4 Most Common Ford 3.5 EcoBoost Engine Problems
Ford 3.5 EcoBoost engines came out in 2010 in the Lincoln MKS, MKT, Ford Flex and Taurus SHO. The 3.5 liter twin turbo V6 then made its way into many other Ford and Lincoln models in the following years. It’s a stout engine offering 355 to 647 horsepower and plenty of torque. Turbocharging and direct injection also help the 3.5 V6 remain fuel efficient and cleaner on emissions. Overall, the 3.5 EcoBoost is a great engine but no engine is perfect and that applies here. In this article, I discuss Ford 3.5 EcoBoost engine problems and reliability.
Ford 3.5 Twin Turbo V6 Background
Before diving into 3.5 EcoBoost problems it’s important to lay out a little background info. There are two different generations of the 3.5 EB, which we will discuss quickly below. It’s important to lay this out for a reason. Ford did a solid job with some updates in the 2nd gen 3.5 EcoBoost engine. The updates help support extra power and torque. They also address a few reliability concerns to make the 2nd gen Ford 3.5 twin turbo engine even more reliable.
1st Gen Engine
The above isn’t to say the 1st gen is a bad engine by any means. However, combining turbos, direct injection, and VVT was a new direction for Ford. There are always a few kinks to work out, and for the 3.5 V6 they were pretty minor. We’ll be diving into this in the upcoming discussion on common 3.5L EcoBoost engine problems.
Anyways, the 1st gen EcoBoost makes 355-380 depending on the specific vehicle. The smaller twin turbos are quick to spool and provide tons of low-end and mid-range torque. It makes the 3.5 EB a great engine for towing and fun around town without having to use all of the RPM’s. The 1st gen 3.5 EcoBoost is found in the following Ford and Lincoln models:
- 2010-2019 Ford Flex
- 2010-2016 Lincoln MKS
- 2010-2019 Lincoln MKT
- 2010-2019 Ford Taurus SHO
- 2013-2019 Ford Explorer Sport & Platinum
- 2011-2016 Ford F-150
- 2015-2017 Ford Expedition
- 2015-2017 Lincoln Navigator
2nd Gen EcoBoost
In 2017, Ford began rolling out the 2nd gen EcoBoost in some models. It sees a bump to 375-450 horsepower in most models. However, Ford went a step further with a 647hp variant for the legendary Ford GT. That engine, of course, receives some upgrades over the standard 3.5 EcoBoost to support the power.
Ford also introduced port-injection on the 2nd gen 3.5 V6 twin turbo engines. This helps prevent against carbon build-up, which we’ll be discussing in this article. Additionally, Ford re-designed the timing chain due to some reliability concerns with the previous design. Another thing we’ll be diving into. The 2nd gen engine is in the following models:
- 2017-present Ford F-150
- 2018-present Ford Expedition
- 2017-present Ford F-150 Raptor
- 2018-present Lincoln Navigator
- 2017-present Ford GT
If you would rather consume this content via a video, check out our Ford 3.5 EcoBoost Common Problems video below:
4 Common 3.5 EcoBoost Problems
With some of the background info out of the way let’s move onto the actual subject at hand. A few of the most common issues with the Ford 3.5 EcoBoost engine include:
- Carbon Build-up
- Timing Chain
- Cam Phasers
- Ignition System
As we sort of mentioned above, the top two problems mostly affect the 1st gen 3.5 EcoBoost engine. Ford did a great job at updating some of the weaker points with the 2nd gen engine. Again, the 3.5 EcoBoost really is a solid, reliable engine overall. Two of the “problems” we list above might not even be fair to call problems. Carbon build-up is simply a downside to using direct injection alone. The ignition system parts like spark plugs and ignition coils are also simply a downside to turbocharging.
That said, we’ll dive into these 3.5 EcoBoost problems in greater depth below. Let’s knock out a few quick notes before. Just because we’re classifying these problems as common does not necessarily mean they affect a large percent of 3.5 V6 engines. Rather, they’re a few of the most common issues when something goes wrong. Additionally, engines are prone to many other problems we’re not discussing – especially with age and mileage.
