2020 Ford F-350 Safety Report
2020 Ford F-350 faces significant powertrain, fuel system, and steering complaints with critical recall part availability issues.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2020 Ford F-350
Reliability Score
The 2020 Ford F-350 receives a reliability score of 45 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2020 Ford F-350
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2020 Ford F-350:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| High-Pressure Diesel Fuel Pump Failure Diesel engines experiencing sudden loss of motive power, stalling, or entering limp mode due to high-pressure fuel pump failure, often linked to NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V957000. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Transmission Hard Shifting/Failure Trucks exhibiting hard jerking, inconsistent shifting, unexpected downshifts (e.g., 10th to 1st gear), and sometimes leading to complete transmission failure or stalling. |
High | Common | under 100000 miles |
| Steering Control Loss / 'Death Wobble' Vehicles experiencing violent shaking at highway speeds ('death wobble') or complete separation/loss of steering control, directly related to recall 25V626000 concerning the steering column upper shaft. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Rear Axle Assembly Failure Catastrophic rear axle housing failure, including twisting of the pinion, leading to loss of power and vehicle immobility. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| 7.3l Gas Engine Lifter/Cam Issues 7.3L gas engines developing a 'typewriter' sound, indicating potential lifter/cam issues requiring expensive repairs or engine replacement. |
High | Occasional | around 97000 miles |
| Box Separation/Integrity Issues Compromised box integrity with separation from the box side to the box rear, even when used within capacity ratings. |
Medium | Rare | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2020 Ford F-350:
Frequent complaints about transmission issues (hard shifting, jerking, unexpected downshifts, failure) and rear axle problems.
Numerous reports of high-pressure fuel pump failures leading to stalling, loss of motive power, and related recall issues.
Concerns about loss of steering control, 'death wobble' at highway speeds, and issues related to the steering column.
Miscellaneous electrical and sensor issues, including Ford Pass connectivity loss, inconsistent turn signals, and unwarranted alarms.
Reports of compromised box integrity and separation.
General fuel system issues, including engine stalling and power loss.
Specific issues like the 7.3L gas engine lifter/cam problems and general engine power failure warnings.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2020 Ford F-350
Is the 2020 Ford F-350 safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2020 Ford F-350 has 171 total complaints, including 6 crashes and 2 injuries. While it lacks formal NHTSA crash test ratings, there are significant safety concerns highlighted by two recalls and numerous owner complaints regarding critical components like the powertrain, fuel system, and steering, which can lead to loss of control or motive power.
What are common problems with the 2020 Ford F-350?
The most reported issues for the 2020 Ford F-350 are related to the POWER TRAIN (42 complaints), FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL (23 complaints), and STEERING (19 complaints). Owners frequently report transmission failures, high-pressure diesel fuel pump issues leading to stalling, and problems with steering control, including the 'death wobble'.
Are there any recalls for the 2020 Ford F-350?
Yes, there are two recalls for the 2020 Ford F-350. One addresses a POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY issue in certain 7.3L gas engine models (incorrect wide track rear axles), and the other concerns SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER mechanisms that may not adequately restrain an occupant in a crash.
What should I know about the diesel fuel system issues?
Many 2020 Ford F-350 diesel owners report high-pressure fuel pump failures, causing the vehicle to stall or lose power, often linked to NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V957000. A significant concern is the reported unavailability of parts for this recall, leaving owners with potentially unsafe vehicles.
Is the 'death wobble' a concern for the 2020 F-350?
Yes, the 'death wobble' is a reported concern, with owners describing violent shaking at highway speeds. This, along with other steering control issues, is directly related to recall 25V626000 concerning the steering column upper shaft, which could lead to a loss of steering.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the high volume of critical complaints regarding powertrain, fuel system, and steering, and issues with recall part availability, potential buyers should exercise caution and thoroughly investigate if all recalls have been addressed and if the vehicle exhibits any of the common reported problems.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2020 Ford F-350
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2020 Ford F-350. The data includes 171 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 6 reported crashes, 2 fire incidents, 2 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.