2021 Ford F-150 vs 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Reliability Side-by-Side
2021
Ford F-150
Grade B
A highly capable truck with promising long-term potential, but its first model year requires careful vetting due to new-generation teething issues.
2021
Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Grade C+
A capable workhorse, but significant powertrain weaknesses elevate the risk of major repairs.
Best For
Best for Reliability
2021 Ford F-150
Score 83/100 vs 78/100
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Cost of Ownership
| Line Item | 2021 Ford F-150★ | 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Maintenance | — | — |
| Moderate Repairs | — | — |
| MPG (City/Hwy) | 25 / 26 | 23 / 33 |
| MSRP (New) | $28,940 | $29,300 |
Major-failure risk and insurance outlook for each vehicle are in their full reliability reports.
Biggest Risks on Each
2021 Ford F-150
Transmission (10R80 Automatic)
Electrical / Infotainment (SYNC 4)
Engine (PowerBoost Hybrid System)
2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Automatic Transmission (8-speed & 10-speed)
Engine (V8 AFM/DFM Lifter Failure)
Electrical/Infotainment System
Get the Full Report on Each
7-system breakdown, mileage danger zones, repair costs, and expert verdict for each vehicle.
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Editorial Take
The 2021 Ford F-150 and 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 are frequently cross-shopped because they sit at the heart of the half-ton pickup market, offer broad trim/engine lineups, and can be configured for everything from commuting to heavy towing. Buyers typically consider the F-150 for its class-leading technology and powertrain variety (including hybrid), while the Silverado is often chosen for its strong V8 options, straightforward packaging, and highway efficiency with the 3.0L diesel. Key decision factors usually come down to towing/payload needs, preferred engine character (turbo V6 vs V8 vs diesel vs hybrid), interior/tech priorities, and long-term costs (reliability track record, maintenance, and resale). Both can be excellent daily drivers, but they deliver their strengths in different ways depending on configuration. HEAD-TO-
Reliability & Common Issues
2021 FORD F-150
Value & Cost of Ownership
When new, both started around $29k, but real transaction prices commonly climbed into the $40k–$60k range depending on trim and options. On the used market, pricing is heavily influenced by engine choice (hybrid, 3.5 EcoBoost, 6.2 V8, and 3.0 diesel often command premiums), mileage, and condition. The 2021 F-150 tends to hold value very well, helped by the redesign year and strong demand; the Silverado also retains value strongly, though specific trims and the diesel can swing pricing higher. Insurance costs are typically similar for comparable trims, with premiums driven more by driver profile, location, and replacement cost than by brand alone. Maintenance costs: the Silverado 3.0L diesel can cost more for oil changes and fuel filters than gas engines, but it may offset costs with excellent highway fuel economy. The F-150 PowerBoost hybrid can be very efficient in mixed driving for a full-size truck, and its onboard power capability can replace a separate generator for some owners (a real-world value add). Resale value tends to favor well-optioned, mainstream trims and popular engines; both do best when kept stock and well-maintained, with documented service history.
Parts & Accessories for These Vehicles
Products for 2021 Ford F-150
Products for 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
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