Is the Ford F250 7.3 gas engine reliable?

The Ford F-250’s 7.3-liter V8, often called the Godzilla, is widely regarded as a durable, reliable option for heavy-duty hauling. With regular maintenance, many owners report long service lives, frequently surpassing 200,000 miles.

This article examines how reliable the 7.3 gas engine is within the F-250’s broader drivetrain, what design choices support durability, common wear points to watch, and practical tips for owners and buyers. We also compare it to alternatives in the segment and outline maintenance strategies that maximize longevity.

Engine design and reliability drivers

Understanding what makes the 7.3 engine durable helps frame its reliability profile. The following factors contribute to its reputation for longevity in real-world use.

• Rugged pushrod V8 architecture with a proven block design that favors durability under heavy loads


• Simple, robust lubrication and cooling systems designed for long service intervals in commercial and work-truck duties


• Widely available parts, service knowledge, and a large aftermarket support network


• Less complexity than some modern turbocharged engines, which can simplify maintenance and reduce failure points

Taken together, these design choices have helped the 7.3 earn a reputation for reliability in a segment where trucks are expected to work hard for many years.

What owners and experts say about reliability

In owner forums, automotive press reviews, and service histories, the 7.3 is frequently cited for durability when regularly maintained. Real-world mileage milestones—well into the two-to-three hundred thousand-mile range—are commonly reported, which reinforces its reliability narrative. The following points reflect the consensus and caveats observed by enthusiasts and technicians.

• Engine longevity: Many examples reach high mileages with straightforward maintenance and without major engine repairs


• Drivetrain pairing: Reliability is strongest when the engine is mated to appropriate transmissions (notably Ford’s 10-speed automatic); issues often relate more to the transmission or overall drivetrain maintenance than to the engine itself


• Maintenance sensitivity: Like any heavy-duty gasoline engine, reliability hinges on adhering to maintenance intervals for oil, filters, cooling system, and ignition components


• Model-year iteration: Later model-years benefited from software updates and service campaigns that improved integration with the 10-speed transmission and related systems

Overall, the consensus among owners and reviewers is that the 7.3 is a robust workhorse when kept up with routine care, with fewer engine-specific reliability concerns compared with some turbocharged or direct-injected rivals.

Common issues and how to mitigate them

While the 7.3 engine itself is generally reliable, some reliability challenges have appeared in the field, particularly related to drivetrain integration and maintenance practices. The following items summarize typical concerns and practical fixes.

• Transmission behavior with the 10-speed automatic: Some early model-year combinations experienced shifting quirks or software-integration gremlins; mitigations include timely Ford software updates, transmission fluid services, and choosing models with the latest factory revisions


• Maintenance discipline is critical: Regular oil changes with the recommended oil type, along with cooling system checks and filter replacements, are essential to prevent long-term wear


• Fuel and ignition maintenance: Using quality fuel and keeping ignition components (spark plugs and coils) in good condition helps sustain smooth operation and longevity


• Port fuel injection vs. direct injection considerations: The 7.3 uses port fuel injection, which reduces certain intake-valve carbon buildup concerns seen with some direct-injected engines; this does not remove the need for routine maintenance but can influence maintenance planning

In short, most reliability concerns around the 7.3 center on supporting systems (transmission, cooling, ignition) and maintenance timing rather than intrinsic engine failures. Regular service and staying up to date with Ford’s recommended updates are the best mitigations.

Maintenance essentials for longevity

Maintaining a 7.3-equipped F-250 for maximum longevity means sticking to a disciplined service routine and using quality parts. The following guidelines summarize practical steps that owners can follow or verify when buying a used truck.

• Follow Ford’s maintenance schedule, including oil changes with appropriate oil grade and high-quality filters


• Keep the cooling system in good condition: inspect hoses, radiator, and the thermostat; address overheating promptly


• Regularly inspect ignition components and replace spark plugs per the manufacturer’s timing to prevent misfires and rough running


• Use OEM or reputable equivalent parts for critical systems (oil, filters, fluids, and hoses) to ensure compatibility and longevity


• Monitor the transmission's health: schedule planned services, fluid changes, and software updates as recommended by Ford

Adhering to these maintenance practices helps maximize the engine’s life and reduces the likelihood of unexpected failures, especially under heavy-duty use.

Summary

The Ford F-250’s 7.3-liter V8 stands out as a durable, reliable choice in the heavy-duty gas-truck segment. Its robust, relatively simple design, strong parts support, and proven track record contribute to long service life when properly maintained. The key reliability considerations center on the drivetrain it couples with—particularly the 10-speed automatic transmission—and on maintaining routine service intervals and cooling systems. For buyers and owners, a well-documented maintenance history, up-to-date software, and attentive care are the most reliable predictors of continued reliability in daily work and long-range hauling.

