Used Ford F-250 Buying Guide

Used Ford F-250 Buying Guide
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For those who want something that can get work done without needing to spend a ton on a new model, a used Ford F-250 is probably one of the best options for you. With a few generations, as well as year models to pick from, there are smaller changes to look for.

Key Takeaways:

Used Ford F 250 SD third Generation
  • If you're looking for something a bit more than a work truck, then you can look for the Tremor. This equips the F-250 with some excellent off-road gear that makes the most seasoned off-road enthusiast blush.
  • If you're going to do some long-haul driving, the type that takes you across state lines, then the fifth generation has some of the best used Ford F-250 years to pick from.
  • When properly equipped, you can tow 22,000 pounds across both generations covered.

Fifth Generation (2023-Present)

Used Ford F 250 Fifth Generation

Being the more recent generation to hit the market, it comes with only a few year models to pick from. During its initial release, this model came with two engines to pick from. These engines are the 6.8L V8 and the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel.

Of these two engines, the one that you'll want if you value the best towing capacity is the 6.7L diesel engine. It comes with a maximum rating of 22,000 pounds, making this a reliable workhorse for handymen and contractors alike. This is thanks to it making 500 horsepower and 1,200 lb-ft of torque, compared to the 6.8L V8's 400 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque.

This year also had the distinction of being the editor's choice for Car and Driver, thanks to many great features. Some features that you will find include the front seats that can recline to a nearly flat position, as well as both 8-inch and 12-inch screens that are touchscreens, depending on the trim.

If you're someone doing some long-haul, cross-country towing, hotels get expensive, so the inclusion of the reclining seats is definitely a strong draw.

Being that this model is so new, there haven't been many changes besides the 2024 models being able to now take flex fuel.

Fourth Generation (2017-2022)

Used Ford F 250 Fourth Generation

During this generation, there are two engines to choose from: the 6.8L gas V8 and the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel. Both are solid options, but they are built for different kinds of truck owners, depending on how much work you expect your truck to do.

If towing is what really matters to you, then the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel is the engine you'll want to look for. This engine comes with a maximum towing rating of 22,000 pounds, making it a dependable choice for contractors, handymen, and anyone pulling heavy trailers. This is thanks to the engine making 500 horsepower and 1,200 lb-ft of torque.

If you don't want to tow that much, then you can look for the 6.8L V8, as it produces 400 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque, making it better suited for lighter towing and everyday use, with a max tow rating of 12,000 pounds.

Over the years, the model didn't see much change, given the nature of what it is used for. The one area that we look at is the Tremor. This was last seen in 2014 for the F-150, but this time it's on the larger Super Duty.

This brought some off-road fun to a model that is normally designed for work. Some features that you'll find are four-wheel drive, 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac maximum-traction tires, off-road running boards, and large skid plates.

Where can I find a used Ford F-250?

If you want a used F-250 or just want to see one in person before you buy, then come on down to one of Jarrett's locations. Our team will walk you through our inventory and show you what makes each one unique. Come see us today for the best inventory around!

Pricing was accurate at the time of article writing. All pricing is subject to change. See the manufacturer and/or Dealer for up-to-date pricing.