Used Ford F-350 Buying Guide

When it comes to the heavy-duty pickup market, there's one model that people know by heart, and that's the F-350. This model is used by everyone, ranging from mega corporations to weekend handymen looking for a quick job. If you're on the fence about getting one, we'll cover what you can look for in the more recent generations, so you know what you can expect before you set foot on the lot.

Key Takeaways:

If you're a handyman or a tradesman looking for the best option, then the most recent gen is for you. This is because you will have access to a 40,000-pound tow rating with the right gear.
The fourth-generation model is hard to beat as it received a perfect 10/10 the year it came out.
The 2022 model is very similar to the fifth-generation models, making it easy to get some of the best tech on the market, but at a slightly lower price.

Fifth Generation (2023-Present)

Being the most recent generation, and the models being newer, it may be a bit harder to find, but we'll cover them briefly in case you find yourself looking at one. Hitting the roads in 2023, this model saw two new engines join the family. These new engines are the 6.8L V8 gas engine and the high-output 6.7L PowerStroke diesel that makes 500 horsepower and 1,200 lb-ft of torque.

These engines join the existing lineup of the 7.3L V8, nicknamed "Godzilla", and a regular output 6.7L diesel. No matter which engine you decide on, it'll be paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. When properly equipped, the F-350 can tow 40,000 pounds, as per Car and Driver. This will be able to tow just about everything you need it to, and when paired with the 8,000-pound payload, you'll be ready to do it all.

Covering the trim levels, you'll find that the XL trim comes with the smaller 8-inch screen, while the other trims come with a larger 12-inch screen. No matter what, though, all trims are equipped with a top-of-the-line Bang & Olufsen-tuned stereo system. Most models are equipped with the 8-speaker setup, but some will be outfitted with the 18-speaker setup.

Fourth Generation (2017-2022)

Moving to a generation that you are more likely to find, this one also comes pretty well equipped. Before diving into the features, we'll cover the mechanical specs first. This model came in much lighter than the ones before it, shaving off 350 pounds. Also coming with a new fully boxed frame.

Moving on to the tech, the largest screen that you'll find is an 8-inch one starting from the Lariat, and going on up. While not the largest, for its time, it was huge, but as time went on, it was still pretty decent. Starting in 2020, this touchscreen became available on more models, now being on all except the XL trim.

This year also saw some updates to the engine, bringing it more in line with the most recent generation. Offering the 6.2L V8 that makes 385 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque, the 7.3L V8 that makes 430 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque, and the Power Stroke diesel 6.7L V8 that makes 475 horsepower and 1050 lb-ft of torque, which at the time was the best in its class. When properly, this generation can tow up to 37,000 pounds. While the newer gen does have the edge, this is nothing to scoff at, making it a solid option for those who don't need the strongest option.

For the most part, this generation was pretty steady when it came to tech, but in 2022, that changed. This year's model introduced the 12.0-inch touchscreen with Ford's Sync 4 software and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While it was a feature that needed to be opted in for, some models that you look at may be equipped with it. But this was the last change that was noteworthy, as most others were cosmetic.

Is buying a used Ford F-350 worth it?

The quick answer is yes. While some year models may be more appealing than others thanks to features, you really can't go wrong with any of them. Especially since the fourth generation received a 10/10 rating from Car and Driver multiple years in a row, if you want to see these cosmetic changes in person, we can help with that. Come on down to a Jarrett location today!