2011 Ford F-550 problems

General information about Ford-F-550
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

The Ford Super Duty (also known as the Ford F-Series Super Duty) is a series of heavy-duty pickup trucks produced by the Ford Motor Company since the 1999 model year. Slotted above the consumer-oriented Ford F-150, the Super Duty trucks are an expansion of the Ford F-Series range, from F-250 to the F-600. The F-250 through F-450 are offered as pickup trucks, while the F-350 through F-600 are offered as chassis cabs.

Rather than adapting the lighter-duty F-150 truck for heavier use, Super Duty trucks have been designed as a dedicated variant of the Ford F-Series. The heavier-duty chassis components allow for heavier payloads and towing capabilities. With a GVWR over 8,500 lb (3,900 kg), Super Duty pickups are Class 2 and 3 trucks, while chassis-cab trucks are offered in Classes 3, 4, 5, and 6. The model line also offers Ford Power Stroke V8 diesel engines as an option.

Ford also offers a medium-duty version of the F-Series (F-650 and F-750), which is sometimes branded as the Super Duty, but is another chassis variant. The Super Duty pickup truck also served as the basis for the Ford Excursion full-sized SUV.

The Super Duty trucks and chassis-cabs are assembled at the Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville, Kentucky, and at Ohio Assembly in Avon Lake, Ohio. Prior to 2016, medium-duty trucks were assembled in Mexico under the Blue Diamond Truck joint venture with Navistar International.

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Common 2011 Ford F-550 problems

Based on the complaints from owners of the Ford F-550 2011 model, several common problems have been reported:

Transmission Issues:
Owners have experienced transmission problems, including the transmission shifting into neutral between gears 1-2 and 3-4. Some have also reported transmission leaks, leading to oil drops around the tail shaft area and bell housing. These issues can cause significant inconvenience and potential safety hazards.
Turbocharger Failures:
Another common problem reported by owners is turbocharger failures. Many F-550 trucks have had their turbochargers replaced at least once, with some spending extended periods in the shop for repairs. The turbo lag and frequent replacements indicate reliability issues with the turbocharging system.
Instrument Cluster Malfunctions:
Complaints have been made about instrument cluster failures, leading to various symptoms such as gauges sticking or providing incorrect readings, intermittent power issues with radio and power windows, and a persistent low fuel indicator. These malfunctions can affect the overall functionality of the vehicle and potentially lead to battery drain problems.
Emissions System and Fuel Pump Concerns:
The emissions system, particularly the injection pump or high-pressure fuel pump, has been highlighted as a significant issue affecting older F-550 models. Failures in the fuel pump, especially with the Bosch CP4 pumps, have been a cause for concern due to metal-on-metal contact issues. This problem can lead to severe engine damage and reliability issues.
Cooling System and Turbocharger Leaks:
Owners have reported coolant leakages around the turbocharger area and from the primary radiator of the cooling system. These leaks can result in overheating, engine damage, and potential safety risks. Addressing these cooling system issues promptly is crucial to prevent further damage.

These common problems with the Ford F-550 2011 model, as reported by owners, highlight various reliability and performance issues that have impacted the driving experience and maintenance costs for many users. Regular maintenance, prompt repairs, and awareness of these issues can help owners address these problems effectively and ensure the longevity of their vehicles.

What problems does the 2011 6.7 Powerstroke have?

The injection pump is the Achilles heel for all 6.7L Power Stroke engines prior to 2020. The pump, a Bosch CP4. 2, is known for breaking down due to metal-on-metal contact that is promoted by air inside the pump. The contamination can completely destroy the fuel system (injectors, pressure regulators, lines, etc.)

Are 2011 6.7 Powerstroke a good engine?

Ford's 6.7 Powerstroke diesel engine has been a popular choice for many truck owners since its introduction in 2011. Known for its power and reliability, this engine has been used extensively in Ford's F-series trucks.

