How many miles per gallon does a 2009 Ford f550 get?
In the 2009 F-550, mpg depends heavily on engine choice, payload, and usage. Overall, expect roughly 10 to 15 miles per gallon, with diesel models typically offering better highway efficiency than gasoline versions. Real-world mileage varies widely based on configuration and operating conditions.
This article breaks down the two main powertrains from that year, explains how payload and towing affect fuel economy, and offers practical tips to estimate the mpg for your specific truck.
Engine options and their fuel economy profiles
Ford offered two primary powertrains for the 2009 F-550. The following ranges reflect typical driving conditions and payload scenarios observed by owners and reviewers.
- 6.8L V10 gasoline engine: roughly 8–11 mpg in city driving and 12–15 mpg on highway trips under light-to-moderate load; expect a combined figure around 10–13 mpg when hauling or towing increases demand.
- 6.4L Power Stroke diesel: roughly 12–15 mpg in city conditions and 18–22 mpg on highways when not heavily loaded; combined mileage often in the 15–18 mpg range with typical commercial use.
Diesel engines generally offer better highway efficiency and more consistent mileage under load, while gasoline versions tend to be lower overall due to the heavier duty tasks these trucks often perform.
Factors that affect fuel economy in a heavy-duty cab
Fuel efficiency in a 2009 F-550 fluctuates with payload, towing, and operating conditions. The most influential factors include:
- Payload and towing weight
- Terrain and grade (hills, city stop-and-go vs. steady highway)
- Engine type and condition
- Tire size, pressure, and alignment
- Transmission behavior and gear selection
- Maintenance, fuel quality, and filter cleanliness
To maximize efficiency, keep tires properly inflated, minimize unnecessary weight, and follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule. Real-world mileage will still vary based on how the truck is used.
How to estimate the mpg for your specific 2009 F-550
Because there wasn't a single EPA label for every configuration in 2009, the best approach is to check EPA estimates for the exact drivetrain and configuration and then adjust for your typical duty cycle and payload. Tracking fuel usage over several fill-ups is a practical way to compute a real-world average.
For a precise figure, consult the vehicle’s manual, the original window sticker if available, or databases that catalog EPA ratings by engine and configuration for the 2009 F-550.
Summary
The 2009 Ford F-550’s fuel economy varies notably by engine and use. Gasoline models with the 6.8L V10 typically fall in the low-to-mid teens when highway driving is involved and can dip into the single digits in heavy city use or with substantial payload. Diesel models with the 6.4L Power Stroke usually achieve higher highway efficiency and better overall mileage under load, often in the mid-teens to low-20s on long highway routes and around 15–18 mpg in mixed duty. Always consider payload, towing demands, and maintenance, and measure your own fuel usage to get an accurate personal estimate.
