Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Power
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on generation and powertrain.
7 problems reported (2 very frequent, 4 recurrent, 1 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequent"Death Wobble" steering/suspension vibration
Severe, uncontrollable shaking in the front end, particularly noted in models from 2017-2020. A recall was issued but problems persist for some owners.
- Very frequentNumerous service recalls
Covering moonroof wind deflector detachment (2022 models), APIM (infotainment) software failures, and other defects.
- RecurrentGeneral build quality concerns
Perceived as lower quality than competitors and other Ford products (e.g., Infiniti), with many recalls cited as evidence.
+ 4 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentBrittle charge pipe/intercooler tube
Plastic charge pipes on 6.7L diesel engines can crack under high boost pressure, causing loss of power and smoke.
- RecurrentPoor fuel economy (older diesels)
7.3L Power Stroke models reportedly achieve around 12 MPG regardless of driving style.
- RecurrentExcessive size for daily use
Difficult to park, maneuver in cities, and creates visibility issues around smaller vehicles and pedestrians.
- IsolatedRust issues (older generations)
Bodies are noted as being prone to rust.
The version owners recommend
For classic reliability: The 1999-2003 (first-generation Super Duty) with the 7.3L Power Stroke diesel and a manual transmission (ZF5) is highly regarded by enthusiasts for its mechanical simplicity and longevity. For modern capability: Newer models (2020+) with the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel are recommended for serious towing, with the exhaust brake and 10-speed transmission noted as major advantages. The 7.3L gasoline engine is recommended for those who do not tow constantly, due to lower procurement and running costs.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Chevrolet Silverado HD, Ram HD (2500/3500) and Ford F-250 Super Duty.
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on generation and powertrain. The truck is universally acknowledged for its immense capability, towing strength, and utility for heavy-duty work. Long-term owners of the 1999-2003 generation with the 7.3L Power Stroke diesel express strong loyalty, praising its legendary reliability and durability, though noting its age and lack of modern refinement. For newer generations (approximately 2017-2025), feedback is divided. Positive remarks highlight advanced technology like adaptive cruise control and exhaust braking, powerful modern engines (6.7L Power Stroke, 7.3L gas "Godzilla"), and overall comfort for a heavy-duty vehicle. Significant criticism is directed at widespread quality control issues, including a very frequent and severe "death wobble" steering/suspension problem affecting models from at least 2017-2020, numerous service recalls (including for moonroof defects and infotainment modules), and perceived inferior build quality compared to competitors. The vehicle's sheer size is noted as both an asset for capability and a significant drawback for daily driving and maneuverability in urban settings.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as the dominant sales leader in the heavy-duty segment, but with acknowledged reliability flaws. It is directly compared to the Chevrolet Silverado HD, with some owner feedback suggesting the Chevy offers a better ownership experience with fewer chronic issues like the death wobble. Within the Ford lineup, it is seen as a substantially more capable but less refined and more problematic vehicle than the F-150. The 6.7L Power Stroke diesel engine is frequently praised for its massive power and torque output, favorable fuel mileage compared to older diesels, and advanced features like integrated exhaust braking.
Recommended configurations
Diesel (6.7L Power Stroke) for frequent heavy towing. Gasoline (7.3L) for general use and lighter, less frequent towing to save on upfront and maintenance costs. Single Rear Wheel (SRW) configuration is common for pickup use. A pickup model is recommended over a chassis cab for private buyers seeking more features and easier resale, with the option to later add a custom flatbed. An extended warranty is suggested for newer models due to the frequency of recalls and issues.
General recommendations
Recommended for buyers whose primary need is maximum towing and payload capacity for work, farming, or heavy recreational use. Not recommended as a daily driver or for those who primarily drive in urban areas due to its massive size and poor maneuverability. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is critical, with specific attention to the front suspension for death wobble on 2017+ models. Buyers should research open recalls (e.g., moonroof wind deflector, APIM software) and ensure they are addressed. For older 7.3L models, expect poor fuel economy (approximately 12 MPG) and ensure maintenance records are comprehensive. Aggressive negotiation on new models is suggested, as market prices have shown correction from previously inflated levels.
Remarks
Owner feedback spans multiple generations, from the 1999 introduction of the Super Duty to the current model, making specific year-range analysis difficult. The 7.3L Power Stroke diesel's reputation for reliability is a consistent theme from older model discussions, while criticism of build quality and the death wobble dominates newer model talk. The data includes technical specifications and comparisons but limited detailed long-term ownership testimonials on specific model years. The high number of recalls and the severity of the death wobble issue significantly impact the perceived reliability of post-2017 models, despite their advanced powertrains and features. Analysis based on approximately 35 substantive owner discussions and technical commentaries.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearSource: NHTSA (US)Show table
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | 85 | 4 | steering |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices4 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2013 · equipmentcampaign 14V507000
Jerr-Dan Corporation (Jerr-Dan) is recalling certain model year 2009-2014 Ford F-350 Super Duty, F-450 Super Duty, and F-550 Superduty chassis modified by Jerr-Dan and equipped with certain Muncie Power Products PTO Assemblies. In the affected vehicles, oil may leak from the PTO pressure switch onto a thermal blanket covering the exhaust.
2013 · equipmentcampaign 14V494000
Vanair Manufacturing, Inc. (Vanair) is recalling certain model year 2009-2013 Ford F-350, F-450, and F-550 SuperDuty chassis modified by Vanair and equipped with certain Muncie Power Products PTO Assemblies used with model 60-85 UDSM, 125-185 USDM, and Genair 125-185 driven air compressor systems. In the affected vehicles, oil may leak from the PTO pressure switch onto a thermal blanket covering the exhaust.
2013 · equipmentcampaign 14V496000
Versalift East, LLC (Versalift) is recalling certain Aerial devices manufactured on 2009-2013 Ford, F-350, F-450, and F-550 Super Duty 6.8L gas engine chassis, modified by Versalift and equipped with certain Muncie Power Products FR67 PTO Assemblies. In the affected vehicles, oil may leak from the PTO pressure switch onto a thermal blanket covering the exhaust.
2013 · equipmentcampaign 14V498000
PJ's Truck Bodies & Equipment Co., (PJ's) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Ford F-350, F-450, and F-550 Super Duty chassis modified by PJ's and equipped with certain Muncie Power Products PTO Assemblies. In the affected vehicles, oil may leak from the PTO pressure switch onto a thermal blanket covering the exhaust.
Specifications
6.7 V8 Power Stroke TD SRW
6.7L 8-cylinder diesel · 400 hp · RWD · automatic
Built 2011–2016