2002 Ford F-250 SD used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• Tire blowout or tread separation22 owner complaints, usually around 95,988 miles, owners paid about $3,000

  Check the tire age (the DOT date on the sidewall), the tread depth and any uneven wear.

• Sudden loss of power16 owner complaints, usually around 74,467 miles

  Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.

• Engine stalls while driving13 owner complaints, usually around 80,000 miles

  Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• Exterior lightingRecall number 11V352000, Jul 13, 2011
• Vehicle speed controlRecall number 09V399000, Oct 13, 2009
• Engine and engine coolingRecall number 07V553000, Dec 5, 2007

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• Concern during or after programing the VSM. The programming may fail or vehicle symptoms such as...Sep 2, 2019
• 1999-2008 7.3L/6.0L/6.4L/4.5L diesel f-super duty - clean the charge air cooler (CAC) system after certain...Apr 1, 2008
• Brake booster system may exhibit a brake pedal kickback and/or grabbing condition when applying the brakesSep 19, 2007
• Lack of power due to low fuel pressure - fuel tank liner seperationApr 1, 2007
• Malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) illuminated - system lean diagnostic trouble codes (dtc's) - service tipsSep 6, 2004
• Low power, poor fuel economy, fuel gelling cold, excessive white smoke cold, or hard startSep 1, 2004

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.