2018 Ford F-350 Super Duty

The 2018 Ford F-350 Super Duty is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its capability and towing prowess. Engine options include the 6.2L SOHC 2-Valve Flex Fuel V8 (385 hp, 430 lb-ft of torque), the 6.7L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel (450 hp, 935 lb-ft of torque), and the 6.8L Triton V10. The 6.2L V8 is paired with the TorqShift 6-speed automatic transmission, while the 6.7L diesel engine is paired with the TorqShift 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the truck’s robust performance, towing capacity, and available technology. However, some common complaints include ride harshness, especially when unloaded, and the high cost of ownership, including maintenance and fuel.

Engine

6.2L SOHC 2-Valve Flex Fuel V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may develop from the valve cover gaskets and the front crankshaft seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks on the engine, oil spots on the ground, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking valve cover gaskets and/or front crankshaft seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.7L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel

• Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the DEF system, including faulty DEF sensors, DEF pump failures, and clogged DEF injectors. Symptoms include a check engine light, reduced engine power, and messages related to DEF levels or quality.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty DEF sensors, DEF pump, or DEF injectors. In some cases, the entire DEF system may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Turbocharger failure can occur due to oil starvation, excessive heat, or mechanical wear. Symptoms include a loss of power, excessive black smoke from the exhaust, and a whistling noise from the turbocharger.
  • Solution: Replace the failed turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

TorqShift 6-Speed Automatic Transmission (Both Gas & Diesel)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of rough or jerky shifting between gears, particularly at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace faulty solenoids or valve body components. A software update or transmission flush may also resolve the issue in some cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: A shuddering or vibration felt during light acceleration, particularly at highway speeds. This can be caused by issues within the torque converter itself.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter. In some cases, a full transmission rebuild may be recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front End Vibration/Shimmy
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibration or shimmy felt in the steering wheel, particularly at highway speeds. Often attributed to worn ball joints, tie rod ends, or alignment issues.
  • Solution: Replace worn ball joints and tie rod ends. Perform a wheel alignment.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• SYNC System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, lagging, or unresponsiveness of the SYNC infotainment system. Bluetooth connectivity problems.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the SYNC module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate correctly, often due to a faulty window motor or switch.
  • Solution: Replace the window motor or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Trailer Wiring Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions in the trailer wiring harness, causing trailer lights to fail or display incorrectly.
  • Solution: Inspect and repair or replace damaged wiring or connectors in the trailer wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Bed Mounting Points
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the bed mounting points and around the wheel wells.
  • Solution: Remove rust, treat with rust inhibitor, and repaint or replace affected parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Control Module Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power seats not adjusting properly or at all. Failure of the seat control module.
  • Solution: Replace the seat control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Ford F-350 Super Duty can be a very reliable truck, however, there are some common issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. The most significant issues appear to be related to the diesel engine’s DEF system and turbocharger, as well as some transmission issues that are seen across the board. Electrical issues, particularly with the SYNC system, can also be frustrating. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others, like turbocharger replacement, can be quite costly. Buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic to identify any potential problems before making a purchase.