The Ford F-250 is part of the F-Series Super Duty lineup. It’s been produced by Ford since the 1999 model year. It’s difficult to tell how many F-250 models have been sold because they are always grouped together as part of the F-Series. Yet, the F-Series has been America’s best-selling truck for 46 consecutive years.
The only way to accurately determine which F-250 models are the best and worst is to look at all the data. That’s precisely what we did to help you decide.
Before you buy a Ford F-250, consider all of the information we provide you with. Not only can this information help you find a heavy-duty truck at the best price, but it also ensures there’s plenty of life left in it. If you already drive an F-250, use this data to determine when it’s time to sell.
We’ve pulled this data from thousands of FIXD car scanners installed in Ford F-250 trucks. We combine it with survey results from actual F-250 owners. Our evaluation further includes data related to KBB values, fuel economy, recalls, and safety ratings, making sure you know everything that’s important.
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Worst Years |
Why? |
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Higher chance of engine problems, elevated cost of ownership |
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Average reliability scores, skyrocketing ownership costs, major mechanical issues |
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2011-2012 |
Low FIXD reliability ratings, higher chance of expensive bills |
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2003-2006 |
Lower reliability ratings, lower resale value, increased chance of costly repairs |
Ford F-250 Engine Reliability Score, Safety Ratings, MPG, and Value v.s. Maintenance & Repair Costs – Year by Year
It’s important to us that you know what you are looking at when you shop for a Ford F-250. That’s why all of the information we have is laid out in an easy-to-read format. Look at all of the charts to determine which models are worth your time. Learn more about the reliability of this Ford truck while examining the average maintenance cost, safety scores, and fuel economy ratings.
If you’re in the market for a car, take a look at our article on the USA’s most reliable and cheapest to repair cars in the U.S. Don’t get stuck with a lemon, use our data to help you shop.
Engine Reliability Score – Over The Years
This comprehensive chart shows you the average reliability ratings of Ford F-250 trucks based on two different factors:
- The FIXD Reliability score (Green line) – we source this data from the number of check engine lights set by Ford F-250s during every 12,000 miles of driving (1 year’s worth of driving).
- The Owner Reliability score (Gray line) – these answers come straight from Ford F-250 owners who took our survey.
Everything on our chart is ranked between 1 and 10. If the Ford F-250 truck is rated the highest, the score will be 10. On the other hand, the lower models are ranked as a 1. Average scores show a 5.
Looking at the graph, we can learn a lot. We see similar patterns between the two lines, with the newer models ranking the highest.
While there’s a lot to learn from this graph alone, we recommend using it with the other data for a clearer picture. Also, if you know which model you want to learn more about, you can jump down to the detailed description. Otherwise, keep reading for more important factors to consider.
Start by reading about the most common reasons for the Check Engine Light on Ford models before determining which trucks are worth your investment.
NHTSA Safety Score – Over The Years
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) is responsible for providing safety scores after running through some crash testing. The information provided has been put in this handy chart, so you can determine which models have the best rankings.
The green line on our chart shows the average safety rating of the Ford F-250 models. Notice we don’t have all of the years graphed because there are some years without a score. It’s important to look at this line in conjunction with the gray line, which reveals an average score among all vehicles we have the NHTSA data for.
You’ll notice that many of the Ford F-250 models fall below average, but this isn’t unusual for heavy-duty trucks. If you want the safest trucks, it might be worth looking at the 2019 and 2021-2022 model years.
To ensure you get cheap car insurance for your used truck, it’s vital to pick a model with high safety scores.
If you live in one of the states listed below, we can show you the cheapest vehicles to insure in yours.
| What Used Cars Are the Cheapest To Insure In: |
| Ohio |
| North Carolina |
| Michigan |
| Georgia |
| Texas |
| New York |
| Illinois |
| Pennsylvania |
| California |
MPG – Over The Years
The Ford F-250 is considered a heavy-duty truck. Therefore, the engineers weren’t concerned with making them fuel efficient but were focused on ensuring these trucks could get tough jobs done. For that reason, you aren’t going to find any F-250 with stellar fuel economy numbers.
