2018 Ford F-250 SDUNDER FEDERAL INVESTIGATION

398 federal complaints (641 component records) · 9 recall campaigns on file · 3 federal investigations · 243 service bulletins
See all 36 model years of the Ford F-250 SD →
EPA economy
Not rated (heavy-duty)
Federal complaints
398
Recall campaigns
9
How to read this file. Complaint records are unverified owner submissions to the federal safety agency. Counts are raw, not adjusted for sales volume or vehicle age. Recall campaigns apply to the model; only a VIN check shows whether this car is affected or repaired. Parts shown are named by an editorial note or listed as a search directory; none is a diagnosis. Full methodology.

Fault profile

Complaint-component records on this vehicle, grouped by family. A complaint naming two systems counts once in each.

Steering
252
Suspension
198
Other
46
Wheels
29
Body & structure
16
Power train
16
Engine & cooling
16
Fuel system
14
Complaints are owner-reported and not verified by the agency.

When it fails

The timing of this vehicle's reported failures, from the complaint file itself. A cluster tells you what to expect and when; it is shaped by reporting behavior as well as by the vehicle.

Vehicle age when the failure occurred

0 years old: 39 complaints01 years old: 136 complaints2 years old: 84 complaints3 years old: 43 complaints4 years old: 44 complaints5 years old: 18 complaints56 years old: 23 complaints7 years old: 9 complaints8 years old: 2 complaints9 years old: 0 complaints10 years old: 0 complaints1011 years old: 0 complaints12 years old: 0 complaints13 years old: 0 complaints14 years old: 0 complaints15 years old: 0 complaints1516 years old: 0 complaints17 years old: 0 complaints18 years old: 0 complaints19 years old: 0 complaints20+ years old: 0 complaints20+
Years between the model year and the owner's reported failure date. Based on 398 of 398 complaints with a usable failure date.

Odometer when the failure occurred

0,000 - 20,000 miles: 89 complaints020,000 - 40,000 miles: 126 complaints40,000 - 60,000 miles: 47 complaints40k60,000 - 80,000 miles: 10 complaints80,000 - 100,000 miles: 9 complaints80k100,000 - 120,000 miles: 6 complaints120,000 - 140,000 miles: 3 complaints120k140,000 - 160,000 miles: 2 complaints160,000 - 180,000 miles: 0 complaints160k180,000 - 200,000 miles: 0 complaints200,000+ miles: 1 complaints200k+
Owner-reported mileage at failure, in 20,000-mile bands. Based on 293 of 398 complaints reporting a plausible odometer (500 to 500,000 miles; unverified).

Known issues

The component families with the most complaint records against this vehicle. Counts, crash and fire figures belong to the whole family, not to any single named issue. Parts listed are related system parts, not a diagnosis.

Steering

252 complaint records2 crash reports
"STEERING WHEEL OSCILLATED VIOLENTLY ON HIGHWAY APPARENTLY AFTER DRIVING OVER A ROUGH SURFACE OF I-85 (GA MM40 S) @ 65 MPH..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse steering parts in the directory →

Suspension

198 complaint records1 crash report
"“Death wobble” at 60mph while on the highway after hitting a small pothole. Controllable when slowed to 35mph on the shoulder..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse suspension parts in the directory →

Wheels

29 complaint records1 crash report
"DRASTIC SHAKING OF THE FRONT END/STEERING WHEEL WHEN HITTING BUMPS IN ROAD OVER 60 MPH - SUBSIDES AFTER YOU BRAKE TO ABOUT 40 MPH. VERY HARD TO CONTROL VEHICLE WHEN IT OCCURS. *TR..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse wheels parts in the directory →

Federal defect investigations

Formal investigations opened by the federal safety agency into this vehicle. An investigation is the step between a complaint pattern and a recall; not every one results in one.

