2013 Ford F250 Fuel Tank Capacity

The 2013 Ford F-250 Super Duty features three primary fuel tank sizes: 26 gallons for short-bed models, 35 gallons for long-bed gasoline models, and 37.5 gallons for long-bed diesel models. Understanding which configuration you own is essential for calculating your towing range and planning stops during long-haul trips.

If you have ever been deep in the backcountry with a heavy trailer, you know that fuel anxiety is a real thing. Watching that needle drop while searching for a station that fits a 22-foot truck and a 30-foot camper can be stressful. Understanding your 2013 ford f250 fuel tank capacity is the best way to eliminate that guesswork and travel with confidence.

In this guide, I will break down the exact specifications for every cab and bed configuration offered for the 2013 model year. We will also look at how engine choice changes your range and explore options for increasing your capacity if the stock tank just does not cut it. Whether you are a weekend warrior or a full-time hotshotter, this data is vital for your vehicle maintenance and trip planning.

We will cover everything from factory specs to common fuel system issues and aftermarket upgrades. By the end of this article, you will know exactly how much fuel your truck holds and how to get the most out of every drop. Let’s dive into the technical details of the 2013 Super Duty fuel system.

Table of Contents

Ford designed the 2013 F-250 with modularity in mind, which means the fuel tank size depends heavily on the wheelbase and the fuel type. The truck’s frame length dictates how much physical space is available between the driveshaft and the frame rails. Because of this, you cannot simply assume every F-250 has the same “large” tank.

Short Bed Models (6.75-Foot Bed)

If you drive a SuperCab or a Crew Cab with the 6.75-foot short bed, your truck likely came from the factory with a 26-gallon fuel tank. This applies to both the 6.2L V8 gasoline engine and the 6.7L Power Stroke diesel engine. While 26 gallons is plenty for daily driving, many owners find it a bit small for heavy towing, as it limits your range to roughly 250-300 miles when under a heavy load.

Long Bed Gasoline Models (8-Foot Bed)

For those running the 6.2L Boss V8 gas engine with the 8-foot long bed, Ford equipped these trucks with a 35-gallon fuel tank. The extra frame length allowed engineers to fit a longer plastic reservoir. This extra 9 gallons provides a significant buffer for those who use their trucks for work or long-distance hauling.

Long Bed Diesel Models (8-Foot Bed)

The 6.7L Power Stroke Diesel in a long-bed configuration receives the largest factory option: a 37.5-gallon fuel tank. Diesel engines are generally more efficient than gas engines, and when paired with this larger capacity, the 2013 F-250 becomes a true long-distance cruiser. This setup is the gold standard for owners who prioritize maximum range between fill-ups.

How to Verify Your Truck’s Configuration

Sometimes, buying a used truck means you are not 100% sure of its original factory specs. If you are unsure about your 2013 ford f250 fuel tank capacity, there are a few foolproof ways to check. Do not rely solely on the fuel gauge, as the “reserve” amount can vary between trucks.

First, measure your bed length. If it is roughly 81 inches, you have a short bed (26 gallons). If it is about 98 inches, you have a long bed (35 or 37.5 gallons). You can also look at your VIN sticker located on the driver-side door jamb. This sticker often lists the wheelbase, which you can cross-reference with Ford’s technical specifications.

Another method is to check the tank itself. Crawl under the driver’s side of the truck and look at the fuel tank. Often, there is a part number sticker or a molded-in capacity marking. If the sticker is still legible, you can search for that part number online to confirm the exact volume. This is especially helpful if a previous owner installed an aftermarket tank.

Real-World Range: What to Expect While Towing

Capacity is only one half of the equation; the other half is fuel economy. The 2013 F-250 is a heavy-duty machine, and its consumption varies wildly based on what you are doing. For the 6.2L gas engine, expect 12-15 MPG empty and 7-9 MPG when towing a heavy trailer. This means a 26-gallon tank might only give you 180 miles of safe driving range before you need to hunt for a station.

The 6.7L Power Stroke diesel is more efficient, often seeing 15-18 MPG empty and 10-12 MPG while towing. With the 37.5-gallon tank, you can comfortably cover 350-400 miles even with a fifth-wheel attached. This is why the diesel long-bed configuration is so popular among the RV community and long-haul transporters.

Always remember to account for the “Reserve” fuel. Ford’s Distance to Empty (DTE) calculation usually leaves about 2-4 gallons in the tank when the light comes on. While it is tempting to push it, running a diesel engine completely dry can cause air to enter the fuel lines, necessitating a tedious priming process or even damaging the high-pressure fuel pump.

Common Issues Affecting Fuel Readings

Even if you know your 2013 ford f250 fuel tank capacity, your gauge might not always tell the truth. One common issue in the 2013 model year is a failing fuel sending unit. Over time, the sulfur in the fuel or general wear can corrode the contact points on the float arm, leading to erratic readings or a gauge that never shows “Full.”

Another issue specific to these trucks is the “slow fill” problem. This usually happens when the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system or the tank vent becomes clogged with dust or spider webs. If the pump clicks off every few seconds while you are trying to fill up, your vent line likely needs a quick cleaning or replacement.

For diesel owners, the Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) tank is a separate entity entirely. Do not confuse the two! The DEF tank on a 2013 F-250 holds approximately 5 gallons. While it does not affect your fuel capacity, running out of DEF will put your truck into “limp mode,” significantly reducing your speed and power until the tank is refilled.