Our graph shows you the average Ford F-250 fuel economy by model year, with data provided by fuelly.com since heavy-duty trucks don’t undergo the same testing as regular passenger vehicles. The green line reveals the average rating for gas-powered F-250 trucks, while the gray line gives you the diesel averages.
The 2007 gas, as well as the 2008 and 2020 diesel models, get the highest ratings overall.
Current Market Value of All Ford F-250 Years & Cost Per Year to Repair and Maintain Each
Taking information from current F-250 owners, we were able to estimate the cost to maintain and repair by model year. You’ll see a direct relationship between reliability and ownership costs. Not only are less reliable trucks more likely to end up in the shop, but they can be there for an extended time, which leads to a loss of transportation.
Looking at resale values, you want to know what you will get if you want to sell the truck. With fewer mechanical issues and lower mileage, you can get a higher price. Diesel models also tend to get more than comparable gas-powered trucks. However, you need to run your own KBB report to see what your truck is worth based on condition, the chosen trim level, and mileage.
If you are a buyer and are torn between two similar models with good ratings, you may prefer to choose the newer one. It’s usually going to have a better resale value and should last longer if it was well-maintained.
When shopping for a used Ford F-250, it’s important to keep in mind that not all vehicles are cared for equally. To protect yourself from lemons, take along a FIXD Sensor on your test drive. FIXD connects to a free app on your smartphone to tell you more about the vehicle you’re checking out, including check engine lights and other hidden issues that the owner or dealership may be attempting to hide. Click here to learn more and get FIXD for only $19.99 (regular price $59)!
Important Features Timeline
1999: Brand-new F-Series arrives with options for a Regular Cab, Super Cab, or SuperCrew model
2000: 4-wheel antilock brakes become standard with Lariat trim, XL trim offers available bucket seats
2001: Standard trailer tow package added to all models, 4-wheel antilock brakes comes standard, Lariat includes in-dash six-disc CD changer, chrome tubular cab steps, and an ultrasonic reverse aid sensor
2002: 5.4L and 6.8L V8 gas engines come standard with a six-speed manual, Power Stroke diesel models receive an air filter service indicator, roof ride handles become standard on all models
2003: FX4 Off-Road Package becomes available with skid plates, steering damper, decals, plus upgraded front and rear shocks
2004: Harley-Davidson package can be added, Advanced Security Group includes a keypad mounted to the driver door handle, recline feature available with bench front seat
2005: New front suspension released, TorqueShift five-speed automatic transmission becomes standard
2006: Lariat includes standard dual-zone climate control, a trip computer, and an auto-dimming mirror, Amarillo package released with Blazing Yellow paint, black interior accents, black leather seating, and special wheels
2007: Lariat Highline Package added with black leather seating and chrome details, 5.4L engine with manual transmission, and the 6.8L V10 is dropped in select states with strict emissions standards
2008: Fully redesigned for 2nd generation
2009: Sync multimedia voice control system released, Cabela’s FX4 package debuts with a unique paint scheme and cabin upgrades
2010: Cabela’s package becomes its own trim level to replace the FX4, Sync offered in all trims except for the XL, new spray-in bedliner becomes available
2011: Fully redesigned for 3rd generation
2012: Mild boost in towing capacity for some models, Ford Sync includes new “AppLink” smartphone integration
2013: Stronger brakes added, MyFord Touch included, Platinum trim level released
2014: Remains mostly unchanged
2015: 6.7L turbodiesel V8 engine revamped for better horsepower, fuel economy, and torque
2016: LED warning strobe lights and a rearview camera prep kit added as optional equipment
2017: Fully redesigned for 4th generation. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are supported with Sync 3 option.
