WORST Ford F 250 Years To Avoid, as per Real Owner Complaints

If you’re shopping for a Ford F-250, it’s important to know which model years could give you trouble. Some years have had lots of problems like suspension issues, engine failures, and the dreaded ‘death wobble.’

The years to avoid or be cautious about are 2006, 2008, 2011, 2017, 2012, and 2019.

But what exactly went wrong with these trucks, and are there any warning signs to look out for?

Let’s dig into the details so you can make a smart choice.

Key Takeaways

• The 2008 models have problems with the engine, steering, and turbocharger.
• The 2011 models are known for a dangerous ‘death wobble’ and serious suspension and steering issues.
• The 2012 models have trouble with the transmission and exhaust system, leading to expensive repairs.
• The 2017 models report steering wobble, tailgate problems, and many complaints to the NHTSA.
• The 2019 models have major reliability and safety issues.

Overview of Ford F-250 Troubles

Over the years, the Ford F-250 has had its fair share of problems, with certain model years standing out due to repeated mechanical and safety issues. Models from 2006, 2008, 2011, and 2017 have been particularly troublesome.

The 2006 F-250 experienced a lot of suspension failures and steering problems, leading to a recall in 2011.

The 2008 model had engine troubles and steering complaints.

The 2011 F-250 was famous for steering and suspension issues, including the dreaded ‘death wobble.’

The 2017 model had the most complaints to the NHTSA, with ongoing steering wobble problems and issues with the tailgate and doors.

These recurring problems are something potential buyers should be aware of.

Issues in 2001 Ford F-250

The 2001 Ford F-250 has a bad reputation due to several common issues. One of the biggest problems is that the spark plugs can blow out, which has led to 379 complaints to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a few safety recalls. When this happens, it can cause the engine to misfire or even fail completely.

On top of that, many drivers have reported problems with the steering and suspension, making the truck hard to control. The steering can be unpredictable, and the suspension can make handling difficult.

Issue	Details
Spark Plug Blowouts	379 NHTSA complaints
Tire Tread Problems	3 injuries
Steering Wheel	Unpredictable control
Suspension Issues	Difficult handling

All these issues make the 2001 model year one to avoid if you’re worried about safety and reliability.

Problems With 2003 Models

The 2003 Ford F-250 has a lot of problems with its engine and fuel system, which makes it a poor choice for buyers. Owners often report big mechanical issues like alternator and battery failures, as well as transmission troubles. These problems make the truck unreliable and lead to expensive repairs and long periods of downtime.

There have also been recalls for important parts, adding to the concerns about this model. Many consumer complaints and low-reliability ratings highlight the 2003 F-250’s flaws. If you’re thinking about buying a used Ford F-250, avoiding the 2003 model can save you from unexpected costs and headaches. Knowing these issues can help you make a better decision.

2006 Ford F-250 Concerns

The Ford F-250 has had its share of problems over the years, so it’s important for buyers to know what issues to look out for with each model. High repair costs and low reliability are common concerns.

For example, the 2001 model had issues with spark plugs blowing out and tire treads. By 2006, problems with the suspension and electrical systems were common.

The 2008 model had steering problems that caused several crashes. The 2011 model suffered from the ‘death wobble,’ a serious steering issue.

In 2017, there were widespread complaints about steering and suspension problems, with over 1,200 complaints filed with the NHTSA. These ongoing issues highlight the need for careful research before buying a Ford F-250 from any troublesome model year.

Reliability of 2008 Models

When looking at the 2008 Ford F-250, you’ll find major reliability problems, especially with the engine and steering. These trucks often had issues with emissions, turbochargers, and fuel systems, resulting in low reliability scores.

There were also over 75 complaints to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and 5 crashes caused by steering failures, which shows there are serious safety concerns.

Common Engine Problems

The 2008 Ford F-250 has a lot of reliability problems, mainly due to engine issues like problems with the emissions system, turbocharger failures, and fuel system defects. These engine problems have hurt the truck’s reputation and led to frequent repairs and unhappy owners.

