2019 Ford F-550 Super Duty
The 2019 Ford F-550 Super Duty is a heavy-duty chassis cab truck designed for commercial applications, often used for ambulances, tow trucks, and utility vehicles. Engine options include the 6.8L Triton V10 gasoline engine producing 288 horsepower and 424 lb-ft of torque, 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 V8 Turbo Diesel engine producing 330 horsepower and 750 lb-ft of torque. All engines are paired with the TorqShift 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the F-550’s robust capabilities and towing capacity, while some dislike its stiff ride and high operating costs.
Engine
6.7L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel
- Fuel Injector Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Rough running engine, misfires, reduced power, excessive smoke from the exhaust, and potential engine damage. Can also lead to fuel dilution of engine oil.
- Solution: Replacement of faulty fuel injectors and potentially the high-pressure fuel pump. Oil change to remove diluted oil.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+ per injector (depending on location/labor).
- Recalls: None Found
- Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Valve Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idle, reduced power, black smoke from the exhaust, and potential overheating.
- Solution: Replacement of the EGR valve.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Reduced power, frequent regeneration cycles, check engine light, and potential engine damage if not addressed. Can cause fuel dilution of the engine oil.
- Solution: Forced DPF regeneration, cleaning the DPF, or replacing the DPF.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (for cleaning) - $2000+ (for replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
6.8L Triton V10
- Spark Plug Blowout
- Description/Symptoms: Loud popping noise, misfire, reduced power, and damage to the spark plug threads in the cylinder head.
- Solution: Repairing or replacing the cylinder head. Installation of thread inserts to repair damaged spark plug threads.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
6.2L SOHC 2-Valve Flex Fuel V8
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Low oil level, blue smoke from exhaust, engine knocking, and potential engine damage
- Solution: Replace the PCV valve, replace piston rings, or replace the engine.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $5000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
TorqShift 6-Speed Automatic (All Engines)
- Harsh Shifting/Slipping
- Description/Symptoms: Hard shifts between gears, transmission slipping, delayed engagement, and potential transmission failure.
- Solution: Transmission fluid flush, valve body repair or replacement, or complete transmission rebuild or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $4000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, stalling, and difficulty shifting.
- Solution: Torque converter replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Leaf Spring Sag/Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Reduced ride height, poor ride quality, and potential handling issues, especially when loaded.
- Solution: Replacement of the leaf springs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per spring (depending on location/labor)
- Recalls: None Found
- Worn Ball Joints/Tie Rod Ends
- Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, 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 - $800+ per side
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting, and electrical malfunctions. Can be caused by parasitic drain from aftermarket accessories or faulty modules.
- Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the source of the parasitic drain, replacing the battery, and potentially replacing the alternator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
- Recalls: None Found
- Sensor Failures (e.g., ABS, TPMS)
- Description/Symptoms: Warning lights on the dashboard, malfunctioning systems (ABS, TPMS), and potential safety issues.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ per sensor
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rust on Bed and Undercarriage
- Description/Symptoms: Visible rust forming on the bed, frame, and other undercarriage components, especially in areas exposed to road salt.
- Solution: Rust removal, repair, and rustproofing treatments.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ (depending on the severity and extent of the rust)
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- HVAC Blower Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: No air blowing from the vents, reduced airflow, and unusual noises from the blower motor area.
- Solution: Replacement of the HVAC blower motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- SYNC System Issues (Freezing, Lagging)
- Description/Symptoms: Infotainment system freezing, lagging, and experiencing software glitches.
- Solution: Software updates, resetting the system, or replacing the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (for software updates) - $500+ (for APIM replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2019 Ford F-550 Super Duty, while a capable workhorse, is subject to a range of issues primarily revolving around its diesel engine and transmission. The 6.7L Power Stroke is prone to fuel injector and EGR valve failures, as well as DPF clogging, all of which can be costly to repair. The TorqShift 6-speed transmission can experience harsh shifting and torque converter issues. Other concerns include suspension wear and electrical problems. While some fixes are relatively inexpensive, engine and transmission repairs can quickly escalate to significant costs. Potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and thoroughly inspect the vehicle before purchase, paying particular attention to maintenance records and diagnostic reports.