Model year

2020 Ford F-550

diesel, built in Brazil. Owner complaints on file from Apr 21, 2021 to Jul 29, 2026.

Recall campaigns covering this model year2639k vehicles or units across those campaigns
Owner complaints1717.0 times the median 2020 vehicle
Severity index5.9Crash, fire, injury or death per 100
First 24 months1Complaints in its first two years
Complaints over time

Complaints about the 2020 Ford F-550 peaked in 2025, with 6 filed

Owner complaints about this model year, by the year they were filed with NHTSA.

02462021202220232024202562026
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. The lighter column runs through October.
Components

47% of complaints about the 2020 Ford F-550 name fuel system

Owner complaints by component. Hover or focus a bar for the crash, fire, injury or death count.

Fuel system
8
Engine and cooling
3
Powertrain
3
Suspension
3
Structure
2
Electrical system
1
Brakes
1
Visibility and wipers
1
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. A complaint can name more than one component; it is counted under the first.
Recalls

2 recall campaigns cover the 2020 Ford F-550

Check a specific vehicle by VIN on NHTSA's site: a campaign may cover only part of a model year's production.

Recall campaigns for the 2020 Ford F-550
CampaignFiledSubjectComponentVehiclesRemedy
20V-099Feb 21, 2020Rear axle differential fluid may be below the minimum level, possibly resulting in a failure of the rear axle assembly and driveshaft separationPowertrain319Part replacement
19V-633Aug 28, 2019Also included are certain 2020 Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with rear outboard seats and manual seat back recliner mechanismsSeats639,137Part replacement
Source: NHTSA ODI recalls file.
Owner complaints

What owners reported about the 2020 Ford F-550

The full text of every complaint filed with NHTSA about this model year, newest first. Complaints are filed by owners and are not verified by NHTSA; NHTSA removes personal details before publishing.

17 complaints on file, page 1 of 1.

  1. Filed Jul 29, 2026Failure Jan 15, 2026150,000 milesEmmett, IDFuel system, Diesel

    The contact owns a 2020 Ford F-550. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, it was discovered that there was metal deposits inside the system causing the fuel pump failure. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V957000 (Fuel System, Diesel). The dealer was contacted but failed to retrieve the correct diagnostic trouble codes related to the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.

    NHTSA complaint 11753603
  2. Filed Apr 11, 2026Failure Apr 1, 2026Simi Valley, CAFuel/propulsion systemFire

    I had my truck serviced, engine oil and fuel filters replaced, I picked up truck and while driving home, engine loss of power came on screen, truck then stalled, I observed smoke coming from under the hood, I exited vehicle to try and open hood, but flames were already present, I called 911 fire department came and put fire out. truck is a total loss. Fire Capt observed that fire seem to have started near the fuel filter housing, I was fortunate to escape the cab along with my dog, I have read several reports about filter housing leaking and starting fires, my brother inlaw, actually had the same issue, filter split causing fuel to leak, but fortunately he had just started the truck and was not driving very long before he smelled the fuel and was able to shut down the engine before it got hot and repolace the faulty filter housing.

    NHTSA complaint 11730539
  3. Filed Apr 2, 2026Failure Nov 26, 202585,172 milesKnox, INEngine, Fuel system, Diesel

    The contact owns a 2020 Ford F-550. The contact stated that while driving at 20 MPH, the fuel injector became inoperable. The check engine warning light became illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the fuel injectors needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed that the part to repair the vehicle under NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V957000 (Fuel System, Diesel) was on back order and that a second notification would be forwarded once parts became available. The failure mileage was approximately 85,172.

    NHTSA complaint 11728765
  4. Filed Dec 30, 2025Failure Dec 30, 2025Colton, CAFuel system, Diesel

    The contact owns a 2020 Ford F-550. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V957000 (Fuel System, Diesel); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted and confirmed that the remedy was not available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.

