Does Ford Make a Diesel F150 Everything You Need to Know

Ford did offer a diesel F150, but only for a few model years. The 3.0-liter Power Stroke V6 diesel engine was available from 2018 to 2023. Since then, Ford has discontinued the diesel option in the F150 lineup. If you are shopping for a used diesel F150 or curious about what Ford offered, this guide covers everything.

So, does Ford make a diesel F150? The short answer is yes, but with a big asterisk. Ford offered a diesel version of its best-selling pickup truck for a limited time, and then pulled the plug. If you are in the market for a Ford F150 and wondering whether a diesel engine is an option, you are in the right place.

In this article, we will break down everything you need to know. We will cover which years Ford offered the diesel F150, what the engine could do, how it performed in real-world use, and why Ford decided to drop it. Whether you are shopping for a used diesel F150 or just curious about the diesel truck world, we have got you covered.

The Ford F150 has been America’s best-selling truck for decades. It comes in many configurations, from work-ready base models to luxurious Lariat trims. For a while, there was even a diesel option under the hood. That option was the 3.0-liter Power Stroke V6 turbo-diesel engine. It was a game-changer for some buyers, but not for everyone.

Key Takeaways

• Ford offered a diesel F150 from 2018 to 2023: The 3.0-liter Power Stroke V6 was the only diesel engine ever put in the F150.
• The diesel F150 delivered strong towing and fuel economy: It pulled up to 13,500 pounds and offered around 30 mpg on the highway.
• Ford discontinued the diesel F150 after 2023: The current F150 lineup no longer includes a diesel engine option.
• Used diesel F150s still hold value: They are popular among truck enthusiasts and anyone needing serious hauling capability.
• Diesel maintenance costs are higher: Regular upkeep like oil changes and filter replacements costs more than with a gas engine.
• Ford Super Duty trucks still offer diesel: If you need a diesel Ford truck, the F-250, F-350, and F-450 still come with Power Stroke engines.

The Ford F150 Diesel Engine: A Closer Look

Ford introduced the diesel F150 for the 2018 model year. The engine was a 3.0-liter Power Stroke V6 turbo-diesel. It was the same basic engine family used in the Ford Super Duty trucks, just scaled down for the lighter-duty F150 platform.

Engine Specifications

Here is what the 3.0-liter Power Stroke brought to the table:

• Displacement: 3.0 liters V6
• Horsepower: 250 hp
• Torque: 440 lb-ft
• Transmission: 10-speed automatic
• Towing Capacity: Up to 13,500 pounds
• Payload Capacity: Around 2,000 pounds
• Fuel Economy (Combined): Approximately 22-24 mpg

Those numbers are impressive for a half-ton pickup. The 440 lb-ft of torque made the diesel F150 a strong hauler right out of the gate. For comparison, the standard 3.3-liter V6 gas engine in the F150 produced only 290 lb-ft of torque. That is a massive difference. The diesel engine gave the F150 a real edge when it came to pulling trailers and hauling heavy loads.

How the Diesel F150 Compares to Gas Engines

To understand why the diesel F150 mattered, you need to look at how it stacked up against the gas engine options. Ford offered several gas engines in the F150, including the 3.3-liter V6, the 5.0-liter V8, and the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6.

The 3.0-liter diesel sat in a unique spot. It offered better fuel economy than the V8 and similar torque to the 3.5-liter EcoBoost. But it came with a higher price tag. Let us look at a quick comparison.

• 3.3-liter V6 (Gas): 290 hp, 265 lb-ft torque, around 20 mpg combined
• 5.0-liter V8 (Gas): 395 hp, 400 lb-ft torque, around 16 mpg combined
• 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 (Gas): 400 hp, 500 lb-ft torque, around 20 mpg combined
• 3.0-liter Power Stroke V6 (Diesel): 250 hp, 440 lb-ft torque, around 22-24 mpg combined

As you can see, the diesel F150 did not win in horsepower. But it came close to the EcoBoost in torque and beat nearly everything in fuel economy. For drivers who spent a lot of time on the highway, the diesel was a clear winner in terms of efficiency.

Why Ford Offered a Diesel F150

Ford saw a gap in the market. Many half-ton truck buyers wanted better fuel economy without sacrificing towing ability. The 3.0-liter Power Stroke was Ford’s answer. It gave buyers a diesel option in the most popular truck segment in America.

Target Buyers

Who was the diesel F150 for? Primarily, it was aimed at:

• Fleet and commercial buyers who drove long distances
• Farmers and ranchers who needed towing efficiency
• Outdoor enthusiasts who pulled trailers, boats, and campers
• Anyone who wanted better fuel economy from a full-size truck

Ford believed there was a strong demand for a fuel-efficient diesel half-ton truck. And for a few years, the market agreed. The diesel F150 found a loyal following, especially among buyers who put high miles on their trucks every year.

Competition

Ford was not the only automaker offering a diesel half-ton truck. Chevrolet and GMC offered the Duramax 6.6-meter diesel in their Silverado and Sierra models, but those were in the heavy-duty 2500 and 3500 series. Ram also offered a diesel in its 1500 model for a time. The diesel F150 gave Ford a competitive edge in the half-ton segment, where diesel options were rare.

