availability of work- and recreation-related packages and options.
Cons
Big footprint is unwieldy in traffic and parking lots
steering doesn't instill confidence
high price
available only in one configuration.
What’s new
For 2013 the Ford F-450 Super Duty gets stronger brakes, adopts MyFord touch and adds the ultra-plush Platinum trim level to the lineup.
Edmunds says
Designed first and foremost as a workhorse with superior towing and payload numbers, the 2013 Ford F-450 Super Duty also offers refinement and luxury with the premium trim levels and options.
Up until fairly recently, truck buyers who had rather extreme towing and/or hauling requirements had nothing above the F-350 or its "3500" series rivals to consider. The only option was to make the leap to commercial-grade chassis cab rigs, which would then have to be turned over to an aftermarket outfitter who would supply a custom cargo bed and a reupholstered interior chock full of other amenities favored by RV enthusiasts, racecar haulers or ranchers pulling a 10-stall horse trailer.
Ford saw this niche need and met it with the F-450 Super Duty pickup. Just like other F-Series models, the 2013 Ford F-450 Super Duty is available in a wide range of trim levels, including the cowboy-chic King Ranch edition. The downside is that only one configuration is offered: crew cab with a long bed, diesel engine and four-wheel drive.
With its imposing big-rig styling and hefty dimensions, the F-450 can tow up to 24,700 pounds with a fifth-wheel hitch. The muscle is supplied by a 6.7-liter turbodiesel V8. It's mated to a six-speed automatic transmission that draws favorable comparisons to GM's venerable Allison automatic for its tow/haul shift mode on mountain roads, which is especially helpful for controlling downhill speeds.
Judging solely by the numbers, the 2013 Ford F-450 Super Duty is in a class by itself, as it's the only 4500 model available in full cargo-bed dress for the consumer market. However, competitive 3500 models (including the Ford F-350) aren't that far behind in terms of towing capacity. Nor do they apply as big of a hit in the pocketbook as the F-450 does. But if you want the most capable towing rig possible, the F-450's your truck.
Performance & mpg
A turbocharged 6.7-liter diesel V8 is the only engine available in the F-450 pickup. It packs a healthy 400 horsepower, with 800 pound-feet of peak torque. The F-450 also features engine exhaust braking to help maintain control on downhill grades while towing.
A six-speed automatic and four-wheel drive are standard. Properly equipped, the F-450 Super Duty can tow up to 17,500 pounds with a conventional trailer setup. When configured for fifth-wheel towing, this figure increases to a class-leading 24,700 pounds. Maximum payload capacity is also impressive, rating a stout 5,880 pounds.
Safety
The 2013 Ford F-450 Super Duty comes standard with antilock brakes, trailer sway control, hill start assist, front seat-mounted side airbags, side curtain airbags and an SOS post-crash alert system. Stability control isn't available.
Driving
There is no direct competition for the 2013 Ford F-450, but the overall line of Ford Super Duty trucks is noted for a pleasant ride quality and relatively restrained noise from the engine, road and wind. The Ford F-450 is nearly 22 feet long and 9 feet wide at the mirrors, so it can be awkward in tight traffic and crowded parking lots. The front track on the F-450 is 6 inches wider than its F-250 and F-350 brethren, so turning around also requires more room. Another downside is the steering, which feels numb and instills less confidence (especially when towing) than other heavy-duty trucks.
Of course, towing is a big part of the Super Duty's capabilities, and the 6.7-liter turbodiesel V8 is up to the task. Even when lugging a 10,000-pound trailer up a steep grade, the diesel climbs with ease and the six-speed transmission is never caught hunting between gears. Drivers may also selectively lock out higher gears to ensure optimal towing prowess, going uphill or down, and descents are also more secure due to the diesel's exhaust brake.
Interior
The 2013 Ford F-450 Super Duty has an industrial-themed interior and it looks a little dated compared to heavy-duty trucks from GM and Ram, especially in the lower trim levels where hard plastics prevail. Opting for the upper trims will provide a more upscale experience, however, with rich leather and added amenities.
Storage and utility options for the Ford F-450 include lockable bins under the front and rear seats. The rear bin can accommodate long items like a hunting rifle and provides a 12-volt power point to charge computers or cell phones. The available front seat console can be configured to accommodate a laptop, hanging files and other mobile-office supplies. It also includes a 110-volt household-style outlet.
