2006 Ford F-350

The 2006 Ford F-350 Super Duty is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its towing and payload capabilities. It’s a popular choice for those who need a reliable workhorse. Owners often praise its powerful engine options and robust build, but common complaints often include costly repairs. Engine options include the 5.4L Triton V8, the 6.8L Triton V10, and the 6.0L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8. The 6.0L Power Stroke is rated at 325 horsepower and 570 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed automatic.

Engine

6.0L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8

• EGR Cooler Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The EGR cooler is prone to cracking and leaking coolant into the exhaust system. This can lead to white smoke from the exhaust, coolant loss, and potentially hydro-locking the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the EGR cooler with an updated or aftermarket version.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The 6.0L Power Stroke is known for injector failures. Symptoms include rough running, misfires, white smoke, and decreased fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty injectors. It’s often recommended to replace all injectors at once for preventative maintenance.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating and excessive cylinder pressure can cause the head gaskets to fail. Symptoms include coolant loss, white smoke, bubbling in the coolant reservoir, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the head gaskets, often requiring machining of the cylinder heads. Upgraded head studs are highly recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3000 - $6000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• FICM (Fuel Injection Control Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The FICM controls the fuel injectors. Failure can cause no-start conditions, rough running, and decreased performance.
  • Solution: Replace or repair the FICM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.4L Triton V8

• Spark Plug Ejection
  • Description/Symptoms: The 5.4L Triton V8 (particularly in earlier years) is known for spark plugs ejecting from the cylinder heads. This is due to insufficient threads in the cylinder head spark plug bores.
  • Solution: Repair the threads in the cylinder head using a thread repair kit or replace the cylinder head.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cam Phaser Tick/Rattle
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive rattling at the front of the engine, especially on startup. This is due to worn or failing cam phasers.
  • Solution: Replace the cam phasers, timing chains, guides, and tensioners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.8L Triton V10

• Spark Plug Ejection
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 5.4L, the 6.8L V10 can experience spark plug ejection due to insufficient threads in the cylinder head.
  • Solution: Repair the threads in the cylinder head using a thread repair kit or replace the cylinder head.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5R110W TorqShift (Automatic)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. Can lead to complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter. It’s often recommended to rebuild or replace the entire transmission if it has high mileage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Ball Joint Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises from the front suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps. Steering may feel loose or wander.
  • Solution: Replace the worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Leaf Spring Sagging/Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end sagging, especially when loaded. Visible cracks or broken leaves in the leaf spring packs.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf spring packs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery light illumination, dimming headlights, and eventual battery drain.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Glow Plug Issues (Diesel Only)
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, especially in cold weather. Check engine light may be illuminated with codes related to glow plugs.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty glow plugs and/or glow plug control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming around the wheel wells, cab corners, and rocker panels.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2006 Ford F-350 is a capable truck, but it is prone to some significant issues, particularly with the 6.0L Power Stroke diesel engine and the 5R110W transmission. Engine issues like EGR cooler failure, injector problems, and head gasket failure can be very expensive to repair, as can suspension issues and rust. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the truck and be aware of these potential problems and associated repair costs.