The Ford F-250 has been a mainstay of the Ford truck portfolio for many years now. They began production in 1998 and continue to thrive to this day. Ford F250 pickup trucks are renowned for their toughness, reliability, and endurance. However, not every year of the F250 is the same in terms of performance and capability.
Some years are praised for their performance and features, while others are known for their issues and costly repairs. In this article, we will examine the best and worst years for Ford F250 trucks. We will look at each year’s performance, reliability, and overall value to determine which years are worth investing in and which ones to avoid.
If you want the best used Ford F-250, choose a model from 2005, 2009, 2011, or 2020 model years. However, users looking for a reliable truck should avoid 2002, 2006, 2008, and 2012 F-250 model years. These results are concluded after assessing consumer reviews, satisfaction ratings, and reliability scores of these model years.
Best Model Years of Ford F-250:
The following models will serve you well if you’re looking to buy a used Ford F-250. They have the fewest number of complaints and have held up well over time. These years have been some of the best for the Ford F-250.
9. 2022 Ford F-250:
With its cutting-edge features and posh cabin, the 2022 Ford F-250 is a cut above the competition among heavy-duty pickup trucks. If money is no object, this is the best choice.
It has excellent power and torque, is roomy enough for a family, and can easily tow and move heavy objects. This model has a large V8 engine with a 6.2-liter starting capacity that can be used in gasoline or diesel.
The 2022 Ford F-250 has an overall rating of 4.1/5 based on consumer reviews on Edmunds, with 70% of owners giving it a 5-star rating. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for it.
8. 2021 Ford F-250:
The 2021 F-250 is a third-generation model and another solid option for those in the market for a new Super Duty. It can carry and pull a substantial amount of weight and has a lightweight aluminum body for increased efficiency and maneuverability.
Moreover, it comes in a wide variety of body styles and tech-enhanced configurations. For this model year, the XLT trim level has all the essentials, three cab variants, and several extra amenities.
The 2021 Ford F-250 has an overall rating of 4.1/5 based on consumer reviews on Edmunds, with 69% of owners giving it a 5-star rating. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 0 recalls for it.
7. 2014 Ford F-250:
One of its era’s most efficient pickup trucks, the 2014 F-250 looks as strong as it drives. Besides the standard high towing and payload capacities, it is lauded for its flexible set of features, attractive and useful technological additions, and peaceful cabin.
Since it is a carryover model, no significant alterations were made compared to its direct predecessors. Crew cabs, super cabs, and ordinary cabs are the three body designs from which aspiring truck buyers might select.
The 2014 Ford F-250 has an overall rating of 4.3/5 based on consumer reviews on Edmunds, with 67% of owners giving it a 5-star rating. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued only 1 recall for it.
6. 2013 Ford F-250:
2013 F-250 combines robust performance, upscale comfort, and the latest convenience features for both work and play. The base model of this truck is powered by a 6.2-liter gasoline V8 producing 385 horsepower, while the larger 6.7-liter turbodiesel V8 offers 400 horsepower and an incredible 800 pound-feet of torque as an upgrade.
It has a maximum towing capacity rating of 14,000 pounds and can accommodate up to 6 adult passengers. It has upgraded brakes, the automaker’s unique MyFord touch interface, and a Platinum trim level.
The 2013 Ford F-250 has an overall rating of 4.4/5 based on consumer reviews on Edmunds, with 68% of owners giving it a 5-star rating. According to Car Complaints, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 0 recalls for it.
5. 2011 Ford F-250:
The F-250’s massive steel frame, which was the thickest on the market at the time, was featured on the 2011 model. In 2011, purchasers discovered a car with a proven track record of extreme durability.
With a more pronounced front end and improved, simplified lighting from front to back, Ford improved the exterior for a better overall look and functionality. Technology was abundant inside, including a modern LCD instrument panel and standard AUX inputs.
The 2011 Ford F-250 has an overall rating of 4.5/5 based on consumer reviews on Edmunds, with 71% of owners giving it a 5-star rating. According to Car Complaints, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has only issued 2 recalls for it.
