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2004 Ford F-250 Super DutyLariat 6.0L Diesel

The 6.0 got a bad rap. Dale proved them wrong.

Dale H. · Lubbock, TXSubmitted Oct 19, 20246.0L Power Stroke Diesel (V8)

Documented Miles

443,000

on the odometer

Reliability Score

81/100

community rating

Est. Total Maintenance

$54,800

lifetime spend

Est. Savings vs. New

$30,200

vs. buying new

Engine

6.0L Power Stroke Diesel (V8)

5R110 TorqShift Automatic

Drivetrain

4WD

2004 model year

The 6.0 Power Stroke is notorious for problems — EGR failures, head gaskets, FICM issues. Dale addressed every known weakness in the first 50,000 miles of ownership and has since hauled his excavating business across West Texas for 19 years without stopping.

Maintenance Guide

The exact schedule that helped this vehicle reach 443k miles. Estimated lifetime maintenance: $54,800 over 443,000 miles ( $12.37 per 100 miles ).

DIY EasyDIY MediumShop Recommended

Every 5,000 miles (diesel)

$90–$140DIY Easy
  • Oil change (15W-40 diesel oil)
  • Check coolant degas bottle
  • Fuel filter (every 10k)

The 6.0 "Bulletproof" Package (Do This First)

$3,000–$5,000 one-timeShop Recommended
  • EGR cooler upgrade (Bulletproof or Dorman)
  • Oil cooler flush/replace
  • Head studs (ARP)
  • FICM inspection/test

Note: This schedule is based on owner-reported data and community experience. Always consult your owner's manual and adapt to your driving conditions. Severe duty (towing, off-road, extreme heat/cold) typically requires shorter intervals.