1) Intake Valve Carbon Build-Up
Carbon build-up is primarily a concern on the 1st gen engines. The 1st gen 3.5 EcoBoost only uses direct injection (DI), which means fuel is sprayed directly into the cylinders. As such, carbon build-up on the intake valves occurs over time. All engines experience some degree of oil blow-by. This oil makes its way through the intake tract where it eventually cakes onto the intake valves. Port injection has the benefit of fuel washing over the intake ports and valves. That helps wipe off the oil deposits and prevent it from accumulating.
However, when you only have DI fueling there is nothing to help clean the ports and valves. Over time, carbon deposits build-up and restrict air-flow into the cylinders. It’s not a major issue that requires immediate attention. Some DI engines even go their whole lives without having any valve cleaning. However, carbon build-up can result in power loss and plenty of other drivability issues.
With the 2nd gen 3.5 EcoBoost, Ford reduced this issue by utilizing both direct and port injection. It’s the best of both worlds in many ways since DI has many benefits over PI. However, using PI has a few benefits of its own – especially helping prevent against carbon build-up.
Carbon Build-Up Symptoms
Symptoms of excess carbon build-up on the 3.5 EcoBoost intake valves and ports include:
- Misfires
- Rough idle
- Stuttering / hesitation
- Power loss
Most of these symptoms are a by-product of the first symptom at hand – misfires. The carbon deposits can cause un-even amounts of air to enter to cylinders. This throws off the air-fuel mix and may cause the 3.5 EB to misfire. That can in turn cause symptoms like fault codes, rough idle, and stuttering. Power loss is another common symptom of carbon build-up on the Ford 3.5L turbo engine. However, it’s often hard to detect since carbon build-up occurs over a long period of time. Chances are you won’t notice power loss that occurs slowly over a several year period.
3.5 EcoBoost Carbon Build-up Fix
Once the carbon deposits become excessive then you’ll want to consider walnut blasting the intake ports. The job requires a quality shop vac and walnut media shells. Otherwise, it’s mostly just the labor in accessing the intake ports. Shops often charge $400-600+ for this job, so it’s not exactly cheap.
Fortunately, it’s not an urgent item that needs to be done quickly and you may not even want to do it at all. Carbon deposits shouldn’t cause any serious longevity concerns for the 3.5 EcoBoost. We would still want to take care of the job, regardless. Expect walnut blasting to be good maintenance to complete every 70,000 to 100,000 miles.
2) Timing Chain Problems
Specific details on the Ford 3.5 timing chain problems are hard to come by. This issue mostly affects the 1st gen engines. More specifically, it seems to primarily affect 3.5 EcoBoost engines from 2010-2014. Ford improved the part prior to re-designing it for the 2nd gen 3.5L twin turbo V6. Timing chain issues also appear to mostly affect the F-150 models more than any other. Though, it’s very possible that’s simply due to the fact the F-150 is the most popular model using the EcoBoost engine.
Anyway, the issue at hand involves stretching of the timing chain. Some problems also occur with the 3.5 EcoBoost timing chain guides, tensioner, and cam phasers. It’s a good idea to replace the entire timing chain assembly if an issue does pop up. Fortunately, Ford did issue a service bulletin for these problems. If you’re out of warranty and run into timing chain problems you may be able to work with Ford.
These problems are typically urgent and should be repaired as soon as possible. If timing chain completely fail it’s possible for additional damage to occur to the 3.5 EcoBoost engines. It’s a very rare occurrence, but it’s important to repair the timing chain in a timely manner if issues pop up. We also have a complete guide on 3.5 EcoBoost timing chain problems.
Timing Chain Symptoms
- Cold start rattle
- DTC P0016
- Check engine light
- Drivability issues
Rattling on cold starts is one of the more common symptoms that may indicate something is going on with the timing chain. Plenty of other things can cause rattle, though. Also, look for the 3.5 EcoBoost to throw the P0016 fault code which will also trigger a check engine light. Finally, once the timing chain stretches it can throw ignition timing off and cause drivability issues. This includes misfires, power loss, rough idle, etc.
Timing Chain Replacement
Replacing the timing chain and other components isn’t an easy or cheap job. It’s labor intensive and the part costs can add up. You may also consider replacing some other small items while in there. Expect timing chain replacement to add up into the thousand plus dollar ballpark.
