Whether we’re talking about cars, bikes, or even trucks like the popular Ford F-150, nothing stays completely stock forever in the hands of an enthusiast.
So for a lot of curious F-150 owners, the idea of interchanging parts from different model years seems like a cool concept when done right, but an expensive Frankenstein build when it goes wrong.
Hence, it’s our job here at AutoAlmanac to help you with this somewhat jigsaw puzzle of a task by telling you which F-150 model years have parts with your truck’s name on them!
What year Ford F-150 parts are interchangeable?
Ford F-150 model years from the same generation have interchangeable engines. Models that have the same transmission code, engine type, and dimensions can also swap transmissions.
Other F-150 parts like ECMs, different body panels, seats, and wheels are interchangeable between certain model years.

If you’re curious as to which model years of the Ford F-150 can interchange their parts with each other without probably, then the short answer is that it depends on the part we’re talking about.
If you plan on putting another F-150 engine on your particular model, for instance, you should make sure that it’s at least from the same F-150 generation as the one you have. Simple enough, right?
But then we turn to interchanging other stuff, such as the transmission, which requires you to match the transmission codes, engine type, and overall physical dimensions of your F-150 and the donor F-150.
It gets even more specific than that when you want to swap different seats, doors, bumpers, and all sorts of body panels from different model years into your truck. Thankfully, we have all of this sorted out on one simple list below!
List of Interchangeable Ford F-150 Parts/Panels
Interchangeable Part | Compatible Ford F-150 Generations/Model Years |
Engine | All models from the same generation have interchangeable engines |
Transmission | Models with identical transmission codes, engine type, and truck dimensions |
Engine Control Module (ECM) | 1980 to 2000 models |
Seats | 1997 to 2003 models |
Doors | 1980 to 1996 models |
Bumpers and Bumper Covers | 1997 to 2005 models |
Hood | 2004 to 2008 models |
Grille | 2004 to 2008 models |
Headlights | All models from the same generation can interchange headlights |
Cab | 1980 to 1996 models |
Cargo Box | 1987 to 1991 models can interchange cargo boxes1992 to 1996 models can interchange cargo boxes |
Wheels | 1980 to 1997 models can interchange wheels2015 to present models can interchange wheels |
Inner Fender Wells/Liners | 1962 to 1977 models |
Running Boards | 2007 to 2016 models |
Engine

Engine swaps are a popular part of any big car project or restoration, and the Ford F-150 is no stranger to this. But now the question is, which F-150 model years can interchange their engines with each other?
In general, all model years of the popular pickup truck under the same generation can swap their engines with each other. However, there are still a few things that you should consider before doing so.
Since interchanging engines is more than just simply bolting one onto your empty engine bay, you’ll need to find out if the engine type is even compatible with the exact VIN (vehicle identification number) on your truck.
This essentially means decoding the VIN and looking at the engine type that it’s originally fitted with. If it matches with the engine you want, then they’re compatible.
Now, this doesn’t necessarily mean that they should be the exact engine model (two 5.4-liter V8s, for instance), it just means that they should have the same motor type, number of cylinders, and camshaft design.

When it comes to the camshaft design, you should identify if your F-150 engine has an SOHC (single overhead camshaft) or a DOHC (dual overhead camshaft) design so that you can pick the same one.
Ford also likes to classify their engine parts as either “PI” (performance improved) or NPI (non-performance improved). This can mean that an F-150 with a PI engine block will have different pistons from an NPI block.
Furthermore, engines on newer model years may have upgraded features and additional sensors that are not present on older model years despite being from the same generation. This is why knowing the VIN and engine type will help a lot.
To give examples, the 10th-generation F-150 (PN-96) has two interchangeable Triton V8 engines, namely the 4.6-liter V8 and the 5.4-liter V8.
Despite having different displacements, the similarities in features between these two V8s make for good part interchangeability.
This also means, however, that a newer 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 wouldn’t be compatible with the older 10th-gen V8-powered F-150. Not only is it from a completely different generation, but it’s also a completely different engine design.
While you technically could make it happen, it’s going to require a lot of custom work (and money) to convert an older F-150 to house and run an EcoBoost engine.
Transmission