The Rise and Fall of the Diesel F150

The diesel F150 was available from 2018 through 2023. It had a good run, but it was not without its challenges. Over time, Ford noticed that the diesel option did not sell in the numbers they had hoped for.

Why Sales Were Slower Than Expected

Several factors contributed to the diesel F150’s modest sales:

1. Higher upfront cost: The diesel F150 came with a premium price tag. Buyers had to pay several thousand dollars more than the equivalent gas model.
2. Diesel fuel costs: Diesel fuel often costs more per gallon than regular gasoline. This ate into the fuel economy savings.
3. Limited engine availability: The 3.0-liter Power Stroke was not available on all trim levels or configurations. Buyers had fewer options to choose from.
4. Diesel emissions and regulations: Stricter emissions standards made diesel engines more complex and expensive to build.
5. Electric and hybrid trends: The auto industry is shifting toward electrification. Ford introduced the F-150 Lightning electric truck, which drew attention away from the diesel.

Despite these challenges, the diesel F150 still had its fans. People who bought one often loved it. The engine was smooth, quiet for a diesel, and offered excellent highway fuel economy. But the market shifted, and Ford made the decision to move on.

Ford’s Decision to Discontinue the Diesel F150

After the 2023 model year, Ford officially discontinued the diesel F150. The 3.0-liter Power Stroke V6 is no longer available in the F150 lineup. Ford has shifted its focus to the electric F-150 Lightning and its range of gas and hybrid engines.

This does not mean the diesel F150 was a failure. It simply did not find a large enough audience to justify continued production. Ford still offers diesel engines in its Super Duty lineup, including the F-250, F-350, and F-450. These trucks use the 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 turbo-diesel, which is a completely different beast. If you want a diesel Ford truck today, the Super Duty lineup is where you will find it.

What It Was Like to Own a Diesel F150

Owners of the diesel F150 had mixed but mostly positive experiences. Let us look at the real-world pros and cons of owning this truck.

The Good

• Excellent fuel economy: Many owners reported getting 25-30 mpg on the highway. That is outstanding for a full-size truck.
• Strong towing capability: The 13,500-pound towing capacity put it competitive with much larger trucks.
• Durable engine: The Power Stroke engine family has a reputation for longevity. With proper care, these engines can last well over 200,000 miles.
• Refined for a diesel: Ford worked hard to make the 3.0-liter Power Stroke quiet and smooth. It did not sound or feel like a typical loud diesel.

The Not-So-Good

• Higher maintenance costs: Diesel engines require more expensive upkeep. Oil changes, fuel filters, and other services cost more than on a gas engine. If you are curious about what diesel mechanics earn, check out can diesel mechanics make 100k to understand the skilled labor behind diesel maintenance.
• Diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues: The DPF system can clog, especially for drivers who mostly make short trips around town. Regeneration cycles can be annoying.
• Higher upfront cost: The diesel premium meant buyers paid more at the start.
• Diesel fuel availability: While diesel is widely available, it still costs more than regular gasoline at the pump.

Real-World Fuel Economy

Real-world fuel economy varied depending on how the truck was used. Highway drivers got the best results, often achieving 28-30 mpg. City drivers saw more modest numbers, around 18-22 mpg. Overall, the diesel F150 delivered impressive efficiency for a truck of its size. This was especially true compared to the gas V8 models, which sometimes struggled to break 15 mpg in the city.

One thing to keep in mind is that diesel trucks are built for heavy use. If you are looking for a truck that will see lots of highway miles and towing duty, the diesel F150 was a fantastic choice. But if you just need a truck for daily commuting and light hauling, a gas engine might make more sense financially.

Is a Used Diesel F150 Worth Buying in 2024 and Beyond?

With the diesel F150 discontinued, the used market is where most buyers will find one. So, is it worth buying a used diesel F150 today?

Pros of Buying Used

• Great fuel economy: Used diesel F150s still deliver excellent mpg, especially on highways.
• Strong resale value: These trucks hold their value well because they are relatively rare.
• Proven reliability: The 3.0-liter Power Stroke has been out for several years now, and Ford has addressed most early issues through recalls and updates.
• Towing capability: A used diesel F150 can still tow heavy trailers, boats, and equipment with ease.

Cons of Buying Used

• Higher purchase price: Even used, diesel F150s command a premium over their gas counterparts.
• Potential repair costs: Older models may need repairs to the DPF system, turbo, or other diesel-specific components.
• Limited availability: Since Ford stopped making them, the supply of used diesel F150s will only decrease over time.

What to Look For When Buying a Used Diesel F150

If you are shopping for a used diesel F150, here are some tips:

1. Check the service history. Make sure the truck has been properly maintained with regular oil changes and filter replacements.
2. Inspect the DPF system. A clogged DPF can lead to expensive repairs.
3. Look for signs of turbo issues. Listen for unusual sounds and check for excess smoke.
4. Get a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic. Diesel engines are complex, and you want an expert to check things over.
5. Compare pricing with similar gas models. Make sure the diesel premium is worth the fuel savings for your driving habits.

