How much horsepower does a 2012 f450 6.7 have?
The official horsepower figure for the 2012 F-450 with the 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel is 390 horsepower (SAE net).
That power output sits alongside a substantial amount of low-end torque, with peak torque rated at about 735 lb-ft. This combination was designed to support the heavy-haul tasks for which the F-450 is built, particularly when paired with the appropriate transmission and drivetrain configuration.
Engine specs and horsepower context
Key metrics that buyers and enthusiasts typically reference when evaluating the 2012 F-450's 6.7L diesel are summarized here.
- Horsepower: 390 hp (SAE net) at 2,800 rpm
- Torque: 735 lb-ft (SAE net) at 1,600 rpm
- Displacement: 6.7 liters
- Configuration: V8 diesel with turbocharging and intercooler
- Transmission pairing: commonly matched with a heavy-duty TorqShift 6-speed automatic transmission
These figures reflect the factory rating for the 2012 model year. Real-world results can vary with drivetrain configuration, towing setup, altitude, and wear on the engine.
Why horsepower matters for heavy-duty use
For the F-450, horsepower is part of a larger balance that includes torque, gearing, and payload capacity. While 390 hp sounds modest by modern performance standards, the engine's 735 lb-ft of torque is what helps the truck perform hard pulls and carry heavy loads when equipped with the right axle ratio and transmission.
Model year notes and variations
Ford refined the Power Stroke in subsequent years, but in 2012 the rating stood at 390 hp / 735 lb-ft. Later updates increased horsepower in later model years, but those changes fall outside the scope of the 2012 F-450 lineup.
Summary
In short, the 2012 Ford F-450 with the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel is rated at 390 horsepower (SAE net) and about 735 lb-ft of torque. This combination is tuned for heavy-duty towing and payload performance, reflecting the vehicle’s role as a workhorse in the Super Duty lineup.
Is 2012 a good year for the 6.7 Powerstroke?
The 2012 6.7L Powerstroke is generally considered a good and powerful engine, especially compared to its predecessor, but it has known issues, particularly with the first-generation (2011-2014) models. Common problems include turbocharger failures, a high-failure-rate CP4 injection pump, EGR cooler clogging, and various leaks. While many owners have reported high mileage with proper maintenance, it's crucial to be aware of and budget for these potential repairs, which can be complex due to the engine's modern electronic components.
This video provides an overview of the 2011-2014 Ford 6.7L Powerstroke, including common issues and potential fixes: 1mDirty Diesel CustomsYouTube · Nov 9, 2023
What makes it good
- Power and performance: The engine is a powerful workhorse, known for its smooth operation and strong performance, especially for towing.
- Robust construction: It has a strong engine block and crankshaft design, built to handle heavy loads and stress.
- Longevity potential: Many owners report reaching over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance, and some have reached much higher mileage.
This video discusses the pros and cons of the 6.7L Powerstroke engine after 200,000 miles: 57sPower Stroke MaintenanceYouTube · Mar 19, 2025
What to look out for
- Turbocharger: Early models (2011-2012) had issues with turbochargers due to weak ceramic ball bearings, which were later updated to steel.
- Injection pump: The CP4 high-pressure fuel pump is known for a high failure rate, which can contaminate the entire fuel system with metal shavings.
- EGR system: The EGR cooler is prone to clogging from carbon buildup.
- Leaks: The truck is susceptible to various leaks, including oil leaks from the pan, radiator leaks, and coolant leaks from the intercoolers.
- Electrical/Software: The abundance of sensors and complex electronics can lead to check engine lights and may require specialized software for diagnostics.
- Other common issues: These can include EGT sensor failure, clogged crankcase ventilation systems, and vacuum line problems for the 4WD system.
- Early production issues: Be cautious of early 2011 models, as some had rare but catastrophic valve seat failures. Buying one with a replacement engine or from a later production build date is safer.
This video highlights some of the common issues to be aware of before buying a Ford 6.7L Powerstroke, including the CP4 injection pump: 54sJT2JZYouTube · Mar 8, 2024
How much horsepower does a 6.7 L F-450 have?
With the 6.7L High Output Power Stroke Turbo Diesel under the hood, the F-450 offers 500 horsepower at 2,600 RPM and a grin-inducing, 1,200 lb-ft of torque at 1,600 RPM.
How much horsepower does a 2012 Ford F450 have?
400 horsepower
How much horsepower does a 2012 F450 Super Duty Crew Cab have? All 2012 F450 Super Duty Crew Cab trim variations have 400 horsepower.
How much horsepower does a 2012 6.7 Powerstroke make?
The 2012 6.7L Powerstroke engine produces 400 horsepower and 800 lb-ft of torque from the factory. However, after market modifications and tuning can significantly increase this figure, with some custom builds reaching well over 600 horsepower.
You can watch this video to learn how to achieve over 600 WHP with a Ford 6.7 Powerstroke: 57s8020 AutomotiveYouTube · Feb 20, 2025
- Stock power: 400 hp and 800 lb-ft of torque.
- Real-world power: On a dynamometer, the factory horsepower is lower, approximately 350 hp, due to drivetrain losses.
- Modified power: With tuning and aftermarket parts, horsepower can be substantially increased. For example, one modified 2012 F-250 was dynoed at 647 hp.
This video demonstrates how to get 800 HP with a 6.7 Powerstroke: 57sResults Will VaryYouTube · Mar 16, 2020
