What are the most common problems with the 2017 Ford F-250?

The 2017 Ford F-250 is plagued by a significant and widely reported "death wobble" issue, a violent shaking of the front end that can lead to a loss of control at highway speeds. This is the primary concern for used buyers.

How many recalls does the 2017 Ford F-250 have?

The 2017 Ford F-250 currently has 3 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2017 Ford F-250 a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. The 2017 Ford F-250 is plagued by a significant and widely reported "death wobble" issue, a violent shaking of the front end that can lead to a loss of control at highway speeds. This is the primary concern for used buyers. Steering and suspension components are the most common failure points, accounting for over 70% of all reported complaints. Three recalls have been issued, including critical ones for potential fire risk from the engine block heater cable and door unlatching in side impacts. NHTSA safety ratings are largely 'Not Rated' for this model year, though specific configurations received 4 or 5 stars in older tests. Fuel economy is not rated by the EPA for this heavy-duty truck, but real-world figures suggest approximately 13-14 MPG combined. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2017 Ford F-250?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2017 Ford F-250.

2017 Ford F-250 Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026Ethan Miller1 Critical Recall

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

The 2017 Ford F-250 is plagued by a significant and widely reported "death wobble" issue, a violent shaking of the front end that can lead to a loss of control at highway speeds. This is the primary concern for used buyers.
Steering and suspension components are the most common failure points, accounting for over 70% of all reported complaints.
Three recalls have been issued, including critical ones for potential fire risk from the engine block heater cable and door unlatching in side impacts.
NHTSA safety ratings are largely 'Not Rated' for this model year, though specific configurations received 4 or 5 stars in older tests.

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Overview

2017 Ford F-250

The 2017 Ford F-250 is a heavy-duty truck known for its capability, but used buyers should be aware of significant reliability concerns. The most alarming issue is the 'death wobble,' a severe front-end shaking that can occur at highway speeds, often linked to steering and suspension components. This phenomenon, along with other reported problems, contributes to its 'Below Average' reliability verdict. Ford issued three recalls for this model year, including critical safety concerns. While specific NHTSA crash test ratings are limited, some configurations received high marks in older tests. Fuel economy is not a primary focus for this class of truck, with real-world figures around 13-14 MPG combined.

Critical Failure Risk

Violent shaking of the vehicle, particularly at highway speeds, often triggered by road imperfections. This is a critical safety issue related to worn steering and suspension components.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls3

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

1702

Steering660

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by limited seating.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Experienced truck owners who understand the risks and are prepared for potential repairs.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+3 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2017 Ford F-250 Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Seating Capacity: 3

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Most Common Issues

1. Steering

Most reported

Usage: 660 reports

2. Suspension

Usage: 545 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Check (coolant, brake, power steering, washer) - Exhaust System Inspection

Est. shop cost: $100 - $150

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

3 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2017 Ford F-250 reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Ford F-250 is 4.7/10. Reliability score is 4.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 3. Owner complaints: 1,702.

How practical is the 2017 Ford F-250 for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by limited seating. Seating capacity is 3.

What is the overall score for the 2017 Ford F-250?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Ford F-250 is 6.0/10. Overall score is 6.0/10 (Mixed). Confidence 41%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 Ford F-250?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Check (coolant, brake, power steering, washer) - Exhaust System Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $600. Repair prediction highlight: Steering System (typical at 28,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,500).

What is the MSRP range for the 2017 Ford F-250?

Base MSRP is $37,875.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Ford F-250?

7 standard and 1 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2017 Ford F-250?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Ford F-250, seating capacity is 3.

Is the 2017 Ford F-250 good for tuning?

Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2017 Ford F-250, while a capable truck, faces significant reliability challenges that heavily influence any modification strategy.

What are the most common steering problems on the 2017 Ford F-250?

Top complaint category: steering (660 reports, 38.8% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2017 Ford F-250?

This model year has 3 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2017 Ford F-250?

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2017 Ram 2500 and 2017 Ram 3500.