Hey guys, I hope I can get some help or input on this, I went today to check out a 2003 Ford f-250 xlt supercab, with the 6.0l turbo diesel v8 4x4. This truck was flawless from the outside and the dealer is a as-is dealer kind of sketchy dealership. The truck runs strong and no problems except the dealer told me it needs some front end work, they think its a ball joint. when you drive the truck, it has very very loose steering and it pulls to the left. other than that no other problems. They are asking only 10k and it only has 123k. I want to buy this truck but its going to be my first truck and i'm skeptical of this problem if its going to be super expensive to fix or what. I'm hoping someone has some input for me, cause i do really like this truck. I'm sorry if this was the wrong forum to post.

Thank You

 

Check the kelly blue book or NADA value. I would guess that that truck will blue book for considerably more. I would also have an OASIS report ran by your local ford dealer to see if the 6.0l had any issues.

At that price you should be getting quite a deal, even with some front end work I would think.

 

It could be ball joints. Could also be the steering box, which is a common problem too. Of course, anything loose in the front end could cause loose steering so it is hard to say. At $10k, you could be looking at $2k to have the front end repaired. Is that a good deal to you?

That '03 6.0 diesel is the most problematic year of that engine. This may be a bigger concern than the front end. Get it checked over well by a 6.0 diesel expert. It is generally accepted that '05-'07 are better versions of that engine.

 

Excellent advice. The question is, will an '03 still be in the Oasis system? And I don't know the answer, but they do purge them eventually.

 

thanks guys, the engine is clean and runs very strong no problems at all, the only deal is the front end work it needs, which im hoping would be under 2k, is that worst possible scenario? I am not very familiar with these big trucks and how much repair costs are.

 

id check if it has an hour meter in with the odometer and do a mileage to hour check and see if the trcuk has been idled way longer than the milage on it and if so kiss it goodbye. i wouldnt go by how good it runs, cause i have some customers whos trucks run real good, but if you saw what has been done to them youd cry if you had the bills. it didnt help that they used off road fuel in them but i mean some people just dont care/listen

 

Ford's 6.0l diesels definitely have had issues and warrant research before buying one. Fuel supply problems resulting in no starts and other driveability issues where repairs go so far as to replace entire fuel injector bank replacement and similar expensive repairs. This is an engine to be leary of... I don't know where Ford is at in generating recalls or TSB's but at the very least, get the full VIN and stop at the local Ford dealership for an OASIS and also ask for TSB's. For that kind of money, take it to a really good Diesel mechanic, preferably a Ford nut. Personally, if you want diesel, find yourself a 7.3. Other items to check: oil pan condition - prone to rusting and a nuisance to replace... power steering/hydroboost fluid lines at front upper shock mount on drivers side for leaks due to rubbing against the mount... Also check vacuum supply for interior HVAC door operation and automatic hub engagement. Front end repairs are no big deal but be sure the dampner is there, and budget a true four wheel alignment after work is done... All in all, the Super Duty is an awesome truck (I currently have '03 F350 with 7.3l) and I recommend it highly. Every rig has its own set of troubles, no matter the manufacturer, so happy researching! (My opinion though - go find a 7.3l and skip the 6.0l)

 

As others have said, get an OASIS report. That's the first step.

Have a mechanic YOU trust inspect it.

Ensure that the title is clean (i.e. not rebuilt, etc)

Run a CARFAX.


If the dealer is sketchy, its up to you to do the research. I wouldn't believe him for a second on the "needs some front end work". If it's cheaper for them to sell it needing the work rather than fixing it and selling it at a higher price, there is a reason.