CP4 High Pressure Fuel Pump

drjjj

Senior Member
Joined
May 6, 2006
Posts
472
Location
San Antonio
I am about to turn over my 2015 F350 SuperDuty Platinum Diesel. It only has 77K miles on it, and has been impeccably maintained. Only issue I have had is the turbo went out a couple of years ago, replaced with a new one (ouch!). I have a SIL who wants to buy it, and he is a pretty darn good mechanic. He has heard about the CP4 fuel pump failures, but mainly in prior to 2015's. He wants the truck, but wants to be prepared for issues when he can. He already knows putting DEF in the fuel tank is bad (DUH!), but has asked about additives to the fuel for pump lubrication (I have never done this), a "disaster prevention kit" to keep particles out of the pump, and even putting in an aftermarket DCR pump. I am a retired veterinarian, so if it doesn't bleed I don't work on it :). I would greatly appreciate the thoughts of the experts I know we have on MOC. TIA.
 
I have no idea - but Grok AI said this…

The 2015 Ford F-350 Super Duty, particularly those equipped with the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel engine, has a range of reported mechanical issues based on owner experiences, technical service bulletins (TSBs), and automotive reviews. Below is a summary of the most common mechanical issues, focusing on recurring problems noted in available data:

1. Turbocharger Issues (6.7L Power Stroke Diesel)
• Problem: Owners have reported turbocharger failures, often due to issues with the variable geometry turbo (VGT) system. Symptoms include loss of power, excessive smoke, and check engine lights.
• Cause: Common causes include carbon buildup, faulty actuators, or issues with the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system affecting turbo performance.
• Frequency: Frequently mentioned in owner complaints and forums, particularly for high-mileage vehicles or those used for heavy towing.
• Fix: Cleaning or replacing the turbo, updating software, or addressing EGR system issues. Repairs can be costly, often ranging from $1,500 to $4,000.

2. Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) System Failures
• Problem: The EGR valve and cooler can clog or fail, leading to reduced engine performance, rough idling, or limp mode.
• Cause: Carbon buildup in the EGR system is common in diesel engines, especially under heavy use or short driving cycles that prevent proper system cleaning.
• Frequency: A recurring issue in diesel F-350s, noted in owner reviews and TSBs.
• Fix: Cleaning or replacing the EGR valve/cooler, sometimes requiring aftermarket solutions like EGR delete kits (though not legal in all regions). Costs typically range from $500 to $2,000.

3. Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Problems
• Problem: The DPF can become clogged, triggering regeneration issues or reduced fuel efficiency. Some owners report frequent regeneration cycles or DPF failure.
• Cause: Heavy towing, stop-and-go driving, or poor-quality fuel can exacerbate DPF clogging.
• Frequency: Common in diesel models, especially in vehicles not regularly driven at highway speeds.
• Fix: Cleaning or replacing the DPF, which can cost $1,000–$3,000. Some owners opt for DPF deletes, though this may violate emissions regulations.

4. Fuel System Issues
• Problem: The high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) in the 6.7L diesel engine, particularly the Bosch CP4 pump, is prone to failure, which can send metal shavings through the fuel system, causing extensive damage.
• Cause: Contaminated fuel, water in the fuel, or pump wear under high loads.
• Frequency: A well-documented issue in diesel truck forums and some TSBs, especially in 2011–2016 models.
• Fix: Replacing the HPFP and potentially the entire fuel system (injectors, lines, etc.), with repairs costing $5,000–$10,000 in severe cases.

5. Suspension and Steering Issues
• Problem: The “death wobble” is a notorious issue, where the front end shakes violently at certain speeds, often after hitting a bump.
• Cause: Worn or loose suspension components, such as tie rods, ball joints, or track bars, often exacerbated by heavy loads or off-road use.
• Frequency: Commonly reported in Super Duty trucks, particularly in 4WD models.
• Fix: Inspecting and replacing worn components, aligning the front end, or upgrading to aftermarket steering stabilizers. Costs range from $200 to $1,500.

6. Cooling System Leaks
• Problem: Radiator or intercooler leaks have been reported, leading to overheating or loss of coolant.
• Cause: Faulty seals, corrosion, or damage from heavy-duty use.
• Frequency: Moderately common, especially in high-mileage trucks or those used for towing.
• Fix: Replacing the radiator, hoses, or intercooler, with costs ranging from $500 to $2,000.

7. Transmission Issues (6R140 TorqShift)
• Problem: Some owners report harsh shifting, slipping, or premature transmission wear in the 6-speed automatic transmission.
• Cause: Software issues, overheating under heavy loads, or inadequate maintenance.
• Frequency: Less common than engine issues but noted in owner complaints and some TSBs.
• Fix: Transmission fluid flush, software updates, or, in severe cases, rebuilding/replacing the transmission ($2,000–$5,000).

8. Electrical Issues
• Problem: Faulty sensors, wiring issues, or problems with the instrument cluster, such as erroneous warning lights or gauge malfunctions.
• Cause: Complex electronics in the 2015 model, including issues with the DEF (diesel exhaust fluid) system sensors or glow plug modules.
• Frequency: Moderately common, particularly in diesel models.
• Fix: Diagnosing and replacing faulty sensors or wiring, costing $200–$1,000 depending on the issue.

Notes:
• Gasoline Engine (6.2L V8): The gas-powered F-350 tends to have fewer issues than the diesel, with most complaints centered around fuel pump failures or throttle body issues, though these are less frequent.

• Recalls and TSBs: The 2015 F-350 had several TSBs addressing issues like EGR, DPF, and transmission software updates. Check with the NHTSA or Ford for any outstanding recalls on specific VINs.

