What Year Ford Diesel Trucks to Avoid: A Comprehensive Guide
If you’re in the market for a Ford diesel truck, it’s important to know which years to avoid. While Ford has produced some reliable diesel engines over the years, there are certain models that have had significant issues and should be avoided if possible. Understanding which years to avoid can save you a lot of headaches and money in the long run.
What Ford diesel engines should I avoid?
The most problematic years for Ford diesel engines were 2003 to 2007. These engines were notorious for their poor quality and dangerous performance. Navistar and Ford even engaged in legal conflict over the issue. In addition, 2008 was a particularly bad year for the Ford 6.4L Powerstroke engine, with many owners reporting major problems.
Knowing which years to avoid can help you make an informed decision when purchasing a used Ford diesel truck.
Key Takeaways
- Avoid Ford diesel trucks from 2003 to 2007 and 2008 with the 6.4L Powerstroke engine.
- Look for models from 1999 to 2000, 2008 to 2010, and 2011 to 2016 for the highest-performing diesel-fueled trucks.
- Be aware of potential issues with turbo failure, EGR problems, and transmission and suspension issues.
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Understanding Ford Diesel Engines
If you’re in the market for a Ford diesel truck, it’s important to understand the different engines available and which ones to avoid. Here’s a breakdown of the most common Ford diesel engines:
6.0L Power Stroke
The 6.0L Power Stroke was produced from 2003 to 2007 and has a reputation for being one of the worst Ford diesel engines. It’s known for issues with the EGR cooler, oil cooler, and head gaskets, among other problems. If you’re looking for a reliable Ford diesel engine, it’s best to avoid the 6.0L Power Stroke.
7.3L Power Stroke
The 7.3L Power Stroke was produced from 1994 to 2003 and is widely regarded as one of the best Ford diesel engines. It’s known for its durability, reliability, and ease of maintenance. If you’re looking for a Ford diesel engine that will last, the 7.3L Power Stroke is a great choice.
6.4L Power Stroke
The 6.4L Power Stroke was produced from 2008 to 2010 and has a reputation for being unreliable. It’s known for issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF), turbocharger, and fuel system. If you’re looking for a Ford diesel engine, it’s best to avoid the 6.4L Power Stroke.
6.7L Power Stroke
The 6.7L Power Stroke was introduced in 2011 and is the current Ford diesel engine. It’s known for its power, efficiency, and reliability. If you’re looking for a Ford diesel engine, the 6.7L Power Stroke is a great choice.
IDI Engines
Ford’s IDI (indirect injection) engines were produced from 1983 to 1994 and are known for their simplicity and durability. They’re not as powerful or efficient as modern diesel engines, but they’re a good choice if you’re looking for a reliable work truck.
In summary, the best Ford diesel engines are the 7.3L Power Stroke and the 6.7L Power Stroke. The worst Ford diesel engines are the 6.0L Power Stroke and the 6.4L Power Stroke. If you’re looking for a reliable Ford diesel engine, it’s best to avoid the 6.0L and 6.4L Power Strokes.
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Problematic Ford Diesel Models
If you are in the market for a used Ford diesel truck, it is important to know which model years to avoid due to widespread issues. Here are some of the most problematic Ford diesel models:
- 2003-2007 Ford F-Series: These model years are notorious for their engine problems, particularly with the 6.0L Powerstroke engine. Issues include head gasket failures, EGR cooler failures, and oil cooler failures.
- 2008 Ford F-Series: The 6.4L Powerstroke engine in this model year is known for its high failure rate, with issues such as turbocharger failures, fuel injector failures, and head gasket failures.
- 2011-2014 Ford F-Series: These model years suffer from common turbo failure and emissions system failures, adding multiple failure points. EGR failures are also common between 70,000-90,000 miles.
- 2015-2017 Ford F-Series: These model years have an updated supercharger and more power, making them a better option than previous models. However, they still suffer from issues such as fuel injector failures and high-pressure fuel pump failures.
When considering a used Ford diesel truck, it is important to do your research and avoid these problematic model years. Keep in mind that regular maintenance and upkeep can also help prevent issues down the line.
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Common Engine Failures
When it comes to Ford diesel engines, there are several common engine failures that you should be aware of. These issues can be costly to repair and can cause significant downtime for your vehicle. Here are some of the most common engine failures to look out for:
Head Gasket Failure
Head gasket failure is a common problem with Ford diesel engines. This failure occurs when the head gasket, which seals the cylinder head to the engine block, fails. When this happens, coolant can leak into the cylinders, causing engine damage. Symptoms of head gasket failure include overheating, loss of power, and white smoke coming from the exhaust.
