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2011 Ford F-550 problems

The most common problem on the 2011 Ford F-550 is engine and cooling, typically around 22,555 miles. Its complaint count is close to a typical F-550 model year.

Typical yearClose to a typical year
Year score
72/100
Owner complaints
12
Recalls
5
Service bulletins
4
Worst area
Engine

The worst 2011 Ford F-550 problems

Ranked by number of owner complaints. Mileage and cost come from what owners wrote.

  • Engine
    7
  • Fuel system
    4
  • Acceleration
    1
  • Body
    1
  • Brakes
    1

Problems by type

Tap a problem to see which part fails, at what mileage and in which other years.

  • Engine
    7
  • Fuel system
    4
  • Acceleration
    1
  • Body
    1
  • Brakes
    1
  • Steering
    1
  • Transmission
    1

Recalls 5

Engine and engine cooling: engineReported January 30, 2015 · 1 vehicles affected
What is wrong
All Wheel Drive Equipment Mfg., Inc. (All Wheel) is recalling one model year 2011 Ford F-550 truck with a 6.8L gasoline engine manufactured May 14, 2010, to May 28, 2010. The affected vehicle is equipped with a PTO Assembly Pressure Switch, part number FR67, used with power take off (PTO) assemblies for Ford F-550 chassis. The PTO switch may leak oil onto the thermal blanket.
Risk
The leaking oil may soak into the thermal blanket covering the exhaust, which when combined with heat from exhaust, may result in an increased risk of fire.
Remedy
All Wheel has notified the owner and will install a new pressure switch kit that moves the switch away from the exhaust system, free of charge. Owners may contact All Wheel customer service at 1‑800‑311‑4778.

Recall number 15V052000 · Recall details

EquipmentReported August 13, 2014 · 3 vehicles affected
What is wrong
PJ's Truck Bodies & Equipment Co., (PJ's) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Ford F-350, F-450, and F-550 Super Duty chassis modified by PJ's and equipped with certain Muncie Power Products PTO Assemblies. In the affected vehicles, oil may leak from the PTO pressure switch onto a thermal blanket covering the exhaust.
Risk
The leaking oil may soak into the thermal blanket covering the exhaust, which when combined with heat from exhaust, may result in an increased risk of fire.
Remedy
PJ's has notified owners and dealers will install a new pressure switch kit that moves the switch away from the exhaust system, free of charge. The recall began on August 28, 2014. Owners may contact PJ's customer service at 1‑866‑475‑8782.

Recall number 14V498000 · Recall details

Engine and engine cooling: engine: gasolineReported July 8, 2014 · 2 vehicles affected
What is wrong
J.C. Madigan, Inc. (J.C. Madigan) is recalling one model year 2011 Ford F-550, and one model year 2013 Ford F-450 chassis with a 6.8L gasoline engine dump trucks equipped with certain PTO Assembly Pressure Switches, part number 30T37594, manufactured June 2009 through June 2013, used in power take off (PTO) assemblies. The switch may begin leaking oil.
Risk
The leaking oil may soak into the thermal blanket covering the exhaust, which when combined with heat from exhaust, may result in an increased risk of fire.
Remedy
J.C. Madigan will notify owners, and dealers will install a new pressure switch kit that moves the switch away from the exhaust system, free of charge. The recall began in September 2014. Owners may contact J.C. Madigan customer service at 1‑978‑847‑2900.

Recall number 14V411000 · Recall details

Fuel system, other: storage: tank assembly: mountingReported February 6, 2014 · 18 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Almared, Inc., dba A-1 Alternative Fuel Systems, is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 Ford F-550 transit buses manufactured May 2011 through April 2013, altered to operate on compressed natural gas (CNG). In the affected vehicles, the brackets securing the passenger side CNG fuel tank may break.
Risk
If the brackets break, the CNG tank may separate from the vehicle frame increasing the risk of a crash or possible fire.
Remedy
Almared, Inc. has notified owners and all affected vehicles have been remedied, free of charge. Owners may contact Almared at 1‑559‑485‑4427.

Recall number 14V040000 · Recall details

EngineReported October 30, 2013 · 2,951 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 F-350/450/550 Ambulance Package vehicles manufactured February 22, 2010, through October 19, 2012 and equipped with a 6.7L diesel engine. Due to an exhaust sensor problem, the vehicles may experience loss of power followed by an engine stall.
Risk
An unexpected engine stall increases the risk of a crash. Additionally, if this were to occur when the ambulance is transporting a patient, there is an increased risk of injury to the patient.
Remedy
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the exhaust gas temperature sensor, free of charge. The recall began on November 25, 2013. Owners may contact Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's recall campaign number is 13S10.