What are the issues with the Ford 7.3 Godzilla engine?

2022 Ford F-150 Recall
In 2022, Ford issued a recall for some F-150 trucks, some of which included the 7.3L gas engine. The recall dealt with possible fuel system or emissions defects that would lead to issues with engine performance or additional safety risks such as stalling or sudden loss of power.

How long will a 7.3 gas engine last?

The Ford 7.3 gas engine is considered a durable and reliable engine, with a design built for longevity. While its potential lifespan can be high (300,000-500,000 miles), key factors for long-term success include diligent maintenance, particularly regular oil changes. Potential issues exist, such as past wiring harness failures or, less commonly, lifter and cam wear in some early models, but its overall reputation is positive due to its robust build and relative mechanical simplicity compared to some other modern engines. 
Strengths

• Robust construction: Features include a cast-iron block, six-bolt aluminum heads, and a forged steel crankshaft, all contributing to its durability. 
• No cylinder deactivation: The absence of cylinder deactivation technology eliminates a potential source of failure points found in some other modern engines. 
• Proven design: A version of the 7.3L was previously used in school buses, which speaks to its potential for long service life. 
• Repairability: It is considered less complicated than some modern engines, and the block is thick enough for future rebuilds. 

Considerations and potential issues

• Lifter and cam wear: Some reports indicate a potential issue with lifter and cam failure, especially in heavier-duty applications, though this may be less common in newer iterations. 
• Wiring harness issues: Like many engines, the wiring harness can deteriorate due to heat and vibration, leading to performance problems. Regular inspection is recommended. 
• Maintenance is crucial: The engine's longevity is highly dependent on consistent and proper maintenance, especially regarding oil changes. A lack of care can lead to sludge buildup, even in a well-built engine. 

Summary for longevity
To ensure the longest life from your 7.3 gas engine, focus on these key areas:

• Change the oil regularly: Use high-quality oil and follow the recommended change intervals. A mechanic can even inspect for sludge by removing a cam sensor. 
• Inspect the wiring: Be on the lookout for signs of aging wiring harnesses, which can cause misfires and other performance issues. 
• Don't ignore warning signs: Address any unusual engine noises, hesitation, or rough idle, as these could indicate a developing problem, especially with the lifters. 

What Ford engine to stay away from?

Ford engines to avoid include the 6.0L and 6.4L Power Stroke diesels, which had numerous issues like EGR cooler failures and injector problems, and the 5.4L Triton V8 known for spark plug and timing chain problems. Other engines to be cautious of are the 3.8L V6 due to head gasket failures and certain EcoBoost engines, especially early 1.0L and 1.6L models, which have faced issues like premature timing belt wear and overheating. 
You can watch this video to learn about some of the worst Ford engines ever made: 59sCar WisdomsYouTube · May 2, 2025
Engines with high failure rates 

• 6.0L and 6.4L Power Stroke diesel engines: These engines (2003-2007 and 2008-2010, respectively) are notorious for expensive problems, including head gasket failures, injector issues, and turbocharger failures. 
• 5.4L Triton V8: This engine (1997-2010) is infamous for spark plugs breaking during removal and cam phaser/timing chain issues. 
• 3.8L SX V6: From 1982 to 2008, this engine had issues with weak head bolts causing head gasket failures, and early versions were prone to coolant leaks. 

This video discusses the 5.4L Triton V8 in detail: 53sSeats & WheelsYouTube · Aug 10, 2025
Problematic EcoBoost engines

• 1.0L EcoBoost (early versions): Early models used a rubber timing belt in hot engine oil, which could degrade and clog the oil pickup, leading to oil starvation and engine damage. 
• 1.6L EcoBoost: This engine has been associated with overheating and coolant leaks. 
• 3.5L EcoBoost: Problems can include carbon buildup, premature timing chain wear, and water pump failures. 
• 2.7L EcoBoost: Early models (around 2016-2017) experienced issues with defective valve guides, excessive oil consumption, and leaking plastic oil pans. 

You can watch this video for more information about EcoBoost engine issues: 1mExoticCar PlayPlaceYouTube · Nov 15, 2025

Is the 7.3 Ford gas motor a good motor?

Essentially it's a big, reliable, lazy V8 that will run without issue for thousands of hours with little maintenance. Sure, it's at a huge disadvantage compared to the Powerstroke (475 hp/1050 lbs-ft), but for applications where you don't need all that torque, this gas engine makes a lot of sense.