InvestigationStatusComponentSubject
PE24014
opened May 2024
OPENFuel System, OtherSogefi Secondary Diesel Fuel Filter Leak
The Office of Defect Investigations (ODI) has received 27 complaints alleging diesel fuel leaks due to a fracture in the secondary fuel filter housing in model year (MY) 2015-2021 Ford Motor Company (Ford) F-250, 350, 450, and 550 Super Duty vehicles equipped...
RQ21001
opened Jan 2021
closed Jan 2024StructurePower Tailgate Release Systems
In January 2021, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Recall Query (RQ21-001) to assess allegations of post-recall remedy uncommanded tailgate openings in model year (MY) 2017-2019 F-250/350/450 Ford trucks.
PE18011
opened Oct 2018
closed Dec 2019StructurePower tailgate opens unintended - led to recall 19V864000
By letter dated December 4, 2019, Ford Motor Company (Ford) notified the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) of a safety defect that may exist in model years (MY) 2017 through 2019 Ford Super Duty F-250, F-350, F-450 vehicles equipped with an electric...

Recall campaigns

Safety-recall remedies are normally provided at no charge. Under US federal law the mandatory free remedy applies when the vehicle was no more than 15 years old at the time the defect was determined; manufacturers often cover older vehicles voluntarily. Canadian rules differ. Confirm eligibility with the manufacturer using the VIN. Each campaign number links to the federal record.

CampaignComponentSummaryRemedy
25V572000Back Over PreventionFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Lincoln MKC, Mustang, F-350 SD, F-250 SD, F-450 SD, 2015-2017 Lincoln Navigator, Expedition, 2015-2018 Edge, Transit Connect, 2016-2019 F-550 SD, Transit,...Normally free
22V880000Power TrainFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017-2018 F-Super Duty F-250, F-350, and F-450 4x4 vehicles.Normally free
22V644000Back Over PreventionFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017-2020 F-Super Duty F-250, F-350, F-450, and 2017-2020 Lincoln Continental vehicles equipped with the 360-degree camera system.Normally free
22V087000StructureFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017-2022 F-250 and F-350 Super Duty vehicles equipped with gasoline engines and aluminum driveshafts.Normally free
21V155000TiresFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018 F-150, 2018-2020 F-250, F-350, and 2019 Escape vehicles equipped with Continental tires.Normally free
19V880000StructureFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017-2019 F-Super Duty F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 SuperCrew Cab vehicles with carpet flooring.Normally free
19V864000Latches/Locks/LinkagesFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Super Duty F-250, F-350, and F-450 trucks equipped with an electric tailgate latch release switch mounted in the tailgate handle.Normally free
19V808000Exterior LightingFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2019 F-250, F-350 and F-450 Super Duty trucks. The Daytime Running Lights (DRL) may not dim when the headlight switch is moved into the "On" position.Normally free
Show 1 more recall campaigns
CampaignComponentSummaryRemedy
19V278000EquipmentFord Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Ford F-150 and 2017-2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty, F-350 Super Duty, F-450 Super Duty, and F-550 Super Duty pick-up trucks equipped with an engine block heater and...Normally free

Service bulletins and warranty extensions

Manufacturer communications to dealers on file with the federal agency: repair instructions, service campaigns, and warranty extensions. A warranty extension means the manufacturer may pay for a repair the recall table does not cover.