2018: Limited trim released
2019: Lariat Sport Package added, premium Bang & Olufsen stereo replaces Sony stereo
2020: 7.3L V8 debuts with a 10-speed automatic, diesel engine now pairs with 10-speed automatic, front and rear styling updated, off-road Tremor package offered
2021: Minor changes to colors and feature availability
2022: Available Sync 4 infotainment system comes with a 12” touchscreen, XLT and Lariat trims get new appearance packages, King Ranch and Platinum trims include standard four-wheel drive
The Best Years of the Ford F-250
To help you choose the best heavy-duty truck, we examined the FIXD Reliability scores alongside the other data that’s been collected. With this information and the Owner Reliability score, safety ratings, fuel economy averages, and other factors, we were able to pick the top models. We also looked closer at the most common diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and examined any recalls listed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for a bigger picture.
For our rankings, we’ve excluded the 2002, 2009, and 2010 models from the Best & Worst year list. These models only had one survey response, so we were concerned that the data wouldn’t be accurate enough to help you decide. For the most part, we would assume that these models would naturally rank near the other model years surrounding them.
2018-2021 Ford F-250
FIXD Reliability Score: 9-10/10
Owner Reliability Score: 10/10
KBB Value: $24,747-$39,405
Fuel Economy: 12-16 mpg (gas), 14.33-17 mpg (diesel)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $250-$550
Safety Rating: 4.25-4.5/5
It’s hard to argue with the reliability of the newest models. Not only is the Owner Reliability score perfect, but the FIXD data backs it up.
The Owners Reliability score of the 2018 to 2021 Ford F-250 is a perfect 10 out of 10. Even better, our FIXD Reliability score is 9 out of 10 on the 2018 F-250 and 10 out of 10 on the other three models.
Crash test ratings aren’t too shabby either, especially considering the F-250 is a heavy-duty truck. 2018 and 2020 F-250 trucks earn 4.25 (out of 5), while the 2019 and 2021 Ford trucks get a 4.5 (out of 5) rating.
What’s really nice is the ownership costs of these Super Duty trucks. Owners rank the 2020 and 2021 F-250 at $250 a year. The 2019 Ford F-250 only jumps up slightly to $500, while the 2018 model averages $550 a year. The lower costs could have to do with the 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper or 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranties, so the averages could change once the coverage expires. Additionally, it’s possible that the ratings on the 2020 F-250 could be slightly different than what we have now. We only had two survey respondents, so a few more owners could make a dramatic impact.
The largest issue with the 2018 Ford F-250 is the Particulate Matter Sensor (P24D1) code. Additionally, the 2019 F-250 tends to suffer from both the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (P0420) and the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold – Bank 2 (P0430) codes. Both of these may require a new catalytic converter, costing between $1,538 and $2,041. 2020 Ford F-250 models show a higher instance of the O2 Sensor Circuit Low Voltage – Bank 1 Sensor 1 (P0137) code. With the 2021 truck, you would want to watch for the Evaporative Emission (EVAP) Control System Leak (P0457) DTC. Any of these issues could require a trip to the mechanic.
The 2018 Ford F-250 has one recall and two investigations, while the 2019 Ford F-250 contains four recalls and two investigations. Even better, the 2020 Ford F-250 has one recall and one investigation, while the 2021 Ford F-250 shows none of either.
2016-2017 Ford F-250
FIXD Reliability Score: 6-7/10
Owner Reliability Score: 9/10
KBB Value: $18,726-$22,868
Fuel Economy: 11-13 mpg (gas), 14.8-15.2 mpg (diesel)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $750-$825
Safety Rating: 4.2-4.3/5
The next best option would be either the 2016 or 2017 Ford F-250. These continue to get good reliability scores and shouldn’t cost a fortune to repair or maintain.
The Owners Reliability score of the 2016 and 2017 Ford F-250 is 9 out of 10. Additionally, the FIXD Reliability score is 6 out of 10 on the 2016 F-250 and 7 out of 10 on the 2017 Ford truck.
We aren’t unhappy about the crash test scores either. 2016 F-250 trucks earn 4.2 (out of 5), while the 2017 Ford trucks earn 4.3 (out of 5).