Recall number 13V535000 · Recall details

See all 5 recalls for the 2011 Ford F-550

Defect investigations

Vehicle Commanded Engine ShutdownOpened January 13, 2015, closed March 15, 2016

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this RQ to investigate allegations that the scope and remedy of safety recall 13V‑535 were inadequate. Recall 13V‑535 was limited to a relatively small population of Ambulance Package vehicles and ODI received complaints of pickup trucks and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles being affected by the same defect. Ford manufactured approximately 555,985 subject vehicles between February 22, 2010 and January 30, 2015 that may be affected by defective EGT sensors and Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software calibration. The subject vehicles are equipped with four (4) EGT sensors to monitor engine operating conditions. An EGT sensor fault may produce false exhaust over-temperature signals. If these signals are produced, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) implements a Failure Management Effects Mode (FMEM) and the driver receives a Stop Safely Now (SSN) system warning on the instrument cluster message center. The FMEM triggers a 70% reduction in available engine power over a period of no more than 45 seconds, during which it may not be possible to accelerate or maintain vehicle speed. The PCM then commands the engine to shut down when vehicle speed reaches approximately 1 mph. There is no immediate restart capability. Depending on the PCM software calibration, ignition key position and ambient temperature conditions, the engine may not restart until the end of a 10-60 minute cool down period.Ford and its component supplier(s) made numerous changes to the PCM software calibration and the design, material and manufacture of the EGT sensors over the period of subject vehicle production. This continuous product improvement affected vehicle performance regarding the alleged defect. Ford acknowledges the defect condition in the subject vehicles but argues that an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety is limited to Ambulance Package and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles where commanded shutdown could impact emergency response and patient care. Ford also argues that the defect trend is in decline. Ford also initiated a new safety recall (15V‑175) to address the 13V‑535 remedy concerns in the Ambulance Package vehicles and Fire Engine Prep Package vehicles. The 15V‑175 remedy reprograms the PCM with a new software calibration that stops a single EGT sensor fault to cause the vehicle to enter the FMEM shutdown mode.Ford also initiated an EPA emissions recall (14E03) for all subject vehicles that reprograms the PCM with the software calibration employed in safety recall 15V‑175. Finally, Ford initiated a Customer Satisfaction Program (15M01) providing extended warranty coverage of 8 years or 80,000 miles for the the EGT sensors on certain MY2011-2012 subject vehicles.Due to the EPA emissions recall, that had a 66.6% completion rate in Ford's December 2015 progress report to the EPA, the defect trend is in decline. ODI is not aware of any crashes, deaths or injuries related to the alleged defect.ODI believes the alleged defect poses a safety risk but notes that the EPA emissions recall is addressing the safety problem.Compelling issuance of a duplicate recall would not represent a wise use of agency resources.Accordingly, this Recall Query is closed.This action is not a finding that no defect exists and the federal safety agency will take further action if such action is warranted.

RQ14005

CNG Fuel Container SecurementOpened November 15, 2013, closed March 9, 2014

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) is aware of 1 incident related to the alleged defect. By letter dated January 10, 2014, Almared, Inc. (doing business as A-1 Alternative Fuel Systems) has notified ODI that it has conducted a safety recall (the federal safety agency Recall No. 14V‑040) to address a safety defect in 18 model year 2011-2012 Ford F-550 transit buses manufactured between May 2011 and April 2013. These vehicles have been altered by A-1 to contain one or more compressed natural gas (CNG) fuel containers. According to A-1, the brackets securing passenger side CNG fuel containers to the vehicle chassis may fracture, resulting in a CNG fuel container that is unsecured. A-1 has reportedly inspected all 18 affected vehicles and repaired all vehicles equipped with the defective mounting bracket by installing a new bracket of an improved design. The new bracket has added strength as a result of the following design revisions: the cantilevered mounting plate is reinforced with additional support plates, the cantilevered position is mounted higher on the bracket above the CNG fuel container center line position (thus reducing the moment arm), and it is constructed of heavier gauge steel plate that is also dimensionally wider, which provides for a greater bonding surface area with the vehicle chassis.Based on the recall action taken by Almared, Inc., this investigation is closed.

PE13038

Technical service bulletins for the 2011 Ford F-550 4

Bulletins tell dealers how to fix known problems. A warranty extension means the manufacturer pays for that repair for longer.

What 2011 Ford F-550 owners say

Most recent owner complaints, unedited.

