Top Maintenance Tips for Your Ford Super Duty (Keep It Running Like New)

Top Maintenance Tips for Your Ford Super Duty (Keep It Running Like New)

The Ford Super Duty series — including the F-250, F-350, and F-450 — is built to handle the toughest jobs and most demanding conditions. However, even the most powerful trucks need proper care to maintain performance, reliability, and resale value.

Whether you use your Super Duty for construction, towing, or personal use, regular maintenance is essential to keep it performing like new. In this guide, you’ll find expert tips to protect your investment and extend the life of your truck.

1. Follow the Recommended Service Schedule

The first rule of maintenance is simple: follow Ford’s recommended service intervals.

Each Super Duty model comes with a specific maintenance schedule in the owner’s manual, outlining when to change fluids, filters, and other key components. Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections ensure your truck remains in top condition.

For most 2025 models, oil changes should be done every 7,500 to 10,000 miles, depending on driving conditions. Trucks used for towing or hauling should shorten that interval to 5,000 miles.

Ignoring the service schedule can lead to costly repairs, especially in heavy-duty engines that operate under high stress.

2. Check and Replace Engine Oil Regularly

The engine is the heart of your Super Duty, and oil is its lifeblood.

Use high-quality motor oil that meets Ford’s specifications, typically SAE 5W-30 for gasoline engines and 10W-30 for Power Stroke diesel engines. Regularly check your oil level and color — dark, thick, or dirty oil means it’s time for a change.

Neglecting oil changes can cause premature engine wear, reduced fuel economy, and even engine failure. Always use a Ford-approved oil filter to ensure maximum protection.

3. Monitor Coolant and Transmission Fluids

The Super Duty’s cooling system is designed to handle extreme heat, but it requires attention.

Check coolant levels monthly, especially before long trips or towing. Low coolant can cause overheating and significant engine damage. Replace coolant every 100,000 miles or 5 years, whichever comes first.

Transmission fluid is equally critical. If your truck tows heavy loads, the transmission works harder and heats up faster. Ford recommends checking transmission fluid every 30,000 miles, and replacing it at least every 60,000 miles. Always use Mercon LV or the fluid specified in your manual.

4. Inspect Brakes and Suspension

Your truck’s weight and towing capacity put extra stress on its braking and suspension systems.

Brake pads, rotors, and lines should be inspected every 10,000 miles. If you notice vibration, squeaking, or reduced stopping power, it’s time for service. Using Ford OEM brake components ensures consistent performance and safety.

Suspension components like shocks, struts, and ball joints should also be checked annually. A worn suspension not only affects ride comfort but can cause uneven tire wear and reduced control — especially under load.

5. Keep Tires Properly Inflated and Rotated

Tires are the only part of your truck that touch the road, so their condition matters.

Underinflated tires reduce fuel efficiency and handling, while overinflated ones wear unevenly. Use the recommended PSI listed on the driver’s door label, and check pressure monthly.

Rotate tires every 7,500 miles to ensure even wear and prolong lifespan. For those who frequently tow or drive off-road, inspect for punctures, cracks, and tread wear more often.

6. Maintain the Diesel System (If Applicable)

If your Super Duty runs on diesel, it requires additional attention.

Replace the fuel filters every 15,000 miles to prevent clogging and maintain optimal fuel flow. Use Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) as recommended to reduce emissions and comply with environmental standards.

Also, monitor glow plugs during cold seasons — faulty ones can cause hard starts or rough idling. Keeping your diesel system clean ensures smoother performance and longer injector life.

7. Protect the Battery and Electrical System

A strong battery is essential for starting and powering your Super Duty’s advanced electronics.

Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure a tight connection. Replace the battery every 3 to 5 years, or sooner if you experience slow cranking or dim lights.

For trucks with heavy electrical accessories — like winches or auxiliary lighting — consider installing a high-capacity alternator to prevent overloading the system.

8. Wash and Wax Regularly

Your truck’s exterior deserves as much care as its engine.

Dirt, salt, and road debris can corrode paint and metal parts over time. Wash your Super Duty regularly, especially during winter or after off-road use. Applying a high-quality wax every few months adds a protective layer that prevents oxidation and fading.

Don’t forget the undercarriage — cleaning it helps prevent rust, especially if you drive in coastal or humid regions.

9. Keep the Interior Clean and Functional

The Super Duty’s interior is designed for comfort and durability, but proper maintenance keeps it looking professional.

Vacuum carpets and seats regularly, wipe down surfaces, and use UV protectant sprays on leather and plastics to prevent cracking. Regularly check that all electrical features, from infotainment systems to trailer controls, work properly.

10. Schedule Professional Inspections

Even if you perform routine maintenance yourself, a professional inspection every 12 months is essential. Certified Ford technicians can detect early signs of wear, leaks, or software updates that might go unnoticed.

This not only keeps your truck in top condition but also maintains warranty coverage and resale value.

Conclusion

Maintaining your Ford Super Duty is more than just a routine — it’s an investment in reliability and performance. With proper care, your F-250, F-350, or F-450 can easily surpass 300,000 miles and remain as dependable as the day you bought it.

By following these maintenance tips, you ensure that your Super Duty continues to deliver the power, durability, and confidence that define the Ford brand.