Ownership costs continue to remain low, with the 2016 truck averaging $750 and the 2017 F-250 rated at $825. There’s a slightly elevated risk of more expensive repairs on the 2017 truck with the engine, transmission, and brakes.
The biggest trouble with the 2016 F-250 is the Crankcase Ventilation System Disconnected (P04DB) code. With the 2017 Ford F-250, you have to worry about the Random Misfire Detected (P0300) code. This issue could be a bad engine valve spring, which costs an average of $1,025 to $1,530 to replace. There’s also the chance of the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (P0420) DTC, which is usually a catalytic converter costing $1,538 to $2,041. Based on what people claim to be spending a year, it doesn’t seem that these problems are occurring frequently.
The 2016 Ford F-250 has three recalls. In comparison, the 2017 Ford F-250 suffers from 16 recalls and two investigations. The jump is likely because it was the first model of a new generation, but it doesn’t seem to be affecting how owners feel about the truck.
2013 Ford F-250
FIXD Reliability Score: 6/10
Owner Reliability Score: 8/10
KBB Value: $9,310
Fuel Economy: 11 mpg (gas), 13.8 mpg (diesel)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $650
Safety Rating: 4.2/5
If you are hunting for something a little older, the 2013 Ford F-250 might be right for you. It has good reliability scores and is still cheaper to maintain.
The Owners Reliability score of the 2013 Ford F-250 is 8 out of 10. Plus, the FIXD Reliability score is 6 out of 10, so the results are similar.
Crash test ratings may be below normal, but they are still okay for a heavy-duty truck. 2013 F-250 trucks earn 4.2 (out of 5).
For being a decade old, the 2013 Ford F-250 has a reasonable cost of ownership. The only possible expensive repair being reported in our survey is for the fuel system.
Looking at the codes that tend to come up, the most popular one is the Key In Switch Circuit Open (B10F1) DTC. This problem may require a new ignition switch, but that should only cost between $154 and $309. There’s also the chance for the Reductant Tank Temperature Sensor Circuit Low (P205C) and Reductant Pressure Too Low (P20E8) DTCs. Since these are both issues with diesel models, you shouldn’t have to worry about them if you are driving a gas-powered F-250.
The 2013 Ford F-250 is subject to one recall and one investigation.
2001 Ford F-250
FIXD Reliability Score: 1/10
Owner Reliability Score: 9/10
KBB Value: $1,638
Fuel Economy: 14 mpg (gas)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $583
Safety Rating: N/A
At the bottom of our “best” choices, we have the 2001 Ford F-250 because it’s still loved by owners and maintains a lower cost of ownership.
The Owners Reliability score of the 2001 Ford F-250 is 9 out of 10. However, the FIXD Reliability score is 1 out of 10, so there is a discrepancy between the two numbers. We don’t have a lot of data on the 2001 model from owners, so these numbers might come closer together once more people chime in.
It’s difficult to complain about the cost of ownership, considering how old the truck is. The only possible expensive repair being reported in our survey is for the transmission.
Three codes tend to come up the most often. First, we have the Cylinder 7 Misfire (P0307) code. If it is a bad engine valve spring, costing $1,025 to $1,530 to replace, your truck may no longer be worth fixing. There’s also the Fuel System Too Lean – Bank 2 (P0174) DTC. The most probable repair for this fault is a heated oxygen sensor, costing $153 to $306. Finally, we show the chance for the Cylinder 4 Misfire (P0304) code. While this could be something as simple as a spark plug, it could also need a new cylinder head, costing a whopping $2,501 to $7,453.
The 2001 Ford F-250 has nine recalls and four investigations.
The Worst Years of the Ford F-250
We use the same data that helped us choose the best Ford F-250 models to figure out which ones should be avoided. The following models suffer from lower reliability scores, higher costs of ownership, and some mechanical issues. They’re ranked from absolute worst to the ”best of the worst”.