However, many faulty 3.5 EcoBoost timing chains were likely replaced at some point. It’s a common problem on the EcoBoost, but not every engine runs into these issues. Some suspect it comes down to poor maintenance and oil change history or using 20w oils, which are too thin for the engine. Ford also issued bulletins so they’re well aware of the timing chain problems. Even if it’s not covered under warranty you may be able to work with Ford for discounts or alternative compensation.
3) Cam Phaser Issues
Next on the list of Ford 3.5 EcoBoost problems is the dreaded cam phaser rattle. This primarily affects the 2nd generation 3.5L V6 from 2017-2020. The 2nd gen engine addressed the timing chain problems, but that introduced an issue with the cam phasers. Fortunately, Ford finally fixed the cam phaser issues in 2020.
The bad news is that cam phaser issues are very common, and likely the single most common 3.5 EcoBoost problem on this list. At least for the 2017-2020 models that suffer from cam phasers the most. Ford did issue Customer Satisfaction Program 21N03, which essentially offers an extended warranty on cam phasers until January 1, 2023. However, only a portion of the cost (or even none) is covered by Ford depending on exact mileage.
The good news is 3.5 EcoBoost cam phaser problems do not affect performance or safety. As such, the 3.5L V6 cam phasers don’t absolutely need to be fixed. However, the rattle can certainly be annoying and embarrassing. It’s also best to replace the VCT phasers to avoid any other reliability concerns or problems down the road.
If you want to learn more about 3.5L EcoBoost cam phaser rattle, we’ve written an entire article about the subject.
VCT Phaser Symptoms
Symptoms of 3.5 EcoBoost cam phaser problems include:
- Cold start rattle
- Engine shuddering
The main symptom of cam phaser problems is simply rattling. It’s most common on cold starts but some also experience rattling during acceleration. In the worst cases, the rattle may be constantly present. Ford initially tried reprogramming the PCM to reduce the cam phaser rattle, per Customer Satisfaction Program 21B10.
However, the reprogramming was known to then cause engine shuddering so Ford issued 21N08. This program simply had dealers change the 3.5 EcoBoost back to its original programming to get rid of the shuddering. Ultimately, engine shuddering is another possible symptom of 3.5 EcoBoost cam phaser problems.
3.5 EcoBoost Cam Phaser Replacement
Hopefully your 3.5 EcoBoost falls within the extended warranty parameters. In this case, Ford will cover all or part of the repair cost to fix the cam phasers. If you’re outside of the warranty then it’s still a good idea to call Ford corporate; they may still provide some help even if the EcoBoost is out of the cam phaser extended warranty.
If that doesn’t work then you’ll unfortunately be paying for the cam phaser replacement out of pocket. It’s a labor-intensive job so it’s also a good idea to replace other parts in the area. We recommend replacing the timing chain, tensioner, guides, seals, gaskets, and all four cam phasers. The full job will likely run about $2,000 to $3,000 at a repair shop.
4) Spark Plugs & Ignition Coils
Well, this is mostly here because we’re out of other 3.5 EcoBoost problems. Calling spark plugs and ignition coils an “issue” likely isn’t fair. However, it’s part of the nature in owning a twin turbo, direct injected engine. Coming from the BMW world we’re very familiar with this. Turbos put a lot of stress on the ignition system in part due to the incredibly high cylinder pressures.
Spark plugs often last 70,000+ miles on naturally aspirated engines and ignition coils usually last about double that. However, with the 3.5 twin turbo EcoBoost engine the ignition components will likely wear down much faster. It’s often just standard wear and tear, but premature problems are possible. This is pretty simple stuff on any engine and the 3.5L V6 from Ford is no exception.
Ignition components can cause a plethora of symptoms and other drivability problems so don’t overlook simple spark plugs or coils. Stock 3.5 EcoBoost engines will likely require new spark plugs every 40,000 to 60,000 miles. Expect the ignition coils to last about twice as long. If you’re running a tune, mods, or driving the 3.5 EcoBoost hard then the lifespan of ignition parts can shorten drastically. Our modded twin turbo 335i with the N54 engine requires new spark plugs every 10,000 miles. Ignition coils make it to the 25,000 mile mark – if we’re lucky.
