2013 Ford F 150 Fuel Capacity – Tank Sizes, Range, And Identification
The 2013 Ford F-150 features two primary fuel tank sizes: a standard 26-gallon tank and an optional 36-gallon extended-range tank. Knowing your specific capacity is essential for accurate trip planning, calculating towing range, and understanding your vehicle’s total weight when full.
Whether you are prepping for a cross-country haul or heading into the backcountry for a weekend of off-roading, your fuel range is your lifeline. For many owners, the 2013 ford f 150 fuel capacity is a bit of a mystery until the low fuel light flickers on in the middle of nowhere.
I have spent years under these trucks, and I can tell you that Ford didn’t make it perfectly obvious which tank you have just by looking at the trim badge. This guide will help you identify your equipment and maximize every drop of unleaded gasoline in your system.
By the end of this article, you will know exactly how much fuel your truck holds, how to spot common fuel delivery issues, and how to improve your overall efficiency. Let’s dive into the technical specs and real-world applications for this legendary workhorse.
Understanding the 2013 ford f 150 fuel capacity Options
In 2013, Ford offered a variety of configurations that influenced which fuel tank was installed at the factory. The two main players are the 26-gallon (98-liter) standard tank and the 36-gallon (136-liter) extended-range version.
The standard 26-gallon tank usually came on trucks with the 3.7L Ti-VCT V6 engine or shorter wheelbase configurations. It provides a decent range for daily commuting but can feel limiting if you are frequently towing heavy loads or driving through remote areas.
The 36-gallon tank was a highly sought-after option for the 5.0L V8 and the 3.5L EcoBoost engines. If you have a 4×4 SuperCrew with the off-road package, there is a very high probability that you are carrying the larger 36-gallon reservoir.
Wheelbase and Trim Influence
Your truck’s physical footprint often dictated the available space for the fuel reservoir. Regular cab models with a short bed almost always feature the 26-gallon tank because the frame rails lack the length to accommodate the larger unit.
SuperCrew models with the 6.5-foot or 8-foot beds are the most common hosts for the 36-gallon tank. These trucks were designed for long-distance travel and heavy-duty work, making the extended range a logical factory inclusion.
Specialty trims like the SVT Raptor also play by different rules. Most 2013 Raptor SuperCrew models came standard with the 36-gallon tank to support the high consumption of the 6.2L V8 engine during high-speed desert runs.
How to Identify Your Tank Size Without a Manual
If you bought your truck used, the original window sticker is likely long gone. You can still determine your 2013 ford f 150 fuel capacity by using a few technician-approved methods that don’t require specialized diagnostic tools.
The easiest way is to check your Instrument Cluster menu. Navigate to the “Distance to Empty” (DTE) screen when your tank is nearly full; a 36-gallon tank will often show a range exceeding 500 miles, whereas a 26-gallon tank usually tops out around 350-400 miles.
Another method is the physical inspection of the tank itself. Crawl under the driver’s side of the truck and look at the fuel tank strapped to the inside of the frame rail. A 36-gallon tank is significantly longer, stretching nearly the entire length of the transfer case to the rear axle.
The VIN Decoder Method
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) contains a wealth of data about how your truck was built. You can enter your VIN into an online Ford parts portal to see the specific fuel system components assigned to your chassis.
Look for the “Equipment Listing” or “Build Sheet” section once you have the VIN loaded. This will explicitly state whether the vehicle was equipped with the standard or optional fuel reservoir.
Alternatively, you can visit a local Ford dealership parts counter. Give them your VIN, and they can print out a spec sheet that confirms your exact 2013 ford f 150 fuel capacity in seconds.
The Gas Station Calculation
Wait until your “Low Fuel” warning light illuminates, then fill the tank until the pump clicks off once. If the pump shows you have added 22-24 gallons, you almost certainly have the 26-gallon tank.
If the pump registers 31-33 gallons, you are running the 36-gallon extended-range version. Remember that Ford builds in a reserve capacity of about 2-4 gallons, so you will never actually pump the full rated capacity unless you ran the truck completely dry.
Never “top off” your tank after the initial click. This can force liquid fuel into the charcoal canister, leading to expensive repairs and check engine lights related to the EVAP system.
Real-World Range and Fuel Economy Expectations
Knowing your capacity is only half the battle; understanding how fast you burn through it is what keeps you from walking to the nearest station. When discussing the 2013 ford f 150 fuel capacity, we have to look at the engine paired with it.
The 3.5L EcoBoost is famous for its “Eco” or “Boost” nature. When cruising empty on the highway, you might see 21 MPG, giving the 36-gallon tank a massive 750-mile theoretical range.
However, once you hook up a 7,000-pound travel trailer, that economy can drop to 9 or 10 MPG. In this scenario, even the 36-gallon tank only provides about 300 miles of safe driving range before you need to hunt for a station.
Impact of Off-Roading on Fuel Range
Off-road enthusiasts need to be especially careful with fuel calculations. Low-range 4WD operation, frequent idling, and crawling over obstacles consume fuel at a much higher rate than highway miles.
I always recommend the “Rule of Thirds” for off-roading. Use one-third of your tank to get into the trail, one-third to get out, and keep the final third as a safety reserve for emergencies or getting lost.
If your truck has the smaller tank, consider carrying RotopaX or traditional jerry cans on your bed rack. This extra 5-10 gallons can be the difference between a fun weekend and a call to a recovery service.
Common Fuel System Issues for the 2013 Model
The 2013 F-150 is a reliable machine, but its fuel delivery system has a few known weak points that can leave you stranded. One of the most notorious is the Fuel Pump Driver Module (FPDM) located above the spare tire.