When it comes to interchanging F-150 transmissions with each other, you’ll need to consider a bit more than just them being from the same generation.
To find out if a particular F-150 transmission can fit your specific truck, you need to look at the transmission code that’s located somewhere on the body of the transmission.
F-150 transmissions will also be generally paired with certain engines of certain generations. This means that a transmission that was originally fitted on an EcoBoost V6 will not be compatible with an older V8.
For instance, if you’re currently eyeing a 4-speed “4R70W” automatic transmission, then it’s only compatible with 1994 to 2007 F-150 models with either the 4.2-liter V6, 4.6-liter V8, or 5.4-liter V8 engine.
The same goes for a newer one like the 6-speed “6R80” automatic transmission, which can only be found on the 12th and 13th-gen F-150s with their Cyclone V6s, EcoBoost V6s, and Coyote V8s.
Aside from the transmission code itself, you also have to make sure that the physical dimensions as well as the bolt locations for the transmission match the one for your F-150.
After considering these details, it’s also important to pair your transmission with the correct transmission control module (TCM) and all the wirings for the other electronic modules, especially when interchanging different model years.
Going by this, you will have to get your new transmission reprogrammed so that all the swapped components work and perform in harmony.
All in all, the general rule of thumb is to have a transmission that’s as close to identical to what your truck already has as possible. This ensures that all the parts fit right, are complete, and require no extra steps to make them compatible.
Rear Differential (Axles)

Apart from the transmission, the rear differential is another big component of the F-150 that can be interchangeable depending on the model year or, more specifically, their size.
Generally speaking, any 4-wheel-drive F-150 with either an 8.8-inch or a 9.75-inch rear differential axle can be interchangeable due to both of them having identical widths.
However, as with most “big and bulky” interchangeable parts on an F-150, there’s more to it than that. You’ll also need to consider the differences between these two axles’ differential type, gear ratio, and even brake type.
So just because you’re replacing your 8.8-inch rear differential with another one of the same size, doesn’t necessarily mean that they’ll both come with disc brakes.
Differential types for the Ford F-150 can also be either open, limited-slip, or locked, whereas the gear ratio can vary depending on what’s indicated on your current differential (e.g. 3.31:1).
Alternatively, you can also calculate the gear ratio yourself by dividing the number of teeth on the differential’s ring gear by the number of teeth on its pinion gear.
If even one of these other parts is different, you’ll have to get it replaced with the right matching one so that you don’t run into any fitment issues when running the replacement differential.
Suspension

Compared to other parts that we already went over, you’ll have a lot more freedom when interchanging suspension components between different Ford F-150 model years.
You also don’t have to worry whether your F-150 truck either has 2WD or 4WD since both the shocks and springs are interchangeable between both of these drivetrain layouts.
A good example of this would be installing factory F-150 FX4 (4WD) suspension parts on a 2012 non-FX4 2WD F-150.
While you may get about 1 to 1.5 inches of added height on the front due to the 4WD springs, they will all bolt right on without issues.
What this means, however, is that you’ll need to take into consideration the height differences between two different trim levels of an F-150, as it can affect the clearance and the stance of your truck after swapping the suspension.
But the good news is that you don’t necessarily have to take a used one out of a donor F-150, as Ford still manufactures tons of OEM suspension parts that are compatible with different model years of the truck.
In some cases, suspension interchangeability for the F-150 can even go as far as using front suspension parts from other “FoMoCo” models such as the Expedition and Navigator, albeit the latter two sit about half an inch lower than the truck.
Engine Control Module/Powertrain Control Module (ECM/PCM)

