What F-250 to stay away from?

Avoid the most troublesome diesel options and model-year traps, and steer toward well-maintained, newer powertrains. In short, steer clear of certain early-to-mid-2000s F-250 diesels and favor the more reliable modern powertrains or pristine older classics.

Engine families to beware in the F-250

Diesel reliability has historically been the sticking point for used F-250 buyers. Here is a quick guide to the engines most buyers choose to avoid unless a thorough pre-purchase inspection and comprehensive maintenance history are available.

• 6.0L Power Stroke (2003–2007): Known for injector harness failures, high-pressure oil-system issues, EGR/oil-cooler leaks, and head-gasket risk. Maintenance costs tend to be significantly higher than average, especially on aging trucks.


• 6.4L Power Stroke (2008–2010): Prone to turbo/wastegate problems, EGR cooler failures, DEF/DPF plumbing complications, and HP oil-pump issues. Repairs can be expensive, and reliability in daily use has been questioned by many owners.

Concluding note: If you’re evaluating one of these trucks, demand complete service history, confirm all recalls/TSBs have been addressed, and budget for substantial potential repairs.

General used-F-250 vetting: red flags to watch in any year

Beyond engine choice, there are recurring trouble spots in many F-250s that can undermine reliability and value. Look for these issues during inspections and test drives.

• Frame and body corrosion: older trucks in regions that salt roads are common targets for frame rust, which can compromise safety and resale value. Inspect frame rails, crossmembers, and cab mounts closely.


• Transmission wear and shifting issues: high mileages or heavy towing histories can wear transmissions; review service history and, if possible, take a test drive with load to assess shifting smoothness.


• Suspension and steering wear: ball joints, tie rods, control arms, and steering dampers can show fatigue in older trucks; listen for clunks and feel for loose steering during turns.


• Electrical gremlins and recall status: verify that open recalls have been completed; scan for fault codes and watch for intermittent electrical faults that often surface in aging trucks.

Bottom line: meticulous inspection and a complete service/recall history are essential when shopping for any used F-250, and especially for diesel-powered examples.

Safer alternatives and buying tips

Best long-term diesel option

The 2011–present 6.7L Power Stroke is widely regarded as the most reliable modern diesel in the F-250 lineup. It delivers strong torque and improved electronics, though maintenance costs remain meaningful, so budget accordingly.

Reliable older diesel option

The 1994–2003 7.3L Power Stroke is legendary for durability when well maintained. These engines are aging, so watch for rust and frame integrity, and ensure availability of parts and skilled service for vintage diesels.

Gasoline-powered options

Gasoline F-250s can be solid buys if you don’t require extreme torque or towing power. They typically offer lower maintenance costs and easier parts availability, provided you review service history and perform a thorough pre-purchase inspection.

Summary

For buyers aiming to avoid trouble, the core guidance is clear: steer away from the 6.0L (2003–2007) and 6.4L (2008–2010) diesels in the F-250 lineup, and prefer a well-maintained newer 6.7L (2011–present) or a clean, older 7.3L. Pair engine choice with a careful inspection, verify recalls, and check for frame, transmission, and suspension wear to minimize risk. With disciplined shopping, you can find a dependable F-250 that fits your needs and budget.

What year is F-250s to avoid?

Years to avoid for the Ford F-250 include 2002, 2006, and 2017 due to major issues like steering problems, engine failures, and the "death wobble". Other problematic years are 2008 and 2011, which also have significant reports of death wobble, and 2005, which had a high number of recalls. The 2017 model year is frequently cited as the worst due to a high volume of complaints. 
Specific years to avoid

• 2002: Dangerous steering failures and spark plugs ejecting from the engine. 
• 2005: Has a high number of recalls. 
• 2006: Unexpected stalling, steering issues, and potential throttle body problems. 
• 2008: Known for brake failure and the "death wobble". 
• 2011: Suffers from the "death wobble" and transmission issues with abrupt shifts. 
• 2017: Widely considered one of the worst years, with numerous complaints about steering and suspension, including the "death wobble". 
• 2018: Also part of the 2017-2022 generation with issues related to steering and suspension. 