BulletinTypeComponentSummary
25H05 S1
Apr 2026
Unknown Or OtherHarvest Program 25H05 – Supplement #1 Certain 2011-2021 Model Year Vehicles Software Verification Harvest Program
25N15 S1
Apr 2026
Unknown Or OtherCustomer Satisfaction Program 25N15 - Supplement #1 Certain 2015-2019 Model Year Multiple Vehicle Lines Rear View Camera Inspection For One-Time Replacement
25N17
Mar 2026
Unknown Or OtherAdvance Notice – Customer Satisfaction Program 25N17 Certain 2015-2025 Model Year Multiple Vehicle Lines Rear View Camera Replacement If Required After Dealer Evaluation
SSM 54601
Feb 2026
Electrical SystemFord and Lincoln vehicles equipped with wired keyless entry keypad systems and accessory wireless keyless entry keypad systems may or may not come with a wallet card containing the master code.
25N15
Jan 2026
Visibility/WiperCertain 2015-2019 Model Year Multiple Vehicle Lines Rear View Camera Inspection For One-Time Replacemen
Show 55 more bulletins
BulletinTypeComponentSummary
25N15
Dec 2025
Visibility/WiperCertain 2015-2019 Model Year Multiple Vehicle Lines Rear View Camera Inspection For One-Time Replacement
SSM 54448
Dec 2025
Service BrakesSome 2017-2026 F-Super Duty vehicles may exhibit a pull/drift condition during braking. This may be due to the brake pads needing to be broken in. Repeated, heavy brake applications may assist to resolve the pull/drift condition.
25L02
Dec 2025
Unknown Or OtherSpecial Field Action 25L02 Certain 2017-2024 Model Year California Emissions-Certified Vehicles Transmission Control Assembly Reimbursement
TSB 25-2570
Nov 2025
Electrical SystemThis article supersedes TSB 24-2165 to update the TSB Service Procedure. Some vehicles listed in the Model statement above may exhibit various SYNC performance related concerns including but not limited to:  Display operation concerns  Navigation inoperative  Voice...
25H05
Nov 2025
Unknown Or OtherThis is a proactive investigation program by Ford Motor Company to inspect a limited number of affected vehicles that are customer-owned.
SSM 54326
Oct 2025
Unknown Or OtherSome 2018-2025 F-150 and 2018-2026 F-Super Duty vehicles equipped with a tailgate step may exhibit a step assembly that binds/will not open or opens/pops up while driving. This could be due to an incorrect adjustment of the tailgate step assembly.
24L05
Aug 2025
EngineCertain 2011-2022 Model Year Super Duty Vehicles Equipped with 6.7L Engine - Emission Control Information Label Update for Qualified Vehicles
SSM 53234
Dec 2024
Unknown Or OtherSome 2017-2025 F-Super Duty vehicles may exhibit a pull/drift condition during braking.
SSM 53040
Oct 2024
Unknown Or OtherWhile performing a transmission repair on some 2012-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, a transmission seal kit may be on backorder due to supply chain interruptions.
SSM 52852
Sep 2024
Unknown Or Other018-2024 F-150/F-Super Duty - Tailgate Step Binds/Will Not Open Or Opens/Pops Up While Driving
SSM 52787
Aug 2024
Unknown Or OtherSome 2017-2020 F-150 and 2017-2019 F-Super Duty vehicles may not successfully complete the Transmission Characterization/Solenoid IDN procedure using the Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) scan tool. This may be due to the IDS not being at the latest software level
TSB 24-2165
May 2024
Unknown Or OtherThis article supersedes TSB 21-2175 to update the TSB Service Procedure. Some 2016 MKS, 2016-2017 Navigator, 2016-2018 F-150/Focus/C-MAX/Edge/Fiesta/MKX/Transit Connect/Mustang, 2017-2018 Continental/Fusion/MKZ, 2017-2019 Explorer, 2016-2019...
SSM 52476
Apr 2024
EquipmentAll accessory stick-on keyless entry keypads come with a wallet card containing the master code. If the accessory keypad was factory installed, this card will be placed in the glove box and should be handed to the vehicles owner during initial delivery.
22M03 S1
Apr 2024
EquipmentCertain 2017-2020 Model Year Continental and Super Duty, 2018-2020 Navigator, 2020 Aviator, and 2020 Explorer Vehicles Replace Front and/or Side Cameras if Foggy
SSM 52335
Mar 2024
Engine And Engine CoolingFor 2015-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with turbocharged engines and customer concern of an engine oil leak, refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-00 for oil leak inspection and testing methods.
SSM 52314
Mar 2024
Power TrainDuring service and repair requiring removal and replacement of a crankshaft bolt and/or crankshaft damper, achieving proper torque of the crankshaft pulley bolt is critical. Incorrect torque may allow the bolt to loosen resulting in the timing gear breaking and engine damage.
TSB 22-2248
Feb 2024
Engine And Engine CoolingThis article supersedes TSB 22-2201 to update the Service Procedure and Parts List. Some 2015-2019 F-Super Duty and 2016-2019 F-650/F-750 vehicles equipped with a 6.7L engine may exhibit an oil leak from the oil filter, crankcase vent oil separator, oil cooler, or upper/lower...
SSM 52188
Jan 2024
