Issues
2017 Ford F-150: 1) 10-speed automatic (10R80) shift quality: Some owners report harsh or delayed shifts, gear hunting, or banging into gear as mileage climbs (often reported in the 20,000–80,000 mile range). Software updates and adaptive relearns can help; some cases escalate to valve body or transmission work. 2) 3.5 EcoBoost cam phasers/timing components: Rattle on cold start and timing-related drivability complaints can show up with higher mileage (commonly 60,000+ miles). Repairs can be significant if timing components need replacement. 3) IWE (front wheel end) vacuum hub issues on 4WD trucks: Grinding or clicking from the front hubs when the vacuum system leaks, sometimes starting around mid-mileage (30,000–80,000 miles). Fixes range from check valves/lines to hub replacement. 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500: 1) 8-speed automatic (8L90) shudder/roughness (primarily with 6.2L, and some 5.3L applications): Torque converter shudder and shift flare complaints are common, often appearing between 20,000–70,000 miles. Fluid changes to updated spec sometimes help; some trucks require converter replacement. 2) AFM (Active Fuel Management) lifter issues on 5.3L V8: Some owners report lifter collapse, misfires, or oil consumption concerns, often at higher mileage (frequently 80,000+ miles, though it can occur earlier). Repairs can be costly if internal engine work is needed. 3) A/C condenser leaks: A known annoyance on some trucks, often showing up in the first several years of ownership with loss of refrigerant and weak cooling. 2017 Ram 1500: 1) EcoDiesel emissions system concerns (EcoDiesel models): EGR/DPF-related faults, sensor issues, and regeneration problems can occur, often with higher mileage or frequent short-trip use (commonly 40,000–100,000 miles). Repairs can be expensive out of warranty. 2) 8-speed automatic behavior (8HP70/8HP45): Generally strong, but some trucks show occasional harsh shifts or hesitation at low speeds. Many cases are resolved with software updates, but driveline clunks and mounts can also contribute. 3) Suspension/steering wear items: Some owners report premature wear in tie-rod ends, ball joints, or control arm bushings depending on use (work, larger tires, rough roads), typically becoming noticeable in the 50,000–100,000 mile range.
Value & Cost of Ownership
When new, the F-150 often priced competitively at the low end but could climb quickly with popular trims and EcoBoost options; the same is true of Silverado and Ram. In today’s used market, pricing varies heavily by cab (Crew Cab commands more), drivetrain (4WD adds value), mileage, and trim (Lariat/SLT/Laramie and up). As a general pattern, the F-150 tends to hold value very well due to broad demand and capability, the Silverado also retains value strongly (especially V8 4WD Crew Cab trims), and the Ram can sometimes be found for less money equipped similarly, which can make it a strong used buy. Insurance costs are usually similar across the three, but higher output engines (F-150 3.5 EcoBoost, Silverado 6.2, Ram Hemi) and higher trims can raise premiums. Maintenance costs: the Silverado’s traditional small-block V8 servicing is widely familiar, but AFM-related issues can be costly if they occur; the F-150’s turbo engines can be dependable but may have higher long-term complexity (intercooler/turbo plumbing, timing/phaser concerns on some); the Ram EcoDiesel can be economical on fuel but expensive when emissions components need work. For resale value, mainstream trims with V8 power (or the F-150 EcoBoost) and 4WD generally perform best.
Editorial Verdict
Best for families: 2017 Ram 1500. The ride comfort, quietness, and available upscale interior make it the most family-friendly on daily errands and road trips, especially in Crew Cab form. Best for commuters: 2017 Ford F-150 (2.7 EcoBoost) or Ram 1500 (EcoDiesel). The F-150 2.7 balances strong torque with up to about 19/26 mpg, while the Ram EcoDiesel can return up to about 20/27 mpg if your driving pattern suits a diesel (longer trips, fewer short runs). Best for enthusiasts: 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (6.2L). With 420 hp and some of the quickest real-world 0–60 times in this group (often around the high-5 to ~6-second range), it’s the most satisfying straight-line performance choice with classic V8 character. Best value overall: 2017 Ford F-150. The combination of class-leading available payload (up to about 3,270 lbs), strong towing (up to about 12,200 lbs), a wide engine lineup, and strong resale makes it the most broadly capable choice—especially if you choose a well-optioned XLT/Lariat with documented service history and the powertrain that matches your needs.
Parts & Accessories for These Vehicles
Products for 2017 Ford F-150
Products for 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Products for 2017 Ram 1500
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.