2018 Ford F-250 Super Duty

The 2018 Ford F-250 Super Duty is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its robust capabilities and towing capacity. Engine options include a 6.2L V8 gasoline engine (385 hp, 430 lb-ft of torque) and a 6.7L Power Stroke V8 turbo-diesel engine (450 hp, 935 lb-ft of torque). Both engines are paired with the TorqShift 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise its powerful engines, comfortable ride for a heavy-duty truck, and overall build quality. Some common dislikes include the truck’s large size making it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces, and the high price point, especially when equipped with higher trim levels and options.

Engine

6.2L V8 Gasoline

• Valve Train Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noises coming from the top of the engine. Can progress to misfires.
  • Solution: Replacement of lifters and potentially camshaft.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks originating from the valve cover gaskets or oil pan gasket. Visible oil drips and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

6.7L Power Stroke V8 Turbo-Diesel

• CP4 Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls or fails to start. Metal shavings present in the fuel system.
  • Solution: Complete fuel system replacement (fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, etc.).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $8,000 - $12,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: “Check Engine” light illuminated. Error messages related to DEF quality or level. Potential for reduced engine power.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair/replacement of faulty DEF sensors, DEF pump, or DEF injector.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive black smoke, whistling noises from the engine.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

TorqShift 6-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky gear changes.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. In some cases, reprogramming the transmission control module (TCM) can help. More severe cases may require valve body repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: A shaking or vibrating sensation, especially at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front End Shaking/Vibration (“Death Wobble”)
  • Description/Symptoms: Violent shaking of the front end, especially at highway speeds.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and replacing worn or damaged suspension components such as ball joints, tie rod ends, steering stabilizer, or track bar.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• SYNC System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, unresponsive touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity problems.
  • Solution: Software updates, system resets, or replacement of the SYNC module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,000+ (module replacement)
  • Recalls: 22S41, 20S18, 23S02
• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows failing to operate, sticking, or moving erratically.
  • Solution: Replacement of window motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Tailgate Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Tailgate not opening/closing properly, tailgate handle breaking, step tailgate failing.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of tailgate handle, latch mechanism, or tailgate itself.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,500+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: 20S58

Interior

• Seat Heater Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters not working, overheating, or only working intermittently.
  • Solution: Replacement of seat heater element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Ford F-250 Super Duty, while a capable truck, exhibits several potential issues. The most concerning involve the 6.7L diesel engine’s CP4 fuel pump, which can lead to costly repairs. The “death wobble” suspension issue can also be dangerous and expensive to resolve. Other issues, such as SYNC problems and tailgate malfunctions, are more common inconveniences. Overall, prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and budget accordingly, especially if considering a diesel-powered model. While some fixes are relatively inexpensive, others can quickly escalate into significant repair bills.