• Owner Insights: Forums like Ford-Trucks.com and posts on X highlight turbo, EGR, and DPF issues as the most frequent, especially for diesel owners who tow heavily or have high mileage (100,000+ miles).

• Maintenance: Many issues can be mitigated with regular maintenance, such as using high-quality fuel, changing fluids on schedule, and avoiding short trips that prevent DPF regeneration.

Recommendations:
• Check Vehicle History: Use the VIN to check for prior repairs, recalls, or TSBs applied.
• Preventive Maintenance: Regularly service the EGR, DPF, and fuel system, and monitor for early signs of turbo or suspension issues.
• Warranty/Extended Coverage: Consider an extended warranty for diesel models, as repairs can be expensive.
 
S&S DCR Pump: $2400 part only. No idea on labor
S&S Disaster Prevention Kit: $400 Kit only. No idea on labor. It’s basically a filter to limit particle spread if the pump goes.
Both available from Amazon, S&S Diesel, and other distributors.

Diesel additive to prevent help lubricate the CP4 pump: 5-10 cents per gallon depending on brand. I use Opti-Lube XL and learned about it here.

Now that our ‘21 truck has reached the 100K mile ext warranty limit, may opt for the disaster kit. Based on YouTube videos, I think I can DIY. The DCR pump is not in our budget. (I suppose a pump failure isn’t in the budget either). Maybe one or both will be on sale for Black Friday?
 
For fuel additive I've had very good results with Archoil AR6500 Diesel Treatment. On my RAM 3500 I used to have persistent issues with excessive regen, and since using the Archoil the problem has vanished. I've also noticed ~10% improved fuel economy since starting with the Archoil. I highly recommend it!
 
We have a 2016 F350 Crew cab Super Duty Lariat.
I have read up on the Bosch CP4 fuel pump failures.
Note: the rate of failures compared to number of Bosch CP4 fuel pumps deployed in ALL diesel engines in the USA is small.
HOWEVER IT IS VERY EXPENSIVE !!!
If failure happens, it seems to occur around 100K miles. We are at 98K.
The problem is the ultra low sulfur diesel fuel. It lacks the lubrication that diesel has in other countries.
For the last few years I've been adding
Archoil AR6500 Diesel fuel Treatment.
I'm seriously thinking about changing the CP4 fuel pump SOON.

At 80K the torque converter in the transmission went out. $4,000.
 
I’ve been using fuel additives, since the advent of ulsd. Our older equipment was not designed to run on diesel with reduced lubricity so an additive was needed. I have always used Power Service and Stanadyne products. My truck is the only thing diesel that I have now, and even though it has the “improved version” of the CP4 pump that was post the recent unresolved recall, I still dose it with the fuel additives as though it was not designed for ulsd at all when we are on the road and about half that when not pulling.
I have not experienced any fuel system issues in any of my stuff.
As far as my truck, I drain off about a cup of fuel out of the chassis filter drain port once per month into a glass container to have a look at what if anything is in there and change both fuel filters annually or 15k miles.
There are other good additives, but if you are interested in power service products, check your local Cummins dealer. A few years back, Cummins and Power Service entered a marketing agreement together and surprisingly, I can get Diesel Kleen there considerably cheaper than on line or Walmart
 
The Ram went to the CP4 briefly , I believe they had a recall , and installed the CP3 . That should tell you something about the reliability of the CP4 . On top of being problematic, from what I’ve read water in the fuel can also be the kiss of death .
 
I have a 2016 F250 6.7 with 95,000 miles. I highly recommend the S&S disaster prevention kit. Think of it as an insurance policy. It’s around $400 and I installed it myself. If the CP 4 goes out without it, it can be about 10k to fix. With it, only the pump has to be replaced instead of the entire fuel system. I also run Hot Shots Secret every day fuel treatment with every fill up. The disaster prevention kit also filters the fuel going back into the tank.
 
Did that once. Didn't last 10 Months.
That’s unfortunate. Mines lasted now going on 12 years . Bought new 2014 Ram 6.7 diesel 3500 . Has towed my fifth wheel all over the mountain west . At my age , I see no reason to get another truck , this one only has 84k on it .
 
To be fair, it was back when they were still Dodge. I do like the look of the newer Ram trucks though. My brother has two of them.
 
To be fair, it was back when they were still Dodge. I do like the look of the newer Ram trucks though. My brother has two of them.
I have two sons , one is a Ram fan , usually buys a new one about every 4 years, his current one is a 2022 . I was a Ford guy until then . My other son is a ford guy because I was . He calls us both traitors driving Ram trucks . :)
 
I get it. Used to be a big Chevy guy myself. Loved the old 350 engine. Easy to work on and find parts.
 
My 2019 has 197K. 1 front hub issue and auto 4x4 issue. That’s it so far. Nothing other than that but regular maintenance.
 
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I have a 2012 Duramax. 2023 I had REALLY bad luck. The turbo stuck open pumping a lot of fuel into the engine. The killer was the #2 injector went bad and apparently was wide open. So the cylinder got flooded and washed the oil off the walls and eventually scored the walls. Found pieces of metal in the pan when all was said and done. No new Duramax from Chevy available, so found a used one with 60k miles. Shipped in a wooden crate, but upon delivery it got dropped and dented the pan and broke off a few external parts. So we used some parts from the old engine and got on the way. A thousand or so miles later fan belt kept shredding or disappearing! Apparently the fan got bent when engine dropped. Eventually replaced the fan (after it got sent to Memphis instead of Bozeman!
That was a real fun summer. I was hoping for the expected 200K or more from the Duramax. Oh well.
 
Sorry about your experience. I drive a Ford so I’m not critical of Chevy but none is trouble free. Trouble like this does shake your confidence but don’t forget they aren’t all like this.
Lynwood
 

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