2018 Ford F-350 Sd Problems
Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component
Data refreshed
What this page shows
Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2018 Ford F-350 Sd, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Reports by component
Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category
- Steering10135.1%
- Suspension7726.7%
- Other / unspecified269.0%
- Body & structure248.3%
- Driver assistance144.9%
- Electrical124.2%
- Fuel system103.5%
- Engine82.8%
- Powertrain (other)41.4%
- Interior & seats31.0%
- Brakes31.0%
- Tires & wheels31.0%
- Visibility20.7%
- Exterior lighting10.3%
Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.
Each component in detail
What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words
Steering
Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.
From owner reports, verbatim
Steering Effort Control Module failed. This is a known concern with these vehicles. Many Super Duty's have this happen. It is a very expensive repair. The steering effort changes, the vehicle becomes out of alignment and other things like cruise control, wipers, etc may fail as part of this issue.
The contact owns a 2018 Ford F-350. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH and driving over a bump on the road, the steering wheel started vibrating and shaking abnormally. The contact stated that the failure had occurred approximately twelve times. The contact stated that an independent mechanic and a dealer were contacted. The vehicle was taken to the independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the steering dampener needed to be replaced. The vehicle was then taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the steering dampener, the pitman arm, and the inner and outer drag links needed to be replaced; however, the vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to the death wobble. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the inner and outer drag link and pitman's arm were worn and that only the steering dampener replacement would be covered. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was 76,000.
Suspension
Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2018 Ford F-350. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle experienced a "death wobble". The contact then received notification for Customer Satisfaction Program: 20N04 (Steering Linkage Damper Extended Coverage). The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the repair was performed; however, the failure recurred approximately 5,000 miles after the repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but offered no assistance. The contact was also referred to the NHTSA Hotline to file a safety complaint. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 38,320.
Violent front end shimmy (death wobble) at highway speeds. Seems to be worsening. Happened in Interstate traffic near Atlanta Georgia. Extreme concern as I was among multiple vehicles with many behind me as well, all moving at highway speeds. I could not stop the problem until I had slowed to about 20 miles per hour.
Other / unspecified
Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.
From owner reports, verbatim
Ongoing problem originally reported 4/12/18, NHTSA ID 11084859. Originally reported failure of one aluminum wheel/valve stem causing loss of air pressure. Since then, all four outer aluminum wheels/valve stems have been subject to ongoing air loss. Ford has replaced all the valve stems because of air loss/leaking 3 times! They have also replaced all four outer aluminum wheels because of air loss/leaking. Truck is out of warranty now and I have had an independent tire seal leaking valve stems on multiple occasions and add air to tires frequently because of this ongoing SAFETY PROBLEM.
The contact owns a 2018 Ford F-350. The contact stated that the back-up camera had a glossy covering that developed over time and prevented a clear image. The vehicle had been taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V401000 (Equipment) however the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and it was confirmed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline to file a complaint. The failure mileage was 130,000.
Body & structure
Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.
From owner reports, verbatim
In my 2018 F350, I experienced my power tailgate opening on its own. It happened when the vehicle was unattended and while the vehicle was in motion. I brought it to the dealership for the recall repairs to be performed on March 2nd, 2022 at 115k miles. I received the truck back and in the time since the recall repair was performed, the tailgate has opened, on its own, while the vehicle was in motion 3 separate times. One time I was towing, which caused the tailgate to ride on the tongue jack controls, a second time was without a trailer attached, but I had lots of gear in the bed which, thankfully, did not fall out and create a traffic hazard. I am planning on having the dealer reassess the repairs when I next bring in the truck for an oil change, but I am concerned that this safety issue persists after the repairs were performed.
Tailgate opened while driving on interstate, this has happened two times in the last 2 months. I have already had the recall repairs done for this issue but it is still happening. The Ford dealer can not find a cause. There is no way to know when the tailgate has opened until something falls out of the back of the truck and other driver alerts you of the issue.
Driver assistance
Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.
