Most Common Failures of the Ford Super Duty: Problems and Breakdowns
The Ford Super Duty is a smooth line of trucks produced and marketed by the Ford Motor Company. The company launched the Super Duty in 1998 for the 1999 model year with the F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 trucks. However, in this post we will talk about the common failures of the Ford Super Duty , so stay with us, keep reading and learn more about this wonderful vehicle.
Despite the faults of Ford vehicles , Super Duty trucks are noted for their heavy-duty chassis and enormous towing and hauling capacity. Now in its fourth generation, the Ford Super Duty continues to amaze with its great features and enormous capacity.
Common Ford Super Duty Faults
Despite being the favorite truck of many, it is not perfect which is why there have been several complaints about the Ford Super Duty and we are going to delve into some of them below. If you are interested in this vehicle, stay with us and discover what they are and how to solve these problems.
1. Unusual spark plug blowout
A commonly reported problem with the Ford Super Duty is random blowouts of the spark plugs. This failure is common with 2001-2003 Ford F-250 models and is caused by several issues.
The average mileage for this problem is around 125,000-150,000 miles (201,000 – 241,000 kilometers). Considering the fact that Super Duty trucks are touted to stay active even when they cross twice that number, it can be problematic.
Possible causes and solutions
Here are the possible causes of this problem and their solutions:
1- Defective threads
Spark plugs are often installed in threads, and installing them in damaged threads is a recipe for a blowout. The best way to treat the thread problem is to check the spark plugs every 20,000-30,000 miles (32,000 – 48,000 kilometers) to make sure everything is satisfactory.
2- Loose spark plugs
This is one of the most common and recurring causes of a blown spark plug on Ford Super Duty vehicles. When a spark plug isn’t tight enough, it’s bound to come loose at some point, causing it to run wildly on the threads.
The truth is, as much as we’re inclined to blame human error for loose spark plugs, the engine may also be to blame. Some engines are more prone to loose spark plugs and this should be investigated.
3- Defective design
If you’re a veteran of the automotive world, you may remember an engine problem in the Ford Triton in the early 2000s. Many vehicle owners reported blown spark plugs and consensus from bulletins and experts revealed it to be a problem. engine head problem.
Apparently, the engine only used four threads along with weak aluminum, which caused the frequent blowouts.
To do?
We recommend going to a proper diagnosis of the spark plugs and the engine the next time you perform car maintenance.
2. The vehicle wobbles
Wobble is also a frequent problem with the Ford Super Duty. It refers to the jolts and vibrations of the vehicle that usually start with the steering wheel.
According to Super Duty owner reports, the wobble problem often shows up at around 70,000 to 80,000 miles (112,000 to 128,000 kilometers) on the odometer. This failure can be caused by a series of causes that we will see below.
Possible causes and solutions
The truth is that there is not just one malfunction responsible for wobbling in the Super Duty truck. It is often a culmination of multiple problems, including:
1- Bad steering alignment
One of the main causes is misalignment of the steering. Trucks like the Ford Super Duty are often used for heavy duty and are also driven on rough roads with potholes and the like.
Although Super Duty trucks can handle this just fine, the steering wheel must be properly aligned. If not, you’re looking at a potential wobble. However, a properly aligned steering wheel will significantly reduce the chances of the problem.
2- Tire pressure
Most car experts, when faced with a wobble problem, will first check the pressure of the vehicle’s tires to see that they are not fully inflated. This is because over-inflated, under-inflated and misadjusted tire pressures are the main triggers.
Therefore, it is very important to ensure that the tires are correctly inflated, as this could help prevent vibrations.
3- Tire balance
Another problem that can trigger a wobble on your Ford Super Duty is tire imbalance. For most people, the only time tire balance is important is when they’re riding, after that they pay little attention to it. It is important to check the balance of the tires when they are rotated.
Tires wear over time, often causing subtle changes in weights and ratios that could throw them off balance.
Unbalanced tires are not good for a vehicle as they can cause wobble along with other problems.
Therefore, it is important to balance and rotate your tires frequently. You can do this every time you change your oil and it will not only help prevent a wobble, but it can also help with tire wear.
4- Defective tie rod
The tie rod is an important component, especially for heavy trucks like the Ford Super Duty. It links the steering knuckles and helps bring input from the drive link to the wheels.
A common temptation among Super Duty owners is the desire to add larger tires that are perfect for off-road conditions. While this is a welcome move, these large tires can increase stress on the tie rod, causing it to bend or wear at either end.
If this happens, you will likely experience steering wheel vibrations, wobbles, and a serious loss of control, which are all signs of a wobble to death.
5- Defective wheel bearings
Wheel bearings exist to help load the vehicle, allowing it to turn smoothly. The usual signs of a bad wheel bearing include vibration and instability along with a grinding noise.
6- Steering damper wear
The steering damper absorbs secondary vibrations that can trigger a wobble of death. While not exactly a groundbreaking solution to wobbles, it does play an important role in the system.
The shock absorber usually wears out over time and may need to be replaced. The best way to stay on top of this is to have it checked regularly by an expert.
7- Other problems
Other failures are the following:
- faulty ball joints
- worn control arm
- Defective steering box and internal gears
To do?
The best way to deal with a scare or wobble situation is to engage the services of an auto expert. This way, the expert can perform a thorough/professional check and offer solutions and recommendations.
