The Ford F-450 spans 1999–2026 with 46 recorded NHTSA recalls and a 4.0/5 ForCar reliability score. The years to approach with caution are 2020, 2017, 2019 (most owner complaints); the cleanest are 1999, 2000, 2001. It delivers up to 40 mpg combined and NHTSA-rated safety.
How we score: NHTSA crash-test safety (40%), recall frequency across all years (25%) and the share of owner complaints involving a crash, fire or injury (35%). Based on NHTSA & EPA data — not user reviews.
Overview
The Ford F-450 is one of the most popular vehicles in its class, produced from 1999 to 2026 across multiple generations.
How to read a Ford F-450 VIN — every digit explained
Every Ford F-450 carries a unique 17-character VIN stamped at the factory. Each position is a code — together they spell out where, when and how your car was built. Here's exactly what every digit means.
- WMI (1–3) — country & manufacturer. Tells you it's a Ford and the country it was built in (real Ford codes below).
- VDS (4–8) — model, body style, engine, trim & restraints. The 8th digit is the engine code.
- Check digit (9) — a math check that proves the VIN is genuine.
- Model year (10) — the year it was built (e.g. R = 2024, S = 2025).
- Plant (11) — which factory assembled this F-450.
- Serial (12–17) — the unique sequential production number.
- USA1F1 · 1F7 · 1FA · 1FB · 1FM · 1FT
- Canada2FA · 2FM · 2FT · 2LM · 2LN · 2ME
- Mexico3FA · 3FB · 3FM · 3FT · 3LN · 3MA
- GermanyWF0 · WF1
- Norway1FL
Digits 4–17 — the engine code (8th), model-year letter (10th) and plant — follow the universal SAE standard, identical on every car. For the full year-code table (2001–2026), country codes and where the VIN is stamped on your F-450, see the complete guide to reading a VIN.
How many recalls does the Ford F-450 have?
The Ford F-450 has 46 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1999–2026. Pick a year below to see its recalls — then verify open recalls against your specific VIN.
2020 Ford F-450 recalls 1
Seats:front Assembly:recliner
What's wrong. 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."
Risk. 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.
Fix. 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.
2019 Ford F-450 recalls 4
Exterior Lighting
What's wrong. Life Line Emergency Vehicles (Life Line) is recalling one 2020 Ford F450 vehicle and one 2017 Navistar Durastar vehicle, equipped with 7x9 combination LED Stop-Tail-Turn reverse lights. The lights may be too bright, exceeding the maximum light output allowed which may adversely affect the vision of drivers. As such, these lamps fail to comply with the requirements of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Risk. The excessive brightness may affect the vision of other drivers, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. ECCO will provide a filter kit that will ensure the lights perform in the correct photometric intensity ranges, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 15, 2021. Owners may contact Life Line customer service at 1-563-578-3317 ext. 132.
Equipment
What's wrong. LGE Coachworks, Inc. (LGE Coachworks) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Ford E-450, F-550, and Freightliner M2-based vehicles equipped with ASA Electronics Voyager back-up camera displays. The displays may unexpectedly revert back to the factory default settings which may cause the camera image to be reversed.
Risk. The driver may inadvertently turn the wrong direction to avoid an object behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. ASA will notify LGE Coachworks owners, and dealers will replace the displays, free of charge. The recall began May 9, 2019. Owners may contact ASA customer service at 1-800-384-4400 or LGE Coachworks at 1-800-209-3985.
Seats:front Assembly:recliner
What's wrong. 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."
Risk. 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.
Fix. 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.
Engine
What's wrong. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Ford F-150 and 2017-2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty, F-350 Super Duty, F-450 Super Duty, and F-550 Super Duty pick-up trucks equipped with an engine block heater. Water and contaminants may get into the block heater cable's splice connector causing corrosion and damage.
Risk. When the heater is plugged in, prolonged corrosion could cause a resistive short, increasing the risk of overheated or melted wiring which can increase the risk of a fire.
Fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will disable the block heater cable, free of charge. Once parts are available, Dealers will replace the engine block heater cable, free of charge. The recall began June 3, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18S45.
2018 Ford F-450 recalls 3
Exterior Lighting:brake Lights
What's wrong. Taylor Made Ambulances is recalling certain 2017-2018 Ford E-350, F-450, E-450, F-550, and GMC G3500-based ambulances equipped with Whelen brake lights. Depending on the specific wiring of the vehicle, these brake lights may illuminate when the brake pedal has not been pressed.
Risk. If the brake lights incorrectly illuminate, it can confuse other drivers, possibly increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Taylor Made will notify owners and Whelen will replace the brake lights, free of charge. The recall began June 5, 2019. Owners may contact Taylor Made Ambulances customer service at 1-800-468-1310.