Steering2024 F-Super Duty vehicles are equipped with XL-22 (WSS-M2C184-A1) high temperature power steering fluid that looks like clear hydraulic fluid. This fluid is an improvement in high temperature and thermal oxidative stability compared to Mercon LV.
SSM 52167
Jan 2024
Electrical SystemSome 2017-2019 F-Super Duty pick-up vehicles may require the additional KC3Z-14A411-C kit if there is a service need to replace the 14405 main body harness or 14A412 tailgate harness post FSA 19S48.
SSM 51947
Sep 2023
Electrical SystemSome 2015-2019 F-Super Duty and 2015-2020 F-150/Mustang vehicles may require replacement of the powertrain control module (PCM) for various reasons.
SSM 51937
Sep 2023
EquipmentSome vehicles equipped with power folding mirrors may exhibit power folding mirrors that are inoperative or exhibit a clicking sound.
SSM 51854
Aug 2023
Power TrainVarious 2013-2019 vehicles may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P264F after powertrain control module (PCM) replacement. This DTC indicates that the engine serial number (ESN) must be programmed into the PCM.
SSM 51849
Aug 2023
Power TrainVarious 2013-2019 vehicles may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P264F after powertrain control module (PCM) replacement. This DTC indicates that the engine serial number (ESN) must be programmed into the PCM.
SSM 51838
Aug 2023
Electrical SystemIn various 2017-2023 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, customers may receive a message in the FordPass or LincolnWay App stating Feature Unavailable. Since this is a fleet vehicle, it cannot access the (SYNC Connect) FordPass or LincolnWay app through the TCU Embedded Modem.
SSM 51829
Aug 2023
EquipmentSome F-Super Duty and F-150 vehicles equipped with trailer tow mirror may exhibit various exterior rear view mirror functional concerns that require replacement after diagnosis.
22M03
Jun 2023
Equipment Adaptive/MobilityCertain 2017-2020 Model Year Continental and Super Duty, 2018-2020 Navigator, 2020 Aviator, and 2020 Explorer Vehicles Replace Front and/or Side Cameras if Foggy
SSM 51691
Jun 2023
Power Train2011-2023 F-Super Duty and 2016-2024 F-650/F-750 vehicles equipped with a 6.7L engine may exhibit an elevated idle condition. During prolonged idle time, vehicles may experience this elevated idle to reduce unburned hydrocarbons from the SCR.
SAN-Vol1 I1
Jun 2023
EquipmentThe Service Awareness Newsletter is an informal communication that contains information that may not be presently available in a TSB, SSM, GSB, or other electronic communication. This article includes information on warranty, technical service tips and other service information.
TSB 23-2161
May 2023
Electrical SystemSome 2018-2021 F-150 vehicles equipped with a 3.0L diesel engine, 2016-2022 F-650/F-750 vehicles equipped with a 6.7L engine, and 2017-2022 F-Super Duty vehicles equipped with a 6.7L engine and built on or before 08-Mar-2022 may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp...
20N04 S2
May 2023
Power TrainCertain 2017-2019 MY F250/F350 and all F450/550 vehicles Steering Linage Damper replacement. Reason for this supplement: Updated program terms, includes new mobile service repair assessment and updated owner letters with revised program terms.
TSB 23-2115
Apr 2023
EquipmentSome 2015-2020 F-150 and 2017-2022 F-Super Duty vehicles may exhibit a lack of heat or cooling from the cabin vents when the climate control settings are adjusted between hot and cold.
SSM 51536
Apr 2023
StructureFor 2000-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, swapping a module from a vehicle for diagnosis purposes is likely to cause errors and is not recommended. It is also not recommended to order a replacement module using a vehicle identification number (VIN) from a different vehicle.
SSM 51294
Jan 2023
Engine And Engine CoolingSome 2016-2019 F-Super Duty/F-650/F-750 vehicles equipped with a 6.7L engine may require the lower intake manifold to be removed for various concerns. The WSM, Section 303-01, has been updated to remove the lower intake manifold leaving the crankcase vent oil separator attached.
SSM 51265
Dec 2022
VisibilitySome vehicles equipped with power folding mirrors may exhibit power folding mirrors that are inoperative or exhibit a clicking sound.
SSM 51263
Dec 2022
Back Over PreventionSome 2015-2023 F-150, 2017-2022 F-Super Duty, and 2019-2023 Ranger vehicles may exhibit dust ingress into the cabin through the doors or air extractors.
SSM 51261
Dec 2022
Service BrakesSome Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit noise when the brakes are applied. When diagnosing and repairing brake noise conditions, use the Workshop Manual (WSM) and the appropriate pinpoint test in section 206-00.
SSM 51251
Dec 2022
Engine And Engine CoolingSome 2011-2022 F-Super Duty vehicles equipped with a 6.7L diesel engine may exhibit a ticking noise at idle after an engine oil change. It is often referred to as Typewriter Noise because of its similarity to the sound of a mechanical typewriter.