Turbo Failure
Turbo failure is another common issue with Ford diesel engines. The turbocharger is responsible for compressing air and forcing it into the engine. When the turbo fails, it can cause a loss of power, poor fuel economy, and black smoke from the exhaust.
EGR Failure
The EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) system is responsible for reducing emissions by recirculating exhaust gases back into the engine. When the EGR system fails, it can cause a loss of power, poor fuel economy, and black smoke from the exhaust.
Engine Failure
Engine failure can occur for a variety of reasons, including overheating, lack of maintenance, and oil starvation. When an engine fails, it can be costly to repair or replace. Symptoms of engine failure include knocking noises, loss of power, and smoke from the exhaust.
Failure Points
There are several failure points to be aware of with Ford diesel engines. These include the head studs, oil cooler, HPOP (high-pressure oil pump), and FICM (fuel injection control module). These components can fail and cause significant engine damage.
To summarize, head gasket failure, turbo failure, EGR failure, engine failure, and failure points are all common issues with Ford diesel engines. It’s important to keep up with regular maintenance and address any issues as soon as they arise to prevent costly repairs down the line.
| Issue | Symptoms |
| Head Gasket Failure | Overheating, loss of power, white smoke from exhaust |
| Turbo Failure | Loss of power, poor fuel economy, black smoke from exhaust |
| EGR Failure | Loss of power, poor fuel economy, black smoke from exhaust |
| Engine Failure | Knocking noises, loss of power, smoke from exhaust |
| Failure Points | Various engine issues, significant engine damage |
Specific Model Issues
When it comes to Ford diesel trucks, certain models have had more issues than others. Here are some specific model issues to keep in mind when considering a used Ford diesel truck.
Ford F-250 and F-350 Super Duty (2003-2007)
These model years are notorious for having injector issues, as well as head gasket failures. The 6.0-liter Power Stroke V8 engine in these trucks is known for being unreliable and expensive to repair. Additionally, the turbocharger, EGR system, and oil cooler are also prone to failure.
| Model Year | Known Issues |
| 2003-2007 | Injector issues, head gasket failures, turbocharger failure, EGR system failure, oil cooler failure |
Ford F-150 Super Duty (2011-2014)
While the F-150 Super Duty has been a popular choice for those looking for a powerful and reliable truck, the 2011-2014 models have had some issues. These trucks suffer from common turbo failure, and the emissions system adds multiple failure points. EGR failures are also common between 70,000-90,000 miles.
| Model Year | Known Issues |
| 2011-2014 | Turbo failure, emissions system failure, EGR failure between 70,000-90,000 miles |
Ford F-350 (2001)
The 2001 Ford F-350 with the 7.3-liter diesel engine is known for transmission problems. In most cases, the transmission seal was completely burnt up and had to be replaced.
| Model Year | Known Issues |
| 2001 | Transmission problems |
Overall, it’s important to do your research and carefully consider which model year of Ford diesel truck is right for you. While some models may be more affordable, the cost of repairs and maintenance may end up being more than you bargained for.
Recalls and Towing Capacity
When purchasing a Ford diesel truck, it is essential to consider the towing and payload capacity and ensure that it meets your needs. However, it is crucial to note that Ford has faced legal conflicts over its towing and hauling capacity representation in the past. In 2020, a class-action lawsuit alleged that Ford misrepresented the towing and hauling capacity for its 2020 F-Super Duty: F-350 pickup trucks.
The recall report covered nearly 10,000 2020 Ford F-Super Duty: F-350 vehicles. The lawsuit claimed that without the ability to haul the payload capacity represented by Ford, 2020 model year F-350 pickups were unsafe and could cause accidents. Therefore, it is crucial to double-check the towing and payload capacity of any Ford diesel truck you intend to purchase.
Additionally, Ford has faced several recalls over the years due to various issues with their diesel engines. For instance, the 2011-2014 models suffer from common turbo failure, while emissions systems add multiple failure points. EGR failures are common between 70,000-90,000 miles. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid these models.
On the other hand, the 2015 and up models have an updated supercharger and more power, making them better options. Even more, the 2018+ and 2020 models have even more power, making them the best years to purchase a Ford diesel truck.