2014-2015 Ford F-250
FIXD Reliability Score: 4-5/10
Owner Reliability Score: 9-10/10
KBB Value: $12,221-$17,445
Fuel Economy: 12-14 mpg (gas), 14.2-14.8 (diesel)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $917-$1,000
Safety Rating: 4.17/5
At first glance, it can be tough to tell what’s wrong with these two models but hang in there. It becomes obvious that these two F-250 trucks could cost you a lot of money down the road.
The FIXD Reliability score on the 2014 Ford F-250 is 5 out of 10, while the 2015 F-250 only earns 4 out of 10. As far as the Owner Reliability Score, the 2014 F-250 receives a 9 out of 10, and the 2015 models have a 10 out of 10, proving that customers are insanely loyal to this truck.
The NHTSA crash test score of the 2014 and 2015 F-250 is 4.17 (out of 5). Sadly, this score is below the average.
The worst part is the cost of ownership. Owners average $917 a year on the 2014 F-250 and $1,000 a year on the 2015 Ford truck. These are extremely high averages considering that they aren’t very old trucks. Plus, there’s an incredibly high chance of expensive engine repairs with both models. Additionally, the 2013 F-250 seems to suffer from brake issues.
The 2014 Ford F-250 is most known for both the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (P0420) and the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold – Bank 2 (P0430) codes. Both of these may require a new catalytic converter, costing between $1,538 and $2,041. The 2015 Ford F-250 deals most commonly with the Reductant Heater “A” Control Circuit Performance (P20BA) code. The only saving grace with these two models is that the resale value is high enough to justify costly repairs.
The 2014 Ford F-250 has one recall and one investigation. In comparison, the 2015 Ford F-250 shows three recalls and one investigation.
2007-2008 Ford F-250
FIXD Reliability Score: 2-3/10
Owner Reliability Score: 6-7/10
KBB Value: $4,939-$5,249
Fuel Economy: 10-17 mpg (gas), 13-17.3 (diesel)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $1,250
Safety Rating: N/A
Reliability scores start to plummet with the 2007 and 2008 Ford F-250. On top of that, there are some serious mechanical concerns to be aware of.
The FIXD Reliability score on the 2007 Ford F-250 is 3 out of 10, while the 2008 F-250 only earns 2 out of 10. As far as the Owner Reliability Score, the 2007 F-250 receives 6 out of 10, and the 2008 models have a 7 out of 10.
The cost of ownership is sky-high with these two trucks. Owners average $1,250 a year with either model. This is only made worse by the higher chance of expensive mechanical breakdowns. While the 2007 F-250 is known for expensive brake and fuel system repairs, the 2008 F-250 deals with engine, transmission, AC/heat, and fuel system issues.
Both the 2007 and 2008 Ford trucks show a higher instance of the P1000 trouble code, which simply means that the diagnostic system wasn’t able to run through the usual checks. However, the 2008 F-250 also deals with both the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (P0420) and the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold – Bank 2 (P0430) codes. If you need to replace the catalytic converter to fix this, you could easily spend between $1,538 and $2,041.
The 2007 Ford F-250 has four recalls and two investigations. In contrast, the 2008 Ford F-250 deals with 11 recalls and one investigation.
2011-2012 Ford F-250
FIXD Reliability Score: 1-4/10
Owner Reliability Score: 9-10/10
KBB Value: $9,562-$10,268
Fuel Economy: 12-14 mpg (gas), 14.25-14.47 (diesel)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $1,050-$1,125
Safety Rating: 3.5-4.17/5
When looking at the 2011 and 2012 Ford F-250, there’s an interesting combination of events occurring. Owners are extremely loyal, but the cost of ownership is high.
The FIXD Reliability score on the 2011 Ford F-250 is 1 out of 10, while the 2012 F-250 only earns 4 out of 10. As far as the Owner Reliability Score, the 2011 F-250 receives 9 out of 10, and the 2012 models have a perfect 10 out of 10 rating.