A large multifunction display in the instrument cluster that's standard on Lariat, King Ranch and Platinum models allows the driver to customize settings and relays trip computer, fuel economy, towing and off-road information. Platinum models feature a storage area atop the dash that includes two USB ports, audio-video connections, an SD card slot and an additional 12-volt charging port. Another perk of the Platinum trim is MyFord Touch, which includes an 8-inch touchscreen that controls phone, climate control, entertainment and navigation features and also includes an expanded voice control vocabulary. This version of MyFord Touch also includes large physical buttons for the climate and audio controls that allow operation by those wearing work gloves.
The 2013 Ford F-450 Super Duty is offered in just one configuration: a crew cab mated to an 8-foot cargo bed, with four-wheel drive and dual rear wheels (DRW or dually). Customers, however, get a choice among the five trim levels also found on the F-250 and F-350 models: XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch and Platinum.
Standard on the base XL are 17-inch alloy wheels, a black grille and bumpers, running boards, roof clearance lights, manual-telescoping trailer-tow mirrors, air-conditioning, vinyl upholstery and floor coverings, a 40/20/40-split front bench, a 60/40 split-folding rear bench seat, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and a two-speaker AM/FM radio.
Stepping up to the XLT adds a chrome grille and bumpers, heated outside mirrors, cruise control, full power accessories, the Ford Sync voice activation system, keyless entry, an integrated trailer-brake controller, carpeted floor, cloth upholstery, lockable second-row underseat storage with a power point, and a four-speaker sound system with CD player and auxiliary audio jack.
The Lariat trim level features foglights, power telescoping mirrors, rear parking sensors, a power rear sliding window with defrost, a rearview camera, chrome tubular step bars, dual-zone automatic climate control and leather interior upholstery. Additional standard equipment on the Lariat includes a 4.2-inch LCD multifunction screen, MyFord Touch, wood-grain trim, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, power-adjustable pedals and an eight-speaker audio system with satellite radio. The front seat also features a center console and 10-way power seats for the driver and passenger.
The King Ranch piles on power-folding and telescoping tow mirrors, two-tone paint, a body-colored grille with chrome insert, lighted running boards, unique exterior and interior badging, remote start, upgraded Chaparral leather upholstery, a navigation system, heated and ventilated seats and driver seat memory.
The top-of-the-line Platinum includes all the Lariat features and adds more chrome exterior trim, 20-inch polished alloy wheels, unique wood-tone interior trim, upgraded leather upholstery, 10-way power front seats, heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, driver seat memory and power-adjustable pedals.
Some of the upper trims' features are available on the lower trims as options. Other add-ons (depending on trim level) include a stowable bed extender, a transmission power take-off (for powering accessories like snow plows), fifth-wheel mounting points (compatible with Reese hitch units), a drop-in or spray-in bedliner, a sunroof and integrated accessory switches.
The available Ford Work Solutions package is offered on XL and XLT models and adds an in-dash computer that is customizable to suit commercial users and fleets. Other work-related options include snow plow and camper prep packages and the FX4 Off-Road package that provides skid plates and Rancho-brand shock absorbers.
Owners consistently praise the 2013 Ford F-450 Super Duty for its impressive towing capabilities and strong performance. The combination of its 6.7-liter diesel engine and six-speed automatic transmission makes hauling heavy loads, such as large fifth-wheel trailers, feel almost effortless. Despite its substantial size, drivers find that the truck's turning radius is surprisingly tight, aiding maneuverability in various settings. Inside the cabin, the F-450 offers a luxurious experience with options like heated and cooled seats, making long journeys more comfortable. Additionally, the truck’s exterior design frequently garners compliments, reflecting its rugged yet stylish appearance that stands out both on highways and rural roads.
Common Issues
Owners of the 2013 Ford F-450 Super Duty frequently mention high maintenance costs as a notable concern. Some drivers have faced costly repairs, such as brake rotors breaking prematurely, which comes as an unwelcome surprise for a vehicle of this price. The dual rear wheels, while beneficial for highway towing, pose challenges on wet or frozen terrain, where traction issues can arise. Over time, certain electronic features, including external sensors, have reportedly failed, diminishing the truck’s technological appeal. Additionally, operating a vehicle of this size in tight urban areas can be daunting, despite its relatively good turning radius, requiring drivers to remain vigilant to avoid potential scrapes.
Final Takeaways from Everyday Drivers
The 2013 Ford F-450 Super Duty impresses everyday drivers with its blend of power and comfort, making it a trusted companion for both work and leisure. Many find the diesel engine remarkably robust, providing ample power for towing hefty trailers while still delivering commendable fuel efficiency. Despite its formidable size, the truck’s interior exudes a luxurious atmosphere with features rivaling high-end SUVs, such as the plush King Ranch package. However, its road presence requires adaptation, especially in tighter spaces, prompting new users to remain cautious initially. Overall, the F-450 offers a driving experience that balances intimidating capability with the day-to-day comforts expected from a top-tier pickup.
