The Good
The 2017 F-450 Super Duty offers class-leading towing and payload thanks to its potent 6.7L Power Stroke diesel. Its robust reliability and surprisingly comfortable, quiet cabin appeal to practical buyers needing a dependable workhorse, while its imposing design and "ultimate truck" capability evoke a strong emotional connection for those who demand the best in heavy-duty performance and an enduring asset.
The Bad
Known weaknesses for the 2017 Ford F-450 Super Duty include its immense size, making maneuvering difficult, and significantly higher fuel, maintenance, and repair costs. Being a first-year redesign, some owners reported minor fit-and-finish issues and potential early problems with the complex diesel emissions systems, which can lead to expensive repairs over time.
2017 Ford F-450 Super Duty: Quick Overview
- Engine: 6.7L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel
- Horsepower: 440 hp @ 2800 rpm
- Torque: 925 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm
- Transmission: TorqShift 6-speed automatic transmission
- Fuel Economy: Not officially rated by EPA for vehicles over 8,500 lbs GVWR, but typically averages 12-15 MPG combined depending on load and driving conditions.
- 0-60 MPH: Approximately 8-9 seconds (unloaded, not a primary performance metric for this class of vehicle).
- Max Conventional Towing Capacity: 21,000 lbs
- Max Fifth-Wheel/Gooseneck Towing Capacity: 32,500 lbs
- Max Payload Capacity: Up to 5,300 lbs (depending on configuration)
- Key Trim-Level Features:
- XL: Basic work truck. Features include heavy-duty vinyl seating, manual windows/locks, a rearview camera, and a basic AM/FM radio with two speakers. Designed for fleets and utilitarian use.
- XLT: Adds more comfort and convenience. Includes cloth seating, power windows and locks, cruise control, a SYNC infotainment system (basic), integrated trailer brake controller, and power-adjustable heated mirrors.
- Lariat: A significant step up in luxury. Features leather-trimmed seating, SYNC 3 infotainment with an 8-inch touchscreen, dual-zone automatic climate control, a premium Sony audio system, power-adjustable pedals, and remote start.
- King Ranch: Builds on Lariat with exclusive King Ranch interior styling, unique leather, heated and ventilated front seats, navigation, and a distinct exterior appearance package.
- Platinum: The top-tier luxury trim. Offers premium multi-contour leather seats, unique satin chrome grille, adaptive steering, ultimate trailer tow camera system (360-degree camera), LED headlamps and taillamps, and advanced driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control with collision warning.
- Standard Features (across all F-Series Super Duty): Robust fully-boxed steel frame, high-strength aluminum-alloy body, AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control (RSC), Trailer Sway Control, and Hill Start Assist.
2017 Ford F-450 Super Duty Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2017 |
| Make | Ford |
| Model | F-450 Super Duty |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Crew Cab 4WD |
| Type | Pickup Truck |
| Category | Standard Pickup Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | JEFFERSON COUNTY |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 6.7L V8 OHV 16V DIESEL |
| Engine Size | 6.7L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Recirculating |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $72,455 |
| Invoice Price | $68,471 |
| Delivery Charges | $1,195 |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2017 Ford F-450 Super Duty Have?
Among the most common complaints were issues related to the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) system. Owners sometimes experienced excessive DPF regeneration cycles, sensor failures, or component malfunctions within the DEF system, which could lead to reduced engine power (limp mode) and costly repairs. The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve and cooler were also noted for potential carbon buildup or leaks.
Some owners reported minor fit-and-finish issues, such as misaligned body panels or interior trim pieces, reflecting initial production inconsistencies. There were also occasional reports of driveshaft vibrations, particularly at highway speeds, that required diagnosis and repair.
Recalls for the 2017 F-450 Super Duty included significant issues such as NHTSA Campaign 17V364000, addressing a steering gear output shaft that could detach, leading to a loss of steering. Another critical recall, NHTSA Campaign 17V206000, concerned certain vehicles with the 6-speed automatic transmission that could experience unintended movement while in Park. Headlamp and taillamp failures (NHTSA Campaign 17V652000) also affected some units.
Long-term reliability concerns primarily focus on the ongoing maintenance and eventual replacement costs of the sophisticated emissions components. While the 6.7L Power Stroke engine itself is known for its durability, these ancillary systems are expensive to maintain and prone to issues with age and mileage. Owners should also anticipate the need for regular replacement of heavy-duty suspension and steering components due to the vehicle's weight and demanding usage.
How long will the 2017 Ford F-450 Super Duty last?
However, long-term weaknesses over time primarily involve the complex emissions control systems (DPF, DEF, EGR), which can become expensive to maintain or replace as mileage accumulates. Fuel injectors, the high-pressure fuel pump, and the turbocharger are also potential high-cost components that may require attention in high-mileage units. Suspension and steering components will inevitably wear out due to the vehicle's weight and usage. Diligent and consistent maintenance is crucial for maximizing its formidable lifespan and mitigating these potential weaknesses.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Built-in Tech & Entertainment:
Base models featured the basic SYNC system with Bluetooth connectivity. Moving up to the Lariat and above, the truck offered the sophisticated SYNC 3 infotainment system. This included an 8-inch touchscreen with enhanced voice recognition, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available navigation. Multiple USB ports and a 110V power outlet were standard on most trims, providing convenience for charging devices and powering tools. A premium Sony audio system was also an option on higher trim levels.
