Loading

What engine is in a 2011 Ford F550?

The 2011 Ford F550 is a heavy-duty commercial truck that was powered by a variety of engine options. The most common engine found in the 2011 F550 was a 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 diesel engine.


6.7L Power Stroke V8 Diesel Engine


The 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 diesel engine was the standard engine option for the 2011 Ford F550. This engine was developed by Ford in collaboration with Navistar International and featured a number of advanced technologies, including a high-pressure common-rail fuel injection system and a variable-geometry turbocharger. The 6.7L Power Stroke V8 produced 300 horsepower and 660 lb-ft of torque.


Other Engine Options


In addition to the 6.7L Power Stroke V8 diesel, the 2011 Ford F550 was also available with the following engine options:



  • 6.8-liter Triton V10 gasoline engine, producing 362 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque

  • 6.2-liter Flex-Fuel V8 gasoline engine, producing 385 horsepower and 405 lb-ft of torque


The choice of engine depended on the specific configuration and intended use of the 2011 Ford F550 truck.

Is the 2011 6.7 Power Stroke a good engine?


The 2011 6.7L Powerstroke is generally considered a good and reliable engine, especially when compared to its predecessors, but it does have some specific common issues, particularly in the first production run. Common problems include turbocharger issues, EGR valve clogging, radiator leaks, and a rare but potentially catastrophic valve seat failure on early models. Regular maintenance and a pre-purchase inspection are crucial for longevity.
 
Common issues

  • Early model turbocharger failures: The early 2011-2012 models had a dual-compressor turbo with weak ceramic ball bearings that were prone to failure. These were later replaced with steel bearings and a different design in 2015. 
  • Valve seat failure: Some early 2011 engines had a rare, but catastrophic, issue with valve seats breaking. This can lead to glow plug damage and potential engine replacement. Trucks built after a certain date in 2011 are less susceptible. 
  • EGR and cooling system leaks: The EGR valve can clog, causing reduced power and rough idling. The radiator and air-to-water intercoolers can also leak coolant, which is a common and expensive repair. 
  • CP4 injection pump: The high-pressure fuel pump is susceptible to failure. Installing an aftermarket filter in the return line is a recommended preventative measure to prevent fuel system contamination if the pump fails. 
  • Other issues: Owners have also reported issues with cracked exhaust manifolds, oil leaks, and the crankcase ventilation system getting clogged. 

What makes it a good engine
  • Power and reliability: The 6.7L Powerstroke is known for its strong performance and towing capabilities. 
  • Durability: When properly maintained, the engine is expected to last a long time, with some reaching well over 200,000 miles. 
  • Improved over predecessors: It marked a significant improvement in reliability compared to earlier Ford diesel engines like the 6.0L and 6.4L. 

How to ensure longevity
  • Perform regular maintenance: Stick to a consistent schedule for oil and fuel filter changes. 
  • Inspect for leaks: Regularly check for coolant and oil leaks, as they are common on this engine. 
  • Be aware of the specific model year: For maximum peace of mind, consider buying a truck built after the early 2011 production date to avoid the rare but severe valve seat issue, say Reddit users. 



What year to avoid 6.7 Power Stroke?


The 6.7 Powerstroke years to avoid are primarily 2011-2014 due to issues like turbocharger failures (especially in 2011-2012 models with ceramic bearings), oil pan leaks, and intercooler leaks. While later models are more reliable, the 2017-2019 models can also have problems with the high-pressure fuel pump and oil cooler, and the 2020-2021 models had issues with the 10-speed transmission before an update in 2022.
 
This video explains the common issues in the first generation of the 6.7 Powerstroke: 1mFlying WrenchesYouTube · Jan 29, 2025
2011-2014: The first generation 

  • Turbocharger: Early 2011-2012 models are notorious for turbo failure due to ceramic bearings. Leaks from the turbo coolant fittings were also common, with a fix implemented in 2015. 
  • Oil Pan: 2011 models had a plastic oil pan that was prone to leaking, requiring transmission removal for replacement. 
  • Intercooler: Internal intercooler leaks that push coolant into the engine are more common in this generation. 
  • Vacuum Pump: Some early models had issues with vacuum pump bolts backing out. 
  • Exhaust Valves: Some very early 2011 models (pre-mid-March build date) had defective exhaust valves that could cause catastrophic engine damage. 

Later generations with issues
  • 2017-2019: These models can have issues with the high-pressure fuel pump, leading some to recommend an aftermarket fuel system kit. Problems with the oil cooler and front-end steering components were also reported. 
  • 2020-2021: These years had problems with the 10-speed automatic transmission. The 2022 model year saw an updated, more reliable 10-speed transmission. 



What engines are available in the 2011 Ford Super Duty?


The 2011 Ford Super Duty engine options were a standard 6.2L V8 gasoline engine, an optional 6.7L Power Stroke turbo diesel V8, and a 6.8L Triton V10 available only in chassis cab models. The 6.2L gas engine produced 385 horsepower and 405 lb-ft of torque, while the all-new 6.7L diesel initially produced 390 hp and 735 lb-ft of torque.
 

  • 6.2L V8 Gas: The standard engine, which provided best-in-class horsepower and torque for a gasoline engine in its class. 
    • Horsepower: 385 hp 
    • Torque: 405 lb-ft 
  • 6.7L Power Stroke V8 Diesel: An all-new engine for 2011 that replaced the previous diesel, offering improved performance and efficiency. 
    • Horsepower: 390 hp 
    • Torque: 735 lb-ft (initial rating) 
  • 6.8L V10 Triton: This was a separate option specifically for chassis cab and vocational trucks. 
    • Horsepower: 362 hp 
    • Torque: 457 lb-ft 



What engine does a F-550 Super Duty have?


The F-550 boasts a standard 7.3L V8 gas engine, delivering impressive horsepower and torque to handle heavy-duty tasks easily. The 6.7L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel engine offers enhanced performance and efficiency for those requiring additional power.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.