How many miles does a 2010 Ford f250 last?

A well-kept 2010 Ford F-250 can routinely reach 200,000–300,000 miles, with diesel versions often surpassing that and some trucks reported beyond 350,000 miles.

The longevity of a 2010 F-250 depends on a mix of powertrain, maintenance history, usage patterns, and environmental conditions. This year’s model year offered gasoline and diesel options, and while many owners enjoy long lifespans, the exact mileage a given truck can achieve varies based on how well it’s cared for and how it’s used on a daily basis.

Lifespan expectations by drivetrain

Here's a quick breakdown of mileage ranges typically seen across different drivetrains for the 2010 F-250, based on real-world reports from owners and service data.

• Gasoline-powered F-250s (common engines in this year): around 180,000–250,000 miles is typical; with meticulous maintenance, 250,000–300,000+ miles is possible.


• Diesel-powered F-250s (Power Stroke in 2008–2010 models): 250,000–400,000 miles is achievable; many owners report 300,000–500,000 miles with diligent maintenance, though repairs and upkeep can be more costly.


• Transmission and drivetrain components: automatic transmissions and transfer cases can reach 150,000–300,000+ miles with regular maintenance, though heavy use or towing can shorten this range.


• Frame and body integrity: rust and frame wear depend heavily on climate, salt exposure, and preventive care; well-maintained frames can last many decades if corrosion is managed.

In practice, the miles a 2010 F-250 accumulates hinge on how consistently it’s serviced and how carefully it’s driven. Diesel variants tend to offer greater long-term durability when properly maintained, but they also demand more attentive maintenance.

Maintenance habits that extend life

To maximize the truck’s lifespan, owners should follow proactive maintenance and address issues promptly. The following practices cover the most important areas that influence long-term durability.

• Adhere to manufacturer-recommended service intervals for oil changes, filters, and fluids; use the correct oil type and viscosity for gasoline engines, and appropriate oils for diesel engines.


• Keep transmission and differential fluids fresh and within recommended service intervals; replace worn components before failures develop.


• Maintain the cooling system (coolant checks, radiator hoses, thermostat, and intercooler on diesels) to prevent overheating, which can shorten engine life.


• For diesel models, monitor and address diesel particulate filter (DPF) and exhaust aftertreatment issues; ensure timely regenerations and avoid aggressive short trips that prevent full heat cycles.


• Inspect the fuel system for leaks, injectors, and lines; clean or service as needed to prevent improper combustion and excessive engine wear.


• Inspect and maintain the suspension, steering, brakes, and drivetrain components to prevent uneven wear that can cascade into bigger failures.


• Protect the frame and underbody from rust: wash in winter climates, treat exposed metal, and address corrosion early.


• Drive with sensible loads and avoid excessive towing beyond the truck’s design limits; use proper hitching, weight distribution, and trailer brakes where appropriate.


• Stay current on recalls and service bulletins; address issues promptly rather than delaying repairs.

Careful, consistent maintenance and thoughtful use are the best predictors of a long service life for a 2010 F-250, regardless of engine type.

Summary

Overall, a 2010 Ford F-250 can be expected to deliver strong longevity with diligent upkeep. Gasoline models commonly reach the 200,000–300,000 mile mark, while diesel-equipped trucks frequently push beyond 300,000 miles and, in many cases, past 400,000 miles. The exact outcome depends on maintenance discipline, driving demands, and climate. Following manufacturer-recommended maintenance, addressing issues early, and taking care of the frame and engine systems are the most reliable paths to maximizing the truck’s lifespan.

What is considered high mileage for a Ford F250?

For a gasoline F-250, high mileage starts around 200,000 miles, while for a diesel F-250, it's generally considered to be over 300,000 miles. A well-maintained diesel engine can last significantly longer, potentially exceeding 500,000 miles, but other components like the transmission and steering may require replacement sooner than the engine itself. 
Gasoline F-250

• Generally considered high mileage: Over 200,000 miles. 
• These engines can last over 100,000 miles before major repairs, but they are not built for the same longevity as diesels. 
• Other components may also be wearing out, regardless of engine condition. 

Diesel F-250

• Generally considered high mileage: Over 300,000 miles. 
• Longevity: With proper maintenance, these engines can last 500,000 miles or more. 
• Other components: Transmission, steering, and other parts may have a shorter lifespan than the engine and could require replacement at high mileage. 
• Factors to consider: Maintenance records, idle hours, and overall usage history are more important than the odometer reading alone for diesels. 