From owner reports, verbatim
Steering Effort Control Module failed. This is a known concern with these vehicles. Many Super Duty's have this happen. It is a very expensive repair. The steering effort changes, the vehicle becomes out of alignment and other things like cruise control, wipers, etc may fail as part of this issue.
Sync screen has gone black on radio causing all blind spots to be invisible while parking a large vehicle. I was told by ford tech support this is a recall in certain year ford explorers but not in the F series trucks! I looked up the issue on many of ford forums and it is an unresolved issue. If the rear camera is a recall the image projecting device “SYNC Radio” which is a brain to truck should be as well I would imagine. The laborer and parts for the repair are costly to the company and I’m extremely concerned with how I was treated when this is a known issue with ford. I paid 62000 for a vehicle that now has a recall for a foggy camera but no recall for the device to visually see 360 degrees around vehicle. Suburban Ford of Waterford wants to charge me upwards around 1000.00 for parts and laborer to fix a KNOWN SAFETY ISSUE. All attempts to update have been completed and any ford provided reset and install options have been performed. Downloaded the 3.4 update onto thumb drive in the right format and just black screen of death it’s now been named in forums. They push it off as an update but the years being monitored have faulty APIM modules. Causing screens to have no image, sound, and HANDSFREE safety features. Please help me resolve this concern! Thank you, [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Electrical
Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.
From owner reports, verbatim
Truck went into limp mode wile driving on highway had to have trailer towed 980 miles egr cooler rubbing on wire harness on firewall staffing wires ro short out fuel injection this is a manufacturer defect.why would egr cooler and electrical wire harness be placed so close is a big safety and fire hazard ....cost of repairs at ford dealer in Columbia Tennessee $800 for repairs
Unknown component that failed. Suspicion, the fuel system located at the back of the fire wall on drivers side. The fire started in that location and was extremely hot and fast moving. The truck was fully engulfed within 1.5 minutes then burnt the attached 5th wheel trailer and contents. It was a total loss of 3 vehicles 2018 Ford F350, 2021 Dutchman Voltage 5th wheel trailer, and a 2013 Polaris RZR side by side UTV. All was reduced to rubble within 15 Min. Our safety and lives were at risk, we had 30-45 seconds from smelling and seeing smoke to flames. We were traveling on Interstate 15 at highway speeds and had to stop as safe as possible on the shoulder of the road. The vehicle has not been inspected as far as I know, the frame is all what is left. There were no warning lights and all gauges read normal,
Fuel system
Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.
From owner reports, verbatim
Our 2018 Ford F-350 Super Duty diesel with the 6.7L Power Stroke engine has a well-known, massive fuel system concern involving the Bosch CP4 high-pressure fuel pump. This pump failed and it sheds metal shavings throughout the entire fuel system. Repair cost $13k. Per other consumer and google results: The CP4 Fuel Pump Issue. The Defect: The Bosch CP4 pump is designed for European diesel fuel, which has more lubrication than American diesel. When it lacks sufficient lubrication, it can score itself and self-destruct. The Damage: Metal debris floods the fuel rails, lines, and injectors, requiring a complete replacement of the fuel system components.
My wife reported a strong smell fuel in the passenger compartment of my 2018 F350 6.7L Diesel vehicle while returning home from work. Upon inspection under the hood when power was turned on I discovered a strong stream of fuel from the filter cap.
Engine
Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2018 Ford F-350. The contact stated while driving 55 MPH and hauling a boat, the vehicle made abnormal banging sounds and stalled. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact was able to pull over to the side of the road. The vehicle was restarted but was undrivable. The vehicle was towed to a dealer, but the diesel mechanic was unavailable to service the vehicle. The vehicle was then towed to a certified mechanic and was diagnosed with a blown engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was being repaired. The contact stated that the failure had occurred in Vancouver Island, Canada, where the vehicle remained for the repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 72,000.
