The Ford F-350 is a heavy-duty pickup truck that makes up part of the Ford Super Duty.
This model is known for its variety of configurations, excellent towing and hauling capacities, and spacious interior.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the best and worst model years of the F-350.
Table of Contents
Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Ford F-350 Are:
The best Ford F-350 model years are 2020, 2021, 2020, 2010, 2009, and 2007. The worst model years of the F-350 are 1999, 2017, 2019, 2004, 2005, and 2006. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.
What Are The Best Years For The Ford F-350?
2022 Ford F-350
The 2022 F-350 is easily the most technologically advanced model year out of all models in this article.
Aside from its sophisticated tech, it boasts an immensely powerful diesel V8 engine, plenty of payload and towing capacity, and a lightweight aluminum body for a sharp reduction in overall weight.
It comes in 6 trim levels: XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited.
For a fairly straightforward experience that provides all the essentials and expected features out of a heavy-duty pickup truck, the entry-level XL variant should be more than enough.
- Edmunds: 4.1 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
2022 F-350, Edmunds review:
“Very impressed with the comfort and capabilities of my truck. Pulls my 42’ 16k fifth wheel like there’s nothing there.”
2021 Ford F-350
The 2021 F-350 comes at a hefty price point (depending on the variant) but its variety of cab configurations and multitude of standard and optional features make for a great model.
Among the 6 available trim levels, the Lariat is arguably the most worthwhile as it is the most versatile.
This trim level comes in super crab and crew cab configurations with either single or dual rear wheel setups.
This model’s variety of engine choices (6.2L and 6.7L in diesel or gasoline) is paired with a rear-wheel-drive and up to 18,200 pounds of towing capacity.
- Edmunds: 4.1 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
2021 F-350, Edmunds review:
“This is absolutely the finest pickup I have ever sat in, drove, or used. It rides better than my 99, 02, 03, and 13. It is quieter than all of them, gets better mileage than all of them, and would run circles around all of them in terms of power, acceleration, and towing…”
2020 Ford F-350
The 2020 F-350 possesses all the great characteristics of the other model years on this list but stands out because of one particular engine addition: a 7.3-liter gasoline V8 engine.
The aforementioned 7.3-liter gasoline V8 engine is rated at 430 horsepower.
The 6.2-liter V8 engine has 385 horsepower, while the 6.7-liter turbocharged diesel V8 engine has about 475 horsepower.
While the entry-level and midrange trim levels provide a ton of safety and infotainment features for practical and recreational use, the Platinum and Limited trim levels offer cool features such as adaptive cruise control, LED headlights, and a two-tone leather interior.
- Edmunds: 4.1 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
2020 F-350, Edmunds review:
“Upgrading from a 2012 KR 6.7 to a new Platinum 6.7 has been a very pleasant experience, the new 2020 is much more planted on the road unless you hit a series of large bumps in the road, the adaptive steering makes highway speeds much safer and adaptive cruise and Blind spot detection are useful additions (although BLIS doesn’t work on goose-necks) This thing is dangerously fast, avoiding tickets will be a problem, mostly because the noise is so much less than the older trucks and its much more solid feeling at speed…”
2010 Ford F-350
The 2010 F-350 is a dated model but is considered to be surprisingly advanced for its time.
This model provides a refined handling dynamic, a fun riding experience, and a smooth-shifting automatic transmission.
Available to this model year is a trailer-brake controller, an optional device that is responsible for the brake mechanism of electric trailers attached.
There are 3 cab configurations: super cab, crew cab, and regular cab, as well as 3 trim levels: XL, XLT, and Lariat.
- Edmunds: 3.8 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0
2010 F-350, Edmunds review:
“First off I love my truck, it’s a Job 1 CC 4×4 diesel . The fuel economy isn’t stellar, but it weighs in at 9K lbs with tools, I can live with it. Use it mostly for highway trips, the ride is great…”
2009 Ford F-350
The 2009 F-350 is a reliable heavy-duty pickup truck that is quite up there in years but can still provide steady performance and sufficient tech and safety features.
New functionalities for this model year include a power-telescoping tow mirror setup, a sync multimedia voice control system, and various optional packages (that integrate an in-dash computer with internet access and a large lockable compartment between the cab and bed).
Maximum towing capacity for this model is 8,700 pounds. Max payload capacity, on the other hand, is 3,800 pounds.