    NHTSA complaint 11707907
  5. Filed Oct 8, 2025Failure Aug 8, 2025West Cornwall, CTElectrical system, Engine, Power train

    At ~93,000 miles, my 2020 Ford F-550 (7.3L “Godzilla” V8) suffered catastrophic engine failure due to a roller lifter bearing failure, causing internal valvetrain damage and requiring full engine replacement. Ford dealer stated they recommended 90% coverage of the repair under goodwill through corporate, but later reduced coverage to 40% without explanation. After repairs, Ford corporate recommended a 3-year/36,000-mile PremiumCare warranty, then rescinded it a week later and offered only free oil changes. The 7.3L engine in my truck shares the same design as the F-53/F-59 motorhome chassis, which have multiple Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for lifter bearing failure, overheating of cylinders #2–3, and low oil pressure at idle. My vehicle shows identical symptoms but was excluded from those VIN ranges, suggesting Ford is segmenting related defects to limit recall exposure. Inspection revealed a cracked and arcing spark-plug wire on cylinder #2, matching the motorhome TSB’s overheating issue. This arcing poses a fire risk and likely contributed to localized heat and mechanical failure. The truck was often driven in Eco Mode, which holds low RPMs under load. This can increase cylinder pressure, reduce oil flow, and exacerbate heat in cylinders #2–3—factors that align with the failure pattern. This combination of design-related overheating, lifter bearing failure, oil-pressure fluctuation, and spark-wire arcing presents a clear safety hazard. Engine stall or fire could occur under towing or heavy-load conditions. NHTSA investigation is warranted into Ford’s 7.3L Godzilla engine design and VIN-exclusion practices.

    NHTSA complaint 11692097
  6. Filed May 14, 2025Failure May 12, 2025100,000 milesMurphy, NCPower train

    The contact owns a 2020 Ford F-550. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the vehicle unintentionally rolled away while the transmission was in park(P). No warning light was illuminated. Additionally, the vehicle jerked while driving uphill. The vehicle also jerked violently while downshifting from third to second gear. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V256000 (Power Train); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to file a complaint with the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.

    NHTSA complaint 11661025
  7. Filed Apr 30, 2025Failure Apr 30, 2025grand rapids, MIEngine, Fuel/propulsion system

    There was a recall on this veh. over a year ago and they still do not have the parts to repair it. My fuel milage went from 13.8 down to 9.6 and still going down. I have called Ford about this and they say they are still waiting on parts. I reminded them it has been over a year now and should have had the parts in a long time ago.

    NHTSA complaint 11657747
  8. Filed Mar 24, 2025Failure Sep 24, 202438,239 milesNashua, NHFuel system, Fuel pump

    The contact owns a 2020 Ford F-550. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V957000 (FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available. The contact stated that while driving on a main road at 35 MPH a message displayed on the instrument panel which stated "reduced engine power" the contact proceeded to enter into a parking lot where the vehicle was parked, and left idle for a few minutes before attempting to restart, however the engine would start back up again. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and the contact was advised that the fuel pump had failed and that it would need to be replaced by a Ford Dealership, and upon the vehicle arriving at Ford it was diagnosed a second time where it was confirmed that the failure originated from fuel pump failure, and that entire fuel system would have to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 38,239.

    NHTSA complaint 11650274
  9. Filed Feb 13, 2025Failure Feb 13, 202534,704 milesMilford, MIFuel system, Diesel

    The contact owns a 2020 Ford F-550. The contact stated while driving 60-70 MPH, the contact noticed a strong fuel odor. The message "Fuel Pressure Low" was displayed. The contact was driven to the residence. The contact stated that upon inspecting the vehicle, he noticed that approximately 40 gallons of fuel had leaked out of the vehicle. The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in a related recall. The contact later became aware that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V957000 (Fuel System, Diesel); which the contact related to the failure; however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 34,704. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

    NHTSA complaint 11642422
  10. Filed Jul 2, 2024Failure Apr 17, 2024bladensburg, MDSuspension

    frame crack right behind cab. have two trucks with the same issue second vin ends in [XXX]. ford had a safety program 21B04 that expired which means they are aware of this issue and should issue a recall for it. ford has repeatedly refused to help with this issue. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

    NHTSA complaint 11598253
  11. Filed May 9, 2024Failure Nov 16, 2023Taylorsville, MSStructure, Suspension, Unknown or other

