2002 Ford F-250 Super Duty Overview

by | Feb 19, 2025 | F250

The 2002 Ford F-250 Super Duty continued to be a top choice for heavy-duty work, towing, and off-road applications. This year marked the final model year for the legendary 7.3L Power Stroke diesel, making it a highly sought-after truck.

2002 Ford F-250 Super Duty Trim Levels & Features

Trim Level
XL (Base Model)
XLT (Mid-Level Work Truck)
Lariat (Luxury & Performance Mix)
Key Features
- 5.4L V8 Gas Engine (6.8L V10 or 7.3L Diesel optional) - Vinyl seats & flooring - AM/FM radio - Manual windows & locks - Black grille & bumpers - 16” steel wheels
- Cloth seats - Power windows & locks - AM/FM radio with cassette or CD - Chrome grille & bumpers - 16” alloy wheels - Cruise control
- Leather-trimmed seats - Power-adjustable driver’s seat - Woodgrain interior trim - Premium audio system - Fog lights - Keyless entry
Best For
Work truck, fleet use, budget buyers
Work & personal use, budget-friendly with more features
Balanced comfort & towing, ideal for daily use & work
Note: King Ranch and Platinum trims were still NOT available in 2002.

2002 F-250 Super Duty Engine Options & Towing Capacities

Engine
5.4L Triton V8 Gas – 260 HP / 350 lb-ft Torque
6.8L Triton V10 Gas – 310 HP / 425 lb-ft Torque
7.3L Power Stroke Diesel V8 – 250 HP / 525 lb-ft Torque
Max Conventional Towing
7,800 lbs
10,000 lbs
12,500 lbs
Max 5th-Wheel/Gooseneck Towing
10,000 lbs
12,500 lbs
14,500 lbs
Max Payload
~3,050 lbs
~3,600 lbs
~4,300 lbs
The 7.3L Diesel remained a top choice for heavy towing and long-term reliability. However, this was the final model year for the 7.3L Power Stroke, as Ford planned to replace it with the 6.0L Power Stroke in 2003.

2002 F-250 Super Duty Cab & Bed Configurations

  • Cab Choices: Regular Cab, SuperCab (Extended Cab), Crew Cab
  • Bed Lengths: 6.75-ft Short Bed, 8-ft Long Bed

Optional Packages & Features by Trim Level

XL (Base Work Truck)

  • STX Appearance Package (adds chrome bumpers, grille, and 16″ alloy wheels)
  • Power Equipment Group (adds power windows, locks, keyless entry)
  • XL Décor Package (adds upgraded trim and sound insulation)
  • Snow Plow Prep Package (heavier alternator, wiring for plow)
  • Camper Package (heavier suspension for carrying campers)

Best For: Budget buyers, fleet trucks, worksite use

XLT (Mid-Level Work Truck)

  • XLT Convenience Package (adds cruise control, tilt steering wheel)
  • FX4 Off-Road Package (adds skid plates, off-road tuned shocks, limited-slip differential)
  • Camper Package (heavy-duty rear suspension & stabilizer bars)
  • Trailer Tow Package (integrated trailer brake controller, extra cooling)
  • Snow Plow Prep Package (for heavy-duty plowing needs)
  • Chrome Package (adds chrome grille, tow hooks, exhaust tips)

Best For: Those wanting a well-equipped work truck with more comfort

Lariat (Luxury & Towing Balance)

  • Lariat Convenience Package (adds premium audio, dual power seats)
  • FX4 Off-Road Package (adds off-road shocks, skid plates, hill descent control)
  • 5th-Wheel/Gooseneck Hitch Prep Package (adds in-bed hitch mounting points)
  • Chrome Package (adds chrome mirror caps, exhaust tips, tow hooks)
  • Snow Plow Prep Package
  • Camper Package

Best For: Those who want both towing power & comfort for daily use

2002 F-250 Super Duty: What’s New Compared to 2001?

1. Final Year for the 7.3L Power Stroke Diesel
The 7.3L Diesel remained unchanged, but 2002 marked the last full year for this legendary engine before Ford introduced the 6.0L Power Stroke in 2003.

2. Interior Refinements

  • New steering wheel design for a more modern look
  • Improved gauge cluster readability

3. FX4 Off-Road Package Added
Ford officially introduced the FX4 package in 2002, replacing the previous “Off-Road Package.” It included:

  • Skid plates
  • Off-road tuned shocks
  • Limited-slip rear differential
  • “FX4” decals

Which Trim & Package Should You Get for Towing?

  • For Heavy Towing (14,000+ lbs with 5th-Wheel or Gooseneck): → 7.3L Diesel, F-250 Lariat, 5th-Wheel/Gooseneck Package
  • For Light-Medium Towing (7,000-10,000 lbs): → XLT or Lariat with the Trailer Tow Package
  • For Off-Road & Towing: → FX4 Package + Diesel Engine (on XLT, Lariat)

Should You Buy a 2002 F-250 Super Duty Today?

Pros:
✔ Legendary 7.3L Diesel (Last Year!) – Known for incredible reliability and durability
✔ Tough, Work-Ready Design – Built for heavy-duty work, towing, and off-roading
✔ Multiple Cab & Bed Configurations – Adaptable for personal & work use

Cons:
✘ Aging Interior Features – No touchscreen, basic radio options
✘ Fuel Economy – The 7.3L Diesel and V10 are not fuel-efficient
✘ Rust Issues – Some models may show rust, especially in the Midwest & Northeast