2020 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 2020 Ford F-550 problems

The Ford F-550, a heavy-duty pickup truck produced by Ford Motor Company, has faced several issues that have concerned its owners. A significant problem that has been reported is related to the transmission torque converter damper plates in diesel trucks, including the F-250, F-350, and F-550 models. These plates were not appropriately tempered, leading to concerns about engine stalls. A stall can cause the vehicle to slow down or stop unexpectedly, which could result in dangerous situations, especially if it occurs in heavy traffic or at high speeds.

Another common issue with the Ford F-550 is related to the check engine light. This light can be triggered by various problems, including sensor malfunctions, vacuum leaks, and aftermarket parts installation issues. For instance, a bad mass airflow sensor can lead to rough idling, hard starting, or loss of power. A loose gas cap can also cause the check engine light to illuminate, as it affects the fuel system's pressure. Aftermarket parts and systems, such as alarm systems or exhaust parts, can also trigger the check engine light if they change the engine parameters and the ECM cannot compensate for the differences.

The Ford F-550's ECM and sensors work together to adjust the air-and-fuel mixture and ignition timing. If a sensor sends information that is out of range or if it cannot correct a problem, the ECM sends a data trouble code and illuminates the check engine light. In such cases, it is advisable to have the vehicle inspected by a certified powertrain management technician to diagnose and resolve the issue.

In summary, the Ford F-550 has faced issues related to transmission torque converter damper plates and the check engine light. These problems can lead to inconvenient and potentially dangerous situations for drivers. It is essential for owners to be aware of these issues and seek professional assistance to address them.

Is the 2020 6.7 Powerstroke reliable?

The vast majority of 6.7 Powerstroke diesel engine owners never experience any problems. Most of the engine issues stem from its Gen 1 model and were fixed in the following generations. If you're experiencing a problem with this engine and need a quick fix, this guide will give you easy answers.

What is the recall on the 2020 6.7 Powerstroke?

Ford's number for this recall is 22S22. Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Super Duty F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 vehicles equipped with 6.7L diesel engines. A washer within the vehicle's transmission can disintegrate, causing metallic debris to become lodged in the 'Park' mechanism.

What is the recall on the Ford 550?

Ford Motor Company is recalling 17,970 model year 2023 F-150 and Ford SD F250, F350, F450, F550 and F600 trucks. The steering wheel clock spring may have an insufficient weld, causing a loss of electrical connection to the driver's front airbag.

Are there any problems with the Ford 6.7 diesel?

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. Leaks or low coolant levels indicate that your engine might be at risk of overheating.

Is the 2020 6.7 Powerstroke reliable?

What is the recall on the 2020 6.7 Powerstroke?

Are there any problems with the Ford 6.7 diesel?

What engine is in the 2020 F-550?

The all-new 7.3L 2V DECVT V8 gasoline engine is standard, and it generates 350 horsepower and a best-in-class 468 lb. -ft. of torque. The 6.7L Power Stroke® Turbo Diesel motor is optional, and good for 330 horsepower and 825 lb.

2020 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:

Suspension problems
Structure problems
Unknown or other problems
Fuel system problems
Diesel problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2020 Ford F-550 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2020 Ford F-550 complaints

The NHTSA has received 8 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2020 Ford F-550.

2024-07-02

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-04-17
VIN: 1FDUF5HT5LE
Components: SUSPENSION
Summary: frame crack right behind cab. have two trucks with the same issue second vin ends in [XXX]. ford had a safety program 21B04 that expired which means they are aware of this issue and should issue a recall for it. ford has repeatedly refused to help with this issue. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

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2024-05-09

SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2023-11-16
VIN: 1FDUFSHTXLD
Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Summary: Ford Motor Company has had a known issue with the truck frames cracking on the F-550 chassis. They acknowledged it by doing a recall, which either replaced or repaired the chassis frame or installed reinforcement braces if no cracks were visible. The recall expired in September of 2023. In October 2023 we noticed a crack on the frame just outside the recall reinforcement brace that Ford-certified technicians installed. We found another in November (reinforcement brace installed) and another in January (with Ford's new and improved frame produced due to a recall issue). Ford has denied making the repairs since the original warranty expired, even though this was the same related issue. We have been dealing with Ford Motor Company since October in hopes of resolving the issue but they continue to give us any resolution. The problem has not only caused a burden on our workforce but also caused great safety concerns. With Ford avoiding responsibility, they are allowing trucks to operate daily on our highway system, which becomes a safety concern for not only the driver but for many other motorists. The problem existed, but the issue was not resolved, all we are asking is that they take responsibility for making the repairs and permanently resolving the issue for the safety of all motorists.

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2024-04-15

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2023-09-07
VIN: 1FDUF5GT7LE
Components: STRUCTURE
Summary: See attached document for complaint

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2022-08-10

FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2022-05-11
VIN: 1FDUF5GT6LE
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL
Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Ford F-550. The contact stated while driving approximately 30 MPH, the vehicle emitted a strong odor of fuel into the cabin. The contact stated that other drivers were pointing at the underside of the vehicle. The contact pulled over and observed fuel leaking from a filter, the underside of the hood and engine compartment on the driver's side were covered in fuel. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact called a dealer and was advised to change the filter. The contact stated that the vehicle experienced a failure a second time and had the vehicle towed to the same dealer. The dealer diagnosed that there was rust in the fuel filter which had contaminated the fuel injection system. The vehicle had not been repaired. The contact had contacted a second dealer and was advised that the failure could be related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V013000 (Fuel System, Diesel). The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 15,000.