    Ford Motor Company has had a known issue with the truck frames cracking on the F-550 chassis. They acknowledged it by doing a recall, which either replaced or repaired the chassis frame or installed reinforcement braces if no cracks were visible. The recall expired in September of 2023. In October 2023 we noticed a crack on the frame just outside the recall reinforcement brace that Ford-certified technicians installed. We found another in November (reinforcement brace installed) and another in January (with Ford's new and improved frame produced due to a recall issue). Ford has denied making the repairs since the original warranty expired, even though this was the same related issue. We have been dealing with Ford Motor Company since October in hopes of resolving the issue but they continue to give us any resolution. The problem has not only caused a burden on our workforce but also caused great safety concerns. With Ford avoiding responsibility, they are allowing trucks to operate daily on our highway system, which becomes a safety concern for not only the driver but for many other motorists. The problem existed, but the issue was not resolved, all we are asking is that they take responsibility for making the repairs and permanently resolving the issue for the safety of all motorists.

    NHTSA complaint 11587794
  12. Filed Apr 15, 2024Failure Sep 7, 2023Bonfield, ILFrame and members, Structure

    See attached document for complaint

    NHTSA complaint 11583076
  13. Filed Aug 10, 2022Failure May 11, 202215,000 milesCaldwell, IDFuel system, Diesel

    The contact owns a 2020 Ford F-550. The contact stated while driving approximately 30 MPH, the vehicle emitted a strong odor of fuel into the cabin. The contact stated that other drivers were pointing at the underside of the vehicle. The contact pulled over and observed fuel leaking from a filter, the underside of the hood and engine compartment on the driver's side were covered in fuel. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact called a dealer and was advised to change the filter. The contact stated that the vehicle experienced a failure a second time and had the vehicle towed to the same dealer. The dealer diagnosed that there was rust in the fuel filter which had contaminated the fuel injection system. The vehicle had not been repaired. The contact had contacted a second dealer and was advised that the failure could be related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V013000 (Fuel System, Diesel). The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 15,000.

    NHTSA complaint 11478581
  14. Filed Jul 14, 2022Failure Jul 12, 2022Pollock Pines, CAVisibility

    The contact owns a 2020 Ford F-550. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V250000 (Visibility) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

    NHTSA complaint 11473867
  15. Filed Jun 23, 2022Failure Aug 13, 20212,200 milesShingle Springs, CASuspension

    The contact owns a 2021 Forest River Georgetown constructed on a 2020 Ford F53 chassis. The contact stated that the weight of the motorhome was falsely advertised and that the motorhome was over the weight limit for the chassis it was built. The contact stated that the motorhome OCCC (Occupant Carrying Capacity Certificate) advertised for the motorhome was 19,208; however, the contact weighed the motorhome with the motorhome completely empty and the certified weight was 21,080. The contact stated that while driving the motorhome, an abnormal clanking and popping noise was coming from the vehicle while driving. The contact stated that the vehicle would push its way through corners and turns due to the weight of the motorhome. The dealer was notified of the failure and stated that they were unable to perform the needed repair. Both the motorhome and chassis manufacturer were notified of the failure. The contact stated that the chassis manufacturer claimed that the motorhome was overweight and the cause of the failure. The motorhome manufacturer claimed that the weight was correct and that there was no failure with the vehicle. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 2,200.

    NHTSA complaint 11470720
  16. Filed Jun 13, 2022Failure Apr 13, 202280,000 milesRedmond, ORPower train

    The contact owns a 2020 Ford F-550. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the transmission started slipping. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact pulled to the side of the roadway. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the planetary ring gear needed to be replaced under NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V256000 (Power Train). The VIN was included in the recall. The vehicle was then towed to the local dealer who informed the contact that they could not accommodate the vehicle for the recall repair due to the size of the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to a second dealer, Northside Ford Truck Sales, Inc. (6221 NE Columbia Blvd, Portland, OR 97218) who informed the contact that the vehicle would be repaired at his own expense. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and advised the contact to follow up with the dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.