Spark Plug & Ignition Coil Symptoms
- Misfires
- Rough idle
- Stuttering
- Check engine light (misfire codes)
Plugs and coils usually exhibit these same symptoms. We typically recommend replacing all 6 spark plugs or ignition coils at the same time; especially if it’s been a while since they were changed. If you’re experiencing misfires here’s an easy way to see if a spark plug or coil is to blame. Check the fault codes to determine which cylinder(s) is misfiring. Pull the ignition coil from that cylinder and swap it with a cylinder that is NOT misfiring. If the misfire follows to the new cylinder then you’ve located your issue.
If it does not follow you can try the same with the 3.5 EcoBoost spark plugs. You may also just consider replacing the spark plugs anyways. It’s a cheap and easy repair.
Plugs & Coils Replacement
Again, the above method is a good way to determine where the issue is originating. Often it’s the spark plugs to blame since their life is a lot shorter than ignition coils. Fortunately, a set of 6 Ford 3.5 spark plugs usually comes in around $40-100 depending on where you source the parts. It’s an easy job that nearly anyone can accomplish in the driveway in less than an hour or two.
A set of ignition coils is a bit pricier at $200-300. However, it’s an even easier job than the spark plugs. Knock this out on your own or if you prefer a repair shop labor should come in under $100.
Ford 3.5 EcoBoost Reliability
Is the Ford 3.5 EcoBoost engine reliable? Yes. We believe the Ford 3.5 twin turbo engine receives above average remarks for reliability. There aren’t too many common issues that pop up on these engines. Additionally, Ford did a great job at addressing some of the problem areas with the 2nd gen 3.5 EcoBoost.
Of course, how reliable each 3.5 V6 engine is comes down to the luck of the draw in some cases. It’s one of the factors we don’t have control over. However, you can control how well you maintain the twin turbo EcoBoost engine. Change the oil on time, use quality oils, and fix problems in a timely manner if they pop up.
Take care of the 3.5 EcoBoost and it will likely reward you with a great, reliable experience. Turbo engines do add a bit of extra maintenance, but we think it’s rewarding in the end. Ford EcoBoost engines offer excellent power, torque, fuel efficiency, and towing capability. Most 3.5L V6 EcoBoost engines shouldn’t have any major issues making it to 200,000 miles or beyond. Not too bad for longevity.
3.5 EcoBoost Common Problems Summary
Not to disrespect the Ford 5.0 Coyote engine, but we believe the 3.5 EcoBoost is the clear choice if you have the option. The Ford 3.5 EB offers such a great balance of power, torque, towing, efficiency, etc. Use of twin turbos also allows for tons of tuning potential for those who want even more out of their engines. We really like the 3.5 EcoBoost, but no engine is perfect.
Earlier gen 1 engines run into some problems with timing chain failure and carbon build-up. Timing chain issues likely aren’t as common as some may lead you to believe, but it’s something potential owners should be aware of. Direct injection also naturally leads to carbon deposits on the intake valves that can cause drivability issues. Ford did a great job at addressing these problems once they realized the issues.
Otherwise, it’s important to keep in mind that turbo engines can be a little more demanding on maintenance. Spark plugs and ignition coils take a lot of abuse due to the turbo boost pressures. Turbo engines like the Ford 3.5 EcoBoost also have more parts to potentially fail. Nonetheless, turbo technology has come a long way in the past decades. Maintain the Ford EcoBoost engine well and it will likely reward you with a reliable, fun experience.
What’s your experience with 3.5 EcoBoost problems? Drop a comment and let us know!
Looking for more info? Check out our complete 3.5 EcoBoost engine guide or 3.5 EB vs 5.0 Coyote.
FAQ
What years did the 3.5 EcoBoost have problems?
The 3.5 EcoBoost timing chain problems mostly affect the 1st gen 3.5L V6 engine from 2010-2014. EcoBoost engines from 2017-2020 are prone to cam phaser issues. These failures are mostly unique to those years of the 3.5 EcoBoost. However, all years of the 3.5L twin turbo engine are susceptible to potential issues.
How do I know if my EcoBoost turbo is bad?
Common indicators of a bad EcoBoost turbo include decreased power, unusual noises (such as a whining or grinding sound), excessive smoke from the exhaust, or a noticeable decrease in acceleration. Regular maintenance, including proper lubrication and timely oil changes, can help prevent turbocharger issues.
How much does it cost to replace turbos on 3.5 EcoBoost?