21M05 S3
Nov 2022
Latches/Locks/LinkagesCertain 2017-2022 Model Year Super Duty Vehicles Equipped with a Power Release Tailgate - Unintended Tailgate Opening REASON FOR THIS SUPPLEMENT Technical Information: Updated with revised instructions to account for wiring harness changes that were implemented into production...
SSM 51185
Nov 2022
StructureSome 2015-2022 F-150 and 2017-2022 F-Super Duty vehicles may experience issues with the tailgate center step moulding. If there is an issue with the center molding (warped, damaged condition, loose, or if the molding is missing), the trim cover is now available separately.
TSB 22-2380
Oct 2022
Engine And Engine CoolingSome 2017-2019 F-Super Duty chassis cab/dual rear wheel (DRW) pickup vehicles and 2016-2019 F-650/F-750 vehicles equipped with a 6.7L engine may exhibit a concern of oil consumption in applications where the engine is idled for extended periods of time.
TSB 22-2389
Oct 2022
WheelsSome 2017-2020 F-Super Duty vehicles equipped with dual rear wheels (DRW) and 17 inch aluminum wheels may exhibit a loss of tire pressure from the valve stem sealing area of the front wheels.
SSM 51122
Oct 2022
Electrical SystemSome 2017-2022 F-250-F-550, 2015-2020 F-150 and 2018-2022 Expedition vehicles without push button start and passive entry may exhibit a condition where it is difficult to insert the ignition key and/or turn it to the accessory position when removing the ignition lock cylinder...
SSM 51120
Oct 2022
Service BrakesSome Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit noise when the brakes are applied. When diagnosing and repairing brake noise conditions, use the Workshop Manual (WSM) and the appropriate pinpoint test in section 206-00.
SSM 51104
Sep 2022
SteeringSome 2017-2019 F-Super Duty vehicles equipped with adaptive steering may require steering wheel replacement for various reasons. The steering wheel assembly contains the steering effort control module (SECM) and steering angle sensor module (SASM).
TSB 22-2356
Sep 2022
Power TrainSome 2015-2019 F-Super Duty vehicles may experience a transmission fluid leak from a cracked transmission case or transmission fluid pan. This may be due to a driveline vibration condition.
21M05 S2
Aug 2022
Electrical SystemCertain 2017-2022 Model Year Super Duty Vehicles Equipped with a Power Release Tailgate - Unintended Tailgate Opening ;REASON FOR THIS SUPPLEMENT Technical Information: Updated with revised instructions to account for wire color differences across multiple model year vehicles.
TSB 22-2247
Aug 2022
StructureSome 2017-2022 F-Super Duty vehicles may experience a loose/sagging underbody insulator that could be seen or heard by the customer. This may be due to insufficient retention.
SSM 50975
Jul 2022
Electrical SystemSome 2017-2022 Ford/Lincoln customers may experience a notification in the FordPass®/LincolnWay® app indicating Vehicle Has Entered Deep Sleep Mode.
SSM 50966
Jul 2022
Power TrainSome 2017-2019 F-Super Duty/F-650/F-750 vehicles may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P24D1 stored in the powertrain control module (PCM). To correct the condition, replace the particulate matter (PM) sensor.
21M05-S1
Jul 2022
StructureCertain 2017-2022 Model Year Super Duty Vehicles Equipped with a Power Release Tailgate - Unintended Tailgate Opening. In the affected vehicles, some customers report experiencing an unintended tailgate opening and may have previously serviced their vehicle for this concern.
SSM 50937
Jul 2022
VisibilitySome 2015-2022 F-150, 2017-2022 F-Super Duty and 2018-2022 Expedition/Navigator vehicles may exhibit poor air conditioning (A/C) performance. Workshop Manual (WSM) diagnostic procedures have been updated to more accurately diagnose A/C performance concerns.
21M05
Jun 2022
Latches/Locks/LinkagesIn the affected vehicles, some customers report experiencing an unintended tailgate opening and may have previously serviced their vehicle for this concern. Ford has developed an enhanced remedy for customers who may want this enhanced repair performed on their vehicle.
20N04-S1
Jun 2022
SteeringCertain 2017 through 2019 Model Year F250/350 4x4 and all F450/550 Vehicles - Steering Linkage Damper Replacement. In some of the affected vehicles, customers may experience sustained steering wheel oscillation after hitting rough pavement or an expansion joint at speeds...
TSB 22-2223
Jun 2022
Engine And Engine CoolingSome 2017-2019 F-Super Duty chassis cab/dual rear wheel (DRW) pickup vehicles and 2016-2019 F-650/F-750 vehicles equipped with a 6.7L engine may exhibit a concern of oil consumption in applications where the engine is idled for extended periods of time.
SSM 50804
May 2022
Electrical SystemSome 2013-2023 Ford or Lincoln vehicles with modems activated through FordPass or LincolnWay may experience 12 volt battery drain symptoms when the customer uses non-Ford/Lincoln phone applications as an alternate channel to access vehicle commands such as door lock/unlock,...

