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2000 Ford F-350

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By Research the Car 5 min read

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of common issues and complaints associated with the 2000 Ford F-350 Super Duty, categorized by major components and engine/transmission options, along with estimated repair costs and recall information where available.

The 2000 Ford F-350 Super Duty is a popular heavy-duty truck known for its towing and hauling capabilities. Available engine options included the 5.4L Triton V8 (260 hp, 350 lb-ft torque), the 6.8L Triton V10 (310 hp, 425 lb-ft torque), and the 7.3L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8 (275 hp, 525 lb-ft torque). Transmission choices were typically a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic. Owners often appreciate the F-350’s robust build and workhorse performance, but common complaints revolve around age-related issues, maintenance costs, and fuel economy, especially with the larger engines.

Engine

5.4L Triton V8

  • Spark Plug Blowout
    • Description/Symptoms: Spark plugs ejecting from the cylinder head due to insufficient thread engagement. This often results in a loud popping noise and engine misfire.
    • Solution: Repairing the damaged threads in the cylinder head by installing thread inserts (e.g., Time-Sert, Heli-Coil).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ (depending on the number of plugs and shop rates)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Intake Manifold Cracking
    • Description/Symptoms: Cracks developing in the plastic intake manifold, leading to vacuum leaks, rough idle, and potential coolant leaks.
    • Solution: Replacing the intake manifold.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
    • Recalls: None Found

6.8L Triton V10

  • Spark Plug Blowout
    • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 5.4L, spark plugs can eject from the cylinder head.
    • Solution: Repairing the damaged threads in the cylinder head by installing thread inserts (e.g., Time-Sert, Heli-Coil).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ (depending on the number of plugs and shop rates)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Exhaust Manifold Bolts Breaking
    • Description/Symptoms: Exhaust manifold bolts corroding and breaking, causing exhaust leaks (ticking noise, reduced power).
    • Solution: Replacing broken bolts or, in severe cases, the entire exhaust manifold.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

7.3L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8

  • Cam Position Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Erratic engine performance, stalling, or failure to start.
    • Solution: Replacing the cam position sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Injector Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough running, white smoke, poor fuel economy, and engine knocking. Can be due to worn injectors or issues with the Injector Driver Module (IDM).
    • Solution: Diagnosing the specific cause (injectors or IDM) and replacing the faulty component(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $3000+ (depending on the number of injectors and shop rates)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Lift Pump Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Low fuel pressure, hard starting, and possible damage to the fuel injectors.
    • Solution: Replacing the lift pump.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4R100 4-Speed Automatic

  • Loss of Gear/Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping between gears, failure to shift properly, or complete loss of gear engagement. Often related to worn clutches, valve body issues, or solenoid failure.
    • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement. In some cases, valve body replacement or solenoid replacement can resolve the issue.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, stalling when coming to a stop, or unusual noises from the transmission area.
    • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1200
    • Recalls: None Found

ZF5 5-Speed Manual

  • Synchronizer Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting into gear, especially when cold. Grinding noises during gear changes.
    • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement of worn synchronizers.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Clutch Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty engaging gears, or complete loss of clutch function.
    • Solution: Replacing the clutch assembly (disc, pressure plate, throwout bearing).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1200
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Leaf Spring Sagging/Cracking
    • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the truck sitting lower than the front, reduced load-carrying capacity, and potential for spring breakage.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaf springs or adding helper springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Ball Joint Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive play in the front suspension, clunking noises when going over bumps, and difficulty maintaining alignment.
    • Solution: Replacing worn ball joints.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Alternator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery not charging, and eventually a dead battery.
    • Solution: Replacing the alternator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Instrument Cluster Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning gauges, flickering lights, or complete failure of the instrument cluster.
    • Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • GEM (Generic Electronic Module) Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as power windows not working, door locks malfunctioning, or issues with the wipers.
    • Solution: Replacing the GEM.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust (Body/Frame)
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust developing on the body panels, especially around the wheel wells, rocker panels, and cab corners. Frame rust can compromise structural integrity.
    • Solution: Rust repair (patching, welding) or, in severe cases, frame replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $5000+ (depending on severity)
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Cracked Dash
    • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard, especially in warmer climates.
    • Solution: Replacing the dashboard or using a dash cover.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on the solution)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Window Regulator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate or operating slowly.
    • Solution: Replacing the window regulator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2000 Ford F-350, while a capable work truck, is prone to age-related issues. Engine problems, especially spark plug blowout and injector issues in the diesel, can be costly. Transmission issues are common, particularly with the 4R100 automatic. Suspension wear, rust, and electrical glitches are also frequent concerns. The severity and cost of repairs vary greatly depending on the specific issue and its extent. Potential buyers should thoroughly inspect the vehicle, paying close attention to these common problem areas, and budget for potential maintenance and repairs.

Ford, F-350
Ford F-350 2000
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