Going by the fact that different Ford F-150 model years can swap their engines to some extent, it’s also worth talking about interchanging their ECM or PCM as well.
The ECM/PCM (engine/powertrain control module) is the all-important brain or computer of your F-150’s engine that monitors and ensures every component operates optimally under all driving conditions.
Each F-150 model is programmed and tuned to run optimally on a particular ECM fitted by the manufacturer, so if you were to swap your engine out for one out of another model, you would also need to pair it with a compatible ECM.
Even if the replacement ECM and its connectors that you’re putting in is identical to the original one, it will still require some reprogramming so that it runs exactly according to what your F-150 needs.
To do that, you should turn to a professional shop or mechanic who is experienced with ECM programming and has all the software and tools needed to do it right.
As for which model years are the most interchangeable, any F-150 model made between 1980 and 2000 can swap ECMs or PCMs with each other due to their similarities.
Any F-150 ECM made for 2001 and newer models will be a lot tougher to interchange and reprogram, as Ford added tons of control and safety features not present in older models.
Even interchanging 2001 and newer F-150 ECMs or PCMs with themselves is already pretty complicated since you’ll also have to deal with things like the PATS (passive anti-theft system), which can cause the truck to not start if programmed incorrectly.
Infotainment System

Parts of the F-150’s infotainment system can also be interchanged between certain model years and trim levels of the half-ton truck.
Ford uses its own “SYNC” infotainment system, which currently already has 4 different generations for the F-150 starting from 2009.
But aside from the SYNC generation, the most optimal infotainment systems to interchange are those that have either similar or identical configurations.
For instance, SYNC infotainment systems made for the 2009 to 2012 F-150 are the most similar in terms of physical appearance, thus these model years can all interchange their systems with each other.
The same goes for the identical infotainment systems that can be found in both the 2013 and 2014 F-150 models.
2015 and newer F-150 models are a bit of a special case since not only are they compatible with the 3rd-generation “SYNC 3” system, but they also come with a bigger and upgraded screen that houses the audio and touch controls.
The latest “SYNC 4”, on the other hand, is only found on 2021 and newer F-150 (and Mustang Mach-E) models.
They are currently not interchangeable with older models, at least not directly and not without spending a couple of thousand for a complete conversion kit.
Which Ford F-150 model years can interchange body parts/panels?
Some F-150 years with interchangeable body parts include 1962 to 1977 (fender wells), 1980 to 1996 (doors/cab), 1997 to 2005 (bumpers/covers), 2004 to 2008 (good/grille), and 2007 to 2016 (running boards).
All F-150 models belonging to the same generation also have interchangeable headlights.
Ford F-150 Body Part | Interchangeable Model Years |
Bumpers and Bumper Covers | 1997 to 2005 models |
Hood | 2004 to 2008 models |
Grille | 2004 to 2008 models |
Headlights | All models from the same generation can interchange headlights |
Doors | 1980 to 1996 models |
Cab | 1980 to 1996 models |
Cargo Box | 1987 to 1991 models with same dimensions and style1992 to 1996 models with same dimensions and style |
Running Boards | 2007 to 2016 models |
Wheels | 1980 to 1997 models can interchange wheels2015 to present models can interchange wheels |
Inner Fender Wells/Liners | 1962 to 1977 models |
Which Ford F-150 model years have interchangeable beds?
Certain F-150 model years have interchangeable beds, such as 1980 to 1997, 1997 to 2004, 2004 to 2008, and 2009 to 2014.
F-150 models from 2015 to 2020 also have interchangeable beds as do 2021 and newer models, though they may require a bit more modification to ensure a perfect fit.

Suppose you want to swap out your Ford F-150’s old truck bed for another one, then you’ll have to first consider the exact size and dimensions that it has.
Ford primarily has three different size options for the F-150’s truck bed, namely the 5.5-ft bed, 6.5-ft bed, and 8-ft bed.
Once you’ve taken note of your bed size, you can then start to look into the different model years that can interchange beds.
Generally speaking, F-150 models belonging to the same generation can interchange beds, although some generations can also bolt onto different generations because of how similar their bed dimensions are.
For example, if you have a 1988 F-150, then any truck bed from 1980 to 1997 (7th to 9th-gen F-150) will have the same dimensions and will be compatible with it.
This also applies to 1997 to 2004 models (10th gen), 2004 to 2008 models (11th gen), 2009 to 2014 models (12th gen), 2015 to 2020 models (13th gen), and 2021 to present models (14th gen).
Just do keep in mind that some model years may have different designs for their body lines, tailgates, and taillights. It’s all a matter of which design you prefer to match with the rest of your truck.
Can you interchange Ford F-150 seats?

