The Good
The 2019 Ford F-550 offers unparalleled performance with its powerful diesel engine, delivering immense towing and hauling capabilities. Its reliability stems from heavy-duty engineering, appealing to practical buyers who need a dependable workhorse. While not a luxury vehicle, its interior offers functional comfort for long days. For emotional buyers, there's pride in owning such a capable machine, providing peace of mind for the toughest jobs.
The Bad
Known weaknesses for the 2019 Ford F-550 include notoriously poor fuel economy, especially under load, and a firm, often jarring ride quality when unloaded. Its sheer size can make maneuvering in tight urban environments challenging. Additionally, the maintenance and repair costs for its heavy-duty components and complex diesel emissions systems can be substantial over time.
2019 Ford F-550: Quick Overview
Key Specifications for the 2019 Ford F-550:
- Engine Options:
- 6.7L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel: This is the primary engine for maximum capability.
- 6.8L SOHC Triton V10 Gasoline: An alternative for those preferring gasoline or specific duty cycles.
- Horsepower & Torque:
- 6.7L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel: Typically rated at 330 horsepower and an impressive 825 lb-ft of torque for the chassis cab.
- 6.8L SOHC Triton V10 Gasoline: Rated at 288 horsepower and 424 lb-ft of torque.
- Fuel Economy:
- EPA ratings are generally not provided for F-550 chassis cab models due to their vocational nature and wide range of upfits and usage. Owners typically report single-digit to low-teens MPG, heavily dependent on load, upfit, and driving conditions.
- 0-60 Times:
- 0-60 mph times are not a relevant performance metric for the F-550 and are not published by the manufacturer. This vehicle is designed for heavy-duty work, not acceleration.
- Towing Capacity:
- Max Conventional Towing: Up to 18,500 lbs (depending on configuration).
- Max Fifth-Wheel/Gooseneck Towing: Up to an incredible 31,800 lbs (depending on axle ratio, engine, and configuration).
- Max Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): Can reach up to 40,000 lbs, showcasing its extreme capability.
- Trim-Level Features:
- XL (Base Work Truck): Features typically include manual windows/locks, vinyl seating, basic audio, air conditioning, and a robust, no-frills interior optimized for durability and easy cleaning. Steel wheels are standard.
- XLT (Mid-Level): Adds more comfort and convenience with power windows/locks, cloth seats, cruise control, a slightly upgraded SYNC infotainment system (potentially SYNC 3 with an 8-inch screen as an option), and chrome exterior accents.
- Lariat (Premium – less common on F-550 chassis cab): If optioned, it would include leather seating, dual-zone automatic climate control, a larger SYNC 3 touchscreen with navigation, premium audio, and more advanced driver-assist features. However, most F-550s remain in XL or XLT for practical vocational use.
2019 Ford F-550 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2019 |
| Make | Ford |
| Model | F-550 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Crew Cab 2WD |
| Type | Pickup Truck |
| Category | Medium Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | JEFFERSON COUNTY |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 8845.04 kg |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 6.8L V10 |
| Engine Size | 6.8L |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2019 Ford F-550 Have?
Other concerns, though less common for the robust 6R140 TorqShift automatic transmission, can include transmission fluid leaks or, in rare cases, shifting irregularities. Electrical glitches, common across many modern vehicles, may also appear, affecting sensors, infotainment, or accessory functions. Heavy-duty usage naturally leads to accelerated wear on components like brakes, suspension bushings, steering linkage, and driveline U-joints.
Regarding recalls for the 2019 model year, Ford has issued several for the wider Super Duty line that could impact the F-550. These have included recalls for potential driveline separation (due to inadequate weld penetration on the driveshaft), steering gear issues that could lead to a loss of steering control, and certain tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) concerns. It's always crucial for prospective buyers to check the vehicle's VIN against the NHTSA recall database for any open campaigns. Long-term reliability concerns for the F-550 primarily center on the high cost and complexity of maintaining and repairing the diesel emissions equipment and the sheer expense of heavy-duty parts when wear items need replacement. Consistent, diligent maintenance is paramount to mitigating these issues.
How long will the 2019 Ford F-550 last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
In terms of driver-assistance features, the F-550 offers practical aids for its intended use. A rearview camera is often standard, especially given the vehicle's size and potential blind spots, and is crucial for safe maneuvering and trailer hook-up. Optional features can include blind-spot monitoring with trailer coverage, which intelligently extends the detection area to account for a connected trailer, and rear parking sensors. Higher trims might also offer adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping alert, and pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking, though these are less common on the more utilitarian F-550 chassis cab.
Standard safety features include a comprehensive airbag system, anti-lock brakes (ABS), stability control, and traction control. Given the F-550's heavy-duty vocational nature and the vast array of potential upfits, official crash-test ratings from organizations like the NHTSA or IIHS are not typically performed or available. The vehicle's inherent heavy-duty construction and robust frame contribute to its passive safety. Optional features like integrated trailer brake controllers and upfitter switches for auxiliary equipment are also key tech offerings, enhancing its functionality for commercial users.
What Colors Options are Available?
2019 Ford F-550 Prices and Market Value
2019 Ford F-550 Cost of Ownership
2019 Ford F-550 Fuel Efficiency
2019 Ford F-550 Warranty
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2019 Ford F-550 Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2019 Ford F-550 Compare to Other Pickup Truck?
In terms of performance, the F-550's 6.7L Power Stroke diesel is a powerhouse, offering 330 hp and 825 lb-ft of torque, enabling class-leading towing and hauling. The Ram 5500 counters with its Cummins diesel, often offering even higher torque figures (e.g., 800-lb-ft for its base diesel, higher for optional variants), making them direct competitors in sheer capability. The Chevy/International also provides robust diesel options, though sometimes with slightly lower published figures for the chassis cab.
Regarding features, all three offer essential work-oriented amenities like PTO (Power Take-Off) readiness, upfitter switches, and heavy-duty axles. Ford's SYNC 3 infotainment system might offer a slight edge in user-friendliness and smartphone integration compared to some base systems in rivals, particularly in XLT and Lariat trims. The Ram 5500 often boasts a more refined interior and an optional coil-spring front suspension that can provide a slightly better ride quality.
Reliability is a strong point across all these heavy-duty platforms, as they are built for commercial longevity. Common issues across all brands often involve the complex diesel emissions systems. Ford and Ram have long-standing reputations for durability in this segment, and their dealer networks are extensive.
Price new and used is generally comparable across the segment, heavily influenced by engine choice, 4x4, and the specific upfit. Depreciation is slower for these workhorses than for consumer vehicles.
Similar Alternatives: The Ram 5500 Chassis Cab is a very strong alternative, offering similar capability, often a more comfortable ride, and a powerful Cummins engine. The Chevrolet Silverado 5500HD/International CV Series also provides a capable platform, potentially appealing to those with existing relationships with GM or International dealers or specific preferences for their powertrain options (Duramax diesel).
Final Verdict: Is the 2019 Ford F-550 a Good Pickup Truck?
For most, purchasing a used F-550 makes excellent financial sense, provided it has a clean service history and has been well-maintained, especially the diesel engine and emissions components. The XL and XLT trims offer the best balance of utility and cost-effectiveness for work. While new is an option, the significant depreciation on the upfit and initial high cost make used a more appealing proposition. Opting for the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel is recommended for maximum capability and long-term durability, despite its higher running costs. This truck is a purpose-built tool; acquire it if you genuinely need its substantial strength and are prepared for the associated ownership expenses.