What are the best Ford F-250 years to buy?
The strongest all-around choices tend to be the 2011–2014 and the 2017–2024 Ford F-250s with the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel, plus the 2020–2024 F-250s with the 7.3L gasoline Godzilla engine for non-diesel buyers.
The question of which model years are best to buy a Ford F-250 hinges on your priorities: reliability, towing capability, maintenance costs, and whether you prefer a diesel or gasoline powertrain. This guide looks at year ranges with commonly reported reliability, common issues to watch for, and what updated features each period brought to the Heavy Duty lineup.
Overall best model years for used F-250
Below are the year ranges that buyers frequently target for a balance of modern features, proven drivetrains, and good resale value. Each range reflects how Ford refined the Super Duty platform over time.
- 2011–2014: The first years of the current-generation 6.7L Power Stroke; widely considered a solid balance of capability and maturity, with improvements over the initial launch period.
- 2015–2016: A transitional window with ongoing refinements to emissions controls and interior tech, often priced lower than peak later-model years while remaining reliable for towing.
- 2017–2024: The mid-cycle refresh and subsequent updates brought a stronger, more feature-rich interior, updated electronics, and continued diesel reliability enhancements, making these years popular for long-term ownership.
In short, you’ll typically find the best value and reliability in the 2011–2014 and 2017–2024 ranges, with the 2015–2016 period offering a good balance if you see a well-maintained example at a favorable price.
Best diesel-powered Ford F-250 years
For buyers prioritizing maximum torque, towing performance, and diesel-specific durability, the 6.7L Power Stroke has been Ford’s mainstay since 2011. Reliability tends to improve as the engine family matures and service intervals become routine, though it’s wise to avoid years with documented early emissions-control teething problems and to verify maintenance history.
- 2011–2014: Early 6.7L Power Stroke years; solid towing ability with growing reliability as Ford addressed early batch issues.
- 2015–2016: Continued refinements to emissions systems and reliability; typically good value with modern maintenance records.
- 2017–2024: Maturity of the platform and ongoing updates yield the most dependable diesel options, with common-rail injection and aftertreatment systems well established.
Diesel buyers often look for full maintenance histories, documented oil changes with the correct spec, and proof of proper cooling and DEF-system servicing, which can significantly influence long-term durability and repair costs.
Best gasoline-powered Ford F-250 years
If you’d rather avoid diesel maintenance costs, Ford’s gasoline option under the hood has also evolved. The newer 7.3L Godzilla V8, introduced for the F-Series lineup in recent years, is widely praised for reliability and straightforward servicing relative to diesel options.
- 2020–2024: Introduction of the 7.3L Godzilla gasoline engine; praised for simplicity, robust low-end torque, and lower maintenance complexity compared with diesel engines.
- 2025 (current models): Ongoing refinements and optional features for higher trims, with continued emphasis on reliability and serviceability.
Gas-powered F-250s are popular with owners who want lower fuel-system maintenance exposure, easier cold-starts in winter, and potentially lower daily operating costs if towing heft isn’t extreme or if diesel-maintenance costs are a concern.
What to look for when buying a used F-250
Regardless of engine choice, certain checks apply across model years to reduce risk and ensure you get a solid truck. Use this quick checklist during inspection or in a pre-purchase report from a qualified technician.
- Service history: Look for regular oil changes, transmission service, coolant and DEF servicing (for diesels), and documented recalls addressed.
- Mileage vs. wear: High-mileage examples with meticulous maintenance can be better bets than low-mileage trucks with spotty service records.
- Diesel-specific concerns: For 6.7L engines, verify turbo health, EGR/DPF function, and evidence of proper regeneration cycles; listen for any abnormal exhaust sounds or excessive smoke.
- Grocery-list components: Inspect brakes, suspension bushings, steering, and tires; heavy-duty trucks see wear in these areas due to towing and load.
- Electrical system: Ensure instrumentation, infotainment, back-up cameras, and trailer-control features function reliably; Ford’s MyFord/iProduct systems can have updates, so confirm software is up to date.
With the right checks and a verified maintenance record, any of these year ranges can provide dependable service for years to come, especially when aligned with your towing needs and budget.
Summary
For a well-rounded used F-250, prioritize 2011–2014 and 2017–2024 models with the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel for durability and strong towing capability, while 2020–2024 F-250s equipped with the 7.3L Godzilla gasoline engine offer a compelling, lower-maintenance alternative for non-diesel buyers. Always review maintenance history, confirm recall résumés are complete, and have a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase to maximize value and long-term reliability.
