2008 Ford F-450 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-450 is an all-new heavy duty truck, based on a new chassis. The largest of the F-Series, it’s capable of tow over 24,000 pounds and hauls up to 6,000 pounds. 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-450 SD is bar none the most powerful pickup truck on the market. It’s also one of the most expensive, but if you need its massive power, it is unmatched. However, it should be noted that the F-350 is relatively close in power, and is almost half the price. The F-350 is a niche vehicle, but it fills it well.
What’s New For 2008:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power ratings are not yet available. Problems with the last generation F-Series 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
+ Able to haul over 6,000 pounds
+ Unbeatable towing capacity
+ Available diesel
Cons
– Expensive
– Large size makes for difficult driving
– Stiff ride
Head-To-Head Competition:
By comparison, the Ford F-350 Super Duty can only haul about 4,000 pounds to the F-450’s 6,000. However, the F-350 is a bit more maneuverable and starts at around $16,000 less. The 2007 Dodge Ram 3500 hauls 1,000 pounds less than the F-450, but starts at $12,000 less. The Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD is the weakest of the lot, only able to handle about 3,600 pounds, and starts at about $12,000 less.
What Others Are Saying:
“Paul also drove an F-450 4×4 tied to a 20,000 lb. house trailer. He was able to handle it surprisingly well (of course, the F-450 can pull a lot more than that-up to 24,500 lbs., or up to 24,000 lbs. with 4×4). The Super Duty has a trailer brake controller which includes a control panel built right into the dash. This controller provides electronic integration of trailer and regular brakes, and includes ABS functionality. This system makes it as easy to stop smoothly as the diesel engine does at pulling away.” – The Family Car
“We see Ford’s new Super Duty models as perfect towing and hauling machines. Never have trucks offered so much comfort and such great capabilities.” – The Auto Channel
“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-450 SD at the Ford manufacturer web site.
