2017 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.

• Ball joint or control arm failure21 owner complaints, usually around 24,043 miles

  Drive over bumps and listen for clunks or rattles. Look for uneven tire wear.

• Doors won't lock, open or latch20 owner complaints, usually around 30,000 miles

  Test every door handle, lock and latch from inside and outside, including the trunk or tailgate.

• Fuel pump failure19 owner complaints, usually around 150,000 miles, owners paid about $13,000

  Watch for fuel smells, hard starting and the check engine light, and make sure the fuel gauge works.

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.

• Back over preventionRecall number 25V572000, Sep 3, 2025
• Power trainRecall number 22V880000, Nov 29, 2022
• Back over preventionRecall number 22V644000, Aug 26, 2022
• StructureRecall number 22V087000, Feb 16, 2022
• Seat beltsRecall number 19V880000, Dec 11, 2019
• Latches/locks/linkagesRecall number 19V864000, Dec 4, 2019
• EngineRecall number 19V278000, Apr 8, 2019
• Latches/locks/linkagesRecall number 17V652000, Oct 16, 2017
• SeatsRecall number 17V599000, Sep 25, 2017
• Seat beltsRecall number 17V526000, Aug 28, 2017
• SeatsRecall number 17V332000, May 22, 2017
• Power trainRecall number 17V225000, Mar 31, 2017
• Fuel system, gasolineRecall number 16V945000, Dec 29, 2016
• Fuel system, dieselRecall number 16V778000, Oct 26, 2016

Service bulletins worth asking about

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

• 2024 F-Super Duty vehicles are equipped with XL-22 (WSS-M2C184-A1) high temperature power steering fluid...Jan 18, 2024
• For 2000-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, swapping a module from a vehicle for diagnosis purposes is likely toApr 4, 2023
• Dust ingress into the cabin through the doors or air extractorsDec 19, 2022
• Issues with the tailgate center step mouldingNov 8, 2022
• Loss of tire pressure from the valve stem sealing area of the front wheelsOct 18, 2022
• Some 2017-2019 F-Super Duty vehicles equipped with adaptive steering may require steering wheel...Sep 27, 2022

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.