Problem	What’s Wrong	What Happens
Emissions Failures	DEF system issues, EGR problems	Lower efficiency, fails emissions tests
Turbocharger Failures	Turbo lag, inconsistent boost pressure	Loses power, can damage the engine
Fuel System Defects	Injector failures, fuel pump problems	Stalls, hard to start

There were also steering problems with the 2008 F-250, but the engine issues were a big reason why it’s not very reliable. Knowing about these problems can help you decide if this model is right for you.

Steering Safety Concerns

Engine problems aren’t the only worries for the 2008 Ford F-250. Steering issues have also been a big problem, causing serious concern among owners and experts.

There are over 75 complaints with the NHTSA about steering problems in this model. These issues are really dangerous, with reports of steering failures leading to five crashes. The risk of losing control because of these steering problems is high, putting both drivers and passengers in danger.

On top of that, owners have mentioned other problems like emissions, turbochargers, and fuel issues, making the vehicle less reliable overall.

If you’re thinking about getting a 2008 Ford F-250, it’s important to know about these major steering safety concerns.

2011 Ford F-250 Drawbacks

Several years of the Ford F-250 have had major issues, including frequent mechanical problems and safety concerns reported to the NHTSA.

For example, the 2006 model had 413 complaints, mostly about suspension issues that led to loss of control and steering problems.

The 2008 model was less reliable, with over 75 complaints, many about severe steering failures.

The 2011 model was infamous for the ‘death wobble,’ with over 106 complaints about steering problems and serious safety issues.

The 2017 model had over 1,200 complaints, highlighting major steering and suspension problems that affected vehicle stability.

If you’re considering these model years, you should be aware of these recurring issues.

Avoiding 2012 Models

When looking at the 2012 Ford F-250, you’ll notice some big problems with its transmission and exhaust/emissions system. The transmission often had issues like sudden shifting and even complete failure, which led to expensive repairs.

The exhaust and emissions system was also a headache, frequently causing the check engine light to come on and requiring costly fixes.

On top of that, many people complained about the interior. They found the materials to be cheap and noticed a lot of wear and tear. These problems made the 2012 F-250 less reliable overall.

Reviews from customers often pointed out these issues, showing just how many drawbacks this model had. If you’re thinking about buying a used Ford F-250, it’s best to avoid the 2012 model year.

Common Issues in 2017 Models

Looking at the 2017 Ford F-250, you’ll notice that this model has many problems, especially with the steering and suspension. People often report issues like wobbling and the steering wheel locking up, which are serious safety concerns.

Over 1,200 complaints were filed with the NHTSA for this model year, pointing out common problems like faulty tailgates and door issues. The suspension system also gets a lot of criticism for causing an unstable ride. These problems not only make the vehicle less safe but also hurt its overall performance and ownership experience.

Given the high number of complaints and the seriousness of these issues, it’s clear that the 2017 Ford F-250 is a model to avoid.

Problems With 2019 Ford F-250

How reliable and safe is the 2019 Ford F-250? Unfortunately, it’s not very good. The 2019 model has serious steering problems, like wheel shaking and wobbling at high speeds. These issues make the truck unstable and dangerous to drive.

On top of that, many owners have reported problems with the touchscreen, which affects essential controls and navigation. Because of these mechanical and tech issues, a lot of people have given negative feedback.

If you’re thinking about getting a 2019 Ford F-250, be aware that these problems have made this model year one to avoid for many.

Steering Issues in 2017 Models

In the 2017 Ford F-250, many drivers reported problems with the steering wobbling or locking up, which is a big safety worry. These issues can make it hard to control the vehicle and could lead to accidents.

It’s important to know how these steering problems can affect the safety of both the driver and passengers.

Common Steering Problems

The 2017 Ford F-250 has serious steering problems that have caused a lot of safety concerns and complaints to the NHTSA. Drivers have reported the steering wheel shaking violently, known as ‘death wobble,’ and sometimes even locking up while driving.

