The Ford F-250 is a tough truck with a long history dating back to the 1950s. It has gone through many changes over the years, with each generation having different features. In this article, we look at the best and worst Ford F-250 years, as well as the models that have made an impact on the truck industry. Some years are praised for their durability and performance, while others have not met expectations.
No matter if you love Ford trucks or are just curious about how the F-250 has changed, come with us as we explore why some years of the F-250 stand out more than others. Let’s dive into the ups and downs of this popular American pickup.
Ford F-250 Generations
The Ford F-250, part of the esteemed F-Series family, is well-known for its robustness, dependability, and quality American construction.
| Generation | Year |
|---|---|
| 1st generation (PHN131) | 1999-2007 |
| 2nd generation (P356) | 2008-2010 |
| 3rd generation (P473) | 2011-2016 |
| 4th generation (P558) | 2017-2022 |
The F-250’s history traces back to its initial release in the late 1990s. For many buyers, the evolution of each generation plays a crucial role in choosing the right year or model of the Ford F-250 to purchase.
Ford F-250: Best, Neutral, And Worst Years
We take into account a variety of factors, including but not limited to, when evaluating the top and bottom Ford F-250 model years.
- Owner-reported reliability (surveys)
- Annual maintenance costs
- Safety ratings
- Consumer Reports reliability scores
- Consumer Reports owner satisfaction scores
- NHTSA recalls, investigations, and complaints
- Edmunds owner ratings
- JD Power owner ratings
- Kelley’s Blue Book (KBB) owner ratings
- Vehicle history owner ratings
- Cars.com owner ratings
In the world of automotive, neutral years refer to model years that strike a harmonious balance between advantages and disadvantages, offering a moderate option for prospective buyers.
| Generations | Best Years | Neutral Years | Worst Years |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st generation (PHN131) | 2002 2003 | 2005 2006 2007 | 1999 2000 2001 |
| 2nd generation (P356) | 2010 | NA | 2008 2009 |
| 3rd generation (P473) | 2013 2014 2015 2016 | NA | 2011 2012 |
| 4th generation (P558) | 2020 2021 2022 | NA | 2017 2018 2019 |
Certain elements, like NHTSA recalls, can adversely affect our evaluation. As the volume of complaints and recalls increases, the reliability of a particular year diminishes. Let’s now explore the features of the Ford F-250’s top-performing, impartial, and least favorable years.
Best And Worst Ford F-250 Years For 1st Generation (1999–2007)
Ford made a bold entry into the heavy-duty truck market with the launch of the 1st Generation Ford F-250 in 1999.
The years 2002 and 2003 are hailed as the peak years for the Ford F-250 within this generation, while it is advised to avoid the earlier models from 1999 and 2000.
The Best Years: 2002, 2003
In 2002 and 2003, the Ford F-250 had a great time with its strong engines, especially the famous 7.3-liter Power Stroke V8. This engine was tough and helped make the F-250 a top choice for heavy-duty trucks.
Other engine choices included the 4.2 Essex V6, 5.4l Triton V8, and 6.8l Triton V10, with different automatic and manual transmissions. The truck also got better entertainment and safety features, like improved brakes and airbags.
The Neutral Years: 2005, 2006, 2007
The Ford F-250 had both good and bad times between 2005 and 2007. These trucks had a 6.0L Power Stroke V8 engine and a fancy King Ranch edition with nice leather seats. They also got better technology, like an easier-to-use entertainment system, and advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control. But there were problems too.
The 6.0-liter engine wasn’t as reliable as the older 7.3-liter one. There was also a big issue with the truck shaking a lot after hitting bumps, called the death wobble. Ford suggested keeping tire pressures low as a quick fix, showing how serious the problem was.
The Worst Years: 1999, 2000, and 2001
The Ford F-250 trucks from 1999 and 2000 were reliable in the past, but now they are not recommended because they are old. It is better to consider newer models, like the 2002 and 2003 versions.
The 5.4L Triton V8 engine had performance issues, such as sparkplug blowouts, similar to the problems seen in the F-150 series at the same time. There were also concerns about fuel tank strap corrosion, which could be dangerous.
Owners faced transmission problems like sudden gear shifts and stalling. These issues continued in the 2000 and 2001 models, along with new problems. Drivers often felt strong vibrations while driving, mainly due to suspension system faults. To learn more about recalls and complaints about the Ford F-250 trucks from 1999 to 2001, check NHTSA records.
Worst And Best F250 Years For 2nd Generation (2008–2010)
In 2008, Ford released the second iteration of the F-250 model to improve upon the flaws of its predecessor. Unfortunately, this generation did not make a significant impact, as evidenced by its low Kelley Blue Book score of 4.2.
Avoiding this particular generation altogether; however, if you must consider it, the 2010 model year is your best bet for a Ford F-250 from this lineup.
The Best Years: 2010
In 2010, the Ford F-250 had a good year, with fewer complaints and recalls. It had new engines and a better transmission. But it still used a lot of fuel, getting 7 mpg in the city and 16 mpg on the highway. There were different versions of the F-250, including a special Harley-Davidson edition.