3.5 EcoBoost turbo replacement cost ranges from about $1,500 to $3,000. Each OEM turbo is $550-600 and the repair for both turbos is 8-10 hours, which adds roughly $800-1300 in labor costs. It’s recommended to replace both turbos at the same time, especially if your 3.5 EcoBoost is over 100,000 miles.
Those looking for more performance might consider upgrading the 3.5L EcoBoost turbos if the OEM ones fail. Upgraded turbos run about $2,000 to $3,500 plus labor.
Is the 5.0 or 3.5 EcoBoost more reliable?
The 3.5 EcoBoost and Ford 5.0 Coyote both offer good reliability. Ford’s 3.5L V6 suffers from some issues with the timing chain and cam phasers while the 5.0 V8 has well known oil pan problems. There isn’t a clear-cut winner as to which is more reliable, and it mostly comes down to maintenance and luck of the draw.
I have a 1st generation eco boost and it is acting like it is siezed but the mechanic said the chains can lock it up so it can’t turn over. The oil doesn’t smell burnt could this be the trouble or do you have any other checks before we tear into it.
Had a 2018 Expedition, 60000 miles the timing chain had to be replaced. Due to a lot of other issues on the vehicle as well, we traded it for a 2019 Expedition with just over 20000 miles.
Just rolled over 30000 miles and now we have the timing chain slap in the new one. The issue may be rare, but I am batting 2 for 2 with it now.
I also have a 2020 F-150 with the 3.5 EB in it. SO far only about 8000 on it and no noise, but I am almost expecting it now.
What kind of noise do you hear when the timing chain goes bad.
Rattles like a mofo during cold start (after about 4 hours of not running)
Issues of concern maybe more so than other ones listed here are the fact that exhaust manifold on my right side have blown out two different times at $2,400 each time they blow
Which gen is your 3.5 (assuming it’s one)? Big differences between the two, would be helpful to know if this is a problem affecting a specific gen.
Replacing the manifolds should be a $650 dollar repair. New manifold, studs, gaskets and labor.
I have a 2019 Flex Limited AWD EcoBOOST.
It will be 2 years old in Aug and I already have 84,000 miles on her.
In summary, she’s just as tight as when I picked her up.
Just keep running full synthetic oil and PREMIUM GAS and you should do just fine!
2019 f150 3.5 eco-boost with 18000 miles on it, clacking away like a piece of junk and using oil. I should have bought a Chev with an LS motor. I am suing Ford.
That’s too bad. My 2019 with 21,000 miles on it (most of them put on this summer, hauling a large trailer 300 miles on a move) went 8,000 miles without the oil dropping from the full mark – and the trailers weighed from 5000 to 7500 lbs and were pulled at 60-70 mph. Oil level never budged, engine still runs and sound like day 1. I’ve only ever run unleaded regular in it, but always use only full synthetic. Why Ford recommends a ‘blend’ I don’t understand.
Chevy engines are have their own issues. It a crap shoot with either one. But the 3.5 ecoboost wins in the long run.
Hate to b the bare of bad news but Chevy is havn there issues also an a lot at just over 2000 miles, , all companies have there issues
394,000k on my 08 gm 2500hd just did front end at 370k! Has had an alternator and a coolant temp sensor brakes and blower motor / resistor u joints cv axles replaced and thats it! Original engine and trans shifts like new!
Good luck I have 2014 F-150 stretched timing chain. Bought used from dealer put 4000km on it and got this not happy 28 to 2900 $$ to get it fixed at the dealer
Timing chain issues being blamed on poor maintenance is hogwash. If one looks at a carfax for my truck, you will see oild changes at recommended levels. What you wont see……… My oil changes done in-between those intervals. So changing oild twice as much as needed. You will also see………A timing stretch issue with a 3000 dollar fix 117000 miles. When a guy spend 40,000 on a truck……you expect more than 100000 miles from an engine. My bad though. My last truck had the Ford triton engine, It totaled itself at 87000 when the engine seized up despite regular recommended maintenance. I should have known better. Ford equals gimmick garbage. Period
But somehow they continue to be a top seller. Every brand gets some lemons; looks like most people who buy Fords are happy enough to not switch brands next time around.