Showing 60 of 243 distinct bulletins on file for this vehicle.

Before you buy this vehicle

A test-drive checklist generated from this vehicle's own complaint and recall record.

  1. Drive one straight highway stretch and one slow parking lot.Wander or a shimmy over bumps at speed, and heavy or dropped assist at low speed, are the two faces of this vehicle's steering cluster. A clunk on turn-in points at the linkage.
  2. Find the roughest road nearby.Clunks over bumps, a droning hum that changes when the car leans, or a corner that sits low are this vehicle's suspension complaints. Wheel bearings and control arm bushings lead the parts list.
  3. Check for a TPMS light and look at each wheel rim.Bent or corroded rims and sensors that will not clear are this vehicle's wheel complaints.
  4. Run the VIN against open recalls before you negotiate.This vehicle has 9 recall campaigns on file. An open recall needs VIN-specific confirmation. Many are quick, no-charge fixes and worth negotiating over; an unresolved do-not-drive advisory, or a remedy the manufacturer has not yet made available, should stop the purchase until it is resolved.
  5. Ask for the service history in writing, then read it against this page.The complaint families above are where owners of this vehicle report trouble. Repairs in exactly those systems are evidence the car had the problem; no such repairs could mean it never developed it, or that it was never fixed. The test-drive items above are how you tell those apart.

Parts search directory

The generic parts list for this vehicle has its own page: a search launcher for every system, filtered by fuel type and era but not by engine, trim, or brake type. It is not a diagnosis and not a fitment guarantee.

Open the parts directory for this Ford F-250 SD →