How long can a Ford F350 engine last?
In practical terms, the life of an F-350 engine depends on which powertrain you have and how well you maintain it. Gasoline variants typically endure about 250,000 to 350,000 miles with solid upkeep, while the diesel Power Stroke options commonly reach 300,000 miles or more, frequently surpassing 500,000 miles with attentive maintenance.
Engine families and longevity
The ranges below reflect typical owner and technician reports and are not guaranteed outcomes. Different fuels, workloads, and maintenance histories lead to wide variations in actual mileage.
Gasoline engines
Gasoline-powered F-350s (such as those with the 6.2L V8 or the newer 7.3L Godzilla V8) generally show strong longevity when properly cared for. Most trucks report ranges around 250,000–350,000 miles, with some reaching 400,000 miles or more under meticulous maintenance and moderate duty cycles.
Diesel Power Stroke engines
The 6.7L Power Stroke diesel is designed for heavy use. Many F-350 diesels reach 300,000–500,000 miles, and a notable number of owners report 500,000 miles or more with regular oil and fuel-system upkeep, timely replacement of wear items, and careful cooling management.
Older gasoline and alternative powertrains
Earlier gasoline configurations and older V8s (including legacy configurations found in late-2000s to mid-2010s Super Duty models) typically fall in the 200,000–350,000 mile range, with longevity strongly influenced by maintenance history and how heavily the truck has been worked.
In short, diesel engines often offer higher long-haul durability for those running high mileages or heavy-duty workloads, but the actual lifespan of any F-350 depends on how you service and operate the vehicle.
Maintenance practices that help maximize life
To push an F-350 toward higher-mileage milestones, owners should adopt a disciplined maintenance routine. The following list highlights the core practices linked to engine longevity.
- Follow the manufacturer’s scheduled maintenance and use recommended fluids and parts; adjust for heavy towing or extreme conditions as needed.
- Change engine oil and filters on time with the quality specified for your engine (diesels typically require more frequent changes under heavy load).
- Keep the cooling system in good shape: regular coolant changes, radiator and hose inspections, thermostat checks, and prompt repair of leaks to prevent overheating.
- Regularly replace fuel and air filters; for diesels, monitor and service the fuel-water separator and DEF system to avoid contaminants and efficiency loss.
- Maintain emissions systems (EGR, DPF, SCR/DEF) to prevent buildup that can impair performance and longevity, especially on diesel engines.
- Inspect belts, hoses, and the turbocharger (if equipped) for wear and leaks; replace worn components before they fail.
- Address leaks and abnormal noises promptly; early fixes prevent further damage and preserve engine health.
- Manage heavy-duty duty and towing with proper cooling and heat management; allow adequate cool-down after strenuous use to reduce thermal stress.
Adhering to these practices can significantly extend an F-350’s engine life and help you achieve the higher-mileage scenarios discussed above.
Model-year considerations and real-world usage
Real-world reliability varies by generation. Ford’s 6.7L Power Stroke has earned strong reviews for durability in heavy-duty service, while earlier diesel configurations sometimes required more attentive maintenance. The 7.3L Godzilla gasoline engine, introduced in recent model years, is praised for its simplicity and robustness when well maintained. Whether used for fleet work, heavy towing, or everyday duties, the engine’s longevity hinges on consistent service, quality parts, and sensible operating practices.
Summary
With attentive maintenance and appropriate expectations for powertrain choice, a Ford F-350 engine can deliver long service lives—from roughly 250,000 miles on gasoline variants to well over 500,000 miles on modern diesels. Real-world results vary based on engine type, driving and towing patterns, and how diligently maintenance is performed.