These issues are often due to defects in the steering linkage and suspension system. The problems can come and go, making them hard to diagnose and fix.

With so many complaints, it’s clear that the steering issues in the 2017 Ford F-250 are a major worry for both drivers and safety officials.

Impact on Safety

With over 1,200 complaints filed, the 2017 Ford F-250’s steering problems clearly affect both safety and reliability, putting drivers and passengers at high risk. The main safety concerns include:

1. Wobbling: Sudden, uncontrollable shaking known as the ‘death wobble’.
2. Steering Lock-up: The steering wheel can lock up, especially during important maneuvers.
3. Suspension Problems: These issues lead to unstable handling and a higher chance of rollovers.
4. Tailgate and Door Malfunctions: Adding to the vehicle’s overall unreliability.

The steering issues with the 2017 model aren’t just annoying; they’re dangerous. If you can’t trust your vehicle’s basic controls, every trip becomes risky. Detailed research shows these problems as serious safety concerns, advising potential buyers to think twice.

Engine and Transmission Problems

Several Ford F-250 model years, including 2003, 2008, and 2012, have significant engine and transmission problems that lead to expensive repairs and reliability issues.

The 2003 model has engine failures often caused by fuel system problems, which result in more downtime.

The 2008 model faces a variety of engine problems like emissions issues, turbocharger failures, and ongoing fuel system troubles.

The 2012 F-250 is known for its transmission problems, which often require costly repairs and cause operational disruptions.

These recurring issues affect the overall performance and reliability of these trucks, making them particularly troublesome.

Common Complaints and Recalls

When looking into the Ford F-250, you’ll often find problems like spark plug blowouts and major issues with steering and suspension.

These problems have resulted in many complaints to the NHTSA and several recalls over different model years.

Knowing about these common issues is important to judge the truck’s reliability and safety.

Spark Plug Blowouts

Spark plug blowouts in the 2001 Ford F-250 are a big problem, leading to many complaints and several recalls that highlight the truck’s major mechanical issues. These spark plug blowouts bring up serious safety concerns, affecting the vehicle’s reliability and posing potential dangers to drivers.

Here are some key points to consider:

1. 379 NHTSA complaints: A lot of owners have reported problems, especially with spark plugs.
2. 10 recalls: Several recalls were issued to fix various mechanical problems, including spark plug blowouts.
3. Injuries: At least 3 injuries were linked to tire tread issues, adding to the overall safety worries.
4. Costly repairs: Fixing these problems often involves expensive repairs, which can be hard on your wallet.

Avoiding the 2001 model year can help you avoid these ongoing problems.

Steering and Suspension Issues

Steering and suspension problems in certain Ford F-250 model years have raised serious safety concerns. Issues like the infamous ‘death wobble‘ and numerous complaints to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) highlight the gravity of these problems.

For example, the 2011 model has over 106 NHTSA complaints about steering issues, pointing to a major flaw. The ‘death wobble’—a violent shaking of the front suspension—makes driving very unstable. Other suspension problems, like wobbling and steering wheel lock-ups, add to the safety risks.

Recalls for steering issues in the 2006 and 2011 models emphasize the need for caution. These defects greatly affect driving safety, so it’s important to avoid these troublesome model years. Always check for recalls and NHTSA reports before buying.

Engine and Transmission Problems

In addition to issues with steering and suspension, Ford F-250 trucks from certain years have also dealt with major engine and transmission problems. Many complaints and recalls point out these serious mechanical issues. The engine compartment, especially in models with V8 engines, has been a big concern.

Common problems include:

1. Spark plug blowouts – This is a big issue, especially in the 2001 model, and it’s expensive to fix.
2. Engine stalling – This happens a lot in the 2008 model, causing the engine to shut down unexpectedly.
3. Transmission failures – This is common in the 2017 model, leading to sudden gear shifts.
4. Oil leaks – Seen in several years, this problem affects engine performance.

These issues show why it’s important to do thorough research before buying a Ford F-250 from these years.