The “Harpoon Mod” and Fuel Tank Venting

If you find that you can never quite get the last few gallons into your tank, you might be interested in the “Harpoon Mod.” This is a popular DIY project among Super Duty enthusiasts. Inside the tank, the vent tube extends several inches down into the reservoir. This creates an air pocket at the top, which prevents you from filling the tank to its absolute maximum capacity.

By “harpooning” or trimming this vent tube, you allow air to escape more easily during the refueling process. This can often “increase” your usable 2013 ford f250 fuel tank capacity by 2 to 4 gallons. However, be careful; this modification requires dropping the fuel tank, which is a heavy and potentially dangerous job if you do not have the right transmission jack or supports.

I recommend only attempting this if you are comfortable working with fuel systems. Always perform this task when the tank is nearly empty to reduce weight. Ensure you are in a well-ventilated area and have a fire extinguisher nearby. Safety should always be your primary concern when modifying any part of the fuel delivery system.

Aftermarket Upgrades for Increased Range

If the factory 26 or 35 gallons is simply not enough for your adventures, the aftermarket has several solutions. Companies like Titan Fuel Tanks and S&B Tanks offer high-capacity replacement reservoirs. These tanks are made from heavy-duty cross-linked polyethylene (XLHDPE) and can often double your carrying capacity.

Replacement Tanks: These replace your factory mid-ship tank. Some versions for the 2013 F-250 can hold up to 50 or 60 gallons in the same location.
In-Bed Auxiliary Tanks: These sit in the bed of the truck and plumb directly into your filler neck. They can add 30 to 100 gallons of extra fuel.
Transfer Tanks: These are great for off-roaders or farmers who need to carry fuel for other equipment but can also be used to refuel the truck manually.

Installing a larger mid-ship tank is a “pro” level DIY task. You will need to recalibrate your truck’s computer so the Distance to Empty reading remains accurate. This can usually be done using a tool like FORScan or by visiting a local dealership. Having 60 gallons of fuel on board changes the game for cross-country towing, allowing you to bypass expensive stations and stop only when you want to.

Fuel System Maintenance Tips

To keep your fuel system healthy, regular maintenance is mandatory. For 6.7L diesel owners, you must change your fuel filters every 15,000 to 22,500 miles, depending on your driving conditions. The 2013 model uses a two-filter system: one under the hood and one on the frame rail that also acts as a water separator.

Always drain the water separator monthly, especially if you live in a humid climate or buy fuel from high-volume truck stops. Water is the enemy of modern diesel injectors. If the “Water in Fuel” light illuminates on your dashboard, pull over immediately and drain the separator using the yellow twist valve on the frame-mounted filter housing.

For 6.2L gas owners, the fuel filter is typically “lifetime” and located inside the tank as part of the pump assembly. However, you can prolong its life by avoiding running the tank extremely low. The fuel in the tank actually acts as a coolant for the fuel pump. Consistently running on “E” can cause the pump to overheat and fail prematurely.

Frequently Asked Questions About 2013 ford f250 fuel tank capacity

How many gallons does a 2013 Ford F-250 diesel hold?

The capacity depends on the bed length. A short-bed (6.75′) diesel holds 26 gallons, while a long-bed (8′) diesel holds 37.5 gallons. Always check your wheelbase to confirm which version you have before planning long trips.

Can I swap a 26-gallon tank for a 37.5-gallon tank?

Generally, no. The 37.5-gallon tank is physically longer and requires the extra frame clearance found in long-bed trucks. If you have a short-bed truck and need more fuel, you should look into aftermarket high-capacity tanks specifically designed for the shorter wheelbase.

Why does my fuel light come on when I still have 5 gallons left?

Ford designs a “reserve” into the 2013 ford f250 fuel tank capacity to protect the fuel pump and ensure you don’t get stranded. This reserve helps cool the pump and accounts for fuel sloshing when driving on inclines or uneven terrain.

Does the 2013 F-250 have a fuel drain plug?

Most factory plastic tanks on the 2013 F-250 do not have a dedicated drain plug. If you need to empty the tank for repairs or to remove contaminated fuel, you will usually need to use a siphon pump through the filler neck or drop the tank and pour it out.

Is there a difference in capacity between 2WD and 4WD models?

No, the fuel tank capacities remain the same regardless of the drivetrain. The primary factors determining the size are the engine type (Gas vs. Diesel) and the bed length (Short vs. Long).

Final Thoughts on Fuel Management

Knowing your 2013 ford f250 fuel tank capacity is more than just a trivia point; it is a fundamental part of being a responsible truck owner. Whether you are sticking with the factory 26-gallon setup or upgrading to a massive 60-gallon aftermarket beast, understanding your range allows you to focus on the road ahead rather than the needle on the dash.

Remember to always prioritize safety when working on your fuel system. Check your filters regularly, listen for unusual pump noises, and never ignore a “Water in Fuel” light. A well-maintained fuel system ensures that your Super Duty remains the reliable workhorse it was built to be for many years to come.

Stay safe on the roads, keep an eye on those gauges, and enjoy the incredible capability of your Ford F-250. Happy hauling!

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Robert Lozano

Robert Lozano is the founder of Engine Needs. With a passion for engines and automotive technology, he provides expert reviews, guides, and advice to help drivers make smarter vehicle decisions.

2013 Ford F250 Fuel Tank Capacity – The Ultimate Guide To Range