Is 300,000 miles on a diesel bad?

No, 300,000 miles on a well-maintained diesel is not necessarily bad, as these engines are designed to last between 300,000 and 500,000 miles, with some reaching 1,000,000 miles. However, at this mileage, it's crucial to have a record of consistent maintenance, including oil changes and filter replacements. Expect to address potential repairs on other components like the fuel system, turbo, or accessories. 
Factors to consider

• Maintenance history: A consistent and documented maintenance history is the most important factor. If there are no records, the vehicle is a higher risk. 
• Expected repairs: At 300,000 miles, it's likely that components beyond the engine block itself will need attention. This can include: 
  • Fuel system components (injectors, pump) 
  • Turbocharger
  • Accessory drive components (water pump, idlers)
• Engine and vehicle condition: While the engine may be sound, the overall condition of the vehicle is also critical. Other parts of the drivetrain, suspension, and body may be worn out and require significant investment. 
• Engine model: Some diesel engines are known for their durability and can handle high mileage better than others. Researching the specific engine model can provide more insight into its expected lifespan and common failure points. 

Is it a good purchase?
It depends on the price and the condition of the rest of the vehicle.

• A well-maintained diesel with 300,000 miles can still have a lot of life left and may be a good value if priced accordingly. 
• Without a solid maintenance history or if there are numerous other issues with the vehicle, it could be a costly investment in the short term. 

What year to stay away from F250?

Years to avoid for the Ford F-250 include 2002, 2006, and 2017 due to major issues like steering problems, engine failures, and the "death wobble". Other problematic years are 2008 and 2011, which also have significant reports of death wobble, and 2005, which had a high number of recalls. The 2017 model year is frequently cited as the worst due to a high volume of complaints. 
Specific years to avoid

• 2002: Dangerous steering failures and spark plugs ejecting from the engine. 
• 2005: Has a high number of recalls. 
• 2006: Unexpected stalling, steering issues, and potential throttle body problems. 
• 2008: Known for brake failure and the "death wobble". 
• 2011: Suffers from the "death wobble" and transmission issues with abrupt shifts. 
• 2017: Widely considered one of the worst years, with numerous complaints about steering and suspension, including the "death wobble". 
• 2018: Also part of the 2017-2022 generation with issues related to steering and suspension. 

Other years to be cautious about

• 2019: While often cited as a good year for the F-350, the F-250 in this year had reported issues with its 10-speed transmission. 
• 2020: Had problems with its 10-speed transmission. 
• 2015-2017: Had issues with the first-year aluminum body and the 10-speed transmission. 

Important note

• Be aware of which engines are in the model years you are considering. For example, the 5.4-liter Triton engine from 2002-2008 is particularly problematic. 

Is the 2010 Ford F-250 reliable?

The 2010 Ford F-250 has mixed reliability, with some issues specific to its diesel engine, while the gasoline version generally performs better. Common complaints include problems with the high-pressure fuel pump and EGR valve in the 6.4L diesel, and a general lack of fuel economy across the board. However, 2010 models are considered to be some of the better years of their generation, and many owners report high satisfaction with towing, power, and comfort.
 
This video explains the issues with the 6.4L diesel engine: 49sShooting CarsYouTube · Jun 8, 2025
Reliability concerns

• Diesel engine issues: The 6.4L Powerstroke diesel is prone to several problems, including a faulty high-pressure fuel pump, a failed EGR valve leading to smoke, a hose that can blow off the turbo, and potential wiring issues. Some owners refer to it as a "disposable" engine due to these issues. 
• Coolant leaks: Coolant leaks from the radiator are a reported problem. 
• Fuel economy: The truck's fuel economy is generally poor. 
• Other issues: Some models may experience a spark plug ejection problem, and there are recalls related to fuel tank straps, which can lead to leaks. 

Positive aspects

• Strong performance: Owners frequently praise the truck's power and towing capabilities. 
• Smooth ride: Many reviews mention a comfortable and smooth ride, despite being a heavy-duty truck. 
• Modern features: Compared to older models, the 2010 F-250 includes more modern features and options. 
• Positive owner reviews: Despite some issues, many owners are happy with their purchase, citing the truck's comfort and ability to tow large loads with ease.