2008 Ford F-550 Super Duty

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints associated with the 2008 Ford F-550 Super Duty, categorized and formatted as requested.

The 2008 Ford F-550 Super Duty is a heavy-duty work truck known for its robust capabilities and commercial applications. It was available with several engine options, including the 6.4L Power Stroke diesel V8, the 5.4L Triton V8, and the 6.8L Triton V10. The 6.4L Power Stroke diesel was rated at 350 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. The 5.4L and 6.8L gas engines were equipped with the TorqShift 5-speed automatic, while the diesel engine was paired with the TorqShift 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the F-550 for its towing capacity and workhorse nature. Common complaints include the cost of maintenance, particularly for the diesel engine, and some reliability concerns related to the diesel’s emissions systems.

Engine

6.4L Power Stroke Diesel V8

• EGR Cooler Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, white smoke from exhaust, overheating, loss of coolant.
  • Solution: Replace the EGR cooler. Some owners opt for aftermarket solutions to improve reliability.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough running engine, misfires, black smoke from exhaust, decreased fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per injector.
  • Recalls: None Found
• High-Pressure Oil Pump (HPOP) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, no starting, stalling, rough running.
  • Solution: Replace the HPOP.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive black smoke, unusual noises from the turbocharger.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger or rebuild if possible.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.4L Triton V8

• Spark Plug Thread Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Spark plugs ejecting from the cylinder head, misfires, engine noise.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the cylinder head. Installing spark plug thread inserts is a common repair method.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cam Phaser Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or ticking noise from the engine, especially at idle or low speeds.
  • Solution: Replace the cam phasers, timing chains, and associated components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.8L Triton V10

• Exhaust Manifold Bolts Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Exhaust leak noise, decreased fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replace the broken bolts and potentially the exhaust manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

TorqShift 5-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during gear changes, slipping, transmission overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, erratic shifting, slipping.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging/Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging, poor ride quality, potential handling issues.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per spring.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises, loose steering, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, battery not charging, vehicle stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Pump Driver Module (FPDM) Corrosion
  • Description/Symptoms: Stalling, no start condition, erratic engine performance.
  • Solution: Replace the FPDM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust Issues (Frame/Body)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust on the frame, body panels, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Rust repair, panel replacement, or frame repair/replacement (depending on severity).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (minor rust) - $5,000+ (extensive rust repair/frame replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2008 Ford F-550 Super Duty, particularly with the 6.4L Power Stroke diesel, can present some significant reliability challenges. EGR cooler failures, fuel injector problems, and turbocharger issues are common and can be costly to repair. The 5.4L Triton V8 can suffer from spark plug thread issues and cam phaser problems. The 6.8L Triton V10 can suffer from exhaust manifold bolt breakage. Suspension components such as leaf springs and ball joints wear out due to the heavy loads these trucks often carry. Electrical issues like alternator and FPDM failures can also occur. Depending on the engine and the severity of the problem, repairs can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It’s crucial to thoroughly inspect any potential F-550 purchase and be aware of these common issues.