How many miles per gallon does a F-350 7.3 V8 get?
The F-350 with the 7.3-liter V8 typically records around 12 mpg in city driving and roughly 16–17 mpg on the highway, yielding a combined figure in the mid-teens for common 2WD configurations. Real-world results vary with towing, payload and drivetrain.
In this report, we break down EPA estimates, factors that affect real-world fuel economy, and practical tips to maximize efficiency for a heavy-duty pickup used for work and recreation.
EPA fuel economy estimates by drivetrain and configuration
Here are representative EPA ranges for the 7.3L V8 in the F-350, noting that exact numbers depend on cab/bed, axle ratio, and tires.
- Two-wheel drive (2WD) configurations: approximately 12 mpg city / 17 mpg highway, with a combined figure around 14.5–15 mpg.
- Four-wheel drive (4x4) configurations: approximately 11 mpg city / 16 mpg highway, with a combined figure around 13–14 mpg.
- Note: These figures apply to gasoline-equipped F-350s with the 7.3L V8. Heavier configurations or different gearing can shift numbers slightly.
Exact EPA ratings vary by model year and configuration; consult the EPA label or Ford's official spec pages for your exact build.
Real-world factors that affect mpg
Real-world fuel economy depends on how the truck is used and maintained. The following factors consistently influence mileage in everyday driving and towing scenarios.
- Payload and towing: Heavier loads and trailers raise fuel consumption, especially on hilly terrain.
- Drivetrain losses: 4x4 versions typically see lower mpg than 2WD due to added drivetrain drag.
- Driving style and terrain: Stop-and-go urban driving and steep grades decrease mpg relative to steady highway cruising.
- Aerodynamics and trailer: Drag from a trailer or poor trailer fit reduces highway efficiency.
- Tire size and inflation: Oversized tires or under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce mpg.
- Maintenance and fuel quality: Proper maintenance helps sustain efficiency; dirty air filters, worn spark plugs, or degraded oil can lower mpg.
In practice, many owners report mid-teens miles per gallon when not towing, with numbers dropping into the high single digits to low teens under heavy towing.
Tips to maximize mpg in a Ford F-350 7.3L
Below are practical actions that can help you improve fuel economy without compromising capability.
- Keep payload light when possible; distribute loads efficiently to minimize drag and weight.
- Maintain correct tire pressures and use appropriate tire sizes for your truck.
- Adopt smooth acceleration and steady speeds; anticipate stopping to reduce fuel use.
- Schedule regular maintenance, including air filter, spark plugs, and oil changes.
- Plan routes to minimize hills and idling time; use cruise control on highways when appropriate.
These practices won’t turn a heavy-duty work truck into a compact sedan, but they can help you maximize efficiency within the vehicle's intended use.
Summary: The Ford F-350 with the 7.3L V8 delivers typical mpg in the mid-teens in everyday driving, with 2WD configurations generally offering better fuel economy than 4x4. Tow or carry heavy payloads will lower mpg significantly, while careful driving and maintenance can help you extract the best possible fuel economy from this workhorse.