Driver-Assistance Features (many optional):
Ford pioneered several towing-specific driver aids. The Ultimate Trailer Tow Camera System provided a 360-degree view, a rearview camera, a front camera, and cameras under the side mirrors, plus a wired camera that could be mounted on the rear of a trailer. Trailer Reverse Guidance utilized these cameras to help drivers steer when backing up with a trailer. Other notable features included Adaptive Steering (Platinum trim) for easier low-speed maneuvering, Adaptive Cruise Control with Collision Warning, Lane-Keeping Alert, and Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Trailer Tow Monitoring, which extended blind spot coverage to include a conventional trailer. Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) that could also monitor up to six trailer tires were also available.
Safety Features:
Standard safety equipment included AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control (RSC), Trailer Sway Control, Hill Start Assist, and a comprehensive airbag system (front, side, and curtain airbags). A rearview camera was standard across all trims. LED headlamps and taillamps were optional for improved visibility.
Crash-Test Ratings:
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) do not typically conduct crash tests or provide official safety ratings for heavy-duty pickup trucks like the F-450, which have a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) exceeding 10,000 pounds. Despite the lack of formal ratings, the F-450's robust, high-strength steel frame and aluminum-alloy body were engineered for substantial occupant protection in severe conditions.
What Colors Options are Available?
2017 Ford F-450 Super Duty Prices and Market Value
As of late 2023/early 2024, current used market prices vary widely from approximately $35,000 for high-mileage, base-trim models to over $60,000 for well-maintained, lower-mileage Lariat, King Ranch, or Platinum editions. Heavy-duty diesel trucks like the F-450 exhibit excellent depreciation characteristics, holding their value better than many other vehicle types due to their specialized capability and high demand.
Factors significantly affecting resale value include the truck's overall condition, documented maintenance history (crucial for diesel engines), mileage, and trim level (higher trims with advanced tech and luxury features command better prices). Aftermarket modifications can be a double-edged sword, while a clean title and absence of major accidents also play a vital role in sustaining strong resale value.
2017 Ford F-450 Super Duty Cost of Ownership
2017 Ford F-450 Super Duty Fuel Efficiency
2017 Ford F-450 Super Duty Warranty
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2017 Ford F-450 Super Duty Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2017 Ford F-450 Super Duty Compare to Other Pickup Truck?
Performance (Towing/Payload): The 2017 F-450 was a leader in ultimate towing capacity, rated at 32,500 lbs for fifth-wheel/gooseneck and a payload of up to 5,300 lbs. The Ram 3500 with its High-Output Cummins could tow up to 31,210 lbs and often offered a higher payload (e.g., 7,390 lbs) on certain configurations, making it a strong alternative for raw payload. The GM 3500HD, while very capable, trailed slightly with a maximum towing of 23,300 lbs and payload of 7,158 lbs, though still impressive.
Features: Ford introduced groundbreaking features like the Ultimate Trailer Tow Camera System, Trailer Reverse Guidance, and Adaptive Steering, along with SYNC 3 infotainment. Ram was known for its comfortable interiors, Uconnect infotainment, and strong luxury trims. GM also offered competitive tech and comfort features, often lauded for its ride quality due to its independent front suspension.
Reliability: All three brands offer highly reliable heavy-duty diesel powertrains (Power Stroke, Cummins, Duramax), built for demanding work. Ford's 2017 model was a new generation, so some early production issues were noted. However, overall reliability is excellent across the board, contingent on diligent maintenance, particularly for complex emissions systems common to all modern diesels.
Price: Pricing for comparable trims was competitive. The F-450 often commanded a slight premium at the top end due to its class-leading capabilities and advanced features.
Alternatives:
- Ram 3500: A strong contender, especially if raw payload capacity is a higher priority than ultimate towing, or if the Cummins engine is preferred for its legendary durability.
- Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 3500HD: Offers a compelling balance of power, a more refined ride, and solid features, though max towing is a step below the F-450. A great choice if you prioritize comfort and a slightly more manageable size.
- Ford F-550 or Ram 4500/5500: For specialized commercial applications that exceed even the F-450's capacities, stepping into a commercial chassis cab is the next logical progression.
The F-450 excels for those needing absolute maximum towing and cutting-edge towing technology, while the rivals offer strong alternatives depending on specific priorities.
Final Verdict: Is the 2017 Ford F-450 Super Duty a Good Pickup Truck?
It is worth buying, but critically, only if its immense capabilities are genuinely utilized. For light towing, daily commuting, or as a general-purpose truck, its sheer size, high fuel consumption, and costly maintenance make it an impractical and uneconomical choice.
When considering a purchase, buying used is highly recommended, as the initial substantial depreciation has already occurred. For most users, the XLT or Lariat trims offer the best balance of features, comfort, and value. Higher trims like King Ranch or Platinum are excellent for those prioritizing luxury and advanced tech, provided they fit the budget. Always prioritize a vehicle with a comprehensive maintenance history, especially concerning the diesel engine and its emissions system, to mitigate long-term ownership costs.