Equipment
What's wrong. LGE Coachworks, Inc. (LGE Coachworks) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Ford E-450, F-550, and Freightliner M2-based vehicles equipped with ASA Electronics Voyager back-up camera displays. The displays may unexpectedly revert back to the factory default settings which may cause the camera image to be reversed.
Risk. The driver may inadvertently turn the wrong direction to avoid an object behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. ASA will notify LGE Coachworks owners, and dealers will replace the displays, free of charge. The recall began May 9, 2019. Owners may contact ASA customer service at 1-800-384-4400 or LGE Coachworks at 1-800-209-3985.
Engine
What's wrong. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Ford F-150 and 2017-2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty, F-350 Super Duty, F-450 Super Duty, and F-550 Super Duty pick-up trucks equipped with an engine block heater. Water and contaminants may get into the block heater cable's splice connector causing corrosion and damage.
Risk. When the heater is plugged in, prolonged corrosion could cause a resistive short, increasing the risk of overheated or melted wiring which can increase the risk of a fire.
Fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will disable the block heater cable, free of charge. Once parts are available, Dealers will replace the engine block heater cable, free of charge. The recall began June 3, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18S45.
2017 Ford F-450 recalls 4
Latches/locks/linkages:doors:latch
What's wrong. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2017 F-150, and 2017 F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 vehicles originally produced with black or body colored exterior door handles that may have been subsequently equipped with a chrome exterior door handle cover accessory kit purchased from a Ford dealer. These accessory door handle covers may cause the doors to unlatch in a side impact collision. As such, these vehicles may fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 206, "Door Locks and Door Retention Components."
Risk. If the doors unlatch and open in a side impact collision, the occupants have an increased risk of injury.
Fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will remove the accessory covers and refund the purchase price. The recall began July 13, 2017. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for the recall is 17C09.
Exterior Lighting:brake Lights
What's wrong. Taylor Made Ambulances is recalling certain 2017-2018 Ford E-350, F-450, E-450, F-550, and GMC G3500-based ambulances equipped with Whelen brake lights. Depending on the specific wiring of the vehicle, these brake lights may illuminate when the brake pedal has not been pressed.
Risk. If the brake lights incorrectly illuminate, it can confuse other drivers, possibly increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Taylor Made will notify owners and Whelen will replace the brake lights, free of charge. The recall began June 5, 2019. Owners may contact Taylor Made Ambulances customer service at 1-800-468-1310.
Equipment
What's wrong. VCI Emergency Vehicle Specialists (VCI) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Ford F-550, 2014 E-350 and E-450, 2015 F-250 and F-450, 2016 E-450, 2017 E-350, F-450 and E-450, 2018 F-350, 2010 E-450, 2005-2006 E-450, 2009 E-450 and Chevrolet C4500-based Type I and Type III ambulances equipped with ASA Electronics Voyager monitors used to display the back-up camera image. The monitors may unexpectedly revert back to the factory default settings which may cause the camera image to be reversed.
Risk. The driver may inadvertently turn the wrong direction to avoid an object behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. VCI Emergency Vehicle Specialists will work with ASA to notify the owners, and remedy the displays, free of charge. The recall began May 9, 2019. Owners may contact ASA Electronics at 1-800-384-4400.
Engine
What's wrong. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Ford F-150 and 2017-2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty, F-350 Super Duty, F-450 Super Duty, and F-550 Super Duty pick-up trucks equipped with an engine block heater. Water and contaminants may get into the block heater cable's splice connector causing corrosion and damage.
Risk. When the heater is plugged in, prolonged corrosion could cause a resistive short, increasing the risk of overheated or melted wiring which can increase the risk of a fire.
Fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will disable the block heater cable, free of charge. Once parts are available, Dealers will replace the engine block heater cable, free of charge. The recall began June 3, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18S45.
2015 Ford F-450 recalls 2
Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera
What's wrong. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015 F-250, F-350, F-450, Expedition, Lincoln Navigator, and MKC vehicles. The rearview camera printed circuit board terminal header connector may be loose or damaged, which can result in a blank or distorted image.
Risk. A blank or distorted rearview camera image can reduce the driver's view of what is behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will replace the rearview camera, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 16, 2025. Owners may contact Ford Customer Service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S42. This recall expands previous recall number 22V-082.
Equipment
What's wrong. VCI Emergency Vehicle Specialists (VCI) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Ford F-550, 2014 E-350 and E-450, 2015 F-250 and F-450, 2016 E-450, 2017 E-350, F-450 and E-450, 2018 F-350, 2010 E-450, 2005-2006 E-450, 2009 E-450 and Chevrolet C4500-based Type I and Type III ambulances equipped with ASA Electronics Voyager monitors used to display the back-up camera image. The monitors may unexpectedly revert back to the factory default settings which may cause the camera image to be reversed.
