2008 Ford F-250 SD
This year's complaint volume is within 30% of this model's typical year.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
- Complaints
- 141
- Recalls
- 2
- Investigations
- 1
- Top problem
- Steering
Campaigns on file for 2008
Opened by NHTSA
28% of complaints
Complaints per year
2008: 141 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1991 | 1 |
| 1992 | 3 |
| 1993 | 4 |
| 1994 | 2 |
| 1995 | 9 |
| 1996 | 11 |
| 1997 | 39 |
| 1998 | 1 |
| 1999 | 249 |
| 2000 | 233 |
| 2001 | 288 |
| 2002 | 245 |
| 2003 | 178 |
| 2004 | 254 |
| 2005 | 295 |
| 2006 | 274 |
| 2007 | 54 |
| 2008 | 141 |
| 2009 | 23 |
| 2010 | 32 |
| 2011 | 122 |
| 2012 | 57 |
| 2013 | 21 |
| 2014 | 26 |
| 2015 | 23 |
| 2016 | 15 |
| 2017 | 73 |
| 2018 | 17 |
| 2019 | 12 |
| 2020 | 15 |
| 2021 | 7 |
| 2022 | 12 |
| 2023 | 43 |
| 2024 | 39 |
| 2025 | 17 |
| 2026 | 8 |
Known problem areas
Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.
Steering
28% · 39 reportsMost commonly citing power steering fluid and steering wheel/handle bar.
Show complaint excerpts
I experienced "Death wobble" 3 times in two weeks after hitting a bump on the interstate traveling approximately 60 - 65 MPH each time. The vehicle shook uncontrollably until I slowed down to 40 MPH or below.
NHTSA ODI report, 2018-03-27
Also filed under Suspension
Engine and engine cooling
25% · 35 reportsMost commonly citing engine and cooling system.
Show complaint excerpts
Tl* the contact owns a 2008 Ford F-250 SD. While driving approximately 50 MPH, the turbo engine stalled with an illumination of a warning indicator. The vehicle began to perform roughly with smoke and flames emitting from the exhaust.
NHTSA ODI report, 2012-09-18
Also filed under Power train
Driving around and diesel fuel smell came into the cab of the truck and smoke from engine compartment. This truck has a 6.4L job 1 diesel.
NHTSA ODI report, 2010-01-28
Service brakes
13% · 18 reportsMost commonly citing hydraulic.
Tires
9% · 12 reportsMost commonly citing tread/belt.
Engine
6% · 9 reportsShow complaint excerpts
Tl* the contact owns a 2008 Ford F-250 SD. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds he noticed that white smoke would emit from the exhaust system.
NHTSA ODI report, 2013-04-01
Safety timeline
2 recalls · 1 investigation · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
-
R
2008-04-16Equipment08E026000 Truxxx is recalling 338 aftermarket replacement welded 3" Lift blocks for rear suspensions, part No. 206073, included in suspension kit nos. 108035 and 108036, sold between July 26, 2007 and March…
Remedy: Truxxx will notify customers/installers and will replace affected welded lift blocks with either non-welded aluminum or cast iron blocks free of charge. The recall is expected to begin on or about…
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I
2013-05-07Preliminary evaluationClosed 2014-01-31 Alleged Loss of Steering
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R
2020-12-21Equipment, steering, suspension20E090000 Icon Vehicle Dynamics, LLC (Icon) is recalling all 05-UP FSD 2.5 Centerline Stabilizer Kits with part number 65050. The kits were sold as an accessory for certain 2005-2021 Ford F-250 4X4 and F-350 4X4 pickup trucks.
Remedy: Icon will notify owners, and dealers will install a new shock assembly with a revised foam ring and steel support disc, free of charge. The recall began December 21, 2020. Owners may contact Icon customer service at 1-951-689-4266.
Buy-smart checklist
2008 Ford F-250 SD — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Steering: 39 reports on file for this year.
- Engine and engine cooling: 35 reports on file for this year.
- Service brakes: 18 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 08E026000 · Equipment
- Recall 20E090000 · Equipment, steering, suspension
Other years of this model
See all years ranked →FAQ
- Is the 2008 Ford F-250 SD reliable?
- Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2008 Ford F-250 SD is rated "typical".
- What are the most common problems with the 2008 Ford F-250 SD?
- The most-reported component is steering, accounting for 28% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2008 Ford F-250 SD have?
- 2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.