2015-2020 Ford F-150 Grille: Decoding the 2018 Refresh, Trim Styles, and Swaps

Critical Alert: The 2018 Mid-Generation Refresh

Before buying a grille for a 13th-generation Ford F-150, the single most important factor to understand is the mid-cycle refresh that occurred in 2018. Grilles are not directly interchangeable between the two sub-generations without also swapping headlights and other components.

• 2015-2017 F-150 Grilles: These models typically feature a trapezoidal grille with a prominent three-bar styling theme across most trims. The headlights have a continuous C-shaped accent light surrounding the entire lamp housing.
• 2018-2020 F-150 Grilles: For the refresh, Ford introduced a bolder, octagonal grille with a wide two-bar design. The headlight accent lights were also changed to surround the high and low beams individually, creating a different shape where the grille meets the lights.

Grille Variations by Trim Level

Ford produced a vast number of grille variations depending on the truck's trim level, year, and optional appearance packages. Below is a general guide to the most common styles. Always confirm compatibility with the specific truck's VIN if possible.

XL & STX

The base XL trim typically features a simple, durable grille. For 2018-2020 models, this is often a black two-bar style with black nostrils. The STX (a sporty appearance package for the XL) often features a black mesh-style grille.

XLT

The high-volume XLT trim is most commonly found with a chrome grille. For 2018-2020 models, this is a two-bar chrome style with chrome nostrils and a black background mesh. The 2015-2017 XLT often used a 3-bar or 5-bar chrome design.

Lariat

Lariat models feature more upscale grilles, often with chrome or painted finishes depending on whether it has the Sport Appearance Package or Chrome Appearance Package. These frequently have three horizontal bars on 2015-2017 models.

King Ranch, Platinum & Limited

Higher trims feature unique, premium grilles:

• King Ranch: Often features a unique mesh design with a Stone Gray surround.
• Platinum: Characterized by a satin-finish aluminum grille with a honeycomb mesh insert. For 2018+, this is a satin chrome two-bar style with silver mesh inserts.
• Limited: The top-tier Limited has a special satin-finish main bar grille with chrome minor bars.

Raptor

The high-performance Raptor has a unique grille that is not shared with any other trim. It is easily identified by the large "F-O-R-D" lettering across the center instead of the traditional Ford blue oval emblem.

Symptoms of Grille Failure

Failure of the grille itself is almost always cosmetic or due to physical damage. It is not a mechanical part and will not cause driveability issues on its own.

• Peeling or Flaking Chrome: This is a very common complaint. The chrome plating, which is applied over plastic, can bubble, flake, or peel due to weather exposure and age. This is purely a cosmetic issue but is the most frequent reason for replacement outside of collision damage.
• Cracked or Broken Plastic: Impacts from road debris, animals, or minor collisions can easily crack the plastic grille structure or break the mounting tabs that hold it to the truck.
• Faded or Discolored Finish: Textured black or painted grilles can fade and turn gray over time due to sun exposure, especially if not treated with UV protectants.

Related Issue: Active Grille Shutter Failure

Directly behind the main grille is a separate component called the Active Grille Shutter (AGS) assembly. This system automatically opens and closes louvers to improve aerodynamics and control engine temperature. Failure of the AGS is common and can trigger a Check Engine Light.

Symptoms of a failing AGS include:

• Check Engine Light with codes like P059F (Active Grille Shutter A Stuck 🎬 Watch: How to diagnose and fix the P059F shutter code.), U0284 (Lost Communication With Active Grille Shutter), or P05AE.
• Clicking or grinding noises from the front of the truck on startup as the shutter motor tries to cycle.
• Shutters are visibly stuck open or closed. The system is designed to fail in the open position to prevent overheating.

Buying a Used 2015-2020 F-150 Grille: What to Check

A used OEM grille is often a better choice than a cheap aftermarket one due to superior fit, finish, and material durability. However, inspect a recycled part carefully before purchasing.

1. Verify the Year Range: First and foremost, confirm if the grille is from a 2015-2017 or a 2018-2020 truck. They are not interchangeable.
2. Inspect All Mounting Tabs: This is the most critical inspection point. Carefully check the top, bottom, and side mounting tabs and clip points. These are made of plastic and can become brittle and break easily during removal. A grille with broken tabs will not sit flush and may vibrate or fall off.
3. Check for Camera Compatibility: If your truck has the 360-degree camera system, you need a grille with the specific mounting provision for the front camera, which is typically located within the Ford emblem. A non-camera grille will not have the required bracket or opening.
4. Examine for Peeling Chrome: On chrome grilles, look closely at the edges and corners where the chrome meets the plastic frame. This is where peeling usually starts. Minor pitting from rocks is normal, but active flaking is a sign of finish failure.
5. Look for Hidden Cracks: Flex the grille slightly and inspect it under good light. Hairline cracks, especially around the mounting points, can be hard to see but will compromise the part's structural integrity.

Cost Comparison for a 2015-2020 F-150 Grille

Prices vary dramatically based on trim level (a base XL grille is much cheaper than a Platinum grille) and condition.

Grille Replacement Overview

Replacing the grille is a straightforward job that is feasible for a DIY mechanic with basic tools. The active grille shutter assembly is bolted to the back of the grille and must be transferred to the new part.

• Difficulty: 2/5
• Estimated Time: 1-2 hours
• Tools Needed: Trim removal tool, socket set (7mm, 8mm, 10mm), flat blade screwdriver.

Basic Steps:

1. Open the hood and remove the plastic radiator sight shield by pulling out numerous push-pin clips.
2. Remove the four 10mm bolts along the top edge of the grille.
3. Remove the plastic trim pieces on either side of the grille, below the headlights. This typically involves removing two 7mm screws in the wheel well and one push-pin, then carefully prying the panel off.
4. Disconnect any electrical connectors for the active grille shutters or front camera.
5. Carefully pull the grille assembly forward, releasing the lower clips, and remove it from the truck.
6. On a workbench, unbolt the active grille shutter assembly from the old grille and transfer it to the new one.
7. Installation is the reverse of removal. 🎬 See this step-by-step walkthrough of the entire grille replacement process. Align the bottom clips first, then secure the top bolts and side trim pieces.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)