4. 2010 Ford F-250:
The 2010 Ford F-250 is exceptional regarding the dependability, performance, and customer satisfaction. The 6.4-liter Power Stroke diesel engine was one of the 2010 F-250’s best features in customers’ eyes.
With a maximum output of 350 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque, this engine is renowned for its strength and effectiveness. Additionally, the F-250 has a powerful towing capacity, capable of pulling up to 16,000 pounds when properly outfitted.
The 2010 Ford F-250 has an overall rating of 4.4/5 based on consumer reviews on Edmunds, with 59% of owners giving it a 5-star rating. According to Kelley Blue Book has only issued 0 recalls for it.
3. 2009 Ford F-250:
The F-250’s 2009 model year best demonstrated the second generation’s crowning achievement: its standout diesel engine. The strong architecture of 2009 F-250 made it one of the least problematic vehicles ever produced.
The vehicle features improved ride and handling characteristics, a fluid, automatic transmission, and an add-on option for a trailer brake controller. It is available in the XL, XLT, Lariat, and FX4 trim levels.
The 2009 Ford F-250 has an overall rating of 4.3/5 based on consumer reviews on Edmunds, with 56% of owners giving it a 5-star rating. According to Car Complaints, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has only issued 1 recall for it.
2. 2007 Ford F-250:
Although it is among the older models on this list, the 2007 F-250 is still regarded by many as one of the best.
Aside from getting a few reports of problems and complaints, this model year is hailed for its power, usability, and towing capacity in all trim levels and cab configurations.
Although its interior design was unremarkable, it was constructed with high-quality materials to ensure cozy seating for many years to come. There are numerous customization options, including the Lariat Outlaw Package.
The 2007 Ford F-250 has an overall rating of 4.4/5 based on consumer reviews on Edmunds, with 61% of owners giving it a 5-star rating. According to Car Complaints, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has only issued 7 recalls for it.
1. 2005 Ford F-250:
The 2005 version of the first-generation F-250 was genuinely exceptional. It delivered a rugged ride along with a smooth, quiet experience free of rattling and shaking, especially compared to its hulking competitors, who provided a much noisier and more jarring experience.
2005 F-250 featured three engine choices. The first one was a triton V8 engine that produced 300 hp and 365 lb-ft of torque. Triton V10 (high power option) came in second with 310 horsepower and 425 lb-ft of torque. Third was a diesel 7.3-liter Power Stroke turbo V8 with 275 horsepower and 525 lb-ft of torque.
The 2005 Ford F-250 has an overall rating of 4.4/5 based on consumer reviews on Edmunds, with 68% of owners giving it a 5-star rating. According to Car Complaints, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has only issued 5 recalls for it.
Worst Model Years of Ford F-250:
There are great years and bad years of any model, and the F-250 is no exception. These are some of the worst years in existence for the Ford F-250.
6. 2019 Ford F-250:
According to data compiled by CarProblemZoo.com, the 2019 F-250 is the most problematic year in the model’s history, which reported 1,663 problems at CarProblemZoo. According to multiple complaints, shaking was the main offender.
When the truck is driven between 60 and 75 miles per hour, many drivers experience incidents of an uncontrolled steering wheel combined with significant vehicle shaking. Because of its poor gas mileage, you could lose a lot of time and money.
This truck has many lovely modern electronics that will give you the impression that you are living in luxury, but don’t be fooled—this truck will be a real nuisance. According to Car Complaints, the 2019 model has more than 1000 complaints associated with it, with 4 recalls.
5. 2017 Ford F-250:
The infamous “Death Wobble” was a major issue with the 2017 F-250. Death Wobble is the term for the truck’s extreme shaking, which makes it nearly difficult to control. Owners reported powerful shaking as they neared speeds of above 50 mph, and several claimed to have experienced the deadly wobble while striking a road bump.
Most reports said that the steering wheel shaft would violently shake and rattle. Ford has not provided a fix for this problem, and some experts have said there is none. According to Car Complaints, the 2017 model has more than 1000 complaints associated with it, with 2 recalls.
4. 2012 Ford F-250:
When it comes to reliability, the 2012 Ford F-250 does not fare much better. The transmission of the 2012 model was one of its major issues. Many drivers complained about shifting and torque converter problems; some even said their transmissions had failed.