Risk. The driver may inadvertently turn the wrong direction to avoid an object behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. VCI Emergency Vehicle Specialists will work with ASA to notify the owners, and remedy the displays, free of charge. The recall began May 9, 2019. Owners may contact ASA Electronics at 1-800-384-4400.
2013 Ford F-450 recalls 1
Equipment
What's wrong. 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.
Risk. The leaking oil may soak into the thermal blanket covering the exhaust, which when combined with heat from exhaust, may result in an increased risk of fire.
Fix. PJ's has notified owners and dealers will install a new pressure switch kit that moves the switch away from the exhaust system, free of charge. The recall began on August 28, 2014. Owners may contact PJ's customer service at 1-866-475-8782.
2012 Ford F-450 recalls 4
Equipment
What's wrong. 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.
Risk. The leaking oil may soak into the thermal blanket covering the exhaust, which when combined with heat from exhaust, may result in an increased risk of fire.
Fix. PJ's has notified owners and dealers will install a new pressure switch kit that moves the switch away from the exhaust system, free of charge. The recall began on August 28, 2014. Owners may contact PJ's customer service at 1-866-475-8782.
Engine
What's wrong. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 F-350/450/550 Ambulance Package vehicles manufactured February 22, 2010, through October 19, 2012 and equipped with a 6.7L diesel engine. Due to an exhaust sensor problem, the vehicles may experience loss of power followed by an engine stall.
Risk. An unexpected engine stall increases the risk of a crash. Additionally, if this were to occur when the ambulance is transporting a patient, there is an increased risk of injury to the patient.
Fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the exhaust gas temperature sensor, free of charge. The recall began on November 25, 2013. Owners may contact Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's recall campaign number is 13S10.
Power Train:automatic Transmission
What's wrong. FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 F-150 VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 9, 2011, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 22, 2011, AND MODEL YEAR 2012 F-250, F-350, F-450 AND F-550 HEAVY DUTY VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 12, 2011, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 22, 2011. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NUMBER 114, THEFT PROTECTION. THE TRANSMISSION CAN BE SHIFTED OUT OF THE PARK POSITION WITHOUT PRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL DUE TO BRAKE SHIFT INTERLOCK SWITCH PROBLEM.
Risk. THIS WILL ALLOW THE OPERATOR TO INADVERTENTLY SHIFT THE VEHICLE INTO GEAR WITHOUT THE BRAKE PEDAL BEING DEPRESSED, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH OR INJURY TO A NEARBY PEDESTRIAN.
Fix. FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE BRAKE SHIFT INTERLOCK SWITCH FUNCTION AND REPLACE THE SWITCH IF NECESSARY, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 22, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT THE FORD MOTOR COMPANY CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP CENTER AT 1-866-436-7332.
Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System:manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe
What's wrong. Manning Equipment Inc. LLC (Manning) is recalling certain model year 2012 Ford F-350, F-450 and F-550 gasoline engined dual rear wheel chassis vehicles manufactured October 2011 through June 2012. The tailpipe on the exhaust system does not extend out beyond the edge of the body, allowing heat to build up in rear curbside storage compartment.
Risk. Excessive heat build up in rear compartment could result in fire.
Fix. Manning Equipment has notified owners, and dealers will install tailpipe extensions free of charge. The recall has already begun. Owners may contact Manning Equipment at 1-502-426-5210.
2011 Ford F-450 recalls 2
Equipment
What's wrong. 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.
Risk. The leaking oil may soak into the thermal blanket covering the exhaust, which when combined with heat from exhaust, may result in an increased risk of fire.
Fix. PJ's has notified owners and dealers will install a new pressure switch kit that moves the switch away from the exhaust system, free of charge. The recall began on August 28, 2014. Owners may contact PJ's customer service at 1-866-475-8782.
Engine
What's wrong. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 F-350/450/550 Ambulance Package vehicles manufactured February 22, 2010, through October 19, 2012 and equipped with a 6.7L diesel engine. Due to an exhaust sensor problem, the vehicles may experience loss of power followed by an engine stall.
Risk. An unexpected engine stall increases the risk of a crash. Additionally, if this were to occur when the ambulance is transporting a patient, there is an increased risk of injury to the patient.
Fix. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the exhaust gas temperature sensor, free of charge. The recall began on November 25, 2013. Owners may contact Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's recall campaign number is 13S10.
2010 Ford F-450 recalls 1
Equipment
What's wrong. 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.
Risk. The leaking oil may soak into the thermal blanket covering the exhaust, which when combined with heat from exhaust, may result in an increased risk of fire.
Fix. PJ's has notified owners and dealers will install a new pressure switch kit that moves the switch away from the exhaust system, free of charge. The recall began on August 28, 2014. Owners may contact PJ's customer service at 1-866-475-8782.
2009 Ford F-450 recalls 1
Equipment
What's wrong. 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.
