2013 Ford F-350

The 2013 Ford F-350 Super Duty is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its robust capabilities and workhorse reputation. Engine options include the 6.2L V8 gasoline engine (385 hp and 405 lb-ft of torque) and the 6.7L Power Stroke V8 turbo-diesel (400 hp and 800 lb-ft of torque). Both engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally praise the F-350 for its towing and hauling capacity, strong engine performance, and comfortable interior. However, some common complaints revolve around reliability issues, particularly with the diesel engine, as well as the truck’s large size making it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.

Engine

6.7L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive black smoke from the exhaust, whistling or squealing noises from the turbocharger, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger. It is sometimes necessary to also replace the oil supply line and return line to the turbocharger
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) Valve Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, decreased fuel economy, black smoke, check engine light, potential engine stalling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EGR valve, possible cleaning of the EGR cooler.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough running engine, misfires, excessive smoke, decreased fuel economy, engine knocking or ticking noises.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+ (depending on the number of injectors needing replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

6.2L V8 Gasoline

• Spark Plug Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idle, reduced power, and potentially a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace spark plugs and possibly ignition coils.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic Transmission (Both Engines)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at low speeds. Slipping between gears, or complete loss of drive.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter, potentially with a transmission flush and filter change.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Hard or Erratic Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts between gears. Delays in shifting, especially when cold. Transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Could be caused by low transmission fluid. Potentially caused by a bad solenoid pack. Can sometimes be fixed by a full transmission flush.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$150 to add fluid. $200-$400 for a flush. $500-$1500 for a solenoid pack.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging or Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end sagging, especially when loaded. Reduced ride quality, and potential cracking or breakage of leaf springs.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Ball Joints
  • Description/Symptoms: Popping or clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when turning. Excessive tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,200+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Sensor Failures (Various)
  • Description/Symptoms: A multitude of potential issues depending on the failed sensor (ABS, TPMS, etc.). Check engine light or other warning lights.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to identify the faulty sensor, followed by replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the sensor and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Corrosion
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic electrical behavior, lights flickering, no start condition, issues with any electrical components.
  • Solution: Clean all of the electrical connections and grounds. Replace corroded wires.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50-$2000+ (depending on the amount of corrosion).
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust on frame, body panels, wheel wells, etc.
  • Solution: Rust repair, rust removal, or replacement of corroded parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Heater Core Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sweet smell inside the cab, foggy windows, loss of coolant, and a cold breeze even when the heater is on.
  • Solution: Replacement of the heater core. Labor intensive repair due to the location of the heater core under the dash.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Ford F-350 can be a reliable workhorse, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues. The most significant concerns revolve around the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel engine, particularly turbocharger, EGR, and fuel injector issues, which can be costly to repair. The 6-speed transmission can also experience problems. Suspension and electrical gremlins also add to the ownership experience. Overall, carefully inspecting the vehicle’s maintenance history and performing a thorough pre-purchase inspection are crucial to avoid expensive repairs down the road. The severity of the issues ranges from minor sensor failures to major engine or transmission overhauls, with repair costs varying accordingly from a couple hundred dollars to upwards of several thousand.