What is the best year F250 to buy?
For many buyers, the F-250’s best value is found in the late-1990s to early-2000s diesel era, especially the 7.3L Power Stroke, while newer models offer modern tech and improved daily drivability. This guide breaks down the strongest model-year ranges for both diesel and gas variants and highlights what to check before you buy.
Diesel power: the best model-year ranges
Diesel F-250s are prized for their torque and long-haul durability, but reliability hinges on engine design and careful maintenance history. The following year ranges are widely considered strong bets for used diesel F-250 shoppers.
Why the 7.3L Power Stroke remains coveted
The 1999–2003 7.3L Power Stroke is often seen as the gold standard for reliability and ease of upkeep. It’s simple to work on, has a robust aftermarket, and tends to accumulate miles with fewer of the head-gasket and EGR headaches that plagued later diesels.
Before listing the best diesel ranges, note that early 2000s trucks with the 7.3L are popular precisely because of their straightforward maintenance and proven durability.
- 1999–2003: 7.3L Power Stroke
- 2011–2016: 6.7L Power Stroke (early 2011–2014 addressed initial issues; 2015–2016 refined)
- 2017–2024: 6.7L Power Stroke with the 10-speed automatic and ongoing updates
These ranges represent the most reliable diesel options in the used F-250 market, supported by broad parts availability and a large community of knowledgeable owners. Always review maintenance history, especially for engines with prior EGR or injector work, and pay attention to turbo and DEF-system service records on later 6.7Ls.
Gas-powered F-250s: solid-value years
Gasoline F-250s tend to be cheaper upfront and easier to service, though they don’t match diesel torque for heavy-duty use. The best-value windows balance modern features with proven, lower-maintenance V8s and dependable transmissions.
What changed in the gasoline lineup
From 2011 onward, Ford offered robust gasoline V8 options that pair well with the Super Duty’s chassis and transmission lineup. A newer 7.3L gasoline V8 arrived in 2020, delivering a modern, durable alternative to the diesel’s torque-heavy appeal.
Before listing the best gas ranges, consider how you’ll use the truck. For many buyers, a well-maintained used gas F-250 from the 2011–2019 window provides solid reliability at a lower price than a diesel, while 2020–present models bring the latest in power and refinement.
- 2011–2019: 6.2L V8 gasoline option (reliable standard-duty workhorse with straightforward maintenance)
- 2020–present: 7.3L V8 “Godzilla” gasoline (newer design, strong power, modern reliability)
Gas models from an earlier era can still be dependable, but the 2011–2019 and 2020–present periods represent the most favorable balance of price, parts availability, and proven performance in used-market F-250s.
Practical buying tips: what to look for
Regardless of engine choice or year, certain checks help separate a solid deal from a money pit. Use this checklist during inspections and test drives.
- Frame and body condition, especially rust in salt-prone regions
- Full service history, including timing components, injectors, turbo (diesel), and DEF/Emissions systems (diesel)
- Transmission health and service records (notably for 5-, 6-, and 10-speed transmissions)
- Electrical system integrity and absence of warning codes from the PCM
- For diesels: head-gasket history, EGR cooler condition, oil leaks, coolant contamination
- Maintenance records for suspension, brakes, steering, and tires (heavy-duty duty use affects wear)
Have a qualified mechanic familiar with Ford Super Duty trucks perform a pre-purchase inspection and road test to verify performance, especially on higher-mileage units.
Summary
The best year to buy a Ford F-250 depends on your intended use and budget. For diesel buyers who want enduring reliability, the 1999–2003 7.3L Power Stroke is widely revered, followed by the 2011–2016 and the 2017–2024 6.7L Power Stroke upgrades as modern refinements. If you prefer gasoline, the 2011–2019 era with the 6.2L is a solid value, while 2020–present models with the 7.3L gasoline engine offer the latest in power and modern reliability. Regardless of choice, a thorough inspection, clean maintenance history, and a careful test drive are essential to landing a dependable F-250. Your best option is the truck that fits your budget, maintenance capacity, and planned use, with proven records to back it up.
Which Ford F-250 engine is most reliable?
In 2025. So we were previously in the shop in a past video talking about how modern engines built in 2025.
What years 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 are the best years of F250?
The best Ford F-250 years depend on your priorities, with strong arguments for the 1999-2007 models for the reliable 7.3L diesel engine and simplicity, and the 2011-2016 models for improved performance and durability. For modern tech and power, the 2017-2019 generation offers a middle ground with its aluminum body and updated 6.7L engine, while the 2020+ models provide the latest technology and a new 7.3L gas option.
This video explains the different generations of the 6.7 Power Stroke engine and provides insights into the best models: 56sFlying WrenchesYouTube · Jan 29, 2025
Best years by priority:
- For legendary reliability (especially with diesel): 1999-2007, specifically the years with the 7.3L Powerstroke diesel engine. These trucks are known for their durability and ability to achieve high mileage with proper maintenance.
- For a balance of modern features and performance: 2011-2016. This generation is praised for its strong performance, and the 2016 model year in particular is noted for its improved ride quality and quiet cabin.
- For a middle ground with modern tech: 2017-2019. The first year of the aluminum body, these models have an updated 6.7L Power Stroke engine that produces more torque than previous years. They offer modern features without an overwhelming amount of electronics.
- For the latest technology and power: 2020 and newer. These models include new engine options like the 7.3L gas V8 and a 10-speed automatic transmission, as well as improved safety and tech features.
Which F250 to stay away from?
Are there any specific years I should avoid when buying a used Ford F250 diesel? Yes, the years 2002, 2006, 2008, 2011, and 2017 are often flagged as stand-out to avoid. These models tend to have more reliability issues and can lead to frustrating ownership.