Risk. The leaking oil may soak into the thermal blanket covering the exhaust, which when combined with heat from exhaust, may result in an increased risk of fire.
Fix. PJ's has notified owners and dealers will install a new pressure switch kit that moves the switch away from the exhaust system, free of charge. The recall began on August 28, 2014. Owners may contact PJ's customer service at 1-866-475-8782.
2008 Ford F-450 recalls 1
Trailer Hitches
What's wrong. KNAPHEIDE IS RECALLING 108 MY 2006-2008 PRO SERIES TRUCK BEDS EQUIPPED WITH AN ICC BUMPER WHICH INCLUDED A PROVISION FOR A BALL HITCH. THERE MAY BE AN INSUFFICIENT WELD ATTACHING THE HITCH CHANNEL TO THE SUPPORTING STRUCTURE.
Risk. THIS COULD RESULT IN BENDING OF THE HITCH CHANNEL OR THE HITCH COULD BE PULLED OFF THE VEHICLE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Fix. KNAPHEIDE WILL OFFER TWO REMEDIES TO ITS CUSTOMERS: (1) FOR THOSE CUSTOMERS WHO DO NOT USE THE HITCH, THE HITCH WILL BE REMOVED FROM THE TRUCK BED AND REPLACED WITH AN ICC BUMPER; OR (2) FOR THOSE CUSTOMERS WHO NEED A HITCH, A RECEIVER HITCH ASSEMBLY WILL BE ADDED TO THE EXISTING HITCH ASSEMBLY AND ALL SUSPECT WELD JOINTS WILL BE RE WELDED. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 15, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KNAPHEIDE AT 1-877-473-5763.
2007 Ford F-450 recalls 1
Trailer Hitches
What's wrong. KNAPHEIDE IS RECALLING 108 MY 2006-2008 PRO SERIES TRUCK BEDS EQUIPPED WITH AN ICC BUMPER WHICH INCLUDED A PROVISION FOR A BALL HITCH. THERE MAY BE AN INSUFFICIENT WELD ATTACHING THE HITCH CHANNEL TO THE SUPPORTING STRUCTURE.
Risk. THIS COULD RESULT IN BENDING OF THE HITCH CHANNEL OR THE HITCH COULD BE PULLED OFF THE VEHICLE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Fix. KNAPHEIDE WILL OFFER TWO REMEDIES TO ITS CUSTOMERS: (1) FOR THOSE CUSTOMERS WHO DO NOT USE THE HITCH, THE HITCH WILL BE REMOVED FROM THE TRUCK BED AND REPLACED WITH AN ICC BUMPER; OR (2) FOR THOSE CUSTOMERS WHO NEED A HITCH, A RECEIVER HITCH ASSEMBLY WILL BE ADDED TO THE EXISTING HITCH ASSEMBLY AND ALL SUSPECT WELD JOINTS WILL BE RE WELDED. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 15, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KNAPHEIDE AT 1-877-473-5763.
2006 Ford F-450 recalls 1
Trailer Hitches
What's wrong. KNAPHEIDE IS RECALLING 108 MY 2006-2008 PRO SERIES TRUCK BEDS EQUIPPED WITH AN ICC BUMPER WHICH INCLUDED A PROVISION FOR A BALL HITCH. THERE MAY BE AN INSUFFICIENT WELD ATTACHING THE HITCH CHANNEL TO THE SUPPORTING STRUCTURE.
Risk. THIS COULD RESULT IN BENDING OF THE HITCH CHANNEL OR THE HITCH COULD BE PULLED OFF THE VEHICLE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Fix. KNAPHEIDE WILL OFFER TWO REMEDIES TO ITS CUSTOMERS: (1) FOR THOSE CUSTOMERS WHO DO NOT USE THE HITCH, THE HITCH WILL BE REMOVED FROM THE TRUCK BED AND REPLACED WITH AN ICC BUMPER; OR (2) FOR THOSE CUSTOMERS WHO NEED A HITCH, A RECEIVER HITCH ASSEMBLY WILL BE ADDED TO THE EXISTING HITCH ASSEMBLY AND ALL SUSPECT WELD JOINTS WILL BE RE WELDED. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 15, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KNAPHEIDE AT 1-877-473-5763.
2005 Ford F-450 recalls 1
Equipment Adaptive/mobility
What's wrong. ON CERTAIN VANS BUILT ON FORD E-450 AND GMC C-550 CHASSIS AND EQUIPPED WITH SURE-LOK WHEELCHAIR SECUREMENT SYSTEMS, THE SPROCKET TEETH OF THE RETRACTOR ASSEMBLY IS OUT OF ALIGNMENT.
Risk. IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE WHEELCHAIR MAY NOT BE ADEQUATELY SECURED POSSIBLY RESULTING IN INJURIES TO A WHEELCHAIR OCCUPANT.