It is crucial to double-check the towing and payload capacity of any Ford diesel truck you intend to purchase. Additionally, it is advisable to avoid the 2011-2014 models due to their common turbo failure and emissions systems issues. Instead, consider purchasing the 2015 and up models, which have an updated supercharger and more power.
Emission and Fuel System Failures
When it comes to Ford diesel engines, the emission and fuel systems are often a source of major problems. One common issue is with the EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) emission system. This system is designed to reduce emissions by recirculating exhaust gases back into the engine. However, it can become clogged or fail altogether, leading to reduced engine performance, increased emissions, and even engine damage.
Another potential problem area is the fuel injection system. The injection pump is responsible for delivering fuel to the engine, and if it fails, the engine will not run. In addition, the ETG (Exhaust Gas Temperature) sensor can fail, leading to decreased fuel efficiency and increased emissions.
The FICM (Fuel Injector Control Module) is another component that can cause problems. This module is responsible for controlling the fuel injectors, and if it fails, the engine may not start or may run poorly. Glow plugs are also important for starting the engine, and if they fail, the engine may not start or may run poorly.
EGR cooler problems are another common issue with Ford diesel engines. The EGR cooler is responsible for cooling the exhaust gases before they are recirculated back into the engine. If the cooler fails, it can cause the engine to overheat, leading to potential engine damage.
To summarize, the emission and fuel systems are critical components of any diesel engine, and failures in these systems can cause significant problems. If you are considering purchasing a Ford diesel engine, it is important to be aware of these potential issues and to have the engine thoroughly inspected before making a purchase.
| Component | Potential Problems |
| EGR System | Clogging, failure |
| Injection Pump | Failure |
| ETG Sensor | Failure |
| FICM | Failure |
| Glow Plugs | Failure |
| EGR Cooler | Failure, engine overheating |
Transmission and Suspension Issues
When it comes to Ford diesel trucks, transmission and suspension issues are common culprits that can cause significant problems for owners.
One of the most reported issues with Ford diesel trucks is transmission problems. The 2006 model year, in particular, has been plagued by reports of transmission problems.
Other model years that have significant issues with their transmissions include the 2005 and the 2011. These problems can lead to costly repairs and even total transmission failure.
Suspension issues are also a major concern for Ford diesel truck owners. The infamous “death wobble” is a term used to describe a violent shaking of the front end of the truck that can occur at high speeds.
This problem is most commonly associated with the Ford F-250 and F-350 models from 2005 to 2019.
The death wobble is caused by a combination of worn or damaged suspension components, and it can be a dangerous problem that can lead to accidents if not addressed.
To help you better understand the scope of the transmission and suspension issues with Ford diesel trucks, we’ve created a table outlining some of the most common problems and the model years they affect:
| Model Year | Transmission Issues | Suspension Issues |
| 2001 | Electrical system | |
| 2004 | Frame and suspension | |
| 2005 | Engine problems | |
| 2006 | Transmission | |
| 2008 | Suspension | |
| 2011 | Transmission | |
| 2017 | Suspension |
If you’re considering purchasing a Ford diesel truck, it’s important to be aware of these potential issues.
Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent problems from occurring, but it’s also important to be prepared for the possibility of repairs.
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Used Ford Diesel Trucks
If you’re in the market for a used Ford diesel truck, it’s important to know which years to avoid. Some years have been plagued with issues, while others have proven to be reliable and long-lasting.
Here’s what you need to know when considering a used Ford diesel truck.
Best Ford Listings
When searching for a used Ford diesel truck, looking for the best listings is important.
These listings should include all the important information about the truck, such as its mileage, condition, and any previous accidents or repairs. Look for listings that are detailed and provide clear photos of the truck.
Used Ford F-150
The Ford F-150 is a popular pickup truck, but not all years are created equal. When searching for a used Ford F-150, it’s important to avoid the years that have been known to have issues.
The 2004-2008 models, in particular, have been known to have problems with their engines and transmissions.
Purchase Decision
When making a purchase decision, it’s important to consider all the factors. Look at the truck’s overall condition, its maintenance history, and any previous accidents or repairs.
Consider the truck’s mileage and how it has been used in the past. If possible, take the truck for a test drive to see how it handles on the road.
Table
| Year | Issues |
| 2003-2007 | Bad quality, legal conflict |
| 2008 | Major problems with 6.4L Powerstroke engine |
| 2004-2008 | Engine and transmission issues |
| 2001 | Transmission problems with 7.3L diesel engine |
| 2006 | Worst overall year for F-250 |
Remember, not all used Ford diesel trucks are created equal. Do your research and consider all the factors before making a purchase decision.