The 2010 model also had new technology like the Ford Sync system for better connectivity and entertainment. Safety features like Trailer Sway Control and Hill Start Assist were added for better control. However, there was a problem with the death wobble in the 2010 Ford F-250.
The Worst Years: 2008, 2009
The Ford F-250 models from 2008 and 2009 are widely regarded as troublesome years to steer clear of. In 2008, the Ford F-250 faced numerous recalls and complaints from owners reported to NHTSA, mainly concerning issues such as power steering failure, the infamous death wobble, and significant coolant leaks from the radiator.
These problems affected the vehicle’s overall performance, resulting in poor ratings on VehicleHistory. The 2009 model also struggled with the persistent issue of the death wobble. Both years were criticized for their below-average fuel efficiency, achieving only 7 mpg in city driving and 16 mpg on highways.
Ratings on platforms like Cars.com indicated a notable drop in owner satisfaction for the 2008 and 2009 Ford F-250 models. For more information on recalls and complaints related to these vehicles, refer to NHTSA’s records for the years 2008, 2009, and even up to 2010.
Worst And Best Years For F-250 3rd Generation (2011–2016)
In 2011, Ford introduced the 3rd Generation of the F-250, showcasing a higher level of sophistication and technological advancements compared to previous models in their heavy-duty truck lineup.
The years 2013, 2014, 2015, and 2016 stand out as exceptional for the Ford F-250 based on owner ratings, while it’s advisable to steer clear of the earlier models from 2011 and 2012 within this generation.
The Best Years: 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016
The Ford F-250 models from 2013 to 2016 were praised by VehicleHistory, J.D. Power, and Cars.com for being reliable. They had strong engine options like the 6.2L Boss SOHC gasoline V8 and the 6.7L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel.
During this time, Ford introduced the Platinum edition and updated the King Ranch and Lariat trims to make the interiors more luxurious and connected.
They also added the MyFord Touch infotainment system for better navigation, connectivity, and audio. Safety features were improved with AdvanceTrac and the SOS Post Crash Alert System for better security. These models were more fuel-efficient, getting around 11 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.
The Worst Years: 2011, 2012
In 2011 and 2012, many Ford F-250 owners had complaints about their trucks, especially with the engines. The 2011 model had problems with exhaust manifold bolts breaking, especially in trucks with the 6.7L Power Stroke engines.
There were also issues with the truck shaking at high speeds, called the death wobble. The 2012 model had similar problems with the death wobble. For more details, check out NHTSA recalls and complaints for these years.
Worst And Best Year F-250 For 4th Generation (2017-2022)
The Ford F-250 entered its 4th generation in 2017, upholding Ford’s tradition of combining robust utility with contemporary comfort in their range of heavy-duty trucks.
The year 2017 marked a period to steer clear of the Ford F-250 due to issues like the death wobble and multiple recalls. Conversely, the years 2020, 2021, and 2022 stand out as the top choices within this generation of Ford F-250 models.
The Best Years: 2020, 2021, and 2022
The Ford F-250 did really well from 2020 to 2022. It got high scores from Edmunds and J.D. Power. During these years, the 7.3L V8 gas engine and the 6.7L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel engine showed off their power, efficiency, and reliability.
New trim options like the Lariat Sport Package and XLT Black Appearance Package were added. The truck also got better technology with Ford’s SYNC 4 infotainment system, which has a bigger touchscreen, an easy-to-use interface, and wireless connectivity.
Safety features were improved with the Ford Co-Pilot360, which includes functions like the Blind Spot Information System and Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking.
The Worst Years: 2017, 2018, 2019
The article talks about a problem called death wobble in Ford F-250 trucks made from 2005 onwards. The most complaints were in the 2017, 2018, and 2019 models.
In 2017, there were recalls for issues like a cloudy rear camera lens, corroded block heater cable, door lock problems, and driveshaft balance and fracture.
The 2018 and 2019 models also had the death wobble issue, with new recalls for possible axle failures. Even though there were some improvements, the fuel efficiency in these years was not as good as in later models. To learn more about recalls and complaints about Ford F-250 trucks from 2017 to 2019, check the official reports from NHTSA.
Ford F-250 Average Resale Values
The chart provided showcases the average resale prices of Ford F-250 models across different years.
By analyzing this data, prospective buyers can gain insight into the vehicle’s depreciation rate and make informed decisions when purchasing a pre-owned model.
Conclusion
The Ford F-250 has had good and bad years. It had strong engines in the mid-2000s and new technology in recent models. Be careful with early 2010s models because they had reliability and performance problems. The best and worst Ford F-250 years depend on what you want. Research and test drive different models to pick the right one for you. Choose wisely and enjoy a Ford F-250 that meets your needs.
FAQs
What Are The Best F250 Diesel Years?
When it comes to the best year F250 diesel, many people consider the model years 2008–2010 as some of the top choices. These years are known for their strong performance, towing capabilities, and reliability.
Which One Are Best Ford Explorer Or Ford F-250?
The choice between the Ford Explorer and Ford F-250 ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. The Ford Explorer is a versatile SUV that offers a comfortable ride, ample cargo space, and good fuel efficiency for everyday use or family trips.