2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty
The 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its towing and hauling capabilities. Engine options include the 6.2L SOHC 2-Valve Flex Fuel V8, producing 385 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque; the 7.3L 2V DEVCT NA PFI V8 (“Godzilla”), producing 430 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque; and the 6.7L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel, producing 475 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft of torque. The 6.2L is paired with a TorqShift 6-speed automatic, while the 7.3L and 6.7L are paired with a TorqShift 10-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the F-250’s robust performance and towing capacity. However, some common complaints involve electronic glitches and occasional mechanical issues.
Engine
6.2L SOHC 2-Valve Flex Fuel V8
- No Issues Found
7.3L 2V DEVCT NA PFI V8 (“Godzilla”)
- Valve Train Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported unusual noises coming from the engine, specifically ticking or tapping sounds that seem to originate from the valve train.
- Solution: The issue may be the result of an issue with the valves. Replacing the necessary components will resolve the issue.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
6.7L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel
- CP4 Fuel Pump Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The CP4 high-pressure fuel pump is known to fail, especially when contaminated fuel is introduced to the system. This can cause the engine to stall, run rough, or not start at all. Metal shavings may be found in the fuel system.
- Solution: Replacement of the CP4 pump and potentially other fuel system components, including injectors and fuel lines. Some owners choose to replace the CP4 pump with a more robust CP3 style pump as a preventative measure.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $8,000 - $12,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Turbocharger Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported premature turbocharger failure. Symptoms include a loss of power, excessive black smoke, and unusual turbo noises.
- Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
TorqShift 6-Speed Automatic
- No Issues Found
TorqShift 10-Speed Automatic
- Harsh Shifting/Jerking
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners experience harsh or erratic shifting, particularly between certain gears. Jerking or clunking noises may also be present.
- Solution: Software updates or transmission recalibration may resolve the issue. In some cases, valve body replacement is necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (for software) - $1,500+ (for valve body)
- Recalls: None Found
- Delayed Engagement
- Description/Symptoms: Delayed engagement when shifting from park to drive or reverse, or hesitation when accelerating.
- Solution: Transmission fluid level check and possible flush, or valve body replacement
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- “Death Wobble”
- Description/Symptoms: A violent shaking of the front end, particularly at highway speeds after hitting a bump or imperfection in the road.
- Solution: Typically involves replacing or upgrading steering components such as the steering stabilizer, ball joints, track bar, and tie rod ends.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: SYNC system freezing, screen blackouts, Bluetooth connectivity problems, navigation malfunctions, and unresponsive touch controls.
- Solution: Software updates, system resets, or replacement of the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (for software update) - $1,000+ (for APIM replacement)
- Recalls: 23V-060: Certain 2020-2023 Super Duty F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 vehicles may experience a blank image on the digital instrument panel.
- Sensor Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Issues with sensors such as the TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System), parking sensors, and blind-spot monitoring system.
- Solution: Sensor replacement or wiring harness repair.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per sensor
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Tailgate Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Tailgate malfunction, difficult to open or close, or power tailgate failure.
- Solution: Tailgate latch adjustment, hinge repair, or replacement of the tailgate actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Seat Discomfort
- Description/Symptoms: Owners report issues with seat comfort on long trips, with concerns about lumbar support and overall seat design.
- Solution: Aftermarket seat modifications or cushions may provide some relief.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary The 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty has some known issues across different components. The 6.7L Power Stroke diesel engine is susceptible to expensive CP4 pump failures. The 10-speed transmission can experience harsh shifting, and the suspension may exhibit the “death wobble.” Electrical issues with the infotainment system and sensors are also common. While some issues can be resolved with software updates or minor repairs, others may require costly component replacements. The potential cost of repairs varies widely but could range from a few hundred to several thousands of dollars, especially for engine and transmission-related problems.