2010 Ford F-350 Reliability ReportKeepScore 62/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 2010 Ford F-350
- Scores 13 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2012 Ford F-350 earns a 75.
- The system most likely to surface first: 6.4l power stroke diesel engine (critical severity).
- Has 1 NHTSA recall on record — the most notable involves the equipment.
2010 Ford F-350: Buy or Avoid?
The 2010 Ford F-350 is a formidable workhorse with impressive capability, but its overall reliability is significantly hampered by the notorious 6.4L Power Stroke diesel engine. While gas models are a safer bet, potential owners must proceed with extreme caution and a substantial repair budget if considering a diesel variant, as major engine failures are common and expensive.
While the 2010 F-350 boasts impressive heavy-duty capabilities, the serious and expensive reliability issues tied to the 6.4L Power Stroke diesel engine make it a high-risk purchase. If you absolutely need one, avoid the diesel if possible, or prepare for substantial potential repair costs. Gasoline models are a far…
Best Model Years
For the Super Duty platform, look for 2011+ models with the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel, which is vastly more reliable, or earlier 7.3L Power Strokes (pre-2003).
Years to Avoid
Specifically avoid 2008-2010 models with the 6.4L Power Stroke diesel due to widespread engine reliability issues.
Biggest Strengths
- Exceptional towing and hauling capabilities
- Robust frame and chassis design
- Availability of more reliable gasoline V8/V10 engines
2010 Ford F-350 — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2010 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.
The 6.4L Power Stroke is infamous for premature failures including EGR cooler rupture, DPF clogging, turbocharger failure, fuel injector issues, and even head gasket leaks. These often stem from the complex emissions system.
Common in salt-belt states, significant rust forms on cab corners, rocker panels, rear wheel wells, and bed supports. Frame rust can also be problematic, compromising structural integrity over time.
Owners report issues ranging from instrument cluster failures, wiring harness chafing leading to shorts, HVAC control module glitches, and problems with various sensors or body control modules.
2010 Ford F-350 Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2010 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 maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations. Early electrical gremlins might surface.
Maintenance Zone
This is where heavy-duty trucks start showing wear. Expect to address brake components, possibly suspension parts, and for diesel models, the initial signs of EGR/DPF issues can begin.
Elevated Risk Zone
Serious maintenance and potential repair costs become more likely here. Suspension components will likely need replacement, and the 6.4L diesel is a high risk for major engine work.
High Risk Zone
Beyond 120,000 miles, every mile is a calculated risk, especially with the 6.4L diesel. Major component failures (engine, transmission) are a significant concern, as is extensive rust.
2010 Ford F-350 Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2010 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 (higher for diesel)
Moderate Repairs
$1,000-3,000 annually (expected for age/type)
How Long Does the 2010 Ford F-350 Last?
Given the issues with the 6.4L diesel, a lower mileage F-350 with this engine simply means the problems haven't manifested yet. For gasoline models, mileage up to 150,000 is generally manageable with a good service history, but be prepared for wear items.
What 2010 Ford F-350 Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Unmatched towing and hauling capacity for its class.
- Comfortable and spacious cabin, especially in crew cab models.
- Commanding road presence and visibility.
- Robust and durable chassis and suspension (excluding wear items).
Common Frustrations
- Excessive and frequent catastrophic failures of the 6.4L diesel engine.
- Poor fuel economy, especially with the diesel.
- Significant rust accumulation on body panels and frame is a widespread problem.
- Rough ride quality when unladen, typical of a heavy-duty truck.
Who Should Buy the 2010 Ford F-350?
Best For
- Commercial users needing maximum payload/towing (if gas or exceptionally well-maintained diesel).
- Individuals with a specific need for heavy equipment towing (e.g., large RVs, horse trailers).
- Owners who are mechanically inclined and prepared for DIY repairs/maintenance.
Not Ideal For
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking low ownership costs.
- Daily commuters or those not regularly utilizing its heavy-duty capacity.
How the 2010 Ford F-350 Compares to Rivals
The 2010 F-350 falls short of its contemporary rivals primarily due to the 6.4L Power Stroke engine's reliability issues. While its chassis and capabilities are competitive, the engine makes it a more problematic choice than equivalent Duramax or Cummins trucks of the same era.
More Reliable Than
- 2003-2007 Ford F-350 (6.0L Power Stroke)
- Early 2000s Dodge Ram 3500 (problematic transmissions)
Comparable To
- 2008-2010 Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 3500HD (with LMM Duramax, generally more reliable engine)
- 2008-2010 Dodge Ram 3500 (with 6.7L Cummins, generally more reliable engine)
Safety Recalls on the 2010 Ford F-350
1 recall on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
EQUIPMENT
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.
What breaks on the 2010 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 2010s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2010 Ford F-350
Parts and accessories matched to your 2010 Ford F-350
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Frequently Asked Questions
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