Are Ford F250s safe?
Yes. Ford F-250s are generally considered safe for their class, thanks to a robust frame, multiple airbags, and a broad suite of driver-assistance features; however, safety depends on the exact year, trim, and how the truck is used, such as payload and towing.
What makes the Ford F-250 safe?
Understanding safety in the F-250 starts with its design philosophy and equipment. The Super Duty line combines a high-strength steel frame, advanced airbag systems, and a broad array of driver-assistance technologies that are standard or available across trim levels. Below is a look at the core elements that contribute to safety on most F-250 configurations.
Key safety tech explained
Ford’s safety suite, often branded as Co-Pilot360 or Co-Pilot360 Assist (depending on year), bundles several features designed to prevent crashes or mitigate impact. Expect items such as automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, a blind-spot information system with trailer coverage, lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control, and a rearview/360-degree camera system. When equipped for towing, Pro Trailer Backup Assist and trailer sway control add layered protection during highway maneuvers. These technologies work together with a sturdy frame, side-curtain airbags, and rollover mitigation systems to improve overall safety in routine driving and in demanding towing scenarios.
- Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
- Adaptive cruise control with Stop-and-Go on many trims
- Lane-Keeping System and Lane-Centering features on higher trims
- Bluish/BLIS with cross-traffic alert and trailer coverage
- 360-degree camera and enhanced rear visibility on newer models
- Roll stability control and trailer sway control
- Pro Trailer Backup Assist for easier controlled reversing with a trailer
- Multiple airbags and a high-strength frame designed to protect occupants
These safety systems are complemented by traditional protections such as reinforced body construction, seatbelt pretensioners, and crumple zones designed to absorb energy in a collision. The net effect is a vehicle that emphasizes crash avoidance and occupant protection across a wide range of use cases, from daily commuting to heavy-duty towing.
How do official safety ratings apply to the F-250?
Official crash-test ratings for the Ford F-250 Super Duty come from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Because heavy-duty pickups carry different weights, payloads, and towing demands, not every model year and configuration is tested in the same way, and results can vary by trim and drivetrain. Consumers should look up the exact year and configuration to understand the official ratings for that specific vehicle.
- NHTSA assessments for heavy-duty pickups are not always published in the same way as for light-duty sedans and SUVs; when published, ratings can differ by cab/bed configuration and engine choice. Check SaferCar.gov for the precise year/model you’re considering.
- IIHS tests for large pickups have historically covered limited configurations and sometimes vary by year. Some model years show results for specific tests (e.g., moderate overlap, head restraints, or rear seating), while others may not have a full set of ratings. Verify the exact year/trim on IIHS.org before making comparisons.
In practice, this means you should verify the exact year, trim, and configuration to understand the current official safety standings. Ratings can change with redesigned models or updated safety packages, so up-to-date verification is essential.
Real-world considerations for buyers
Beyond official ratings, real-world safety hinges on how the truck is used, maintained, and equipped. The F-250’s size, weight, and high payload capacity influence braking, handling, and rollover risk when heavily loaded or towing, so informed usage is key.
- Payload and towing discipline: Staying within GVWR and payload limits is crucial for predictable braking, stability, and stopping distances, especially with a heavy trailer.
- Maintenance and recalls: Regular maintenance—especially brakes, tires, and suspension—affects safety. Check for recalls at official sites and ensure timely service, tire condition, and proper inflation.
- Feature availability by trim: Higher trims tend to include more advanced driver-assistance features, while lower trims may have fewer options. If safety tech is a priority, verify which features are included in your chosen configuration.
- Driver training for towing: Even with assistive tech, safe towing requires proper technique and familiarity with features like Pro Trailer Backup Assist, trailer sway control, and load distribution.
Bottom line: An well-equipped Ford F-250 with appropriate payload management and attentive driving can be a safe choice within its class. Buyers should verify year-specific safety ratings, confirm feature availability on the preferred trim, and review recalls and maintenance history before purchasing.
