2023 Ford F-250 Super Duty — Factory Maintenance Schedule

Quick reference

Severe-duty schedule

Ford defines severe duty as operating your F-250 Super Duty under conditions such as: frequent towing or hauling, extended idling, driving in dusty or sandy conditions, consistent short trips (under 5 miles), or operating in extremely cold climates. If your driving habits include any of these, you should adjust your maintenance intervals accordingly.

• Oil and Filter Change: For gasoline engines, change every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months. For diesel engines, every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months.
• Tire Rotation: Every 5,000 miles.
• Engine Air Filter & Cabin Air Filter: Inspect and replace more frequently, every 10,000-15,000 miles, especially in dusty environments.
• Fuel Filter (Diesel): Replace every 15,000-20,000 miles.
• Transmission Fluid Service: Consider servicing every 30,000 miles if consistently towing heavy loads or operating in extreme heat.
• Differential and Transfer Case Service: Consider servicing every 15,000-30,000 miles, especially with heavy towing or off-road use.
• Brake Fluid Flush: Every 2 years or 30,000 miles is highly recommended in severe conditions to maintain optimal braking performance.

Known issues by mileage (This generation)

The 2023 Ford F-250 Super Duty, while a relatively new generation, builds upon previous F-Series platforms. Owners should be aware of potential issues that might arise as the truck accumulates mileage.

• 0-30,000 Miles: Early adopters of new models sometimes report minor electronic glitches or software bugs. Keep an eye on infotainment system functionality and sensor readings. Some owners have reported minor issues with fit and finish or unusual noises from the interior. For diesel models, monitoring the Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) system and its sensors is crucial.
• 30,000-60,000 Miles: As the truck approaches the 30k-mile mark, brake wear will become more noticeable, especially for those who tow frequently. Suspension components like ball joints and tie rod ends might start to show early signs of wear, particularly if the truck is regularly subjected to heavy loads or off-road conditions. Some reports on previous generations indicated potential for exhaust system component issues, so pay attention to any unusual exhaust smells or noises.
• 60,000-100,000 Miles: This is often when more significant wear items may require attention. Spark plugs on gasoline engines will be due for replacement. Look out for potential issues with accessory belts aging or showing signs of cracking. Owners of diesel models should be vigilant for potential issues with turbochargers or their associated plumbing, as well as the intricate emissions control systems (EGR, DPF). Fuel injector wear can also start to become a concern for both gasoline and diesel powertrains.
• 100,000-150,000 Miles: Around this mileage, components like water pumps, alternators, and other ancillaries may begin to fail due to age and accumulated mileage. Suspension bushings and shock absorbers will likely require replacement to maintain ride quality and handling. Transmission performance should be closely monitored; while scheduled service helps, components can still wear over time. Rust, particularly in areas where road salt is used, might become more prevalent on the undercarriage and body panels.

Estimated cost per service

Costs are approximate and can vary significantly based on location, dealership vs. independent shop, and specific parts used. These estimates include labor and parts.

• Oil & Filter Change (Gasoline): $80 - $150
• Oil & Filter Change (Diesel): $150 - $250 (due to higher oil capacity and specialized filters)
• Tire Rotation: $25 - $50 (often included with larger services)
• Cabin Air Filter Replacement: $50 - $100
• Engine Air Filter Replacement: $70 - $120
• Fuel Filter Replacement (Diesel): $150 - $300
• Brake Fluid Flush: $150 - $250
• Coolant Flush: $200 - $350
• Transmission Fluid Service (Drain & Fill): $250 - $500 (more for a full flush/filter)
• Spark Plug Replacement (Gasoline): $300 - $600
• Differential Fluid Change (Front/Rear): $150 - $250 per differential
• Transfer Case Fluid Change: $100 - $200
• Accessory Belt Replacement: $150 - $300

What you can DIY vs shop

Modern trucks like the F-250 Super Duty are complex, but many routine maintenance items can be handled by a motivated DIYer with the right tools and knowledge. Always refer to your owner's manual and a service manual for specific procedures and torque specifications.

• DIY Friendly:

  • Oil and Filter Change: With proper ramps or a jack and jack stands, this is a straightforward task. Ensure you have the correct oil type, filter wrench, and a large drain pan. Diesel oil changes will require significantly more oil and careful disposal.
  • Tire Rotation: Requires a good floor jack, jack stands, and a torque wrench. Be mindful of the F-250's weight.
  • Cabin Air Filter Replacement: Typically located behind the glove box and relatively easy to access and replace.
  • Engine Air Filter Replacement: Usually involves unclipping the airbox and dropping in a new filter.
  • Fluid Level Checks: Checking coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid (if applicable), and washer fluid is very easy.

• Shop Recommended (or for experienced DIYers):

  • Fuel Filter Replacement (Diesel): Can involve bleeding the fuel system, which requires specific procedures to avoid damage. Best left to those familiar with diesel systems.
  • Brake Fluid Flush: Bleeding brakes properly can be tricky and requires specific tools or a helper to ensure no air enters the system.
  • Coolant Flush: Proper disposal of old coolant is critical, and air pockets in the cooling system can cause significant issues if not bled correctly.
  • Transmission Fluid Service: Requires specific temperature monitoring and filling procedures, especially for modern automatic transmissions. Cross-contamination or incorrect fluid levels can cause costly damage.
  • Spark Plug Replacement (Gasoline): Can be intricate due to engine component placement, and incorrect torque or cross-threading can lead to expensive repairs.
  • Differential and Transfer Case Service: Requires specific fluids and often a fluid pump to fill, along with proper sealing techniques to prevent leaks.
  • Accessory Belt Replacement: While simple in theory, routing complex serpentine belts can be challenging without prior experience or a diagram.
  • Any Service Involving Diagnostics: If you have a check engine light or any warning lights, leave diagnosis and repair to professionals with specialized diagnostic tools.

Book service on Repairius.