The 2013 Ford F-450 Super Duty has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 12 recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Recalls
12 recalls found
Checking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.
If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).
Recall Number:
15V175000
Manufacturer Recall Number:
15S09
Manufactured from:
2010-02-22 to 2015-01-30
Number of vehicles affected:
6322
Defect Description:
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2011-2015 Ford F-350, F-450, and F-550 trucks manufactured February 22, 2010, to January 30, 2015, and equipped with ambulance or fire engine preparation packages. The affected vehicles may detect an incorrect Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGT) fault indicating that the vehicle is too hot, causing the engine management system to shut down the engine and prevent its immediate restart.
Defect Consequence:
Engine shut down and a subsequent cool down period may delay medical treatment or assistance to those needing it, increasing their risk of injury.
Corrective Action:
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will update the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software, free of charge. The recall began on April 22, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15S09.
Recall Number:
14V507000
Number of vehicles affected:
76
Defect Description:
Jerr-Dan Corporation (Jerr-Dan) is recalling certain model year 2009-2014 Ford F-350 Super Duty, F-450 Super Duty, and F-550 Superduty chassis modified by Jerr-Dan and equipped with certain Muncie Power Products PTO Assemblies. In the affected vehicles, oil may leak from the PTO pressure switch onto a thermal blanket covering the exhaust.
Defect Consequence:
The leaking oil may soak into the thermal blanket covering the exhaust, which when combined with heat from exhaust, may result in an increased risk of fire.
Corrective Action:
Jerr-Dan will notify owners, and dealers will install a new pressure switch kit that moves away from the exhaust system, free of charge. The recall began in October 2014. Owners may contact Jerr-Dan customer service at 1-800-926-9666.
Recall Number:
14V498000
Number of vehicles affected:
3
Defect Description:
PJ's Truck Bodies & Equipment Co., (PJ's) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Ford F-350, F-450, and F-550 Super Duty chassis modified by PJ's and equipped with certain Muncie Power Products PTO Assemblies. In the affected vehicles, oil may leak from the PTO pressure switch onto a thermal blanket covering the exhaust.
Defect Consequence:
The leaking oil may soak into the thermal blanket covering the exhaust, which when combined with heat from exhaust, may result in an increased risk of fire.
Corrective Action:
PJ's has notified owners and dealers will install a new pressure switch kit that moves the switch away from the exhaust system, free of charge. The recall began on August 28, 2014. Owners may contact PJ's customer service at 1-866-475-8782.
Recall Number:
14V496000
Number of vehicles affected:
88
Defect Description:
Versalift East, LLC (Versalift) is recalling certain Aerial devices manufactured on 2009-2013 Ford, F-350, F-450, and F-550 Super Duty 6.8L gas engine chassis, modified by Versalift and equipped with certain Muncie Power Products FR67 PTO Assemblies. In the affected vehicles, oil may leak from the PTO pressure switch onto a thermal blanket covering the exhaust.
Defect Consequence:
The leaking oil may soak into the thermal blanket covering the exhaust, which when combined with heat from exhaust, may result in an increased risk of fire.
Corrective Action:
Versalift will notify owners, and dealers will install a new pressure switch kit that moves the switch away from the exhaust system, free of charge. The recall began on September 14, 2014. Owners may contact Versalift customer service at 1-888-866-1400.
Recall Number:
14V494000
Manufactured from:
2009-09-01 to 2013-12-31
Number of vehicles affected:
49
Defect Description:
Vanair Manufacturing, Inc. (Vanair) is recalling certain model year 2009-2013 Ford F-350, F-450, and F-550 SuperDuty chassis modified by Vanair and equipped with certain Muncie Power Products PTO Assemblies used with model 60-85 UDSM, 125-185 USDM, and Genair 125-185 driven air compressor systems. In the affected vehicles, oil may leak from the PTO pressure switch onto a thermal blanket covering the exhaust.
Defect Consequence:
The leaking oil may soak into the thermal blanket covering the exhaust, which when combined with heat from exhaust, may result in an increased risk of fire.
Corrective Action:
Vanair will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and install a new pressure switch kit that moves the switch away from the exhaust system, free of charge. The recall began in November 2014. Owners may contact Vanair customer service at 1-800-526-8817.
