2013 Ford F-550 Super Duty

The 2013 Ford F-550 Super Duty is a robust work truck known for its exceptional towing and payload capacity. The available engine options included a 6.2L gasoline V8, a 6.8L gasoline V10, and a 6.7L Power Stroke diesel V8. The 6.2L gasoline V8 produced 385 horsepower and 405 lb-ft of torque. The 6.7L Power Stroke diesel V8 produced 400 horsepower and 800 lb-ft of torque. Owners generally appreciate the F-550’s powerful engine options and heavy-duty capabilities, but some common complaints revolve around ride quality, fuel economy, and the cost of maintenance and repairs.

Engine

6.7L Power Stroke Diesel V8

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced power, excessive black smoke from the exhaust, loud whistling or whining noises coming from the engine bay, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Frequent regeneration cycles, reduced fuel economy, engine derating, and potential for DPF clogging, leading to engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the DPF filter or force a regeneration.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, decreased fuel economy, and potential engine damage due to improper fuel delivery.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per injector (depending on how many need replacing and if high pressure fuel lines have to be removed).
  • Recalls: None Found

6.2L Gasoline V8

• Spark Plug Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, decreased fuel economy, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the spark plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.8L Gasoline V10

• No Issues Found

Transmission

TorqShift 6-Speed Automatic (Available with all Engines)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, slipping between gears, difficulty shifting, and potential stalling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, delayed engagement, slipping between gears, and potential for transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuilding of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Fluid Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible fluid leaks underneath the vehicle, difficulty shifting, and potential transmission damage due to low fluid levels.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing seals and gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced load capacity, uneven ride height, poor handling, and potential for leaf spring breakage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Ball Joints/Tie Rod Ends
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, wandering, clunking noises from the front end, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the ball joints and/or tie rod ends.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, dead battery, and engine stalling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Glow Plug Issues (Diesel)
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, rough idling, excessive smoke on startup, and check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty glow plug(s) and/or the glow plug control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust/Corrosion
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation on body panels, frame, and undercarriage, especially in areas with heavy salt usage.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of rusted panels, rust removal, and application of rust preventative coatings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handles break or become loose, rendering the doors difficult to open.
  • Solution: Replacement of the door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No air coming from the vents, or air only working on certain settings.
  • Solution: Replacement of the blower motor or resistor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Radio/Infotainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, Crashing, unresponsive touchscreen, other electrical issues.
  • Solution: Reset or replacement of the radio/infotainment system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Ford F-550 Super Duty can be a reliable workhorse, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues reported. Engine problems, particularly with the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel, can be expensive to repair. Transmission, suspension, electrical, exterior, and interior issues are also common. While some issues are relatively minor, others can be costly and significantly impact the vehicle’s reliability. Pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended.