2008 Ford F-250 SD Review
The Ford F-Series is one of America’s favorite pickup trucks, and has been in production for over 50 years. The F-250 and F-350 are the linebackers of the F-Series, providing superior towing and hauling power. Both are built on a different platform than their light-duty sibling, the (Ford F-150). . Most recently, the 2004 redesign of the F-Series won numerous awards, including “North American Truck of the Year.”
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Ford F-250 Super Duty is one of Ford’s most powerful trucks, and unlike others in its class, has a remarkably smooth ride. It’s not the most powerful in its class, but it’s better suited as a daily driver, and has a very competitive price. If power and comfort are important to you, check out the F-250.
What’s New For 2008:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power gives the F-250 2.5 stars for overall mechanical reliability. Problems with the last generation include buzzing radios, leaking transmissions, improperly sealed ducts, engine misfires, lurching clutches, engine noise, and heater core leaks. It was recalled 21 times. The current generation has had issues with brake noise, noisy clutches, engine noise, suspension noise, water leaks, and vehicle shake. It’s been recalled five times for issues such as fuel leaks, and premature tire wear. Expect average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
Crash test scores are not available. However, the F-150 earned 5 stars in government frontal crash tests. In IIHS tests, the F-150 earned a “Good” score for frontal impacts and “Marginal” to “Poor” for rear collisions. Anti-lock brakes come standard. The XLT and Lariat have optional adjustable pedals and parking sensors.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Surprisingly smooth ride
+ Good price to performance ratio
+ Good reliability in its class
Cons
– Underpowered compared to rivals
– Lack of safety options
– Unimpressive off-road performance
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Dodge Ram 2500 has 45 more hp and a slightly higher power to weight ratio, but costs about $4,000 more. The Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD has about 700 more pounds of payload capacity and more power overall, but costs about $1,000 more. The GMC Sierra 2500HD, the only other competitor in this class, is a direct clone of the Silverado, having the same pros and cons.
What Others Are Saying:
“Towing, you want to talk towing? Is 15,000 lbs. enough? It’s not? Well, you can add a fifth-wheel which bumps the figure up to 18,800lbs. And I imagine for those of you that need to haul the Space Shuttle around your ranch in Montana, this is very exciting news.” – The Truth About Cars
“Impressed with its big “bad boy” good looks and respected powerhouse handling, we took our classy four-wheeled Harley to a local country club on a whim where it blended right in with sports cars and upmarket sport utilities crowded into the parking lot. And it garnered some serious attention. Call that the power of a (high end) pickup.” – Road and Travel
“If you are in the market for a large truck with a spacious and comfortable interior, a truck that can handle well and tow, drag or haul just about anything you can think of, then the Super Duty is for you. We look forward to driving project Workhorse as often as we can.” – 4×4 Review
Read more about the 2008 Ford F-250 SD at the Ford manufacturer web site.
