2012 Ford F-350 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.

• Suspension10 owner complaints, usually around 35,000 miles

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

• Steering9 owner complaints, usually around 35,000 miles

  Turn the wheel from lock to lock while parked and on the road: it should be smooth, with no clunks, stiffness or warning lights.

• Engine and cooling8 owner complaints, usually around 35,000 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.

• Tires4 owner complaints

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

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.

• Power trainRecall number 15V175000, Mar 25, 2015
• EquipmentRecall number 14V453000, Jul 24, 2014
• EquipmentRecall number 14V360000, Jun 23, 2014
• EquipmentRecall number 14V326000, Jun 13, 2014
• EquipmentRecall number 14V328000, Jun 13, 2014
• EquipmentRecall number 14V327000, Jun 12, 2014
• EquipmentRecall number 14V379000, Jun 10, 2014
• EquipmentRecall number 14V382000, Jun 10, 2014
• EquipmentRecall number 14V307000, Jun 4, 2014

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
• 2011-2023 F-Super Duty and 2016-2024 F-650/F-750 vehicles equipped with a 6.7L engine may exhibit an...Jun 8, 2023
• Ticking noise at idle after an engine oil changeDec 13, 2022
• Certain 2011-2014 Model Year Super Duty Vehicles Equipped with a 6.7L Diesel Engine Exhaust Gas...May 17, 2022
• 2011-2022 F-Super Duty and 2016-2023 F-650/F-750 vehicles equipped with a 6.7L engine may exhibit an...Mar 24, 2022
• Customer Satisfaction Program 21M04 Certain 2011-2014 Model Year Super Duty Vehicles Equipped with a 6.7L...Jan 14, 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.