2018-2020 Ford F-150 Floor Mats: Solving Sliding, Fitment, and Wet Carpet Issues

Common Problems with 2018-2020 F-150 Floor Mats

While seemingly simple, floor mats can present several frustrating and potentially hazardous issues. Understanding these common problems is key to choosing the right replacement and ensuring safety.

Sliding and Bunching Under Pedals

The most critical issue with any floor mat is movement. Many F-150 owners report that factory or universal-fit mats slide forward, bunching up under the brake and accelerator pedals. This is a significant safety hazard. The problem is often caused by a weak or missing retention system. While the driver's side usually has one or two retention posts, the passenger side often has none, leading to constant shifting. This is especially common in work trucks with vinyl flooring, which offers less friction than carpet.

Curling Edges and Warping

All-weather liners, especially those made from harder plastic compounds, can curl at the edges over time. This creates a trip hazard when getting in and out of the truck and allows dirt, water, and debris to get underneath the mat, defeating its purpose. Shipping and packaging can also cause mats to arrive with permanent creases or folds.

Cracking and Wear

Constant use, especially from the driver's heel pivoting between pedals, can cause mats to crack or wear through. This is more common with cheaper, generic mats but can happen to any mat over time. Exposure to UV sunlight and extreme temperatures can also make the material brittle.

Wet Passenger Side Floor

If you discover a wet floor on the passenger side, the problem may not be the floor mat itself. Some 2018-2020 F-150s are subject to a known issue where the air conditioning evaporator drain tube allows condensation to leak into the cabin. This can lead to a musty smell and potential mold growth under the carpet. Ford issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 19-2345 (later updated) to address this by installing an elbow on the drain tube to redirect the water.

Buying a Used OEM Floor Mat for Your F-150

A high-quality set of used OEM floor mats can be a great value, often providing better fit and durability than new, budget aftermarket options. Here’s what to inspect before you buy.

What to Physically Inspect

• Retention Holes: Check the grommets or holes on the driver's side mat. Ensure they are not torn, stretched, or cracked, as this will prevent the mat from locking onto the floor posts.
• Driver's Heel Pad: This area sees the most wear. Look for deep grooves, cracks, or holes. Minor scuffing is normal, but any breach in the material means it will soon fail.
• Check for Warping: Lay the mat on a flat surface. It should lie flat without the edges curling up. A warped mat will not seal against the floor and will allow debris underneath.
• Material Condition: For all-weather mats, bend a corner to check for flexibility. If it feels brittle or shows signs of cracking, it has likely been damaged by UV rays or harsh chemicals. For carpet mats, check for deep stains, frayed edges, and a deteriorating rubber backing.

Compatibility and Fitment Verification

Not all 2018-2020 F-150 mats are the same. You must match the mat to your truck's specific configuration:

• Cab Type: The biggest difference is between cab types. Mats for a Regular Cab, SuperCab, and SuperCrew are not interchangeable, especially the rear mats or one-piece liners.
• Flooring Type: Some trucks come with vinyl floors instead of carpet. While the mats are often the same, the retention system can differ. Some vinyl floor models lack the floor posts entirely, making a mat with good grip essential.
• Center Console: Front mats can vary between models with a full center console and those with a jump seat.

Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)

• NHTSA Recall 18S27: While not for the floor mats themselves, this important recall affects some 2018 F-150s. Seatbelt pretensioners could generate sparks during a collision and ignite the carpet and insulation. The fix involves removing insulation and applying heat-resistant tape.
• TSB 19-2345: Addresses an issue on some 2018-2020 F-150s where the A/C evaporator drain can leak water onto the right front floor. The fix involves installing an elbow (Part No. 4M2Z-6A614-AA) to redirect condensation. If your passenger floor is wet, this is a likely culprit.
🎬 Watch this video to see how to fix the A/C drain leak.

No recalls were found specifically for floor mat interference on this generation of F-150, but the risk of improperly installed mats remains.

Cost Comparison

Installation

Replacing floor mats is a simple process with a difficulty rating of 1 out of 5.

1. Remove Old Mats: Pull out the existing floor mats from all positions. Do not install new mats on top of old ones.
2. Clean the Floor: Vacuum the vehicle's carpet or vinyl flooring to remove any dirt and debris. This is also a good time to check for dampness, especially on the passenger side.
3. Install New Mats: Place the new mats in their correct positions. The driver's side mat must be secured by snapping the mat's retention holes onto the factory posts in the floor.
4. Verify Pedal Clearance: Press the accelerator, brake, and clutch (if applicable) pedals all the way to the floor to ensure they do not catch on the mat. The mat must not interfere with pedal travel in any way.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)