User Experiences and Feedback

Many Ford F-250 owners, especially those with 2006, 2008, 2011, and 2017 models, have had big issues with steering and suspension.

People often talk about the ‘death wobble‘ in the 2011 model, which makes the truck hard to handle and dangerous.

The 2017 model has steering problems too, like wobbling and locking up, with over 1,200 complaints to the NHTSA.

The 2006 model has had suspension failures that caused drivers to lose control.

The 2008 model had over 75 complaints mainly about steering problems.

These ongoing issues show a pattern of instability and reliability problems, making these years risky for buyers.

Maintenance Costs and Repairs

Fixing mechanical problems in Ford F-250 models from the years 2003, 2008, 2012, and 2019 can really drive up maintenance costs. These years are known for repeated issues like engine breakdowns, transmission troubles, and steering problems, which lead to expensive repair bills.

Here’s what you might face:

1. Replacing an engine can cost you thousands of dollars.
2. Fixing the transmission often goes over $3,000.
3. Repairing the steering system can be several hundred dollars.
4. Time spent on repairs can hurt your productivity and income.

These costs can add up fast, making it expensive to own these specific model years. Knowing the repair history and common issues of these years can help you avoid surprise expenses.

Choosing a Reliable F-250 Model

When picking a reliable F-250, look for models with powerful engines, such as those with the 7.3L Power Stroke diesel.

Choose years with fewer reported problems to ensure good performance and long life.

Focus on models known for strong suspension and steering to avoid common issues and stay safe on the road.

Key Engine Considerations

Choosing the right engine for your Ford F-250 is really important. You have a few options: the 6.0L, 7.3L, and 6.4L engines, each with its own pros and cons.

• 6.0L Engine: This one has strong power and a better transmission, but it needs more maintenance.
• 7.3L Engine: Known for being reliable and lasting a long time, but older models might’ve weaker transmissions.
• 6.4L Engine: It’s reliable if you get the right deletes and tuning.

Here’s what to think about:

1. Power vs. Maintenance: If you want power but can handle more maintenance, go for the 6.0L.
2. Reliability and Longevity: If you want something that lasts and is dependable, the 7.3L is a good choice.
3. Fuel Economy and Performance: For better fuel economy and performance, a well-tuned 6.4L engine is your best bet.
4. Transmission Strength: Check the transmission strength based on the specific model year you’re considering.

Pick the right engine to make sure your truck runs well.

Optimal Model Year Range

Once you’ve picked the right engine for your needs, it’s just as important to choose a reliable F-250 model year to ensure your truck performs well and lasts a long time.

Generally, models from 2005 to 2014 are your best bet for reliability, thanks to major upgrades in suspension, transmission, and engine options.

However, be cautious of specific years like 2001, 2006, 2008, 2011, and 2017, which tend to have issues with steering, suspension, and overall reliability.

Knowing which years to avoid can help you make a smart choice for a dependable and long-lasting F-250.

Picking a model from the recommended years can help you avoid common mechanical problems and get the most out of your truck.

Common Mechanical Issues

Knowing the common mechanical problems in certain Ford F-250 model years is crucial for making a smart purchase and keeping your truck reliable for the long haul. Here are the main issues you should be aware of:

1. 2003: Lots of recalls for problems with the alternator, battery, and transmission.
2. 2008: Generally unreliable with ongoing engine and drivetrain troubles.
3. 2012: Transmission failures, exhaust and emissions problems, and various interior issues.
4. 2019: Steering wheel shaking, high-speed wobbling, and touchscreen glitches.

 

When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Ford Edge, Ford F 150, Ford Escape and Ford Explorer. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.

Conclusion

When you’re looking at a Ford F-250, avoid the troublesome years like 2006, 2008, 2011, 2012, 2017, and 2019. These years often have issues with suspension, engine problems, and the dreaded ‘death wobble.’

It’s safer to pick models between 2005 and 2014, but be cautious. Choosing wisely will save you money and stress. With careful selection, you can get a reliable truck that lasts.