What years did Ford have a bad diesel engine?

The 6.4-liter Powerstroke engine was very short-lived. It was put in Ford trucks beginning in 2007 for the 2008 model year and the last production year was 2011 for the 2010 model year. The 6.4 Powerstroke came after the 6.0 Powerstroke, which was widely panned for its problems and poor performance.

What is the biggest problem with 6.7 Power Stroke?

Ford Diesel Engine Radiator Coolant Leaks

Another known issue with Ford's 6.7 Powerstroke is the high frequency of radiator coolant leaks. These leaks are prevalent on the driver's side of the engine. Owners can check for leaks in the metal crimps and drain petcock.

What problems does the 2011 6.7 Powerstroke have?

What is the biggest problem with 6.7 Power Stroke?

6.7s are infamous for cracked manifolds. Cracks in the manifold can cause exhaust leaks, leading to poor performance and increased emissions. Ticking noise during acceleration, poor engine performance, and a check engine light with DTC codes P0420 or P0430.

Is 2011 Ford f250 a good truck?

Edmunds says

With an ideal mix of power, brawn and refinement, the 2011 Ford F-250 Super Duty is a top pick for a heavy-duty truck.

What years did Ford have a bad diesel engine?

2011 Ford F-550 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford F-550 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Engine problems
Fuel/propulsion system problems
Fuel system problems
Diesel problems
Steering problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2011 Ford F-550 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2011 Ford F-550 complaints

The NHTSA has received 10 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2011 Ford F-550.

2021-01-13

STEERING,POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2019-09-30
VIN: 1FDUF5GT3BE
Components: STEERING,POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Summary: 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.

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2020-04-22

ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2015-03-15
VIN: 1FD0X5HT4BE
Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Summary: 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*JB

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2017-06-07

ENGINE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2017-06-06
VIN: 1FDAX5GT8BE
Components: ENGINE
Summary: 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.

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2015-11-10

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2012-10-01
VIN: 1FDGF5GT8BE
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL
Summary: 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.*JB

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2015-08-25

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2014-10-23
VIN: 1FD0X5HT4BE
Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Summary: 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 *CN

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2015-01-22

ENGINE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2014-08-04
VIN: 1FD0X5HT4BE
Components: ENGINE
Summary: 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 NHTSA 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*CN

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2014-06-04

ENGINE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2014-05-07
Components: ENGINE
Summary: 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. *TR

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2014-05-06

FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2014-04-30
VIN: 1FDUF5HT2BE
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL
Summary: FUEL TANK IS RUSTED FROM INSIDE . CLOGS FILTERS AND SYSTEM . *TR

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2013-12-14

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2013-12-07
Crash: 1
VIN: 1SDOW5HT2BE
Components: STRUCTURE
Summary: [XXX] THIS IS A COMMERCIAL VEHICLE WITH A DOT REGISTRATION AS A GROSS WEIGHT VEHICLE. PLEASE INFORM ME OF ANY SPECIAL ENDORSEMENTS A DRIVER OF THIS VEHICLE MUST HAVE, IF ANY, IN ORDER TO DRIVE. THIS VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT. THE DRIVER STATED HE WAS NOT LICENSED TO DRIVE IT. THANK YOU INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

