2017 Ford F-450 Super Duty

The 2017 Ford F-450 Super Duty is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its impressive towing and payload capabilities. It was offered with two engine options: the 6.2L SOHC 2-Valve Flex Fuel V8 engine, producing 385 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque, and the 6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8 engine, generating 440 horsepower and 925 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a TorqShift 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate the F-450’s robust build, towing prowess, and comfortable cabin. However, some common complaints include the truck’s large size making it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces, and the potential for high repair costs, especially concerning the diesel engine.

Engine

6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive black smoke, unusual turbocharger noises (whining or screeching).
  • Solution: Replace the failed turbocharger with an updated unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Glow Plug Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, especially in cold weather, rough idling, engine misfires.
  • Solution: Replace faulty glow plugs and potentially the glow plug control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, decreased fuel economy, black smoke, potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace faulty fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) System Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced engine power, messages related to DEF system malfunctions.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair/replace faulty DEF system components (DEF pump, DEF injector, NOx sensors).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.2L SOHC 2-Valve Flex Fuel V8

• Spark Plug Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, decreased fuel economy, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace spark plugs and ignition coils if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks around the engine, burning oil smell, low oil level.
  • Solution: Identify and repair the source of the leak (valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, rear main seal, etc.).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

TorqShift 6-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts between gears, especially when cold.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush, inspect solenoids, or potentially replace valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine revving high without corresponding acceleration, difficulty shifting gears.
  • Solution: Inspect transmission fluid level and condition, diagnose internal transmission damage, rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear suspension, reduced load capacity, rough ride.
  • Solution: Replace worn leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, various warning lights, erratic system behavior (e.g., ABS, traction control).
  • Solution: Diagnose and replace faulty sensors (ABS sensors, wheel speed sensors, etc.).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

• SYNC System Issues *Description/Symptoms: Intermittent freezing, slow response, connection issues, audio problems. *Solution: Update the SYNC software, reset the system, or replace the SYNC module. *Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,000+ (module replacement) *Recalls: None Found

• Trailer Wiring Harness Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Trailer lights not working, brake controller malfunctions, error messages.
  • Solution: Inspect and repair/replace damaged wiring, connectors, or the trailer brake controller module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Cab Light Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cab through the cab lights, causing headliner stains.
  • Solution: Reseal or replace the cab lights.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters not working or overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the heating element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Conditioning Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Inadequate cooling, strange noises from the A/C system, refrigerant leaks.
  • Solution: Recharge refrigerant, repair leaks, replace faulty compressor or other components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2017 Ford F-450 Super Duty, while a capable truck, can suffer from several issues, particularly with the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel engine. Turbocharger failures, DEF system problems, and fuel injector issues are prevalent and can be expensive to repair. The 6.2L V8 also has some issues, with common issues like Spark Plug and Oil Leaks. The 6-speed automatic transmission can also have shifting and slipping issues that require extensive repair. While the suspension, electrical, and interior issues are less severe, they still require attention. Overall, potential buyers should carefully inspect the engine and transmission and be prepared for potential repair costs, especially if the vehicle is equipped with the diesel engine.