- Edmunds: 3.8 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0
2009 F-350, Edmunds review:
“I bought the truck to carry material I needed for my basement. But the real reason was to pull a 5th wheel which it pulls it great and gets me off-grid in soft soil. I have grey paint that shines and a interior in grey leather electric driver seat & passenger manual. full instrumentation, The disc changer isn’t working but am/fm radio provides excellent reception & the sound system Has a equalizer and am not sure ATM bur the speakers are Bose & sounds great. The truck is easy in/out for me…”
2007 Ford F-350
The 2007 F-350 is an amazing pickup truck known for its vintage design, ample passenger space, and powerful engine options.
Three engines are available for this model year: 5.4-liter V8 engine (300 horsepower), 6.8-liter V10 engine (362 horsepower), and a 6-liter power stroke diesel V8 engine (325 horsepower).
A 6-speed manual transmission comes standard across all trim levels and variants, but an optional 5-speed automatic transmission can be availed by owners.
A properly equipped 2007 F-350 can carry a payload of up to 5,800 pounds or tow trailers that weigh as much as 15,000 pounds.
- Edmunds: 4.2 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0
2007 F-350, Edmunds review:
“I have owned several Ford trucks, and they have all been solid workhorses. My new F350 DRW with the optional 6.4 diesel appears to be of the same cut of cloth. So far, it has met every work task with ease. It rides like a half-ton SUV, pulls like a locomotive and has the looks to turn heads. Some new owners complain about fuel consumption. Granted, it would be great to have all this ability, plus 25 MPG, but that’s not what these trucks are designed for. They are built to pull heavy loads, and you have to pay a price for that. Would you expect a draft horse to consume the same amount of feed as a burro? If you need a truck for heavy towing, I suggest you strongly consider the F350.”
Consumer Scores For Best Ford F-350 Years
| Model Year | EdmundsConsumer Rating | Kelley Blue BookConsumer Rating |
| 2022 Ford F-350 | 4.1 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 |
| 2021 Ford F-350 | 4.1 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 |
| 2020 Ford F-350 | 4.1 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 |
| 2010 Ford F-350 | 3.8 / 5.0 | 4.3 / 5.0 |
| 2009 Ford F-350 | 3.8 / 5.0 | 4.3 / 5.0 |
| 2007 Ford F-350 | 4.2 / 5.0 | 4.3 / 5.0 |
Related: 9 Most Common Ford F-350 Problems (Explained)
What Are The Worst Years For The Ford F-350?
1999 Ford F-350
Based on combined statistics from CarComplaints.com and CarProblemZoo.com, the 1999 F-350 is the most problematic and complained about model year ever produced.
The biggest issues experienced by owners of this model year are related to the tires, brake system, drivetrain, steering system, and engine.
Numerous owners have indicated excessive vibration due to poorly designed tires, complete tread separation from some wheels, and unexpected tire blowouts.
The 1999 F-350 had a total of 28 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 1,057 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Massive drivetrain problems
- Transmission failure
- Massive recurring engine problems
2017 Ford F-350
Owners of the 2017 F-350 fell victim to the infamous death wobble syndrome, wherein the steering wheel would shift rapidly from side to side in an uncontrollable manner when a pickup truck reaches certain speeds.
According to owners, the aforementioned death wobble was experienced most frequently at speeds exceeding 50 miles per hour.
Excessive vehicle shaking or vibration also accompanied the death wobble syndrome.
The 2017 F-350 had a total of 26 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 711 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Truck died while driving
- High pressure fuel pump failure
- Tires keep losing air
2019 Ford F-350
Much like a couple of the other model years on this list, the 2019 F-350 was prone to uncontrollable steering wheel wobbling and vehicle shaking.
Owners mentioned experiencing the aforementioned issues when running over a hump or an uneven section of the road while others mentioned experiencing this when reaching speeds of 60 miles per hour to 75 miles per hour.
The automaker has admitted to this widespread problem and has attempted to rectify the issue with a steering damper, which is a component in charge of stabilizing the steering wheel.
The 2019 F-350 had a total of 25 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 567 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Death wobble
- Air conditioning not working
- Truck caught on fire
2004 Ford F-350
The 2004 F-350 had a series of issues, the most prevalent of which was defects with the diesel engine system.
Owners reported turbocharger failure, check engine light illumination, and defective head gaskets and stud package.
Coolant and lubricant leakage was also observed by numerous owners.
All issues mentioned above meant that the model was a hazard to drive and required immediate repair and assistance.
The 2004 F-350 had a total of 31 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 457 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Blown head gasket
- Fuel injector defective
- Rear end vibration when turning
2005 Ford F-350
The 2005 F-350’s most worrisome and headache-inducing category of issues was none other than defects in the diesel engine.
Other prominent problems involved the steering system, the model’s suspension, and the electrical system.
According to numerous owners, vehicle wobbling, shimmying, and shaking were quite frequent when exceeding 45 miles per hour.
Problems were also observed when driving over small bumps or uneven sections of the road.
The 2005 F-350 had a total of 17 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 378 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Fuel tank peeling and flaking off into fuel filter
- Bad EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) cooler
- EGR valve cooler and oil cooler overheated
- Burnt motor
2006 Ford F-350
The 2006 F-350 was not as problematic as the other model years on this list but still warranted a position due to some familiar and recurring widespread issues.
The most severe issue experienced by owners based on reports posted online is the notorious death wobble.
Going beyond 50 miles per hour led to terrible experiences of vehicle shaking, and an uncontrollable steering wheel, rendering the model a safety hazard.
The 2006 F-350 had a total of 38 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 327 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Blown head gaskets
- EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) valve made of different metals
- Loud moaning noise from power steering
Related: 9 Most Common Ford F-250 Problems (You Should Know)
What Years Have The Most Complaints?
| Model Year | Complaints(CarComplaints.com) | Problems(CarProblemZoo.com) |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 Ford F-350 | 4 | 22 |
| 2021 Ford F-350 | 0 | 34 |
| 2020 Ford F-350 | 1 | 76 |
| 2019 Ford F-350 | 25 | 567 |
| 2018 Ford F-350 | 6 | 257 |
| 2017 Ford F-350 | 26 | 711 |
| 2016 Ford F-350 | 8 | 232 |
| 2015 Ford F-350 | 11 | 233 |
| 2014 Ford F-350 | 6 | 108 |
| 2013 Ford F-350 | 5 | 98 |
| 2012 Ford F-350 | 15 | 240 |
| 2011 Ford F-350 | 32 | 241 |
| 2010 Ford F-350 | 10 | 76 |
| 2009 Ford F-350 | 4 | 63 |
| 2008 Ford F-350 | 29 | 278 |
| 2007 Ford F-350 | 12 | 75 |
| 2006 Ford F-350 | 38 | 327 |
| 2005 Ford F-350 | 17 | 378 |
| 2004 Ford F-350 | 31 | 457 |
| 2003 Ford F-350 | 25 | 297 |
| 2002 Ford F-350 | 19 | 332 |
| 2001 Ford F-350 | 17 | 478 |
| 2000 Ford F-350 | 7 | 799 |
| 1999 Ford F-350 | 28 | 1,057 |
Related: 12 Best & Worst Ford F-350 Years (With Facts & Stats)
What Problems Do Ford F-350 Have?
- Engine failure
- Blown head gasket
- Transmission failure
- Death wobble
- Air conditioning not working
- Truck caught on fire
- Truck died while driving
- PCV (positive crankcase ventilation) corroded
- High pressure fuel pump went out
- Tires keep losing air
- Blown fuel injector
- Running rough
- Brake calipers sticking
- EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) valve made of different metals
- Loud moaning noise from power steering
- Fuel injector defective
- Rear end vibration when turning
- Massive drivetrain problems
- Massive recurring engine problems
- Locking hubs failure
- Lining inside fuel tank dissolving
- Spark plugs ejected from engine
What Are The Best Alternatives To The Ford F-350?
| Make & Model | Score | MSRP | Fuel Economy (MPG) |
| Toyota Tundra | 8.0 | $40,810 – $77,040 | City: 15 /Highway: 17 |
| Nissan Titan | 7.1 | $43,285 – $60,465 | City: NA /Highway: NA |
| Ford F-350 | NA | $46,355 – $92,850 | City: NA /Highway: NA |
| Ram 3500 | NA | $49,855 – $74,070 | City: NA /Highway: NA |
| Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD | NA | $42,395 – $65,995 | City: NA /Highway: NA |
Source: cars.usnews.com, edmunds.com
References
https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/new-cars/for-sale/ford_f-350
https://www.edmunds.com/ford/f-350-super-duty/
https://www.kbb.com/ford/f350/2021/
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2021/ford/f-350
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Ford/F-350/
https://www.carproblemzoo.com/ford/f-350/