Bottom line for buyers
To make an informed decision, check the exact model year and trim for official NHTSA/IIHS results, confirm which driver-assistance features are standard or optional, review payload and towing specs, and verify any recalls or service notices. A well-maintained, properly loaded F-250 with modern safety tech tends to offer strong safety performance for a full-size pickup.
Summary: The Ford F-250 is designed around safety through a robust frame, comprehensive airbag coverage, and a broad set of driver-assistance features that have become standard in many trims. Official safety ratings are year- and configuration-specific, so prospective buyers should consult the exact model year's NHTSA and IIHS results, verify feature availability, and scrutinize maintenance and recall history. When used within its limits and equipped appropriately, the F-250 can be a safe and capable choice for work and everyday driving.
What year did the F-250 have the death wobble?
The "death wobble" has affected many Ford F-250 years, most notably the 2008 and 2017-2019 models, with issues also reported in models from 2005-2019. Some reports also mention issues in newer model years (2020-2022) as they accumulate mileage, as well as in 2011 models. The problem is often linked to worn steering components, and an extended warranty exists for the steering damper on 2017-2019 models.
You can watch this video to learn more about the Ford "death wobble" and its potential causes: 1mWSOCTV9YouTube · Feb 6, 2020
- 2005-2019: A class-action lawsuit alleges problems with the suspension system in F-250 and F-350 models from this range, with complaints filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
- 2008: This model year is specifically mentioned as being plagued by the death wobble, along with other issues like brake problems.
- 2011: Owners have reported experiencing the death wobble in this model year, which is also known for transmission issues.
- 2017-2019: This range is frequently cited for having the death wobble, and a warranty extension exists for the stock steering damper in these models.
- 2020-2022: Some reports suggest that newer models may start showing signs of the issue as they age and accumulate mileage.
How safe is a F-250?
However, according to J.D. Power, the 2024 Ford Super Duty truck's safety rating for the F-250 is fantastic. For Quality and Reliability, the F-250 scored 83/100.
Which truck is safest in a crash?
The safest trucks in a crash, based on safety ratings and crash tests, include the 2024 Toyota Tacoma, 2025 Ford F-150, 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, and 2021 Honda Ridgeline. The 2025 Ford F-250 Super Duty and 2025 Ram 2500 are also highlighted for heavy-duty models. Safety features like advanced airbags, reinforced frames, and driver-assistance systems such as automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist are key factors in their high safety scores.
Top-rated trucks
- 2024 Toyota Tacoma: Earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick award, rebuilt on the new TNGA-F platform for 2024, and received perfect scores in all side-impact categories from the NHTSA.
- 2025 Ford F-150: Has top ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, featuring a reinforced frame, military-grade aluminum construction, and advanced airbags.
- 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500: Received a perfect five-star overall score from the NHTSA, indicating top performance in crash tests.
- 2021 Honda Ridgeline: Received top ratings in crashworthiness, including high marks for side and roof strength, and scored "superior" in front crash prevention.
- 2025 Toyota Tundra: Achieves "Good" ratings in most IIHS tests, supported by strong and sturdy construction and effective airbags.
- 2025 Ford F-250 Super Duty and 2025 Ram 2500: Named the best heavy-duty trucks for 2025 by U.S. News & World Report.
Key safety features
- Structural integrity: Reinforced frames and crumple zones are designed to absorb impact energy.
- Driver assistance: Features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring help prevent collisions.
- Airbag systems: Advanced airbag systems provide comprehensive protection for occupants in various crash scenarios.
- Electronic stability: Systems like electronic stability control, traction control, and rollover prevention help maintain stability.
Which F-250 to stay away from?
Are there any specific years I should avoid when buying a used Ford F250 diesel? Yes, the years 2002, 2006, 2008, 2011, and 2017 are often flagged as stand-out to avoid. These models tend to have more reliability issues and can lead to frustrating ownership.