Ford made oil port holes too small there for not letting sufficient oil to all area of engine. Results in engine seizing. My 11 yr old f150 3.5 EB has 102k miles. Bought it new, PM regularly. Did full tuneup at 80k miles. Still running great. Getting ready for timing chain replacement. Hope to keep it running great for 200k.
I sold my 2004 Expedition with 5.4 Triton last may with 231,000 miles on it, only problem I ever had with engine was the plastic manifold cracked and leaked coolant. Installed the improved version and kept on trucking. I’m pretty hard on my vehicles but I do the maintenance, pull trailers and a boat with that truck. I now have a 2016 F-150 3.5 EcoBoost…. Absolutely love it.
I call bullshit on you! My old 1998 f-150 with the Triton 4.6 had 209,000 on it when it let go My current 2017 Raptor is running fine also. You are most likely beating your vehicles….
You are missing the MAIN problem with this engine, and that is the chain driven water pump being inside the timing cover. When the shaft seal fails, you wont get any indication that you are leaking water into the crank case until the engine is trash cause your oil stopped being oil and your parts aren’t being lubricated anymore, and you need to drop 12K for a rebuit engine at the dealership… Even if you check your oil every week, you may not be able to catch the damage this is doing before your engine is trash.
NO – you are mistaken. The F150 3.5 eco boost motor has had an external water pump since 2011. The 3.5 used in transverse-mount applications (I’m not sure if it’s the same motor otherwise) has it under the timing cover. F150 3.5 Eco motor does NOT have this problem. Water pump PULLEY is the one with three bolts to the right and above center.
https://bobistheoilguy.com/forums/attachments/ford-3-5-2nd-gen-png.21350/
I agree internal water pumps are a dumb idea, and so it putting the starter someplace inside the engine. Kill off that auto engine stop start and save your starter’s life for a few pennies of gas per tank.
My MKT 3,5 EB done the same thing. if i want to drive my car again i will have to buy another motor. Very bad design.
I have 2016 f150 with the ecoboost on 35s programmed with 66k on it. I run amsoil no problems. I refuse to buy another truck because it runs so good. Best of luck gentlemen.
My Man!
I had a 2011 Ford Flex that that before 105,000 miles had gone thru 3 turbos and a water pump. Horrible design with the internal water pump. Fortunately I bought it certified pre-owned so everything was covered except the 3rd turbo. It was a lease return so I’m thinking that they did the crazy recommended 10,000 mile oil changes. I really loved the car except for the reliability. Bought a Lexus RX350 and have not had one problem. Boring car but really comfortable and reliable.
Just past the 120k on my 2017 Expedition and she has been loyal to me.
I have a 2013 Ecoboost engine. A mechanic says the driver side turbo is leaking. Is that a big problem?
Hi Darold,
Knowing what’s leaking would be helpful. Is he talking about a boost, coolant, or oil leak? I am assuming oil, which means the turbo(s) could be on its/their last leg depending on the severity of the leak.
Best Regards,
Zach
I have a 2013 eco boost currently in the shop. Shop is saying the keyway that holds the timing chain cam sprocket is sheared. New motor. Can’t repair that problem. Anyone heard of this?
Our 2014 has been in the shop for the last 8 months. Originally went in for cam phaser and mechanic found the crankshaft key pin was sheered…. now it’s waiting for its 3rd engine! How long did this take for you to get resolve? I’m fed up with thus truck but bought brand new and wanting no payments. Truck only had 63k miles. Not sure if it’s the design of engine or shitty mechanics causing these issues we have been facing.
I have a 2018 F150 Lariat with 75,000 miles. Just after it turned 73,000, the engine temp started showing digits above the water temp gauge when running up hills, which I do frequently. Just got back from a trip to Albuquerque, driving west on I-40 into the wind, running the speed limit. Temps ran as high as 239deg. I backed out of it and still ran 230-234. Dealer says this is still within normal operating range. My concern is living in Phoenix with ambient temps running over 110deg in the summer, how will this affect my water temp, especially pulling a trailer up to the AZ mountains (yes we have mountains). I’ve seen numerous complaints on F150 forums about this same problem. The dealer service advisor told me I should have bought a V8 if I’m going to tow. i had a 2013 that I sold with 156,000 miles, never had a problem. The truck i have now has had to have a leaky timing chain cover and rear main seal fixed, as well as a shifting sensor and front wheel bearing.