Interchanging the seats of different F-150 model years is a matter of comparing the different electronic features as well as the physical dimensions that each set of seats has.
Seats on more modern F-150 models will feature a lot more tech when it comes to adjustability, ventilation, and even massaging functions compared to seats on older models.
Hence, you can already discern a pattern depending on which generation the seats belong to. As an example, 1997 to 2003 F-150 seats are from the same generation and are very similar in features.
Thus, this makes them interchangeable with one another, considering that all of them are designed as either bucket seats or bench seats, have the same wirings for the power controls, and have similar mounting brackets and holes.
In a similar case, 2009 and newer F-150 models already come with heated/cooled seats and have even more adjustment options and will thus have their own electrical wirings for those.
While interchanging seats between model years from the same F-150 generation would be the best, keep in mind that there may still be some subtle differences that may need a bit of modification, such as the presence of cup holders.
How to Find Interchangeable Parts for the Ford F-150
To find interchangeable parts for the Ford F-150, you should consider the different trim level features and dimensions, part casting numbers, part codes, and compatible replacement parts for your particular model.

Trim Level Features/Dimensions
A very important consideration to make when you’re trying to find interchangeable parts for your Ford F-150 build is the dimensions and features of different trim levels.
Certain F-150 parts may vary in design depending on the trim level that they’re from, so to avoid mismatching designs and have a more natural continuation of themes, be sure to identify such differences in the parts you choose.
A good example of this would be the F-150 “XL” trim having black bumpers, whereas the higher “XLT” trim has chrome bumpers instead.
In addition, the trim level can also dictate what the exact dimensions of a particular F-150 part are.
Certain trim levels may have bigger rims, like the 22-inch wheels on the Limited trim, while others may have thicker and beefier offroad tires, like the ones on the F-150 Raptor.
Casting Numbers
A good way to know if a part is interchangeable with your F-150 model is to look for its casting number, which is a series of numbers and letters that give you different pieces of info about its manufacturing process.
Casting numbers can contain the date of manufacturing, which factory the part was manufactured in, which model it was made for, what type of component it is, and more.
In the case of F-150 engines, there will be casting numbers printed on both the cylinder heads and underneath the bell housing of the engine block.
Part Codes/Numbers
Other than the casting number, you can also directly find the part code or part number of a specific F-150 component that you’re trying to swap out.
It’s important to match the part number on what’s currently installed in your vehicle with its replacement, as any mismatch may result in issues when trying to fit it in.
Part numbers for all sorts of F-150 components can be found by browsing through Ford’s online database or by asking your local dealership for help.
To find part numbers that are interchangeable with your particular F-150 model, you’ll need to input your VIN (vehicle identification number), which is typically located at the bottom right of the driver-side front window.
Replacement Parts
In the search for interchangeable parts for the F-150, it’s quite common to just go to any junkyard and take some out of one with a salvage title, but if you really want to have a fresh start, then consider buying a genuine replacement part instead.
Genuine (or OEM) replacement parts can be had straight out of the manufacturer or any trusted distributor brand-new. Not only do they look cleaner, but you’re guaranteed to have a high-quality part on your truck.
As discussed earlier, you can find these replacement parts by looking for their part numbers or casting numbers to confirm that they can be swapped onto your F-150.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What year F-150 wheels are interchangeable?
Any Ford F-150 model made between model years 1980 and 1997 can interchange their wheels due to the similarities in designs, dimensions, and bolt patterns.
Similarly, 2015 and newer F-150 models can also interchange their wheels with each other for the same reason.
Are all F-150 beds the same?
Ford F-150 truck beds are offered in three different sizes, namely the 5.5-ft bed, 6.5-ft bed, and 8-ft bed.
Despite their obvious differences in length, these three bed sizes are identical in every other dimension, making them interchangeable with their same-size counterparts for all model years belonging to the same F-150 generation.
Are F-150 rims interchangeable?
Ford F-150 rims can be interchangeable as long as they have identical bolt patterns. However, you should still take note of the differences between the lug nut threads of the two model years you’re interchanging.
Furthermore, if you plan on using the same tire size, then you should also go for a rim size that’s identical to the ones currently paired with your tires.