Truck went into limp mode wile driving on highway had to have trailer towed 980 miles egr cooler rubbing on wire harness on firewall staffing wires ro short out fuel injection this is a manufacturer defect.why would egr cooler and electrical wire harness be placed so close is a big safety and fire hazard ....cost of repairs at ford dealer in Columbia Tennessee $800 for repairs
Powertrain (other)
Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.
From owner reports, verbatim
Truck went into limp mode wile driving on highway had to have trailer towed 980 miles egr cooler rubbing on wire harness on firewall staffing wires ro short out fuel injection this is a manufacturer defect.why would egr cooler and electrical wire harness be placed so close is a big safety and fire hazard ....cost of repairs at ford dealer in Columbia Tennessee $800 for repairs
The contact owns a 2018 Ford F-350. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The contact stated that the transmission shifted hard into gear, and the vehicle was shaking erratically. Additionally, the engine overheated. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with transmission failure. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Interior & seats
Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.
From owner reports, verbatim
In my 2018 F350, I experienced my power tailgate opening on its own. It happened when the vehicle was unattended and while the vehicle was in motion. I brought it to the dealership for the recall repairs to be performed on March 2nd, 2022 at 115k miles. I received the truck back and in the time since the recall repair was performed, the tailgate has opened, on its own, while the vehicle was in motion 3 separate times. One time I was towing, which caused the tailgate to ride on the tongue jack controls, a second time was without a trailer attached, but I had lots of gear in the bed which, thankfully, did not fall out and create a traffic hazard. I am planning on having the dealer reassess the repairs when I next bring in the truck for an oil change, but I am concerned that this safety issue persists after the repairs were performed.
Tailgate opened while driving on interstate, this has happened two times in the last 2 months. I have already had the recall repairs done for this issue but it is still happening. The Ford dealer can not find a cause. There is no way to know when the tailgate has opened until something falls out of the back of the truck and other driver alerts you of the issue.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Brakes
Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.
From owner reports, verbatim
Lost all Brake pressure, the Pedal went to the floor while driving. This could have lead to a serious injury or death while driving.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 FORD F-350. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING DOWNHILL AT 45 MPH, THE VEHICLE SHUT-OFF WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT STATED THE BRAKES AND POWER STEERING FAILED TO OPERATE AS NEEDED. THE CONTACT STATED HE CONTINUED DRIVING THE VEHICLE UNTIL HE REGAINED CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO MAC HAIK FORD JACKSON (6130 I-55, JACKSON, MS 39211) AND THE VEHICLE DIAGNOSED WITH CONTAMINATED DIESEL FUEL. THE CONTACT STATED HIS INSURANCE COMPANY SENT AN INSURANCE ADJUSTER TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE AND IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE FAILURE WAS WITH THE FUEL PUMP. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 110,000.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Tires & wheels
Reports naming tires, wheels, hubs, or the tire-pressure monitoring system.
From owner reports, verbatim
Ongoing problem originally reported 4/12/18, NHTSA ID 11084859. Originally reported failure of one aluminum wheel/valve stem causing loss of air pressure. Since then, all four outer aluminum wheels/valve stems have been subject to ongoing air loss. Ford has replaced all the valve stems because of air loss/leaking 3 times! They have also replaced all four outer aluminum wheels because of air loss/leaking. Truck is out of warranty now and I have had an independent tire seal leaking valve stems on multiple occasions and add air to tires frequently because of this ongoing SAFETY PROBLEM.
The contact owns a 2018 Ford F-350. The contact stated that while driving 60-65 MPH, the TPMS warning light illuminated. The contact stated that air was added; however, the failure reoccurred shortly after. The contact became aware that the TPMS warning light would frequently illuminate shortly after adding air to the tires. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that there was corrosion between the rim and the valve stem, and that the valve stem was no longer sealed. The independent mechanic replaced the metallic valve stem with a rubber valve stem; however, the failure had been reoccurring on 5 of the 6 rims. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the dealer. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who informed the contact that they did not have the equipment to repair the vehicle. The contact notified a second dealer; San Tan Ford (1429 E Motorplex Loop, Gilbert, AZ 85297) who informed the contact that the vehicle would be repaired at his own expense. An appointment was scheduled. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 35,800.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Visibility
Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.
