Your truck’s wheelbase isn’t one of the flashier features on the specification sheet, but it does make a significant impact. A proportional wheelbase improves handling and balances weight distribution across the axles—two essential characteristics for hauling and driving on rough terrain.

For further elaboration, the

Jerry

app has curated this complete guide to understanding the wheelbase of your Super Duty truck. We’ll cover how it differs across F-250 configurations, how to measure it, the pros and cons behind its length, and how different models stack up to each other.

And if you stick around long enough, we’ll even

show you how to save hundreds

on your annual car insurance. Let’s dive in!

What is the wheelbase of a Ford F-250?

With six different trim levels, three cab configurations, and three bed length options, the Ford F-250 is one of the most customizable trucks on the market. As a result, wheelbase specs will vary anywhere from 142 to 176 inches, depending on how you build your dream truck.

Here’s the full menu of wheelbases according to cab and bed configurations:

Regular Cab: 141.6 inches

Short Bed SuperCab: 148 inches

Long Bed SuperCab: 164.2 inches

Short Bed Crew Cab: 159.8 inches

Long Bed Crew Cab: 176 inches

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Why is wheelbase important?

First of all, let’s clearly define what your wheelbase is: it’s the distance between the front axle and rear axle. You could also measure this from the center of your front and rear hubcaps if you don’t want to crawl under your truck.

Your vehicle’s wheelbase is a fundamental part of your driving experience. Shorter wheelbases tend to handle sharp corners better and are easier to parallel park, while longer wheelbases can balance a greater payload and are harder to pitch and roll.

Key Takeaway Your vehicle's wheelbase dictates many advantages and disadvantages of your driving experience.

MORE: Ford F250 towing capacity

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How has the wheelbase changed over the Ford F-250 model years?

After almost two decades of consistency, the Ford Super Duty lineup (F-250 to F-550) got a fundamental redesign. The frame is now made from 95% high-strength steel, and the body is made from 6000 series military-grade-strength aluminum alloy.

Here’s how the fourth-generation redesign impacted wheelbase specifications:

First generation (1999 to 2007): 137 to 172.4 inches

Second generation (2008 to 2010): 137 to 172.4 inches

Third generation (2011 to 2016): 137 to 172.4 inches

Fourth generation (2017 to present): 142 to 176 inches

The new materials of fourth-generation F-250s resulted in about 700lbs of weight savings. In theory, the wheelbase needed this rebalancing so that the truck didn’t lose payload capacity—but does there really need to be a logical reason to justify a bigger truck?

How does the Ford F-250 wheelbase compare to other models?

The bigger the wheelbase, the bigger the truck. So if the F-250 is a little too much truck for you to handle, Ford has plenty of other options that are not part of the Super Duty lineup—take a look:

Model	Cab size	Wheelbase
Ford Ranger	All cabs & configurations	126.8 inches
Ford Maverick	All cabs & configurations	121.1 inches
Ford F-150	Short bed regular cab	122.8 inches
Ford F-150	Long bed regular cab	141.5 inches
Ford F-150	Short bed SuperCab	145.4 inches
Ford F-150	Long bed SuperCab	164.1 inches
Ford F-150	Short bed SuperCrew	145.5 inches
Ford F-150	Long bed SuperCrew	157.2 inches

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Long wheelbase vs. short wheelbase: which is better?

Asking which is better is a bit of a loaded question because there’s no right answer. Optimal wheelbase length is entirely determined by your driving habits and preferences.

For example, short wheelbases are great for city-driving—you can zip around tight corners with ease and easily parallel park into even the trickiest spots. On the other hand, long wheelbases are optimal for off-roading as the weight of the vehicle is more widely distributed, which helps prevent potential rollovers.

How to save money on car insurance for your Ford F-250

Did you try to squeeze your Ford F-250 into a parking space you probably shouldn’t have? Did you dent your bumper on that car behind you? We’ve all been there.

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