Good information. Love my 2014 EcoBoost F150, now at 70,000 miles. My timing chain rattles on cold start, so I know the chain is stretched. My problem is finding a willing and experienced Ford repair site. I contacted a couple of local dealers and they ghosted me after I asked about chain replacement. Anybody have experience with an installer in the Southside Virginia/Raleigh Durham area?
Did you get this taken care of? I had mine replaced at Crossroads in Kernersville. Not their fault, but I’m suffering from other ignition problems now. For the 1 mpg at best I’m not sure what was gained by extra cost and a “green” concept engine. Really wish I had the V8.
Thanks for the tip, I will contact Crossroads. Meanwhile I discovered that a half quart of Lucas Heavy Oil Stabilizer eliminates dry starts. I’m amazed to hear no more rattle on cold starts. Still need to get it fixed though.
I have a 2015 Expedition with 75K miles. Bought it with 25K and immediately had coil and injector problems. Multiple coils later, failed at 75K. At dealer now – 4/5/6 bank timing chain snapped. Probably need new engine – was Ford CPO vehicle so under warranty. Both turbos leaked at 58K and 62K. I’m so happy for warranty but so unhappy with 3.5 ecoboost. This is not a reliable engine – 3.5 liters in a 6000 lb vehicle – good for gas mileage when it runs – otherwise, stupid….I thought mine was the “lemon” but it looks like this is Ford – built tough, for about 20K miles then your on borrowed time….
2012 F-150 eco boost. Timing chain/belt stretched and broke, New motor from Ford with both turbos and install $10,421.00, a week later fuel o-rings leaked, now 11months later driverside turbo is out on it with less than 15,000 miles on it. Back at shop for who knows how long or how much this will cost. Very disappointed with Ford.
I have 2013 3.5. It has 180000 miles never and issue, until during and oil change they found a oil leak at the timing chain cover. And a coolant leak at the turbo cooling tube. I had the extended warranty. The cost to fix it was 3900. My cost 1200. Not to bad putting that amount in after 180,000 miles. I did have them do the timing chain and components sence thay were that far in. That was 500 of the 1200.
Blew turbo @62k miles. Was at 10,500 since last oil change so warranty didn’t cover it.
Well have the dreaded stretched chain in the 2015 F150 I put 4000km on since bought used from Ford Dealer last March. I called Ford Canada customer service and after giving them my Vin said can’t do anything truck to old. But he made sure to say welcome to the Ford family lol.
So $3600 all out my pocket. Hell will freeze over before I ever spend another dime at that dealership
200400 miles on my 3.5EB. Low power issues. Dealer wanted $13000 to replace engine. NFW!! Took it to an independent shop, replaced timing chain, cam phasers, plugs and coils and water pump. $3500. Twin turbos to be replaced later. Great ruing truck now. Looking forward to at least another 100k miles . Turbo replacement around $2500.
I have a 2014 F150 Platinum with 95,000 miles. Recently had plugs replaced. Rough idle.
Mileage has declined. Dealer says engine has a coolant leak at the turbos. Buying time, regular top off of coolant. Can this damaged engine? Love this truck. Retired contractor who has many trucks. Like your post.
J M
I’ve been a die-hard Ford Customer forever. I’ve owned 3 Mustangs, 3 Explorers, and 2 F-150’s. I purchased a 2016 Ford F-150 3.5L Ecoboost Supercrew 4×4. I’ve owned the truck for close to 3yrs with no issues until now. I bought the truck with the Ford Certified Preowned Warranty up to 100k miles. The truck recently started loosing coolant and when the temp outside was less than 70 degrees, I’d crank it up and a ton on white smoke like stuff would bellow out the exhaust pipe, like I was polluting the ozone layer. My truck has 66k miles on it and I took it to my local Ford Dealership here in DeLand FL this morning. I just got a txt from the service department stating the issues; 1) Coolant leaking at turbo coolant tubes $159.95, 2) R&I Both Turbo To Repair Coolant leaks $3083.98, for a grand total of $3,502.72! I follow the service intervals to the T. These coolant tubes are not contained in the service manual, so I don’t understand why it wouldn’t be covered under warranty. To say I’m angry is an understatement, especially considering they are telling me it’s not covered under CPO……Also from doing lots of research this issue is wide spread! If they don’t step in and do anything to assist with this, I will no longer be a Loyal Ford Customer?
