2021 Ford F-450 Super Duty
Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints associated with the 2021 Ford F-450 Super Duty, organized by category and engine/transmission option, along with specific details where available.
The 2021 Ford F-450 Super Duty is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its impressive towing and payload capabilities. Engine options include the 6.2L Boss SOHC 2-Valve Flex Fuel V8 engine producing 385 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque, the 7.3L “Godzilla” OHV 2-Valve PFI V8 engine producing 430 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque, and the 6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8 engine producing 475 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft of torque. All engine options are paired with the TorqShift 10-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the F-450 for its raw power, towing capacity, and comfortable interior (especially in higher trim levels). Common dislikes include the truck’s size and difficulty maneuvering in tight spaces, along with the high price tag.
Engine
6.7L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8
- Turbocharger Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive black smoke from the exhaust, unusual turbocharger noises (whining or screeching), check engine light. Can be caused by oil starvation or debris entering the turbo.
- Solution: Turbocharger replacement. Inspection of oil lines and intercooler boots for leaks or blockages.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- CP4 High-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, rough running, inability to start, metallic debris found in the fuel system. This is often caused by contaminated fuel or lubrication issues within the pump.
- Solution: Complete fuel system replacement (high-pressure pump, fuel injectors, fuel rails, fuel lines, fuel filter).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $8,000 - $12,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Glow Plug Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Hard starting in cold weather, excessive white smoke upon startup, rough idling.
- Solution: Replacement of faulty glow plug(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$800+ depending on the number of glow plugs replaced and labor costs.
- Recalls: None Found
7.3L “Godzilla” OHV 2-Valve PFI V8
- Valve Train Noise (Tick or Knock)
- Description/Symptoms: Ticking or knocking sound emanating from the engine, especially noticeable at idle or low speeds. Potential causes include lifter issues or valve guide wear.
- Solution: Diagnosis to pinpoint the source of the noise. May involve replacing lifters, valve guides, or other valve train components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the extent of the repairs.
- Recalls: None Found
6.2L Boss SOHC 2-Valve Flex Fuel V8 * No Issues Found
Transmission
TorqShift 10-Speed Automatic Transmission (All Engines)
- Harsh Shifting/Slipping
- Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts, especially between certain gears. Transmission may feel like it’s “slipping” or hesitating during acceleration. Can be caused by valve body issues, solenoid failures, or internal damage.
- Solution: Software reflash/reprogramming of the transmission control module (TCM). Valve body replacement or rebuild. Full transmission replacement in severe cases.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (reflash) - $6,000+ (transmission replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Delayed Engagement
- Description/Symptoms: Noticeable delay between shifting into drive or reverse and the transmission actually engaging.
- Solution: Diagnose fluid level and condition. May require transmission rebuild or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid change) - $6,000+ (transmission replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Steering Wander/Loose Steering Feel
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty keeping the vehicle tracking straight on the road. The steering wheel may feel loose or require constant corrections.
- Solution: Inspection and potential replacement of ball joints, tie rod ends, steering gearbox, or steering stabilizer. Alignment.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
- Description/Symptoms: The Ford Sync infotainment system freezes, becomes unresponsive, or crashes unexpectedly.
- Solution: Software update/reflash of the Sync system. Replacement of the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) in severe cases.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $800+ (APIM replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: The vehicle’s battery drains overnight or within a short period, leading to difficulty starting.
- Solution: Diagnosis to identify parasitic draw. Potential causes include faulty modules, accessories left on, or a failing alternator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Tailgate Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Tailgate won’t open or close properly.
- Solution: Adjustment or replacement of the tailgate latch mechanism or hinges.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Seat Heater Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters fail to heat properly or stop working altogether.
- Solution: Replacement of the seat heater element or control module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary:
The 2021 Ford F-450 Super Duty, while generally a reliable and powerful workhorse, can be prone to certain issues. The most serious concerns revolve around potential engine failures (CP4 fuel pump in the diesel, turbocharger issues) and transmission problems. Electrical glitches with the infotainment system are also relatively common. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to upwards of $10,000 for major engine or transmission overhauls. Prospective buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle’s maintenance history, pay close attention to engine and transmission performance during a test drive, and be aware of the potential for costly repairs down the road, especially with the diesel engine.