2009 Ford F-350 Reliability ReportKeepScore 68/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 2009 Ford F-350
- Outscores the 2007 Ford F-350 by 6 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
- The system most likely to surface first: 6.4l power stroke engine (critical severity).
- Has 3 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the electrical system.
2009 Ford F-350: Buy or Avoid?
The 2009 Ford F-350, particularly with the 6.4L Power Stroke diesel, presents a high-stakes ownership proposition. While its heavy-duty construction is robust for demanding tasks, the engine's known reliability issues demand meticulous pre-purchase inspection and a significant budget for potential repairs. Proceeding with caution and a thorough understanding of its weaknesses is absolutely essential.
The 2009 Ford F-350 with the 6.4L Power Stroke is a truck for experienced diesel owners with deep pockets and a clear understanding of its significant risks. While its capabilities are undeniable, the potential for catastrophic engine failure means it's not a casual purchase. If you absolutely need its towing prowes…
Best Model Years
For this generation, later years (2011+) with the 6.7L Power Stroke are significantly more reliable. If limiting to the 2008-2010 generation, the 6.8L V10 gas engine is the best option.
Years to Avoid
Avoid the 2008-2010 model years with the 6.4L Power Stroke diesel if you are not prepared for extensive and costly engine repairs.
Biggest Strengths
- Exceptional towing and hauling capacity
- Robust frame and drivetrain (excluding engine)
- Strong aftermarket support for parts and modifications
2009 Ford F-350 — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2009 Ford F-350, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
Known for issues with the DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) system, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) coolers, turbocharger failures, and potential for cylinder wall scoring or piston failures, often stemming from regeneration cycles and fue…
The high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) can fail, sending metal debris throughout the entire fuel system, requiring complete replacement of injectors, fuel lines, rails, and tank cleaning. Injectors themselves can also fail prematurely.
Frame, cab corners, rocker panels, and wheel wells are highly susceptible to rust, especially in regions with road salt. Exhaust components and brake lines also corrode quickly.
2009 Ford F-350 Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2009 Ford F-350 most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the truck is still relatively new. Focus on routine fluid changes and tire rotation. This is the period where most initial quality issues (if any) would have been addressed under warranty.
Maintenance Zone
Major service interval approaches. Transmission fluid/filter change is critical, as is ensuring the 6.4L diesel's DPF system is functioning correctly and performing all recommended emissions system maintenance. Early signs of DPF or EGR…
Elevated Risk Zone
This mileage brings an increased risk for 6.4L Power Stroke engine components like EGR coolers, turbochargers, and potentially the start of fuel system issues. Suspension wear items like ball joints may also require attention.
High Risk Zone
Past this point, the 6.4L Power Stroke is at its highest risk for major failures, including HPFP and piston/cylinder wall issues. Rust becomes a major concern. Any F-350 at this mileage requires a substantial repair fund.
2009 Ford F-350 Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2009 Ford F-350 on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$600-1,200 (diesel), $400-800 (gas)
Moderate Repairs
$1,000-3,000 occasionally (non-engine)
How Long Does the 2009 Ford F-350 Last?
For a 6.4L Power Stroke, lower mileage (under 80,000 miles) is preferred, but even then, budget for preventative emissions system maintenance or delete costs. For the 6.8L V10, 150,000+ miles is less concerning with good maintenance records.
What 2009 Ford F-350 Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Exceptional towing and hauling capabilities for serious work
- Comfortable ride for a heavy-duty truck
- Rugged and imposing presence
- Spacious interior (especially Crew Cab models)
Common Frustrations
- Horrendous fuel economy, especially with the 6.4L diesel
- Sky-high maintenance and repair costs, particularly for the 6.4L engine
- Persistent and expensive issues with the 6.4L's emissions system (DPF, EGR)
- Significant potential for rust on body panels and frame
Who Should Buy the 2009 Ford F-350?
Best For
- Owners who require maximum towing and hauling capability
- Individuals with a solid understanding of diesel engine maintenance and a substantial repair fund
- Those who plan to modify or delete the emissions system (where legal) to improve reliability
Not Ideal For
- First-time truck owners or those on a strict budget
- Drivers seeking fuel efficiency or low running costs
How the 2009 Ford F-350 Compares to Rivals
The 2009 F-350 offers immense capability but its 6.4L Power Stroke engine is arguably the least reliable of its generation's heavy-duty diesels, making it a riskier proposition compared to its contemporaries for pure engine longevity.
More Reliable Than
- No direct 'better than' on core engine reliability compared to its direct diesel competitors in this specific year (e.g., LMM Duramax, 6.7L Cummins)
- Ram 3500 (earlier generations with some Hemi issues)
Comparable To
- 2008-2010 Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 3500 (LMM Duramax has its own emissions system issues, but generally less catastrophic engine failure risk)
- Dodge Ram 3500 (6.7L Cummins has emissions issues but engine is more robust)
Safety Recalls on the 2009 Ford F-350
3 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Monroe Truck Equipment (Monroe) is recalling certain model year 2006, 2008 and 2009 Chevrolet C7500 vehicles, 2005-2006 Chevrolet Tahoe vehicles, and 2009 Ford F-350, and F-450 vehicles, equipped with Sure Power-brand battery equalizers or DC-DC converters containing a particular epoxy sealing, aka 'potting', compound. The specific potting compound used in the subject products for insulation was found to be capable of conducting electricity after being exposed to heat.
TIRES:TREAD/BELT
CONTINENTAL TIRE IS RECALLING CERTAIN CONTITRAC TR TIRES, SIZE LT275/70R18 125/122S OUTLINE WHITE LETTERS AND BLACK SIDEWALL, AND CONTITRAC, SIZE LT275/70R18 125/122S, BLACK SIDEWALL, PRODUCED FROM MAY 6, 2007, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 20, 2008, SOLD AS AFTERMARKET AND INSTALLED AS ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT ON SOME MODEL YEAR 2008 AND 2009 FORD F-250 AND F-350 TRUCKS. SOME OF THESE TIRES MAY EXPERIENCE UNEVEN WEAR, VIBRATION, OR PARTICULARLY UNDER CONDITIONS OF OVERLOADING OR UNDER INFLATION IN HIGH AMBIENT TEMPERATURE USAGE, SEPARATION BETWEEN THE BELT EDGES.
What breaks on the 2009 Ford F-350?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Ford F-350 — Year-by-Year Comparison
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Ford F-350. Click any year for its full report.
Competing 2009s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2009 Ford F-350
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