Ford’s Diesel Future: What Comes Next?

Ford has made it clear that its future focus is on electrification. The F-150 Lightning is the company’s electric pickup truck, and it has been gaining attention in the market. But does that mean diesel is completely gone from Ford’s truck lineup?

Not entirely. Ford still offers diesel engines in its Super Duty trucks. The 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 in the F-250, F-350, and F-450 remains a popular choice for heavy-duty work. These are a different class of truck, and they serve a different purpose than the F150.

Could Ford bring back a diesel F150 in the future? It is possible, but unlikely in the near term. The automotive industry is moving toward stricter emissions standards and electrification. A new diesel F150 would face tough regulatory hurdles and would need to compete with electric trucks like the F-150 Lightning and the Rivian R1T.

For now, the diesel F150 lives on as a memory and a solid used truck option. If you want a diesel half-ton Ford, the used market is your best bet.

Quick Tips for Diesel F150 Owners

Whether you already own a diesel F150 or are thinking about buying one, here are some quick tips to keep your truck running strong:

• Change your oil regularly: Diesel engines burn oil faster than gas engines. Stick to the recommended oil change interval.
• Use quality diesel fuel: Cheap diesel can contain contaminants that harm your engine and fuel system.
• Let the engine warm up: Especially in cold weather, give the turbo and engine a minute or two to warm up before driving hard.
• Monitor the DPF: Take your truck on highway drives regularly to help the DPF regenerate properly.
• Keep up with maintenance: Staying on top of scheduled services prevents costly repairs down the road.

Common Mistakes People Make When Considering a Diesel F150

Before you buy a diesel F150, make sure you avoid these common mistakes:

• Ignoring the total cost of ownership: The upfront price is just the beginning. Factor in fuel, maintenance, and potential repairs.
• Buying diesel for short commutes: If you mostly drive around town, the DPF system may not work properly, leading to clogs and expensive fixes.
• Skipping the pre-purchase inspection: Always have a diesel specialist look the truck over before you buy.
• Underestimating fuel costs: Diesel fuel costs more per gallon. Make sure your driving habits justify the premium.

Expert Insight: What Mechanic and Industry Experts Say

Industry experts generally agree that the diesel F150 was a well-engineered truck. The 3.0-liter Power Stroke received positive reviews for its refinement, power, and efficiency. However, many experts also noted that the diesel option was a niche product within the F150 lineup. It appealed to a specific type of buyer, but not enough buyers to sustain long-term production.

Some experts also pointed out that the diesel F150 faced tough competition from the electric truck segment. As more buyers look for eco-friendly options, the appeal of a diesel half-ton truck may continue to shrink. That said, for those who need a truck for real work, the diesel F150 remains a strong contender on the used market.

Final Thoughts on the Ford Diesel F150

So, does Ford make a diesel F150? The answer is yes, but only in the past. Ford offered the 3.0-liter Power Stroke diesel engine in the F150 from 2018 to 2023. It was a capable, efficient, and well-built engine that gave the F150 a unique edge in the half-ton truck market.

Today, the diesel F150 is no longer in production. But the used market still offers plenty of options for buyers who want one. If you are willing to pay a premium and do your homework, a used diesel F150 can be a fantastic truck for hauling, towing, and long-distance driving.

Ford has shifted its focus to electric trucks and its Super Duty diesel lineup. The era of the diesel F150 may be over, but the truck itself remains a compelling option for those who know what they are looking for. Whether you are a diesel enthusiast or just curious about what Ford offered, the diesel F150 is a noteworthy chapter in the F150 story.

If you are also curious about how diesel ownership costs compare to other truck types, or if you want to explore what Ford offers today, there is a lot to learn. The world of trucks is always changing, and the diesel F150 played an important role in that evolution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Did Ford ever make a diesel F150?

Yes, Ford offered a diesel F150 from the 2018 to 2023 model years. It came with a 3.0-liter Power Stroke V6 turbo-diesel engine that delivered 250 horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque.

Why did Ford discontinue the diesel F150?

Ford discontinued the diesel F150 because sales did not meet expectations. The higher upfront cost, diesel fuel prices, and the rise of electric trucks like the F-150 Lightning all contributed to the decision.

How much towing can a diesel F150 do?

The diesel F150 could tow up to 13,500 pounds when properly equipped. This made it competitive with many heavy-duty trucks in the half-ton segment.

Is a used diesel F150 worth buying today?

It can be, especially if you drive a lot of highway miles and need strong towing capability. Just make sure to get a thorough inspection and factor in higher maintenance costs compared to a gas model.

What is the fuel economy of a diesel F150?

The diesel F150 averaged around 22-24 mpg combined, with highway numbers reaching 28-30 mpg. This was significantly better than most gas-powered F150 engines.

Does Ford still make any diesel trucks?

Yes, Ford still offers diesel engines in its Super Duty lineup, including the F-250, F-350, and F-450. These trucks use the 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 turbo-diesel engine.