Recall Number:
14V411000
Number of vehicles affected:
2
Defect Description:
J.C. Madigan, Inc. (J.C. Madigan) is recalling one model year 2011 Ford F-550, and one model year 2013 Ford F-450 chassis with a 6.8L gasoline engine dump trucks equipped with certain PTO Assembly Pressure Switches, part number 30T37594, manufactured June 2009 through June 2013, used in power take off (PTO) assemblies. The switch may begin leaking oil.
Defect Consequence:
The leaking oil may soak into the thermal blanket covering the exhaust, which when combined with heat from exhaust, may result in an increased risk of fire.
Corrective Action:
J.C. Madigan will notify owners, and dealers will install a new pressure switch kit that moves the switch away from the exhaust system, free of charge. The recall began in September 2014. Owners may contact J.C. Madigan customer service at 1-978-847-2900.
Recall Number:
14V382000
Manufactured from:
2009-06-01 to 2013-06-30
Number of vehicles affected:
4
Defect Description:
Somerset Welding & Steel, doing business as J&J Truck equipment (J&J), is recalling certain model year 2009-2013 Ford F-350, F-450, and F-550 Super Duty chassis with 6.8L gasoline engines modified by J&J to be equipped with certain Muncie Power Products PTO Assemblies. In the affected vehicles, oil may leak from the PTO pressure switch onto a thermal blanket covering the exhaust.
Defect Consequence:
The leaking oil may soak into the thermal blanket covering the exhaust, which when combined with heat from exhaust, may result in an increased risk of fire.
Corrective Action:
Somerset will notify owners, and dealers will install a new pressure switch kit that moves the switch away from the exhaust system, free of charge. The recall began August 2014. Owner's may contact Somerset customer service at 1-800-777-2671.
Recall Number:
14V379000
Number of vehicles affected:
16
Defect Description:
Utility Truck Equipment Company, LLC (Utility Truck) is recalling certain model year 2010-2013 UTLI41A, 2011 UTLN41, and 2012 UTLN46 aerial trucks manufactured December 2010 to September 2013 equipped with certain Muncie Power Products PTO Assemblies installed on 2010-2013 Ford F-350, F-450 and F-550 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, oil may leak from the PTO pressure switch onto a thermal blanket covering the exhaust.
Defect Consequence:
The leaking oil may soak into the thermal blanket covering the exhaust, which when combined with heat from exhaust, may result in an increased risk of fire.
Corrective Action:
Utility Truck will notify owners, and dealers will install a new pressure switch kit that moves the switch away from the exhaust system, free of charge. The recall began in June 2014. Owners may contact Utility Truck customer service at 1-254-857-8813.
Recall Number:
14V360000
Manufactured from:
2009-06-01 to 2013-06-30
Number of vehicles affected:
10
Defect Description:
Palfleet Truck Equipment Company, LLC (Palfleet) is recalling certain model year 2009-2013 Ford F-350, F-450, and F-550 super duty vehicles modified by Palfleet and equipped with certain Muncie Power Products PTO Assemblies. In the affected vehicles, oil may leak from the PTO pressure switch onto a thermal blanket covering the exhaust.
Defect Consequence:
The leaking oil may soak into the thermal blanket covering the exhaust, which when combined with heat from exhaust, may result in an increased risk of fire.
Corrective Action:
Palfleet will notify owners, and dealers will install a new pressure switch kit that moves the switch away from the exhaust system, free of charge. The recall began on July 29, 2014. Owners may contact Palfleet customer service at 1- 502-376-2458.
Recall Number:
14V328000
Number of vehicles affected:
21
Defect Description:
Iowa Mold Tooling Co., Inc. will notify owners and dealers to inspect the Muncie PTO pressure switch to determine if it is from the range of defective switches and if required, remove the pressure switch assembly and put a plug in the port where the PTO switch had been installed. This switch was never being utilized. This will be done free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in mid-July 2014. Owners may contact Iowa Mold Tooling Co., Inc. at 1-800-247-5958.
Defect Consequence:
The leaking oil may soak into the thermal blanket covering the exhaust, which when combined with heat from exhaust, may result in an increased risk of fire.
Corrective Action:
Iowa Mold Tooling Co., Inc. will notify owners, and dealers will install a new pressure switch kit that moves the switch away from the exhaust system, free of charge. The recall began on July 28, 2014. Owners may contact Iowa Mold Tooling Co., Inc. at 1-800-247-5958.