    NHTSA complaint 11469065
  17. Filed Apr 21, 2021Failure Apr 19, 20212,393 milesOjai, CAService brakes

    ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) LIGHT CAME ON AND STAYED ON DURING NORMAL, STRAIGHT AND LEVEL HIGHWAY DRIVING AT 60 MPH, INDICATING AN ESC SYSTEM MALFUNCTION. THE LIGHT CAME ON AFTER ABOUT 20 MILES OF HIGHWAY DRIVING AND REMAINED ON FOR THE REMAINING 12 MILES OF MY JOURNEY. AFTER BEING PARKED OVERNIGHT THE ESC LIGHT OPERATED NORMALLY WHEN THE ENGINE WAS RESTARTED WHILE PARKED.

    NHTSA complaint 11413180
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file.
Investigations

1 NHTSA investigation on file

  • PE24014 Preliminary evaluation, Fuel system
    Sogefi Secondary Diesel Fuel Filter Leak
    Opened May 9, 2024, still open
Source: NHTSA ODI investigations file.
Service bulletins

12 manufacturer communications cover this model year

Technical service bulletins and other notices the manufacturer sent to dealers. A bulletin is not a recall.

  • 25N10S1 Jun 23, 2026 · Other
    Certain 2017-2025 F-450 – F-600 Chassis Cab Upfitted with an Aerial Bucket Frame Rail Crack
  • SAN-Vol1 I1 Jun 8, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    The Service Awareness Newsletter is an informal communication that contains information that may not be presently available in a TSB, SSM, GSB, or other electronic communication. This article includes information on warranty, technical service tips and othe…
  • 21B04 S4 Sep 19, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Certain 2017 through 2020 Model Year F550 Equipped with Payload Plus Upgrade Package Frame Rail Crack Program Terms: Program will be extended for an additional year; Urgency/Expiration Date: Program will be extended for an additional year Owner Refunds: …
  • 21B04-S1 Oct 7, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Certain 2017 through 2020 Model Year F550 Equipped with Payload Plus Upgrade Package Frame Rail Crack REASON FOR THIS SUPPLEMENT ⢠Technical Instructions: Updated to clarify amount of use for Rotobroach cutter.⢠Attachment V: Updated list of trucks that …
  • 21B04 Sep 24, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Certain 2017 through 2020 Model Year F550 Equipped with Payload Plus Upgrade Package ;Frame Rail Crack In some of the affected vehicles certain second unit body (SUB) upfits could cause stress points on the frame rail. Over time this stress could cause a cr…
  • 21B42 Jul 13, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    All of the affected vehicles were built with front spring and front gross axle weight rating (FGAWR) below the customer expected value. The marketing Order Guide stated that on units equipped with Ambulance & Wrecker packages, customers would get up to 7000…
  • SSM 49803 May 18, 2021 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Some 2018-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit inoperative remote features via the Ford Pass/Lincoln Way mobile app, incomplete user authorization, no modem electronic serial number (ESN) displayed or DTCs U2100 and/or B156D in the telematics control …
  • SSM 49292 Oct 29, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Some 2018-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit inoperative remote features via the Ford Pass/Lincoln Way mobile app, incomplete user authorization, no modem electronic serial number (ESN) displayed or DTCs U2100 and/or B156D in the telematics control …
  • SSM 49038 Jul 30, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Some 2020 F-Super Duty vehicles built on or before 26May-2020 equipped with a high mounted stoplamp camera, may exhibit various concerns such as poor image quality, flickering and/or intermittent blank screen. If a vehicle exhibits any of these conditions r…
  • 20B15 Apr 23, 2020 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    In some of the affected vehicles , a piston oil cooler bracket may have been damaged during engine assembly. A damaged piston oil cooler bracket may allow the piston oil cooler to detach. This can lead to low engine oil pressure and may result in intermitte…
  • SSM 48135 Aug 14, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Some 2013-2020 vehicles equipped with an EVDC air conditioning (A/C) compressor may exhibit poor A/C performance/improper climate function. To support the proper diagnosis of this compressor, the EVDC control valve tester has been provided to each U.S. deal…
  • SSM 48130 Aug 9, 2019 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Some 2010-2020 vehicles may exhibit distorted glass with a subtle orange peel pattern or streaking etched into the surface. This is caused by hydrofluoric acid which is used in some car wash solutions as a cleaning agent. Hydrofluoric acid can attack the gl…
Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications files.