3. Premature transmission failure
Ford Super Duty owners often report transmission failures with their trucks, especially models made in the early 2000s. We found a flood of complaints on the subject and the average mileage of occurrence is 62,750 miles (100,986 kilometers). . Some owners even experienced this with less than 30,000 miles (48,200 kilometers) on the odometer.
Signs of transmission failure include burning smell, transmission warning or check engine light, gear slippage among others.
Possible causes and solutions
A vehicle is only as good as its transmission, which makes transmission failure a very serious problem. Here are the main causes of transmission failures:
1- Transmission fluid level
Transmission fluids help lubricate the system. A low transmission fluid level can cause serious problems such as overheating, gear shifting problems, gear slippage, among others.
2- Clogged filter
A clogged transmission filter equates to an unwanted obstruction of the automatic transmission fluid passage. This will dampen the efficiency of the overall drive system and can be catastrophic if not fixed in time.
3- Problems with the torque converter
The torque converter is usually filled with fluid in order to transfer torque from the engine to the transmission. Therefore, a faulty torque converter can cause considerable damage to the transmission.
4- Problems with the solenoid
A solenoid simply regulates the flow of transmission fluid, and a faulty solenoid can cause slippage in the system.
To do?
Experiencing transmission failure is not a great feeling at all, especially when it happens before the truck has even clocked 100,000 miles (161,000 kilometers). This is one more reason why we advise calling a trusted mechanic for a lasting solution.
4. Premature engine failure
Very few components are as crucial as the engine when it comes to keeping a car alive and efficient. So it was quite disappointing to find that engine failure was a common problem with some Ford Super Duty trucks.
And even more disappointing is the fact that the average mileage for this engine problem is only around 90,000 miles (144,840 kilometers).
Possible causes and solutions
An engine failure on Ford Super Duty can be caused by a number of reasons, some of which are:
1- Engine overheating
Overheating can cause engine failure if not given the required attention at an early stage. It is often caused by loss of engine coolant or low coolant level, which may be due to leaks in the engine.
Also, when changing the antifreeze, it is important to completely fill the cooling system. Failure to do so can create pockets of steam, which can cause the engine to run hot.
2- Lack of lubrication
Regular lubrication is undoubtedly one of the most important ways to maintain an engine and keep it running. Lubricating oils not only help reduce friction, but also prevent unwanted heat.
Therefore, a reduction or interruption of the flow of oil in the engine is a recipe for failure.
3- Detonation
A knock in the engine system is usually the result of wild and irregular combustion in the engine. This leads to an excessive production of heat and pressure in the combustion chamber, which is often accompanied by a knocking noise.
Reasons for the threat that detonation is include problems with the exhaust gas recirculation system, incorrect spark plugs, and poor ignition timing.
To do?
Dealing with an engine breakdown is an arduous and troublesome process, and requires a lot of time and money. To make sure all of that doesn’t go to waste, we advise taking the vehicle to an expert to get it fixed properly.
The good and the bad of the Ford Super Duty
You are already aware of the common faults of the Ford Super Duty, now we present some positive aspects of this wonderful vehicle:
Advantages of the Ford Super Duty:
These are some of the pros or positive points of Super Duty trucks:
1- Powerful engines
The Ford Super Duty is reputed to have powerful engines in all its variants. For recent versions of the F-350, a 6.2-liter V8 engine is standard, delivering up to 385 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque. The F-250 also comes correct with several engine options, including a 6.7-liter V8 and a 7.3-liter gasoline V8.
2- Massive towing capacity
Towing is one of the Ford Super Duty’s main strengths. The F-250 variant can tow up to 22,800 pounds with a fifth-wheel arrangement. The Ford F-350 can go even further with a towing capacity of 37,000 pounds when a gooseneck is attached.
3- Smooth Off-Road Experience
Ford Super Duty offers an intriguing off-road package cleverly named the “Tremor package.” This package equips the truck with running boards, off-road tires, and a lift kit, making off-roading exciting and hassle-free. In addition to this, the trucks have different driving modes for different situations, including normal mode, eco mode, towing/hauling mode, deep sand/snow mode, and slippery mode.
4- Advanced camera options
Driving a truck as big as the Ford SuperDuty means you won’t always have a chance to control everything, especially the things behind you. Ford SuperDuty helps you in this regard with sophisticated video technology that gives you a 360-degree view of the entire truck.
5- Comfort and entertainment features
Who says everything has to be boring and dry on the inside when driving heavy trucks? Not the case with Ford. Ford Super Duty is equipped with a variety of infotainment features, including FordConnect that allows you to connect to the Internet. Other features include an 8-inch touchscreen, a 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, and a wireless charging option.
Disadvantages of the Ford Super Duty
Here are some of the flaws or cons of the Ford Super Duty series:
- Unusual blowout of spark plugs
- terrifying wobble of death
- premature transmission failure
- premature engine failure
What do the reviews say about the Ford Super Duty?
The comments and opinions about the Ford Super Duty are positive despite the failures it has had in some models. Among the comments that stand out the most are the following:
“The Ford Super Duty faces fierce competition from GM and Ram, but the Super Duty’s new technological features help raise the bar in Ford’s favor. Although we recommend the Power Stroke V8 diesel for heavy towing, the new 7.3-litre petrol engine is a good compromise. You’ll have plenty of power to tow without the higher price tag of diesel models.”
“The Ford Super Duty may be a family truck to some, or a tool to others, perhaps even a status symbol in some places, but heavy trucks continue to offer impressive capabilities and an open bed with almost limitless possibilities.”