We are most concerned with the cost of ownership between these two trucks. The 2011 F-250 averages $1,125 a year, while the 2012 F-250 doesn’t do much better at $1,050 per year. Additionally, the 2011 Ford truck seems to have some expensive brake repair bills to be worried about.
Both the 2011 and 2012 Ford trucks deal with the Tire Pressure Sensor General Signal Failure (B124D) code. Thankfully, this issue could be something as small as having the tire pressure sensor replaced. The 2012 Ford diesel trucks also have a higher instance of the Reductant Heater “A” Control Circuit/Open (P20B9) DTC. Plus, there’s a chance for the Key In Switch Circuit Open (B10F1) DTC. This problem may require a new ignition switch, but that should only cost between $154 and $309. Another potential problem with the 2011 model is the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Flow Insufficient Detected code (P0401).
The 2011 Ford F-250 suffers from three recalls and one investigation. Plus, the 2012 Ford F-250 shows two recalls and one investigation.
2003-2006 Ford F-250
FIXD Reliability Score: 1/10
Owner Reliability Score: 6-10/10
KBB Value: $4,223-$5,778
Fuel Economy: 13-16 mpg (gas), 14.13-16.17 (diesel)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $550-$1,150
Safety Rating: N/A
Rounding out our list are these four F-250 models that not only have a low FIXD Reliability rating but can also suffer from some mechanical issues.
The FIXD Reliability score on the 2003 to 2006 Ford F-250 is 1 out of 10. However, the Owner Reliability Score on the 2005 F-250 is 6 out of 10, while both the 2003 and 2006 earn 8 out of 10, and the 2004 models have a perfect 10 out of 10 rating.
There’s a slight range in the cost of ownership with these four models. The lowest ($550) is found with the 2004 F-250, while the highest ($1,150) occurs with the 2005 models. 2003 Ford F-250 trucks average $625 a year, and the 2006 F-250 models are rated at $875. The issue here is how many mechanical issues cost more than $500 each. The 2004 to 2006 models have a higher chance of engine issues, while the 2003 and 2006 trucks deal with transmission troubles.
The 2003 Ford F-250 most commonly deals with the System Too Lean Bank 1 (P0171) code. It could require a heated oxygen sensor, costing $153 to $306. The 2004 Ford F-250 deals with a Cylinder 8 Misfire (P0308) DTC. Sadly, this repair may require an engine valve spring, costing $1,025 to $1,530. With the 2005 Ford F-250, you could deal with the Evaporative Emission Control System Vent Control Circuit Malfunction (P0446) trouble code, while the 2006 Ford F-250 shows a higher instance of the P1000 trouble code, which simply means that the diagnostic system wasn’t able to run through the usual checks.
Both the 2003 Ford F-250 and the 2004 Ford F-250 have seven recalls and two investigations. Yet, the 2005 Ford F-250 only has one recall and two investigations, while the 2006 Ford F-250 shows three recalls and two investigations.
FAQs
What years of the Ford F-250 have engine and/or transmission problems?
Based on our data, the 2005-2006, 2008, 2014-2015, and 2017 Ford F-250 models are more likely to suffer from expensive engine repairs. There’s also a higher chance of transmission repairs with the 2001, 2003, 2006, 2008, and 2017-2018 models.
What is considered high mileage for a Ford F-250?
Ford F-250 trucks are considered heavy-duty, and many drivers use them as such. Therefore, it’s difficult to determine how long one can last without knowing its usage and maintenance history. With proper use, these Ford trucks may last 250,000 miles or more, especially if it has a diesel powertrain.
Based on our data, a high-mileage Ford F-250 could be considered anything over 225,000 miles.
1st generation Ford F-250 models (through 2007) show an average mileage range between 141,000 and 275,000 miles. The 2002 Ford F-250 has one of the highest mileages in our surveys, but you could easily get more than 200,000 miles out of most model years. If you plan to buy an F-250 with a lot of miles, remember that the resale value goes down as well.
What other vehicles should I consider?