Other years to be cautious about

• 2019: While often cited as a good year for the F-350, the F-250 in this year had reported issues with its 10-speed transmission. 
• 2020: Had problems with its 10-speed transmission. 
• 2015-2017: Had issues with the first-year aluminum body and the 10-speed transmission. 

Important note

• Be aware of which engines are in the model years you are considering. For example, the 5.4-liter Triton engine from 2002-2008 is particularly problematic. 

Which F250 is most reliable?

The most reliable F-250 models vary by engine and generation, but popular choices include the third-generation (2011-2016) for its balance of reliability and performance, and the 7.3L "Godzilla" gas engine, introduced in 2020, for its durable and simpler design. For a used model, the 2009 and 2011 diesel F-250s are also frequently mentioned as strong contenders.
 
This video discusses the Ford F-250's 7.3L Godzilla engine and its reliability: 51sGetty's GarageYouTube · Oct 2, 2025
Reliable engine options 

• 7.3L "Godzilla" Gas V8 (2020+): This engine is praised for its simple, durable design with fewer potential failure points than other modern engines. It lacks direct injection and cylinder deactivation, which are common sources of issues in other engines. 
• 6.2L V8 (2017-2019): This is a reliable and dependable engine, though it may not be as powerful as the Godzilla. 
• 6.7L Power Stroke Diesel (2011+): The 6.7L is a strong and reliable option, particularly the earlier 2011-2016 models. However, newer versions may have more complexity and potential issues with the 10-speed transmission. 

Reliable model years

• 2011-2016: The third generation of the Super Duty truck is often cited as a reliable choice, with complaints typically centered on common heavy-duty truck issues like suspension and steering components. 
• 2009-2010: These model years are considered reliable for their diesel engines, but the later models had their own issues. 

Models to approach with caution

• 6.0L Power Stroke Diesel (2003.5-2007): While this engine can be made reliable with modifications, it is known for factory-related issues like head gaskets and should be approached with caution. 
• 6.4L Power Stroke Diesel (2008-2010): This generation is often cited as one to avoid due to its poor reliability and complex emissions system. 
• 2020+ 10-speed automatic: Some reliability issues have been reported with the 10-speed transmission, especially when it is paired with the 7.3L engine. 

You can watch this video to learn more about the reliability of F-250 engines: 1mFlying WrenchesYouTube · Jun 19, 2025

Which Ford F-150 engine to avoid?

Avoid certain Ford F-150 engines, particularly the 5.4L Triton V8 (2004-2008) known for spark plug and cam phaser issues, and the early 3.5L EcoBoost engines (2015-2017) which can have timing chain and carbon buildup problems. Also avoid the 2018 5.0L V8 due to a reported oil consumption issue, and be cautious with 2021-2022 2.7L and 3.0L EcoBoost engines due to a recall for valve failure. 
This video explains which Ford F-150 model years to avoid: 59sThe SUV GuyYouTube · Jul 19, 2025
Engines to avoid

• 5.4L Triton V8 (2004-2008): Prone to spark plugs breaking during removal and cam phaser failure, leading to rough running and ticking noises. 
• 3.5L EcoBoost (2015-2017): Early versions can suffer from carbon buildup on intake valves and timing chain stretch and failure. 
• 2018 5.0L V8: Affected by excessive oil consumption. 
• 2.7L and 3.0L EcoBoost (2021-2022): Part of a recall for a catastrophic engine failure risk due to valve failure. Ensure any vehicle has had this recall performed. 

Other models to approach with caution

• 2010 F-150: Continued to have transmission and electrical issues. 
• 2016 F-150: Experienced significant challenges with its electronic components. 
• 2021 F-150: The first model year of a new generation, which can include electrical problems and build quality issues, along with recalls for the PowerBoost hybrid system. 

What Ford F250 diesel to avoid?

Avoid: 2017
The 2017 Ford F-250 is widely considered to be the vehicle's worst year. The year 2017 was easily one of Ford's worst model years with the highest number of NHTSA complaints.