Fix. DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND REPLACE THE WHEELCHAIR SECUREMENT RETRACTORS AS NECESSARY. SURE-LOK IS CONDUCTING THE OWNER NOTIFICATION AND REMEDY FOR THIS CAMPAIGN. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SURE-LOK AT 1-908-231-1804 OR FEDERAL COACH AT 1-800-292-6210.
2004 Ford F-450 recalls 1
Equipment Adaptive/mobility
What's wrong. ON CERTAIN VANS BUILT ON FORD E-450 AND GMC C-550 CHASSIS AND EQUIPPED WITH SURE-LOK WHEELCHAIR SECUREMENT SYSTEMS, THE SPROCKET TEETH OF THE RETRACTOR ASSEMBLY IS OUT OF ALIGNMENT.
Risk. IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE WHEELCHAIR MAY NOT BE ADEQUATELY SECURED POSSIBLY RESULTING IN INJURIES TO A WHEELCHAIR OCCUPANT.
Fix. DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND REPLACE THE WHEELCHAIR SECUREMENT RETRACTORS AS NECESSARY. SURE-LOK IS CONDUCTING THE OWNER NOTIFICATION AND REMEDY FOR THIS CAMPAIGN. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SURE-LOK AT 1-908-231-1804 OR FEDERAL COACH AT 1-800-292-6210.
2003 Ford F-450 recalls 1
Equipment Adaptive/mobility
What's wrong. ON CERTAIN VANS BUILT ON FORD E-450 AND GMC C-550 CHASSIS AND EQUIPPED WITH SURE-LOK WHEELCHAIR SECUREMENT SYSTEMS, THE SPROCKET TEETH OF THE RETRACTOR ASSEMBLY IS OUT OF ALIGNMENT.
Risk. IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE WHEELCHAIR MAY NOT BE ADEQUATELY SECURED POSSIBLY RESULTING IN INJURIES TO A WHEELCHAIR OCCUPANT.
Fix. DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND REPLACE THE WHEELCHAIR SECUREMENT RETRACTORS AS NECESSARY. SURE-LOK IS CONDUCTING THE OWNER NOTIFICATION AND REMEDY FOR THIS CAMPAIGN. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SURE-LOK AT 1-908-231-1804 OR FEDERAL COACH AT 1-800-292-6210.
Best and worst years for the Ford F-450
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint volume across 28 tracked years, the worst years are 2020, 2017, 2019 and the best (fewest complaints) are 1999, 2000, 2001.
ForCar aggregate — our own analysis of complaint volume, not published by NHTSA.
| Year | Owner complaints | Top issue | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1999 F-450 | — | Best | |
| 2000 F-450 | — | Best | |
| 2001 F-450 | — | Best | |
| 2002 F-450 | — | Average | |
| 2003 F-450 | — | Average | |
| 2004 F-450 | — | Average | |
| 2005 F-450 | — | Average | |
| 2006 F-450 | — | Average | |
| 2007 F-450 | — | Average | |
| 2008 F-450 | — | Average | |
| 2009 F-450 | — | Average | |
| 2010 F-450 | — | Average | |
| 2011 F-450 | Engine | Average | |
| 2012 F-450 | Engine | Average | |
| 2013 F-450 | Fuel/propulsion System | Average | |
| 2014 F-450 | Engine And Engine Cooling | Average | |
| 2015 F-450 | Engine | Average | |
| 2016 F-450 | Engine | Average | |
| 2017 F-450 | Structure | Avoid | |
| 2018 F-450 | Engine | Average | |
| 2019 F-450 | Steering | Avoid | |
| 2020 F-450 | Fuel System | Avoid | |
| 2021 F-450 | — | Average | |
| 2022 F-450 | — | Average | |
| 2023 F-450 | — | Average | |
| 2024 F-450 | — | Average | |
| 2025 F-450 | — | Average | |
| 2026 F-450 | — | Average |
What are the most common Ford F-450 problems?
The most-reported Ford F-450 problems are Other (1 reports), Seats (2 reports) and Tires (3 reports) — out of 114 owner complaints NHTSA holds for the model. Here's how they break down:
Most-reported components — tap a category to read what owners actually experienced:
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, all model years. Bar = share of total complaints. Full reports searchable on NHTSA.gov.
Ford F-450 specifications & dimensions
The 2026 Ford F-450. Full dimensions below — engine, horsepower and trim decode from your VIN. For the original factory build — MSRP, trim and standard equipment — rebuild the Ford F-450 window sticker.
| Specs cache warming… |
How the F-450's size changed by generation:
| Years | Length | Width | Height | Wheelbase | Curb weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017–2023 | 264″ | 80″ | 81″ | 176″ | 8,589 lb |
| 2011–2014 | 259″ | 96″ | 80″ | 173″ | 8,100 lb |
Source: NHTSA vPIC / Transport Canada vehicle specifications. Metric values converted to imperial; generation ranges approximate.
Ford F-450 cargo space, seating & interior room
How much the F-450 holds — passengers and cargo. EPA measures its interior at 111 cu ft of passenger volume and 24 cu ft of cargo. Seating capacity and legroom vary by trim.
Exact seating capacity, third-row availability, legroom and headroom decode from your VIN or vary by trim — the original factory equipment & options list shows what each trim included.
Passenger & cargo volume from EPA fueleconomy.gov (largest configuration). Seats, legroom and headroom from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
Ford F-450 tire size, oil type & owner specs
The fitment owners look up most — tires, wheels, oil and batteries. Exact wheel and tire sizes decode from your VIN or the driver's door-jamb placard; the universal items are listed below.
Exact tire, wheel, oil grade, capacity and battery group are added per trim and model year — decode your VIN above for the factory fitment. Universal items shown as-is.
What MPG does the Ford F-450 get?
The Ford F-450 returns up to 40 combined MPG (EPA), which works out to roughly $1,550/yr in fuel. Pick an engine to see MPG, annual running cost and CO₂ by year:
The 2026 Ford F-450 (2.7L 6-cyl) gets 17 mpg combined and costs about $3,650/yr to fuel, emitting 525 g/mi CO₂ (GHG 3/10) — about $7,250 more than the average new vehicle over 5 years.
| Year | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Smog | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 F-450 | 17 | 17 | $3,650 | 525 | — | 2.7L 6-cyl | |
| 2025 F-450 | 17 | 18 | $3,450 | 494 | 5/10 | 2.7L 6-cyl | |
| 2024 F-450 | 19 | 21 | $3,100 | 452 | 6/10 | 2.7L 6-cyl | |
| 2023 F-450 | 19 | 21 | $3,100 | 454 | 6/10 | 2.7L 6-cyl | |
| 2022 F-450 | 19 | 20 | $3,300 | 456 | 6/10 | 2.7L 6-cyl | |
| 2021 F-450 | 18 | 20 | $3,300 | 462 | 6/10 | 2.7L 6-cyl | |
| 2000 F-450 | 18 | 26 | $2,950 | 423 | — | 2.5L 6-cyl | |
| 1999 F-450 | 18 | 26 | $2,950 | 423 | — | 2.5L 6-cyl |
The 2012 Ford F-450 (4.6L 8-cyl) gets 15 mpg combined and costs about $4,150/yr to fuel, emitting 592 g/mi CO₂ (smog 2/10) — about $9,750 more than the average new vehicle over 5 years.
| Year | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Smog | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 F-450 | 13 | 17 | $4,150 | 592 | 2/10 | 4.6L 8-cyl | |
| 2011 F-450 | 16 | 24 | $3,300 | 468 | 6/10 | 4.6L 8-cyl | |
| 2010 F-450 | 16 | 24 | $3,300 | 468 | — | 4.6L 8-cyl | |
| 2009 F-450 | 16 | 24 | $3,300 | 468 | — | 4.6L 8-cyl | |
| 2008 F-450 | 15 | 23 | $3,450 | 494 | — | 4.6L 8-cyl | |
| 2007 F-450 | 15 | 23 | $3,450 | 494 | 5/10 | 4.6L 8-cyl | |
| 2006 F-450 | 15 | 23 | $3,450 | 494 | 5/10 | 4.6L 8-cyl | |
| 2005 F-450 | 16 | 23 | $3,300 | 468 | 5/10 | 4.6L 8-cyl | |
| 2004 F-450 | 15 | 23 | $3,450 | 494 | 5/10 | 4.6L 8-cyl | |
| 2003 F-450 | 16 | 23 | $3,450 | 494 | — | 4.6L 8-cyl | |
| 2002 F-450 | 15 | 23 | $3,450 | 494 | — | 4.6L 8-cyl | |
| 2001 F-450 | 16 | 23 | $3,450 | 494 | — | 4.6L 8-cyl |
The 2026 Ford F-450 (2.3L 4-cyl) gets 20 mpg combined and costs about $3,100/yr to fuel, emitting 453 g/mi CO₂ (GHG 4/10) — about $4,500 more than the average new vehicle over 5 years.
| Year | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Smog | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 F-450 | 18 | 22 | $3,100 | 453 | — | 2.3L 4-cyl | |
| 2025 F-450 | 18 | 22 | $3,100 | 464 | 6/10 | 2.3L 4-cyl | |
| 2024 F-450 | 20 | 21 | $3,100 | 444 | 5/10 | 2.3L 4-cyl | |
| 2023 F-450 | 20 | 21 | $3,100 | 439 | 5/10 | 2.3L 4-cyl | |
| 2022 F-450 | 20 | 21 | $3,100 | 437 | 5/10 | 2.3L 4-cyl | |
| 2021 F-450 | 20 | 22 | $2,950 | 424 | 5/10 | 2.3L 4-cyl | |
| 2020 F-450 | 23 | 29 | $2,500 | 355 | 5/10 | 2L 4-cyl | |
| 2019 F-450 | 23 | 29 | $2,500 | 355 | 5/10 | 2L 4-cyl | |
| 2000 F-450 | 21 | 31 | $2,500 | 355 | — | 2L 4-cyl | |
| 1999 F-450 | 21 | 31 | $2,500 | 355 | — | 2L 4-cyl |
The 2018 Ford F-450 (2L 4-cyl Hybrid) gets 40 mpg combined and costs about $1,550/yr to fuel, emitting 222 g/mi CO₂ (GHG 9/10, smog 7/10) — that's about $3,250 saved over 5 years versus the average new vehicle.
| Year | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Smog | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 F-450 | 42 | 38 | $1,550 | 222 | 7/10 | 2L 4-cyl Hybrid | |
| 2017 F-450 | 41 | 38 | $1,600 | 122 | 9/10 | 2L 4-cyl Hybrid | |
| 2016 F-450 | 40 | 36 | $1,650 | 129 | 9/10 | 2L 4-cyl Hybrid | |
| 2015 F-450 | 40 | 36 | $1,650 | 129 | 9/10 | 2L 4-cyl Hybrid | |
| 2014 F-450 | 40 | 36 | $1,650 | 129 | 9/10 | 2L 4-cyl Hybrid | |
| 2013 F-450 | 40 | 36 | $1,650 | 129 | 9/10 | 2L 4-cyl Hybrid |
Source: EPA fuel-economy database (ForCar-hosted, 1986–2027) — best combined rating per engine & year, with EPA annual fuel cost and tailpipe CO₂. Trim & drivetrain vary slightly; decode your VIN for the exact figure.
See how the F-450 stacks up against the most fuel-efficient SUVs, or calculate this F-450's real yearly fuel cost.
What engines does the Ford F-450 have? Power & range
The Ford F-450 is offered with 4 powertrains — 2.7L 6-cyl, 4.6L 8-cyl, 2.3L 4-cyl, 2L 4-cyl Hybrid. Here's the lineup by engine, transmission and drivetrain.
| Engine | Displacement | Transmission | Drive | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| V6 | 2.7L · 6-cyl | Automatic (S10) | 4WD | Regular |
| V8 | 4.6L · 8-cyl | Automatic 4-spd | RWD | Gasoline or E85 |
| 4-cyl | 2.3L · 4-cyl | Automatic (S10) | 4WD | Regular |
| Hybrid | 2.0L · 4-cyl | CVT | FWD | Regular |
Horsepower, torque and fuel-tank size decode from your VIN — exact figures vary by engine and trim.
Source: EPA fueleconomy.gov (engines, drivetrain, range, charge time). Horsepower & torque from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
Can a Ford F-450 tow? Towing & payload
As an SUV, the Ford F-450 is built to tow and haul. The exact maximum towing capacity and payload depend on the engine, drivetrain and whether it has the factory tow package.
What sets your F-450's tow & payload rating:
- Engine — a larger or turbocharged engine tows more than the base unit.
- Drivetrain & axle — 4WD/AWD and the axle ratio shift the rating.
- Tow package — the factory towing package (hitch, wiring, transmission cooler) raises the max.
- Payload & GVWR — GVWR caps the combined load; more passengers and cargo lower how much you can tow.
Exact towing capacity, payload and GVWR are added per engine, drivetrain and trim — decode your VIN above, or check the driver's door-jamb and hitch labels. Curb weight from vehicle specifications.
How much does a Ford F-450 cost to own?
A used Ford F-450 sells for a median of about $108,995 for a 2026 — most listed between $105,900 and $114,995, from 742 real US listings we track. That real market price is what depreciation eats into, so it's the true anchor of the cost to own:
| Year | Typical price | Market range | Listings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 F-450 | $105,900–$114,995 | 114 | |
| 2025 F-450 | $102,900–$108,995 | 26 | |
| 2024 F-450 | $56,500–$102,900 | 14 | |
| 2023 F-450 | $54,900–$99,995 | 14 | |
| 2022 F-450 | $54,000–$78,661 | 16 | |
| 2021 F-450 | $39,950–$74,995 | 26 |
For every model year mileage-adjusted, trade-in vs private-party vs dealer pricing and a good-deal check, see what a F-450 is worth today, or browse used-market prices across all models.