Recall Number:
14V327000
Number of vehicles affected:
10
Defect Description:
Stahl is recalling certain model year 2009-2014 Ford F-350 Super Duty, F-450 Super Duty, and F-550 Super Duty vehicles modified by Stahl and equipped with certain Muncie Power Products PTO Assemblies. In the affected vehicles, oil may leak from the PTO pressure switch onto a thermal blanket covering the exhaust.
Defect Consequence:
The leaking oil may soak into the thermal blanket covering the exhaust, which when combined with heat from exhaust, may result in an increased risk of fire.
Corrective Action:
Stahl will notify owners, and dealers will install a new pressure switch kit that moves the switch away from the exhaust system, free of charge. Owners may contact Stahl customer service at 1-800-277-8245, or Muncie at 1-800-367-7867.
Recall Number:
14V326000
Manufactured from:
2012-06-01 to 2013-06-30
Number of vehicles affected:
10
Defect Description:
Manning Equipment Inc. LLC (Manning) is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Ford F-350 Super Duty, F-450 Super Duty, and F-550 Super Duty vehicles modified by Manning and equipped with certain Muncie Power Products PTO Assemblies. In the affected vehicles, oil may leak from the PTO pressure switch onto a thermal blanket covering the exhaust.
Defect Consequence:
The leaking oil may soak into the thermal blanket covering the exhaust, which when combined with heat from exhaust, may result in an increased risk of fire.
Corrective Action:
Manning will notify owners, and dealers will install a new pressure switch kit that moves the switch away from the exhaust system, free of charge. This action is the same as the service campaign action. The recall began in July 2014. Owners may contact Manning at 1-800-876-8768.
2011 Ford F-450 Super Duty Lariat 4dr Crew Cab 4WD LB DRW (6.7L 8cyl Turbodiesel 6A)
Replacement for 2008 F-450.
In pulling 20,000 horse trailer, 2011 gets 10+ mpg vs 7 mpg.
Difference in power/torque is remarkable with the new engine.
Unloaded ride is much better with the smaller, non-commercial tires that came on the 2008.
Unloaded highway mileage is 16+ mpg vs 12 in the 2008.
Only have 800 miles on truck, so mileage should climb, once broken in.
Time will tell
4.38 out of 5 stars
cul8ertx, 12/03/2010
2011 Ford F-450 Super Duty Lariat 4dr Crew Cab 4WD LB DRW (6.7L 8cyl Turbodiesel 6A)
A bit early to make a lot of noise about this truck as I have only driven it 350 miles to get it home after an out of state purchase. However, there is a lot to be excited about. The turning radius is "tight" for such a large truck and the throttle response is all there! Average MPG (computed) 13.9 @ 75 MPH and I've only driven it 350 miles! The ride is very nice for a 450 and the … cab is roomy and well laid out. I can't wait to put a big trailer behind it and see what it can do.
The best towing machine you can buy!
5 out of 5 stars
artemus7575, 10/21/2013
2013 Ford F-450 Super Duty Lariat 4dr Crew Cab 4WD LB DRW (6.7L 8cyl Turbodiesel 6A)
I had a 2003 F350 that had the tried and true 7.3. It was a towing monster.
This truck takes it to an entire new level.
Very car like as far as comfort and level of amenities.
Heat and cooled seats, great connectivity using sync. Used 90% towing a 42 ft Fifth Wheel trailer.
It has great torque and loads of power.
The turning radius is less than my F350 and you can park it easily for … suck a big truck. The truck still gets compliments fron everyone who see's it!
Updated Oct 2016. No issues, been a great Truck. 53,000 miles
*Update* Love my 2011 Ford F450 King Ranch
5 out of 5 stars
Jim B, 04/10/2017
2011 Ford F-450 Super Duty King Ranch 4dr Crew Cab 4WD LB DRW (6.7L 8cyl Turbodiesel 6A)
Update 10-9-18. I have this truck running like new with huge improvement in power and stability. Bought 7 new tires, steering stabilizer, rear airbags and new shocks. Also, changed out the old EGR cooler to Fords improved design for better airflow and less likely to coke up. Update: 4-10-18. I continue to make little repairs and putting accessories on too. Bringing this truck to new … like condition is a daunting task. Every part is expensive and heavy duty. I don't mind the expense since I am improving my highly capable truck and making it last longer. If I lost this truck to an accident at total loss, I would look into buying a new F-450.
I picked this truck up last month (3-2017) and I am very impressed of fords design and 6.7l diesel power. I can leave a traffic light just as fast as any car on the road. This truck can haul most anything with GCWR @ 33,000 lbs.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2013 Ford F-450 Super Duty, so we've included reviews for other years of the F-450 Super Duty since its last redesign.