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2013-11-18

PARKING BRAKE,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2012-05-16
VIN: 1FD0W5HT4BE
Components: PARKING BRAKE,EQUIPMENT
Summary: THIS COMPLAINT IS A FOLLOW-UP TO YOUR REF# 521328. IT CONCERNS AN UN-DELIVERED EMERGENCY VEHICLE THAT PLASTISCOL COMPOSITES, THAT IS BEING PAID WITH FEMA FUNDS UNDER A FEDERAL GRANT AND IS TRYING TO FORCE A VIBRATING DRIVE LINE PROBLEM VEHICLE TO OTHER COMPANIES WITHOUT TELLING THEM. THE VEHICLE IS NOW OVER 930 DAYS LATE, DUE TO POORLY ENGINEERING THE DRIVE LINE AFTER INSTALLING A PTO IN THE DRIVE LINE TO POWER THE REAR MOUNTED PUMP. ON NUMEROUS OCCASION, PLASTISOL WORKERS BROUGHT THE VEHICLE TO THE REPAIR SHOP TO BE INSPECTED FOR ACCEPTANCE, BUT ON EACH OCCASION, NUMEROUS DEFECTS WERE NOTED INCLUDING COLD WELDS, LOOSE PARTS POOR ASSEMBLY. AND THE MOST SERIOUS, WAS THE DRIVE LINE VIBRATION THAT BEGAN AT 40 MPH AND BECAME WORSE. PLASTISOL WORKERS ADMITTED THAT THEY HAVE NO ENGINEER ASSISTING THEM TO RESOLVED THE PROBLEM AND DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO. THE IS EQUIVALENT TO NHTSA RECALL CAMPAIGN # 10V092000. I WOULD LIKE YOU TO INVESTIGATE THIS VEHICLE AND DETERMINE IF THE DRIVE LINE VIBRATION IS SAFE AND THE VEHICLE IS ROAD WORTHY AND WON'T CAUSE THE FAILURE OF THE UNIVERSAL JOINTS AND A CRASH , WHICH COULD JEOPARDIZE THE LIVES OF THE FIREMEN OR THE GENERAL PUBLIC. I WOULD LIKE YOU TO INSPECT ALL WELDS OF THE FABRICATED CROSS MEMBER . THE PTO IS ATTACHED TO AND DETERMINE IF THEY ARE WITHIN INDUSTRY STANDARDS OR POORLY WELDED AND UNSAFE. I WOULD LIKE YOU TO INVESTIGATE ALL TRUCKS PRODUCED BY PLASTISOL...UPDATED 12/17/13 *BF

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2011 Ford F-550 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 2011 Ford F-550.

2015-01-30

Manufacturer: All Wheel Drive Equipment Mfg., Inc.
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Summary: 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.
Consequence: 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.

2014-08-13

Manufacturer: PJ's Truck Bodies & Equipment Co.
Components: EQUIPMENT
Summary: 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.
Consequence: 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.

2014-07-08

Manufacturer: J C Madigan, Inc.
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
Summary: 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.
Consequence: 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.

2014-02-06

Manufacturer: Almared, Inc.
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:MOUNTING
Summary: 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.
Consequence: 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.

2013-10-30

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Components: ENGINE
Summary: 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.
Consequence: 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.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2011 Ford F-550 problems:

F550 6.7 problems | Ford Powerstroke Diesel Forum

https://www.powerstroke.org/threads/f550-6-7-problems.245282/

Mar 15, 2012 ... I really wanted ford to get this one right but it sucks. 3 trucks 2011 f550s Bucket Trucks all less than 25,000

I have a problem with a 2011 f550 6.7 Ford. It has no throttle in drive ...

https://www.justanswer.com/medium-and-heavy-truck/meu50-problem-2011-f550-6-7-ford-no.html

Jul 6, 2023 ... I have a problem with a 2011 f550 6.7 Ford. It has no throttle in drive or reverse. And does not say anything about - Answered by a verified ...

Lots of Communication Codes and No Start/No Dash Cluster/No ...

https://www.powerstroke.org/threads/lots-of-communication-codes-and-no-start-no-dash-cluster-no-turn-signals.1397426/

Sep 30, 2022 ... 2012 F550 6.7. I'm trying to figure out what all of these problems have in common. Most of these problems are intermittent. Started with the ...

2011 f550 v10 any good | Snow Plowing Forum

https://www.plowsite.com/threads/2011-f550-v10-any-good.127842/

Nov 6, 2011 ... hey guys i was hoping for a little insight on the V10 6.8 are they good motors any problems are they good at towing and plowing i have ...