Filed Dec 6, 2024 · Engine · 49,000 miles · KS

The contact owns a 2011 Ford F-550. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, there was a loud knocking sound coming from the engine. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and was diagnosed with a failure in cylinder #8 and with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the federal safety agency Hotline for assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 49,000. The VIN was not available.

Filed Dec 4, 2024 · Engine · 6,500 miles · AL

The contact's local fire department owns a 2011 Ford F-550. The contact stated that while driving at 45 MPH, the vehicle stalled out as several warning lights appeared on the instrument panel. The contact made multiple attempts to restart the engine but the failure persisted. Due to the failure, the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where a diagnostic was performed. The mechanic discovered diesel fuel in the oil reservoir which had resulted in engine failure. Upon investigation, the mechanic referred the contact to the manufacturer for assistance. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle was not covered under warranty or recall. The manufacturer then referred the contact to the federal safety agency Hotline to file a safety complaint. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 6,500.

Filed Jan 13, 2021 · Acceleration, Steering · 155,000 miles · MI

Truck will shake uncontrollably at highway speeds. We have had the front end/drive shaft/new tires/wheels either replaced or gone through. Nothing has improved.

Filed Apr 22, 2020 · Engine, Fuel system · 24,000 miles · NY

Tl* the contact owns a 2011 ford f-550. The contact stated he received a notice that the vehicle had two linings in the internal part of the vehicle which both unexpectedly detached and contaminated the fuel in fuel tank. The contact stated the failure caused the engine to fail. The vehicle was towed to a unknown local dealer for a diagnostic testing which took three months. The diagnosis results was contamination from the fuel tank. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure however offered no assistance. The failure mileage was 24,000. *bf

Filed Jun 7, 2017 · Engine · 22,555 miles · CA

Engine shutting off & will not re-start after. Will restart after it sits for a couple hours. Has been into tuttleclick ford several times for repair of this issue. Still not fixed.

Filed Nov 10, 2015 · Engine, Fuel system · 18,000 miles · FL

Tl* the contact owns a 2011 ford f-150. The contact stated that the check engine light illuminated on the instrument panel and the vehicle stalled shortly after the failure. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the interior lining of the fuel tank shed into the fuel tank and damaged the engine. The dealer stated that both fuel tanks would have to be replaced and the engine would need to be cleaned. Two years later, after the contact's vehicle was out of warranty, the failure recurred. The dealer confirmed the vehicle would require the same revisions as before; however, it would be performed at the contact's expense. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 18,000. Updated 02/05/16*lj updated 02/11/16.

Filed Aug 25, 2015 · Fuel system · 19,633 miles · NY

Tl* the contact owns a 2011 ford f-550. While at a stop sign, the vehicle stalled and the low power warning message displayed across the message board. The contact was able to restart the vehicle which was then towed to a dealer. The technician stated that there was contamination in the fuel line and that the fuel system needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 19,633. Updated 11/06/15*lj

Filed Jan 22, 2015 · Engine · 19,000 miles · NY

Tl*the contact owns a 2011 ford f-550. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 5 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was able to restart after multiple attempts. The vehicle was towed to a dealer for diagnostic testing the mechanic diagnosed contamination in the fuel. The vehicle was repaired. The contact referenced the federal safety agency campaign number: 13v535000 (engine). The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 19,000. Ma 07/30/15 updated 9/19/2017

Filed Jun 4, 2014 · Engine · 104,000 miles · MI

Ford has a tsb on a cylinder #5 glowplug failure that causes engine failure. Coincidentally, their warranty on a 6.7 diesel is to 100,000 miles. Mine failed at 104,000. Ford is not covering it. This is going to cost me $13,000. The item should be a recall.

Filed May 6, 2014 · Fuel system · 14,737 miles · PA

Fuel tank is rusted from inside . Clogs filters and system .

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Questions about the 2011 Ford F-550

Is the 2011 Ford F-550 reliable?

Owners have filed 12 complaints about the 2011 Ford F-550, close to a typical F-550 model year.

What is the 2011 Ford F-550 year score?

The 2011 Ford F-550 scores 72 out of 100 (average). The score compares it with the other model years of the Ford F-550: 75 is a typical year, 50 means twice the usual complaints, and serious complaints and recalls lower it.

What is the most common problem with the 2011 Ford F-550?

Engine and cooling, with 7 complaints, typically around 22,555 miles. Next is fuel system (4).

How many recalls does the 2011 Ford F-550 have?

5 recalls, covering engine and engine cooling, equipment and fuel system, other.

Was there a recall on the 2011 Ford F-550 engine?

Yes, 3 recalls: 15V052000, 14V411000, 13V535000. Check your VIN to see if your car still needs the free repair.

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