Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2017 Ford F-350
The 2017 Ford F-350 has some concerns based on owner complaints and recalls. Steering and suspension issues are the most documented problems, with 266 and 201 complaints respectively. There are two recalls: one for engine block heater corrosion and another for potential door unlatching upon side impact. However, evidence from recalls and complaints is somewhat limited. Buyers should conduct a thorough inspection and test drive.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2017 Ford F-350 has 2 NHTSA recall campaigns and 484 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #18V894000 Block Heater Cable Splice Connector May Corrode NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V331000 Door may Unlatch in a Side Impact Collision NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Steering 266 complaints
- Suspension 201 complaints
- Wheels 55 complaints
- Unknown or Other 39 complaints
- Structure 35 complaints
- Electrical System 22 complaints
Of the 484 complaints on file, 5 report a crash and 4 a fire; across all 484 complaints, owners report 3 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Steering problems reported
How to check: Look for unusually loose or stiff steering during a test drive.
Suspension issues reported
How to check: Check for uneven tire wear and listen for noises when driving on rough roads.
Block heater corrosion
How to check: Inspect the engine block heater for any visible corrosion.
Door unlatching risk
How to check: Verify door latches properly and securely during inspection.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Loud knocking or ticking sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for rough idling or vibrations.
Red flag: Engine hesitates or stalls
- 03
First braking
What to check: Ensure brakes respond smoothly and quietly.
Red flag: Grinding or squealing noises
- 04
City driving
What to check: Observe steering responsiveness and alignment.
Red flag: Steering pulls one side
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check for vibration or unusual power issues.
Red flag: Shaking or loss of power
- 06
High-speed cruising
What to check: Notice wind noise or door sealing issues.
Red flag: Excessive noise or drafts
- 07
Parked inspection
What to check: Look under the vehicle for leaks.
Red flag: Pooling fluids or strong odors
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the block heater been inspected?
- Are there any steering repairs?
- Have the door latches been serviced?
- Any recent suspension work done?
- Is there a history of electrical issues?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Service records
- Recall repair documentation
- Accident history report
- Title and registration papers
- Extended warranty details
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2017 Ford F-350 at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2017 Ford F-350? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.