This module is mounted directly to the steel frame, which causes galvanic corrosion between the aluminum module housing and the steel. Eventually, the housing cracks, moisture enters, and the fuel pump loses power.
If your truck cranks but won’t start, or stalls randomly, check this module first. Modern replacement modules come with rubber standoffs to keep them off the frame and prevent future corrosion issues.
The Easy Fuel Capless System
The 2013 model uses Ford’s “Easy Fuel” capless filler neck. While convenient, it can collect dust and debris, especially if you drive on gravel roads or through muddy terrain.
If dirt gets into the seal, it can trigger a “Check Fuel Fill Inlet” message on your dash. This is often accompanied by an EVAP leak code (P0455 or P0456) because the system cannot maintain a vacuum.
Clean the inlet regularly using compressed air and a damp rag. If you frequently go off-road, I highly recommend buying an aftermarket locking plug to keep the dust out of the primary seal.
Fuel Gauge Inaccuracy
Sometimes the fuel sending unit inside the tank can fail or become “lazy.” This results in a fuel gauge that stays on full for 100 miles and then drops rapidly, or one that never reads completely full.
This is often caused by sulfur buildup on the sending unit’s electrical contacts. Using a high-quality fuel system cleaner like Techron can sometimes “scrub” these contacts clean without needing to drop the fuel tank.
If the cleaner doesn’t work, the sending unit—which is part of the fuel pump assembly—will likely need replacement. This is a labor-intensive job that requires dropping the tank or lifting the truck bed.
Maintenance and Performance Upgrades
Maintaining your fuel system is the best way to ensure your 2013 ford f 150 fuel capacity is always available when you need it. Unlike older trucks, the 2013 model does not have a serviceable external fuel filter.
The filter is integrated into the fuel pump assembly inside the tank and is designed to last the life of the pump. To keep it clean, avoid running your tank down to “empty” regularly, as this sucks up sediment from the bottom of the tank.
Running the tank low also deprives the fuel pump of its primary cooling source: the gasoline itself. Keeping at least a quarter tank of fuel at all times will significantly extend the life of your pump.
Upgrading Your Fuel Capacity
For some owners, even the 36-gallon tank isn’t enough. If you are a long-haul tower or a remote adventurer, you might consider an aftermarket fuel tank upgrade.
Companies like Transfer Flow or Titan Fuel Tanks offer high-capacity replacement tanks that can push your total on-board fuel to 50 gallons or more. These tanks are made of heavy-duty polymer or aluminized steel and fit in the stock location.
Keep in mind that installing a larger tank requires recalibrating the truck’s computer. You will need a diagnostic tool like FORScan to update the tank size so your “Distance to Empty” remains accurate.
Safety and Best Practices for Refueling
Safety should always be your top priority when handling highly flammable liquids. When filling your 2013 F-150, always turn off the engine and extinguish any smoking materials.
Static electricity is a real threat, especially in dry climates. Always touch a metal part of your truck away from the fuel filler before reaching for the nozzle to discharge any static build-up on your body.
If you are filling portable fuel cans in the bed of your truck, always place them on the ground first. Filling a can on a plastic bed liner can generate a static spark that could ignite the fuel vapors.
Handling E85 Flex-Fuel
Many 2013 F-150s with the 3.7L V6 or 5.0L V8 are “Flex-Fuel” capable, meaning they can run on E85 ethanol. While E85 is often cheaper per gallon, it has lower energy density than standard gasoline.
Expect your fuel economy to drop by 25-30% when running E85. While your 2013 ford f 150 fuel capacity remains the same, your total driving range will decrease significantly on ethanol blends.
If you plan to switch between gasoline and E85, try to do so when the tank is nearly empty. This allows the Oxygen sensors and the PCM to recalibrate more quickly to the new fuel mixture.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2013 ford f 150 fuel capacity
Can I swap my 26-gallon tank for a 36-gallon tank?
Yes, it is a common swap, but it requires the larger tank, new mounting straps, and the correct fuel pump/sending unit for the 36-gallon depth. You must also update the truck’s computer using FORScan to ensure the fuel gauge reads correctly.
How many miles do I have left when the “Low Fuel” light comes on?
Most 2013 F-150s trigger the warning when there are approximately 35 to 50 miles of range remaining. However, this is an estimate based on your recent driving habits, so you should find a station immediately.
What is the fuel capacity of the 2013 Ford F-150 Raptor?
The 2013 Raptor SuperCab has a 26-gallon tank, while the SuperCrew version features the 36-gallon tank as standard equipment. This was necessary to offset the 6.2L V8 engine’s higher fuel consumption during off-road use.
Does the 2013 F-150 require premium gas?
The 5.0L V8 and 3.7L V6 are designed to run on 87 octane. The 3.5L EcoBoost can run on 87, but Ford recommends 91 octane or higher for “optimum equipment performance,” especially when towing or in hot weather.
Final Thoughts on Your F-150 Fuel System
Understanding your 2013 ford f 150 fuel capacity is more than just a trivia point; it is a vital part of being a responsible truck owner. Whether you have the 26-gallon or the 36-gallon tank, knowing your limits ensures you can push your truck to its full potential without fear of being stranded.
Take the time to crawl under your truck, check your VIN, and perform a few test fills to confirm your equipment. Keep your fuel driver module clean, watch for EVAP leaks, and never ignore a “Check Fuel Fill Inlet” message.
Your F-150 was built to handle the toughest jobs and the longest trails. By mastering your fuel system maintenance and range planning, you are ensuring that your truck stays on the road—and off the back of a tow truck—for years to come. Stay safe and stay fueled!
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