I have a 2013 F 150 5.0 engine 4 wheel drive with 260.000 mostly highway miles.
I starting to have issues with the vehicle. If I decide to keep it I think I should invest in a scan tool to read the check engine worning but I want something that is going to tell me enough to know what to repair. Or am I dreaming
whats the best scan tool for my F150

 

It depends. If you are going to do most of the repairs yourself, there are plenty of scan tool out there, you just need to look for bi-directional support. If you need to work on ABS and airbag, those will cost more, perhaps $100 additional apiece.
Bi-directional feature, for instance, you use your scan tool to turn on the headlight on your behalf without turning the headlamp switch.
Some scan tools will have programming and coding support too, Coding means you can activate or deactivate a feature at factory level. It's like setting preference to your car at dealer's level.

 

They haven't come up yet with a replacement for a good technician so depending on your determination and wallet, good scan tools start around $2,000.00 the more it can do the higher the cost.
They just haven't come up with that tool that tells you what is wrong and how to fix it.
Your determination to read and learn will complement what the scan tool says. It can provide all kinds of info, but you need to know what you are looking at.

There are a few manufacturers you might want to check out. Snap On, Autel, Lenovo ,Bosch,Texa. There is a big difference between a code reader and scan tool.
Various auto parts supply stores sell them and you might inquire there.
One of the reasons diagnostic and repair work is expensive is trying to get some return in the scan tool and training investment. Programming requires a subscription to a manufacturers website along with addl equipment. Locksmiths even have to be certified to get access to the manufacturers security info.
For what it is worth, you can't even change a battery in a late model vehicle without notifying the vehicle's computer and that requires a decent scan tool.

 

The BlueDriver is one of the best OBD-II tools on the market, offering wide compatibility with Ford vehicles, including your F-150. This scanner connects to your smartphone via Bluetooth and allows you to read fault codes, get problem descriptions, and perform in-depth tests