A Ford F-450 holds its value well. A typical example keeps roughly 56% of its value after five years — losing about 44% to depreciation. Fuel, maintenance and insurance add to the total cost to own.
| Age | Value retained | Est. resale value | Lost to depreciation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 84% | $25,200 | −$4,800 |
| Year 2 | 76% | $22,800 | −$7,200 |
| Year 3 | 68% | $20,400 | −$9,600 |
| Year 4 | 61% | $18,300 | −$11,700 |
| Year 5 | 56% | $16,800 | −$13,200 |
What goes into the five-year cost to own:
- Depreciation — the biggest cost: this F-450 loses about 44% of its value over five years. See the full depreciation curve by age.
- Fuel — ≈ $7,750 over five years at roughly 15,000 miles a year.
- Maintenance & repairs — routine service, tires and wear items as the F-450 ages.
- Insurance — varies by driver, state and trim; get a quote for your exact figure.
Resale & depreciation are ForCar estimates from typical segment value-retention curves — not a live market quote. Fuel from EPA fueleconomy.gov at ~15k mi/yr.
How much is a Ford F-450 to insure?
A Ford F-450 costs about $1,714 a year to insure for a typical driver on full coverage — roughly 19% above the average car. That's from its real HLDI insurance-loss index (119, where 100 = average car); your own rate moves with state, age, record and coverage.
Estimate = US-average premium × the F-450's HLDI loss index. See Ford insurance cost by model, cost by state, or compare any car.
Is the Ford F-450 safe?
NHTSA crash-test ratings aren't published for the F-450 yet — see the top-rated safest cars instead.
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How many miles does a Ford F-450 last?
A well-maintained Ford F-450 typically lasts 250,000–300,000+ miles. It's exceptionally durable — with routine maintenance many owners report 250k+ on the original powertrain. Its ForCar Reliability Score is 4.0/5.
Check your Ford F-450’s VIN — history, recalls & specs
Title records, open recalls, build details and paint code — straight from the VIN. Free.
Check this F-450’s VIN free →All Ford F-450 model years
A year-by-year snapshot of the Ford F-450 — recalls, best EPA fuel economy and NHTSA safety. Tap a year for full details.
| Year | Recalls | Best MPG | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 F-450 | 1 recall | — | |
| 2025 F-450 | 1 recall | — | |
| 2024 F-450 | 1 recall | — | |
| 2023 F-450 | 1 recall | — | |
| 2022 F-450 | 1 recall | — | |
| 2021 F-450 | 1 recall | — | |
| 2020 F-450 | 1 recall | — | |
| 2019 F-450 | 4 recalls | — | |
| 2018 F-450 | 3 recalls | — | |
| 2017 F-450 | 4 recalls | — | |
| 2016 F-450 | 2 recalls | — | |
| 2015 F-450 | 2 recalls | — | |
| 2014 F-450 | 2 recalls | — | |
| 2013 F-450 | 2 recalls | — | |
| 2012 F-450 | 4 recalls | — | |
| 2011 F-450 | 3 recalls | — | |
| 2010 F-450 | 2 recalls | — | |
| 2009 F-450 | 1 recall | — | |
| 2008 F-450 | 1 recall | — | |
| 2007 F-450 | 1 recall | — | |
| 2006 F-450 | 1 recall | — | |
| 2005 F-450 | 1 recall | — | |
| 2004 F-450 | 1 recall | — | |
| 2003 F-450 | 1 recall | — | |
| 2002 F-450 | 1 recall | — | |
| 2001 F-450 | 1 recall | — | |
| 2000 F-450 | 1 recall | — | |
| 1999 F-450 | 1 recall | — |
Recalls = NHTSA campaigns that year · MPG = best EPA combined · Safety = NHTSA overall stars (tested years).
Frequently asked questions
What are the worst years for the F-450?
By owner-complaint volume, 2020, 2017, 2019 drew the most reports. 1999, 2000, 2001 have the cleanest records.
How many recalls does the F-450 have?
46 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1999–2026. Always check open recalls by your VIN.
What MPG does the F-450 get?
Up to 40 combined MPG (EPA), depending on engine — from the base 4-cylinder to the hybrid.
How many miles does a F-450 last?
A well-maintained F-450 typically reaches 200,000–300,000 miles with regular maintenance.
Is the F-450 reliable?
Our ForCar Reliability Score for the F-450 is 4.0/5, based on NHTSA safety, recall history and complaint severity.
What's the Ford F-450 warranty?
New Ford models carry a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic (bumper-to-bumper) warranty and a 5 years / 60,000 miles powertrain warranty. Coverage can vary by model year and market — confirm with a Ford dealer.
Where is the Ford F-450 made?
The assembly plant is encoded in the VIN — the 11th character. Decode your F-450's VIN above to see exactly where it was built; Ford may build it at more than one plant depending on the year.
How much ground clearance does the F-450 have?
Ground clearance varies by trim and drivetrain — AWD/4WD versions often sit higher. Decode your VIN or check the specific trim for the exact figure.