The Ford With the Highest Annual Maintenance Costs Isn’t the F-150
When buying a new or used car, you have several important considerations. Does a particular make and model have the driving performance you want? Is the sales price within your budget? How’s the gas mileage?
However, even if your chosen vehicle meets those criteria, there’s another significant factor: maintenance and repair costs. Over time, vehicle upkeep costs can add up, making some cars more expensive to own in the long term. So, even if you bought the car of your dreams, costly maintenance can take away from the fun.
So, how does Ford fair? According to user data, one Ford model has the highest annual maintenance costs, and it’s not the F-150 full-size pickup truck.
Ford model repair and maintenance costs
Ford produces a wide range of vehicles. From the Mustang Mach-E electric SUV to the F-150 full-size truck, the Ford Motor Company has something for everyone. Here are the brand’s average annual repair and maintenance expenses.
According to RepairPal, the average Ford costs $775 to maintain. Common problems on Fords include harsh or delayed shifting of an automatic transmission, squeaks and creaks over bumps and turning, and ignition misfires. Typical repair costs consist of suspension shock or strut replacement ($597-$652), oxygen sensor replacement ($132-$193), and ignition coil replacement ($89-$125).
Like any vehicle, Fords need regular upkeep. These maintenance and repair expenses aren’t excessive but aren’t cheap either. RepairPal also notes Ford’s above-average reliability, with a 3.5 out of 5 score. That’s good news for long-term owners.
However, one Ford model stands out as the most expensive to maintain.
The most expensive model to repair is the Ford F-350
The Ford F-350 Super Duty has the rugged capability for any job. With a range of powerful engines, high payload ratings, and exemplary towing abilities, the F-350 can handle almost anything. However, that’ll cost you in the long run regarding maintenance fees. RepairPal data shows the F-350 Super Duty’s annual repair cost at $1,295. That’s a lot of dough. At the same time, it makes sense because this workhorse needs upkeep for optimal performance.
Common problems on the Super Duty include delamination of the diesel fuel tank, diesel particular filter (DPF) cleaning cycle, and smoke from the tailpipe due to failed EGR valve. With such heavy-duty equipment, the F-350 has elevated repair costs. Typical prices consist of fuel pump replacement ($1,073-$1,136), head gasket replacement ($2,613-$3,019), and tie rod replacement ($495-$508).
These expenses aren’t insignificant. However, if you need a burly ride for hard work, that might be worth the cost of admission.
What are the maintenance costs of the Ford F-150?
According to J.D. Power, the Ford F-150’s been the best-selling truck in America for 46 straight years. And that’s for a good reason. With its classic styling, capable performance, and innovative features, the F-150 is a trustworthy ride.
Here’s what the Ford F-150 costs to maintain. RepairPal lists the F-150’s annual repair cost at $788. Common problems on the full-size truck include little or no heat in the cabin, the engine running rough at idle, and ignition coil failure due to excessive spark plug gap. When it’s time for repairs on an F-150, typical items consist of timing chain tensioner replacement ($1,175-$1,460), engine front cover gasket replacement ($985-$1,024), and U-joint replacement ($294-$326).
The Ford Motor Company is an American mainstay. Manufacturing diverse vehicles for different applications, Ford has something for every type of driver. Maintenance and repair costs vary among models, and taking those into account helps buyers stay within budget. Still, overall, Fords offer reliable performance.
