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2008 Ford F-250 Super Duty

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By Research the Car 5 min read

Okay, here is a comprehensive breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2008 Ford F-250 Super Duty, categorized by major component and specific engine/transmission combinations. The 2008 Ford F-250 Super Duty is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its towing and hauling capabilities. Engine options included the 5.4L Triton V8 (300 hp, 365 lb-ft of torque), the 6.8L Triton V10 (362 hp, 457 lb-ft of torque) and the 6.4L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8 (350 hp, 650 lb-ft of torque). The available transmissions were primarily a 5-speed manual, and a 5-speed automatic. Many owners appreciate the truck’s robust build and workhorse capabilities, while common dislikes include fuel economy, especially with the larger engines, and some reliability issues.

Engine

6.4L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8

  • EGR Cooler Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, potential for head gasket failure. The EGR cooler can crack, leaking coolant into the exhaust system.
    • Solution: Replace the EGR cooler with an updated design. Consider deleting the EGR system altogether (check local laws regarding emissions).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ depending on labor and parts (EGR cooler replacement); more for EGR delete.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • High-Pressure Oil Pump (HPOP) Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, stalling, lack of power, diagnostic trouble codes related to HPOP pressure.
    • Solution: Replace the HPOP. Ensure proper oil changes are performed to prevent premature wear.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2500+ depending on labor and parts.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Fuel Injector Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough running engine, white/black smoke, poor fuel economy, engine misfires.
    • Solution: Replace faulty fuel injectors. Ensure the fuel system is clean and free from contamination.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per injector (parts and labor).
    • Recalls: None Found

5.4L Triton V8

  • Spark Plug Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, loss of power, “ticking” noise. These engines are known for spark plugs breaking upon removal due to a two piece design and getting stuck in the cylinder heads.
    • Solution: Use caution when removing spark plugs. Use the correct tools and techniques to minimize the risk of breakage. If a plug breaks, specialized tools are needed to extract the broken piece. Replace with updated one piece spark plugs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ depending on the number of broken plugs and labor.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Cam Phaser Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise at startup, rough idle, loss of power, diagnostic trouble codes related to camshaft timing.
    • Solution: Replace the cam phasers, timing chains, and related components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+ depending on labor and parts.
    • Recalls: None Found

6.8L Triton V10

  • Exhaust Manifold Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Loud ticking or hissing noise, especially upon startup, reduced fuel economy, exhaust smell in the cabin. The exhaust manifold studs tend to break.
    • Solution: Replace the exhaust manifold and broken studs. Use updated studs to prevent future failures.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+ depending on labor and parts.
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5R110W TorqShift 5-Speed Automatic

  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, slipping, stalling, and unusual noises from the transmission.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter. It is often recommended to rebuild or replace the transmission at the same time as the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800-$3000
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve Body Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, slipping, failure to shift, transmission overheating.
    • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body. Consider replacing the transmission fluid and filter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ depending on the extent of the damage and labor.
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Ball Joint Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises from the front suspension, uneven tire wear, loose steering.
    • Solution: Replace the ball joints. It’s often recommended to replace them in pairs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ depending on labor and parts.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Leaf Spring Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear suspension, reduced load capacity, rough ride. Leaf springs can weaken or break, especially under heavy use.
    • Solution: Replace the leaf springs. Consider upgrading to heavier-duty springs if the truck is frequently used for towing or hauling.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ depending on the type of springs and labor.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Alternator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery light on the dashboard, stalling, difficulty starting.
    • Solution: Replace the alternator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ depending on the alternator type and labor.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Glow Plug Issues (Diesel)
    • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting in cold weather, white smoke upon startup, rough idling.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty glow plugs. It’s recommended to replace all glow plugs at the same time.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ depending on the number of glow plugs replaced and labor.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Instrument Cluster Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Gauges not working properly or at all.
    • Solution: Replace the instrument cluster.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+ depending on parts and labor.
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation on body panels, especially around the wheel wells, rocker panels, and cab corners.
    • Solution: Repair or replace affected panels. Treat with rust inhibitor. Prevention is key.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ depending on the severity of the rust and the extent of the repair.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Door Handle Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening doors, broken door handles.
    • Solution: Replace the door handles.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per handle depending on labor and parts.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • HVAC Blend Door Actuator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent temperatures from the vents, clicking noises behind the dashboard.
    • Solution: Replace the blend door actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ depending on labor and parts.
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Ford F-250 Super Duty, while a capable truck, does have some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. The 6.4L Power Stroke diesel engine is prone to EGR cooler and HPOP failures, which can be costly to repair. The 5.4L Triton V8 can suffer from spark plug and cam phaser issues. The 6.8L Triton V10 can have exhaust manifold issues. The 5R110W transmission can experience torque converter or valve body problems. Suspension issues such as ball joint and leaf spring failures are also common. Electrical and interior issues are less frequent but can still occur. Overall, be prepared for potential repairs, especially with the diesel engine, and factor those costs into your purchasing decision. Rust is also a major consideration depending on the truck’s history and location.

Ford, F-250 Super Duty
Ford F-250 Super Duty 2008
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