I’m a first time Ford/long time Mopar man. I have a 2017 F150 King Ranch 3.5T. Bought it used with 39,000 miles. Nothing but trouble since then. Two of those cheapish plastic oil pans replaced; one cheap transmission pan replaced; water pump. And now both cam phasers and timing chains, the works. Only 73k. This is very disappointing, as the truck really shines when running.
i have just bought a 2015 f 150 with 240,000 kms on it .when the engine has been running for an hour or so, it somtimes makes a steel on steel noise, sort of like a wheel rubbing on something of a metalic nature. when i shift the truck into 4×4 high mode, the sound stops !!! ride it in that mode for 2 or 3 minuits, and re shift it to 2 weel mode, and it starts up again . I do this 2 or three times, and the sound completly dissapears…. What in the world can cause this???
Just bought a 17 King Ranch super crew with the 3.5 eco turbo. Truck had 126,000 on it. 5 days got the internal engine component malfunction alert shows up on my Ford Pass and engine light. Truck is back at the dealer being worked on. According to them they are currently doing 2-3 timing chains a week for the last 5 months, most being 2020 models. starting to miss my 5 liter V8 2012 FLT, was only getting 12-13 mpg but 190K + no engine issues.
I also have a 2017 King Ranch SC 3.5 T. It is a joy to drive, however, not pleased with the yearly maintenance of either the oil pan leaking, water pump, transmission pan R/R, and last week, the whole face ripped off to R/R the cam phasers and timing chains. Ford quoted me $4800, but HQ paid 40%. Shocking.
good day guys. need your help please. is camshaft holding tool same for 1st gen and 2nd gen motors (3.5 ecoboost)
I’ve got “jtc 4460” and manual says that it good for 2011-2014 models
Can you tell me if the turbos on a 2017 EcoBoost Gen 2 are oil cooled or cooled with anti freeze? Thanks
Hi Andy,
The turbos on the Gen 2 3.5 EcoBoost are technically cooled by coolant, oil, and air, with coolant and oil doing most of the heavy lifting. The 3.5 EcoBoost has both conventional and auxiliary electric oil and water pumps to continue pumping at a slower rate after the engine turns off, requiring no cooldown time unless the engine was run very hard. It is actually a pretty common issue for 3.5 EcoBoost turbo lines to leak coolant at either the fitting on the turbo itself or at the fitting on the head at the rear of the engine. As a result, there are quite a few aftermarket turbo coolant line upgrade kits available for the 3.5 EB that are better heat shielded and come with AN fittings. Hope this helped!
Best,
Austin
Austin, Thanks for your reply ! I’ve been around diesels most of my life (CAT, Cummins, Detroit, etc.) However this is my first 3.5 EcoBoost. Great information thanks!!!!
Just had the face torn off of my 2017 F150 3.5 turbo. Both cam phasers, timing chains and guides, etc.
Ford quoted me $4800, and paid 40%. I think dealers are now inflating the price and factoring in that the customer will only pay 60%, which is about what it should cost, and in fact, I had a quote from a private mechanic for $3200, but they could not secure any timing chains, so I just took it to Ford.
I find this more than annoying that on a modern-day engine, you need to RR this sort of thing at 73,000 miles. We used to rebuild our muscle cars engines in high school (1979) after 50k. Hell, that was 50 years ago. They can’t make a reliable engine today? I’m disappointed in Ford engines. However, I will say the truck glides smoothly and is a joy to drive. Tows great. Not sure if this is enough to keep me in the Ford family.
Anyone have issues with coil replacement on #2? On my forth coil and only have 14k total miles on 2021 F150 3.5 EB Powerboost. Yes, plugs were changed and still can only get about 3k on #2. All other coils are still factory.
I was told that Ford uses a cylinder or two to short out to expedite warm up in the cats. You can feel the misfire for around 20 seconds when cold and clears up, do not know if that is true?
Anyone have similar issues?
I replaced the plugs and boots on my Gen2 EcoBoost , I bought after market boots from my local “O” store trying to save money. After a month one of the boots shorted out thru a mold seem and my engine started to skip. I replaced them with OEM, no problems after that.