In addition to these technical difficulties, many drivers have complained about issues with its cabin. Complaints included poor material quality, uncomfortable seats, and out-of-date technologies.
The 2012 F-250 also frequently has issues with the exhaust system and emissions control systems. According to Car Complaints, the 2012 model has more than 350 complaints associated with it, with 1 recall.
3. 2008 Ford F-250:
Ford was eager to launch the latest F-250 in the market in 2007. So it seems that the 2008 model was rushed through the production line, and certain important features of the vehicle were overlooked.
Many truck owners have complained about vibrations while driving. This is due to the incorrect alignment of the driveline components. There have also been reports of the AC speed frequently changing on its own and the spark plug ejection issue.
In addition, the 2008 F-250 has a low towing capability and bad gas mileage. According to Car Complaints, the 2008 model has more than 250 complaints associated with it, with 8 recalls.
2. 2006 Ford F-250:
If you ask any Ford truck owner, they will tell you that the 2006 model year is the worst of the bunch. It suffered the same spark plug issue as the 2002 F-250 and motor issues such as fuel injection pump failure, radiator leakage, and ignition coil failure.
While the V8 kept blowing head gaskets and spark plugs, the 6.0 Powerstroke Deisel engine didn’t fare any better. The oil cooler was the primary source of problems due to its tendency to become clogged with dirt and debris.
The truck’s engine overheated and locked up due to the clogged oil cooler, which set off a cascade series of events that resulted in EGR failure and coolant leakage. According to Car Complaints, the 2006 model has more than 400 complaints associated with it, with 7 recalls.
1. 2002 Ford F-250:
Repairpal has rated the 2002 F-250 at an average reliability rating of 3.5/5. This model year had several mechanical problems. There have been complaints of the fuel injection pump failing, rendering the truck inoperable. Additionally, the head gaskets have been known to create an oil leak on the starter.
Since many F250 owners relied on their vehicles for a living, the reliability issues caused significant disruptions to their productivity. According to Car Complaints, the 2002 model has more than 250 complaints associated with it, with 8 recalls.
Most Common Problems With Ford F-250 Models:
Here are some of the most common issues that drivers of Ford F-250 face frequently:
1. Suspension Issues:
The Ford F-250 has secondary suspension problems. This issue can make it difficult for the driver to maintain vehicle control. It can also include expensive fixes that might not last long if the vehicle’s suspension is prone to wear and tear.
It might be risky and expensive for the driver to fix suspension problems. Consider these factors when shopping for a pre-owned Ford F-250.
2. Steering Issues:
Steering wheel difficulties appeared in several versions of the Ford F-250. Although Ford swiftly identified and fixed the issue, the 2017 model was the most notable year for this. Steering wobbles and locking up the wheel are two problems that drivers of this car have reported. If you want to maximize your safety on the road, you should avoid models with suspension problems, specifically the 2017 model.
3. Death Wobble:
The terrible “death wobble” of the F-250 pickup was yet another big problem. Death wobble reports began coming in for the 2005 model year, but the problem seems to go off in the 2017 and 2019 years. The death wobble is a body integrity problem that causes the F-250 truck to shake wildly and become harder to control. It probably isn’t as scary as it sounds. This problem has a slight link to the steering problem stated before.
4. Coolant Leaks:
The F-250 was plagued by a number of leaks, the most common of which was coolant leaking from the radiator. A pool of coolant under the truck is the most telling sign.
According to various experts, the issue was caused by a malfunctioning thermostat bypass, which led to pressure spikes inside the radiator and the ultimate failure. Changing out the radiator and thermostat assembly was the go-to solution for most problems.
Conclusion
Anyone who travels frequently needs a reliable vehicle in their life. The Ford F-250 is a great place to start if you’re looking for a big pickup truck. There are some years of this vehicle, though, that you should be careful to avoid, while there are others you may pick confidently.
There have been several Ford F-250 complaints over the years, but many people have continued to trust the vehicle’s advertised durability. We hope this information will help you select the best model year for your next used car.