Ford does make other trucks, but they aren’t considered heavy-duty. Still, you may consider the Ford F-150, Ford Ranger, or Ford Maverick. If you want a big SUV instead, the Ford Expedition might be right for you.
On the other hand, a few other brands are making heavy-duty trucks. Look into the Chevrolet Silverado HD, Nissan Titan XD, GMC Sierra 2500HD, or the RAM 2500 Heavy Duty.
What owners of the Ford F-250 like to use their car for:
Percent based x/5-star: 0-10% = 1, 11-20% = 2, 21-30% = 3, 31-40% = 4, 41%+ = 5
| Frequent Use Categories: | How Useful? (Out of 5 Stars) |
| Family Vehicle | *** |
| Lots of Driving (travel/long commute) | ** |
| Hauling/Towing | **** |
| Office on Wheels | * |
| Sport/Fast Driving | * |
| Luxurious Driving | * |
| Outdoor/Off-Road | ** |
A Note About Data and Information Sources
This article has many details about Ford F-250 reliability; here’s what we used for our assumptions and recommendations.
- FIXD Reliability Score & Data: Engine reliability information is captured via the FIXD App.
The FIXD Reliability Score is calculated using the number of DTCs per year, weighted by mileage. This is then turned into a scale of 1-10 for easy graphing.
This is an objective score.
- Owner Reliability Score & Data: This data is the result of surveying Ford F-250 owners who use FIXD.
The Owner Reliability Score comes straight from owners of the Ford F-250.
This is a subjective score.
To determine the Owner Reliability Score we ask each car owner:
How reliable would you say your Ford F-250 is?
a. Just point A to point B driving
b. A Daily Commuter
c. Good for a 100 mile road trip
d. Good for a 500 mile road trip
e. I could take a cross-country road trip, no problem
From here we translate their answers into the Owner Reliability Score:
a. = 2
b. = 4
c. = 6
d. = 8
e. = 10
Keep in mind, owners may think their car is more or less reliable than it actually is.
One potential problem is that people often buy the same make or model they are used to when they go car shopping, just a newer year.
Ford, for instance, has a number of consumer loyalty awards for the Ford F-Series, Ford Mustang, and Ford Expedition.
Car owners may be so loyal to the make or model they currently own that they would have trouble accurately comparing their cars’ reliability to others.
It’s for this reason that we ask car owners a question that is relative to mileage rather than relative to other cars.
Still, be mindful of the accuracy of these Owner Reliability Scores, people’s perceptions and unconscious blindspots can skew data.
We suggest looking at both the FIXD Reliability Score and the Owner Reliability Score for this reason.
- KBB Value: Average private-seller valuations as supplied by Kelley Blue Book (KBB), based on a Ford F-250 with typical mileage for that respective model year.
- Fuel Economy: Mileage-per-gallon estimates according to the EPA MPG on Fueleconomy.gov
- Annual Maintenance/Repair: Upkeep expenses as reported by surveyed Ford F-250 owners
- Safety Rating: Crash test data collected and reported by NHTSA. We average all ratings for each year to come up with a simplified, average safety score. This makes it easier to look at on a graph.
References
- Ford Super Duty, wikipedia.org. Retrieved July 18, 2023, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Super_Duty
- Ford F-Series Sales Numbers, fordauthority.com. Retrieved July 18, 2023, from https://fordauthority.com/fmc/ford-motor-company-sales-numbers/ford-sales-numbers/ford-f-series-sales-numbers/
- Ford F-250 review, edmunds.com. Retrieved July 19, 2023, from https://www.edmunds.com/ford/f-250-super-duty/
- Ford Warranty Information, ford.com. Retrieved July 20, 2023, from https://www.ford.com/support/warranty/
Brian Jones owns a used car dealership outside of Dallas, Texas. He has also worked for decades as an ASE Certified Master Technician for a variety of new car dealerships. Now he spends his time consulting dealerships and writing for some renowned publications, such as Motor1 (https://www.motor1.com/info/team/brian-jones/). When he’s not working, he’s tinkering around with pickup trucks and traveling with his family.
