2021 Ford F-550 Super Duty

The 2021 Ford F-550 Super Duty is a heavy-duty work truck known for its robust capabilities and towing capacity. Engine options include the 7.3L “Godzilla” V8 gasoline engine producing 350 horsepower and 468 lb-ft of torque and the 6.7L Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel engine which delivers 330 horsepower and 825 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with the TorqShift 10-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally praise the F-550 for its power, ruggedness, and ability to handle demanding tasks. Common dislikes often revolve around the vehicle’s size, fuel economy, and cost of ownership.

Engine

7.3L “Godzilla” V8

• Valve Spring Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise from the engine, misfires, reduced engine power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the affected valve springs. In some cases, the entire cylinder head may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.7L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel

• CP4 High-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, no start condition, metallic debris in the fuel system. The CP4 pump is known to be more susceptible to failure than earlier pumps, especially when contaminated fuel is used.
  • Solution: Complete fuel system replacement, including the high-pressure fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel rails, and potentially the fuel tank.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $8,000 - $12,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, DEF system warning messages, reduced engine power, and potential for the vehicle to enter limp mode. Problems can stem from the DEF injector, DEF pump, DEF level sensor, or the NOx sensors.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the specific component failure and replacement of the faulty part(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+ depending on the failed component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

TorqShift 10-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts, particularly between certain gears. Transmission may also slip under acceleration.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update (reprogramming the transmission control module) can resolve the issue. If the problem persists, valve body replacement or complete transmission overhaul may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (reprogram) - $6,000+ (overhaul/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sitting lower than normal, particularly when loaded. Reduced ride quality and handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaf springs with new or heavy-duty aftermarket springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ depending on the springs used and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• SYNC System Freezing/Connectivity Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Infotainment screen freezing, unresponsive touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity problems, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto malfunction.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve the issue. If not, the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $800+ (APIM replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Body Control Module (BCM) Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic behavior of various electrical systems, such as lights, windows, door locks, or wipers. Check engine light may illuminate.
  • Solution: Replacement of the BCM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Corrosion on Aluminum Body Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible corrosion, especially around seams and edges of aluminum body panels. Can be exacerbated by road salt and other environmental factors.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the affected body panels. Proper corrosion protection measures should be taken to prevent recurrence.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+ depending on the extent of the damage and repair method.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

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

Summary

The 2021 Ford F-550 Super Duty, while a capable work truck, exhibits a range of potential issues. Engine problems, especially with the CP4 fuel pump in the diesel variant, can be very costly. Transmission issues are also a concern. Electrical problems are also somewhat common, with infotainment and BCM issues cropping up. While some issues can be resolved with software updates, others require costly repairs or replacements. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and thoroughly inspect any used F-550 before purchase.