You can find a reliable and long-lasting used Ford diesel truck with the right information.
Other Potential Problems
Aside from the issues with specific model years, there are other potential problems to be aware of when it comes to Ford diesel engines. Here are some of the most common issues you may encounter:
Oil Leaks
Oil leaks are a common problem with many diesel engines, and Ford’s diesel engines are no exception. You may notice oil leaking from the engine or transmission, which can lead to a loss of oil pressure and engine damage if not addressed promptly.
Regular maintenance can help prevent oil leaks, but if you notice any signs of a leak, it’s important to have it checked out by a qualified mechanic.
Six Leakers
Another common issue with Ford diesel engines is the so-called “six leakers.” This refers to a problem with the head gaskets on the 6.0L Powerstroke engine, which can cause coolant to leak into the engine and oil to leak into the coolant.
This can lead to engine damage if not addressed promptly. If you’re considering a Ford diesel engine with the 6.0L Powerstroke, be sure to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic to check for this issue.
Head Gasket Failures
Head gasket failures can occur on any engine but are particularly common on older Ford diesel engines.
This can lead to coolant leaks, loss of compression, and other problems. If you notice any signs of a head gasket failure, such as white smoke from the exhaust or bubbles in the coolant, it’s important to have it checked out by a qualified mechanic.
Coolant Leaks
Coolant leaks can occur for a variety of reasons, including faulty hoses, water pumps, and radiators.
If you notice any signs of a coolant leak, such as low coolant levels or overheating, it’s important to have it checked out by a qualified mechanic. Coolant leaks can cause engine damage if not addressed promptly.
Valve Issues
Valve issues can occur on any engine but are particularly common on older Ford diesel engines.
This can lead to loss of power, rough running, and other problems.
If you notice any signs of valve issues, such as a ticking or tapping sound from the engine, it’s important to have it checked out by a qualified mechanic.
| Issue | Symptoms |
| Oil Leaks | Oil leaking from engine or transmission |
| Six Leakers | Coolant leaking into engine or oil leaking into coolant |
| Head Gasket Failures | White smoke from exhaust or bubbles in coolant |
| Coolant Leaks | Low coolant levels or overheating |
| Valve Issues | Ticking or tapping sound from engine |
Overall, while there are certain model years of Ford diesel engines to avoid, there are also other potential problems to be aware of.
Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any issues can help keep your Ford diesel engine running smoothly.
Related Reading
- The 3 Best Ford Diesel Engines
- Best Duramax Engines
- Which Ford Trucks Are Diesel? F150, F250, F350, F450
- What Year Ford Diesel Trucks to Avoid
- DTC P0403 on Powerstroke Engines
- P0341 on 6.0 Powerstroke Engines
- The 4 6.7 Powerstroke Years You Should Avoid
- What Is the Best Year for the 7.3 Powerstroke?
- 3 Ford 7.3 Powerstroke Years To Avoid
- What are the Best Years for Ford Super Duty Trucks
- Which Ford Engines Should You Avoid?
- Ford V10 Engines You Should Avoid & Why!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most reliable Ford diesel engines?
The most reliable Ford diesel engines are the 7.3L Power Stroke and the 6.7L Power Stroke. These engines have proven to be durable and long-lasting, with minimal issues reported by owners.
Which years of the Ford F250 diesel are the best?
The best years for the Ford F250 diesel are generally considered to be the newer models, specifically those with the 6.7L Power Stroke engine. These trucks offer improved performance and reliability compared to older models.
What are the best and worst Ford diesel engines?
The best Ford diesel engines are the 7.3L Power Stroke and the 6.7L Power Stroke, while the worst are generally considered to be the 6.0L Power Stroke and the 6.4L Power Stroke. These engines have been known to have significant issues that can be costly to repair.
What year did Ford make the best diesel truck?
Ford’s best diesel truck is subjective and depends on individual preferences. However, many consider the newer models with the 6.7L Power Stroke engine to be the best due to their improved performance and reliability.
What year was the bad Ford diesel engine?
The 6.0L Power Stroke engine, which was produced from 2003 to 2007, is widely regarded as the worst Ford diesel engine due to its numerous issues, including head gasket, EGR, oil cooler, turbo, and injection system problems.
Which year of the 6.0 Power Stroke should be avoided?
All years of the 6.0L Power Stroke should be approached with caution due to the engine’s known issues. However, the 2003 model year is often considered the worst and should be avoided if possible.