From owner reports, verbatim
WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 3MPH ON A FLAT SANDY ROAD, REAR WINDOW EXPLODED. NO ROCKS OR ANYTHING ELSE HIT THE WINDOW. ALSO, WINDOW IS PROTECTED AS I HAVE A TOPPER ON MY TRUCK.
AFTER PARKING AND GETTING OUT OF TRUCK AND CLOSING THE FRONT DOOR THE REAR WINDOW IN THE CAB SHATTERED AND BOWED OUTWARDS. IT WAS 60 DEGREES OUTSIDE . FORD SAID THEY WILL NOT COVER A REPLACEMENT . TRUCK HAS 12391 MILES ON IT. FORD SAID IT IS NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY AND REFUSED TO ADMIT SOMETHING WAS WRONG WITH THE GLASS.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Exterior lighting
Reports naming headlights, tail lights, turn signals and other exterior lighting.
From owner reports, verbatim
THIS VEHICLE IS EQUIPPED WITH A FEATURE THAT SHUTS THE ENGINE AND IGNITION OFF AFTER 30 MINUTES OF IDLE WITHOUT DRIVER INTERACTION. THESE VEHICLES HAVE "UP-FITTER SWITCHES" WHICH CAN BE TIED TO THINGS LIKE AUXILIARY WARNING LIGHTS. WHEN THE VEHICLE SHUTS DOWN, THE HEADLIGHTS/TAIL LIGHTS TURN OFF AS WELL AS POWER TO ANY AUXILIARY LOADS. I AM A FIREFIGHTER IN NORTH CAROLINA. I HAVE THESE SWITCHES ATTACHED TO AUXILIARY SAE-W WARNING LIGHTS. THE OTHER NIGHT, I WAS ON THE SCENE OF A COLLISION AND AFTER 30 MINUTES, MY TRUCK SHUT ITSELF OFF IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD AND WENT COMPLETELY DARK. THE HEADLIGHTS/TAIL LIGHTS TURNED OFF, AS WELL AS THE WARNING LIGHTS INSTALLED ON THE PERIMETER OF THE BODY. THIS RESULTED IN A SIGNIFICANT TRAFFIC HAZARD AND PUT THE SAFETY OF MYSELF AND OTHERS IN THE ROADWAY IN JEOPARDY. THE FEATURE CAN BE DISABLED EACH TIME THE VEHICLE IS STARTED, BUT REQUIRES THE VEHICLE TO BE STOPPED AND VARIOUS MENUS TO BE CYCLED THROUGH. I THOUGHT I'D KICKED IT OFF BUT APPARENTLY MISSED THE SETTING WHILE I WAS TRYING TO GET OUT AND RENDER AID AT THIS PARTICULAR INCIDENT. I HAVE SPOKED WITH RONALD FULLER WITH FORD'S BODY BUILDER ADVISORY SERVICE WHO INFORMS ME THAT THIS FEATURE IS INCLUDED IN ALL RETAIL TRUCKS, AND CAN NOT BE DISABLED. THEIR LOGIC IS THAT THEY WANT TO PREVENT PEOPLE FROM ACCIDENTALLY RUNNING THE VEHICLE IN THEIR GARAGE AND ASPHYXIATING THEMSELVES. THE RECOMMENDATION WAS TO PURCHASE A POLICE PACKAGE VEHICLE WHICH DOES NOT INCLUDE THIS SOFTWARE PACKAGE. MY CONCERN IS ANY VEHICLE USED FOR CONSTRUCITON, ROAD WORKS, OR FOR GENERAL COMMERCIAL APPLICATION IS LIKELY TO EXPERIENCE A SIMILAR SITUATION WHICH CAN RESULT IN THE VEHICLE BEING TOTALLY DARK IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROADWAY.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.
Elsewhere on this vehicle
Data sources
- NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation — owner-reported complaints and the components recorded on them
Data on this page last refreshed .