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2022-07-14

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2022-07-12
VIN: 1FDUF5HT5LE
Components: VISIBILITY
Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Ford F-550. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V250000 (Visibility) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

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2022-06-23

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2021-08-13
VIN: 1F66F5DN8L0
Components: SUSPENSION
Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Forest River Georgetown constructed on a 2020 Ford F53 chassis. The contact stated that the weight of the motorhome was falsely advertised and that the motorhome was over the weight limit for the chassis it was built. The contact stated that the motorhome OCCC (Occupant Carrying Capacity Certificate) advertised for the motorhome was 19,208; however, the contact weighed the motorhome with the motorhome completely empty and the certified weight was 21,080. The contact stated that while driving the motorhome, an abnormal clanking and popping noise was coming from the vehicle while driving. The contact stated that the vehicle would push its way through corners and turns due to the weight of the motorhome. The dealer was notified of the failure and stated that they were unable to perform the needed repair. Both the motorhome and chassis manufacturer were notified of the failure. The contact stated that the chassis manufacturer claimed that the motorhome was overweight and the cause of the failure. The motorhome manufacturer claimed that the weight was correct and that there was no failure with the vehicle. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 2,200.

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2022-06-13

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2022-04-13
VIN: 1FDUF5GT3LE
Components: POWER TRAIN
Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Ford F-550. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the transmission started slipping. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact pulled to the side of the roadway. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the planetary ring gear needed to be replaced under NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V256000 (Power Train). The VIN was included in the recall. The vehicle was then towed to the local dealer who informed the contact that they could not accommodate the vehicle for the recall repair due to the size of the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to a second dealer, Northside Ford Truck Sales, Inc. (6221 NE Columbia Blvd, Portland, OR 97218) who informed the contact that the vehicle would be repaired at his own expense. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and advised the contact to follow up with the dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.

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2021-04-21

SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2021-04-19
VIN: 1F66F5DN0L0
Components: SERVICE BRAKES
Summary: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) LIGHT CAME ON AND STAYED ON DURING NORMAL, STRAIGHT AND LEVEL HIGHWAY DRIVING AT 60 MPH, INDICATING AN ESC SYSTEM MALFUNCTION. THE LIGHT CAME ON AFTER ABOUT 20 MILES OF HIGHWAY DRIVING AND REMAINED ON FOR THE REMAINING 12 MILES OF MY JOURNEY. AFTER BEING PARKED OVERNIGHT THE ESC LIGHT OPERATED NORMALLY WHEN THE ENGINE WAS RESTARTED WHILE PARKED.

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2020 Ford F-550 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2020 Ford F-550.

2020-02-21

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Components: POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DIFFERENTIAL UNIT
Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 F-550 and 2021 E-350 and E-450 vehicles. The rear axle differential fluid may be below the minimum level, possibly resulting in a failure of the rear axle assembly and driveshaft separation.
Consequence: If the driveshaft separates, there may be a loss of drive, increasing the risk of crash. Additionally, if the parking brake is not applied, unintended vehicle movement can occur and increase the risk of injury or crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rear axle differential fluid level and adjust it, or replace the rear axle as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 19, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S09.

2019-08-28

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER
Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2020 F-150 and 2019-2020 F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 Super Duty pickup trucks, and 2018-2019 Ford Explorer, 2019-2020 Expedition, and 2020 Escape vehicles equipped with driver and/or passenger's manual front seat back recliner mechanisms. Also included are certain 2020 Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with rear outboard seats and manual seat back recliner mechanisms. The recliner mechanisms may be missing the third pawl required for seat back strength, resulting in a loose seat back. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 202, "Head Restraints" and 207, "Seating Systems."
Consequence: A seat back with an improperly assembled recliner mechanism may have reduced strength and may not adequately restrain an occupant in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and Ford and Lincoln dealers will inspect the seat structure and replace them, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began October 21, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19C07.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2020 Ford F-550 problems:

Common AC Problems in Ford F550 Diesels - Q&A

https://www.justanswer.com/heavy-equipment/3h1yb-common-problems-ac-f550-diesels.html

May 6, 2010 ... Any common problems w ac f550 diesels - Answered by a verified Technician. ... Have a 2020 ford F550 6.7 diesel bucket truck... ... 2004-2005 ...

2020+ Problems | Ford Powerstroke Diesel Forum

https://www.powerstroke.org/threads/2020-problems.1385410/

Mar 24, 2021 ... I'm looking to see if anyone with the 20+ trucks have seen any of these issues, or if they hold any water. I am looking to get a F550 cab ...

Q&A: Ford 7.3 Gas Engine Problems - 2020 F550 | JustAnswer

https://www.justanswer.com/medium-and-heavy-truck/jgnqq-2020-f550-7-3-gas-engine.html

May 28, 2022 ... Was this answer helpful? up Yes. down No. Finish.

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 ...