2016 Ford F-250 vs 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 vs 2016 Ram 2500
Reliability Side-by-Side
2016
Ford F-250
Grade C+
A powerful truck with undeniable capability, but diesel owners must be prepared for significant emissions system vigilance and potential repair costs.
2016
Chevrolet Silverado 2500
Grade B+
A powerhouse of reliability for heavy tasks, provided the diesel emissions system is properly maintained.
2016
Ram 2500
Grade C+
A powerful and capable truck that demands vigilant maintenance and offers impressive capability, but comes with specific high-cost repair risks, particularly for diesel variants.
Best For
Best for Reliability
2016 Chevrolet Silverado 2500
Score 88/100 vs 78/100
Best for Lowest Risk
2016 Chevrolet Silverado 2500
low risk
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Cost of Ownership
| Line Item | 2016 Ford F-250 | 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 2500★ | 2016 Ram 2500 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Maintenance | — | — | — |
| Moderate Repairs | — | — | — |
| MPG (City/Hwy) | N/A / N/A | N/A / N/A | N/A / N/A |
| MSRP (New) | $31,690 | $32,300 | $32,145 |
Major-failure risk and insurance outlook for each vehicle are in their full reliability reports.
Biggest Risks on Each
2016 Ford F-250
6.7L Power Stroke Emissions System
Front Suspension & Steering
Fuel System (6.7L Power Stroke)
2016 Chevrolet Silverado 2500
Diesel Emissions System
Steering & Front Suspension
Body & Rust
2016 Ram 2500
Diesel Emissions System
Front Suspension & Steering
Electrical & Infotainment
Get the Full Report on Each
7-system breakdown, mileage danger zones, repair costs, and expert verdict for each vehicle.
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Editorial Take
The 2016 Ford F-250 Super Duty, 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD, and 2016 Ram 2500 are commonly cross-shopped because they target the same buyer: someone who needs true 3/4-ton towing and payload capability but still wants a daily-usable pickup. Contractors, RV and horse-trailer owners, and fleet buyers typically compare them side-by-side because real-world towing stability, diesel versus gas operating costs, and long-term durability matter more here than small differences in curb weight or styling. Buyers also weigh transmission behavior under load, ride quality when unloaded, and cab/bed configurations that fit jobsite or family needs. Key decision factors usually come down to maximum tow/payload targets, diesel powertrain preference, interior comfort/tech, and expected maintenance costs. HEAD-TO-
Reliability & Common Issues
2016 Ford F-250 (common issues seen on higher-mile trucks, often 80k–150k+ miles) - Diesel emissions components: EGR/DPF/SCR (DEF system) concerns can surface with lots of short-trip driving; symptoms include warning lights, reduced power, and costly sensors or EGR cooler service. - Front-end wear: ball joints, tie-rod ends, and steering components can loosen with heavy towing/plow use; look for steering wander and uneven tire wear. - 6.2L gas can develop coil/plug-related misfires on higher mileage; generally less expensive than diesel repairs. 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 2500
Value & Cost of Ownership
New pricing was close at the base level, but real-world transaction prices varied heavily with incentives and fleet deals. On today’s used market, condition and configuration matter more than brand: a clean diesel 4x4 crew cab can command a large premium over a gas truck. Typical cost patterns: - Diesel ownership costs more upfront and in maintenance (fuel filters, DEF fluid, more oil capacity, and higher parts/labor costs). The payoff is effortless towing and often better fuel economy when unloaded. - Gas ownership is simpler and usually cheaper to repair; expect higher fuel consumption when towing heavy and more frequent downshifts on grades. Insurance: usually similar within the same cab/trim/value bracket, though higher MSRP trims and diesels can cost more to insure. Maintenance: the Silverado 2500HD with the 6.0L gas is often one of the least expensive to keep long-term, while any of the diesels can become costly if emissions components fail out of warranty. Resale value: diesels generally hold value best, especially Cummins-equipped Ram and Power Stroke Ford, with Duramax/Allison also highly sought after; gas trucks depreciate more but can be the better buy used.
Editorial Verdict
Best for families 2016 Ram 2500 (Crew Cab): The most comfortable-feeling cabin overall, strong infotainment usability, and available rear coil-spring setup (on many trims) that can ride better when unloaded. Best for commuters 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD (6.0 gas): Simple, durable powertrain, predictable road manners, and typically lower running costs than the diesels. If commuting includes frequent short trips, the gas Silverado can be a safer ownership bet than a diesel with emissions hardware. Best for enthusiasts 2016 Ford F-250 (6.7 diesel) or Ram 2500 (6.7 Cummins): Pick the Ford if you want the strongest factory-rated diesel horsepower and a confident, heavy-duty feel; pick the Ram if you prioritize the character of the inline-six and strong aftermarket/towing culture. Both deliver the “effortless torque” experience that makes HD trucks satisfying under load. Best value overall 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD (6.0 gas) for most buyers who tow occasionally and want lower long-term risk; 2016 Ram 2500 (6.4 gas) if you want extra gas-engine punch without stepping into diesel operating costs. For frequent heavy towing (especially in mountains), any of the diesels can be worth it, but budget for emissions-system upkeep and buy based on maintenance records, not just badge.
Parts & Accessories for These Vehicles
Products for 2016 Ford F-250
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