National Motorists Association Blog

By guest writer Alvin McGrew

The 3.5L Ecoboost engine is undoubtedly powerful and effective. Ford designed this masterpiece as a replacement for its former V8 engines. However, nothing’s perfect, and this engine is no exception. It comes with some common problems that are thankfully fixable.

What is the 3.5L Ecoboost Engine?

The 3.5L Ecoboost is a Ford turbocharged mechanical system built for power and torque. Although this engine may have a smaller framework than its predecessor, the V8, it appears to be more functional. The fuel efficiency, exhaust emission, and power were greatly modified.

Since its appearance on the market in 2009, Ford has made significant upgrades over the years. The first-gen variant of the 3.5L Ecoboost is in the Ford Explorer, Platinum, F-150 (2011 – 2016), and some Lincoln series. The second-gen edition can be found in Ford F-150 vehicles (2017 – upwards).

The 3.5L Ecoboost is a durable engine and you could expect longevity of about 250,000 miles. However, you should conduct regular maintenance on the engine to keep it in good working condition.

3.5L Ecoboost Engine Problems

Due to certain problems, Ford regularly revamps the engine to ensure that it retains its reputation. We would consider three common problems with this turbocharged machine.

Timing Chain Problems

The timing chain problem was predominant in the first release of the engine. It became a major source of concern because it began to affect other parts of the engine’s assembly. In some cases, you will find it extending to the tensioners and cam phasers.

The timing chain problem could arise from nonchalance towards changing the oil because the mechanism was sensitive. No driver loves having this problem because it is costly to repair. It takes a long time to complete the repair, and one wrong move could render the engine unusable.

On the bright side, this issue was present in the first-gen variant and was rectified in the second. It is also avoidable by changing your oil as recommended.

Symptoms

•     DTC P0016 Error Code
•     Engine light indicator
•     Cold starts rattling
•     Loss of power

The earlier you discover this problem, the better for you. Pay attention to the symptoms, and it would save you some extra cost.

Causes
The major cause is an irregularity in oil change. The 3.5L Ecoboost engine has a schedule for regular oil replacement. If you fail to change the oil on time, this problem will arise. The 3.5L Ecoboost happens to have a sensitive timing change mechanism. Therefore, you cannot afford to be lackadaisical in your oil-changing routine.

Solutions
The most reliable solution is to replace the timing chain. It is best to take it to an auto repair shop, especially if you don’t know what to do. However, if you feel that the cost is too much and you can perform the necessary repairs, follow online tutorials.

Ignition System Problems

Ignition issues come from the spark plug, and you will quickly notice them. The 3.5L Ecoboost’s assemblage comes with a direct injection fuel system accompanied by a twin-turbo system.

Although these mechanisms effectively dispense power to the combustion system, they could exert too much load on the ignition system.

Over time, the spark plugs and ignition coils begin to wear out. It doesn’t occur instantly, though; the wear and tear continue with continual engine use. On average, the spark plugs can work for about 70,000 miles, while the ignition coils could bear it for about 150,000 miles. The issue isn’t much of a big deal to most drivers, as replacing spark plugs isn’t so costly.

However, if ignored, ignition system faults can escalate and cause more problems in your 3.5 Ecoboost engine. Propose a specific mileage to check on your spark plug and ignition coils to ensure durability.

Symptoms
Spark plugs and ignition coils deal directly with the kick starting of your engine, so the signs are obvious:

•     Engine misfires
•     Engine light indication
•     Shutters

These symptoms are something that a careful driver would easily observe.

Causes
The wear and tear of spark plugs are inevitable and bound to happen in a mechanical system. It is only pronounced in the 3.5 Ecoboost because of the direct injection fuel system. Make it a routine to regularly check your ignition system to gauge the degree of wear and tear.

Solutions
You don’t need any major repair work. Replacing the worn-out parts would rectify the fault. You can replace your spark plug by yourself. If you feel capable, get a new one, and a few DIY videos would help you in the step-by-step way to replace it.

Coolant Leaks

Coolant leaks came much later in the second-generation variants of the 3.5 Ecoboost engine. The coolant’s location is within your reach when you open the hood of your engine. This problem is easy to identify.

If the coolant level is low, you will suspect some forms of leakage around the area. Check below your car and around the coolant area before concluding that it is the issue.

Symptoms
When the coolant is leaking, the engine becomes unusually hot. The coolant does the job of suppressing the heat from the engine. If you notice a high-temperature signal from the engine indicator, open your hood and check yourself.

Causes
The turbo fittings of the 3.5 Ecoboost can cause coolant leakage. However, it is not usually the case all the time. No car owner ever wants issues with turbo fittings because replacing them is an enormous expense.

Solutions
While there is no exact solution for this problem, you could conduct a mini-inspection on your own. Check all connections around the coolant region and make sure everything is tight. If the leaking persists, the problem might be with the turbo fitting. You will need an auto expert if that is the case.

Final Thoughts

These are all the common 3.5 Ecoboost problems. Many would read through and become skeptical about the engine’s efficiency; that should not be the case. The 3.5L Ecoboost is undoubtedly powerful and effective.

These problems are minor issues that come along. And when they occur, do your best to discover them early enough as that tends to save extra costs.

I’m Alvin, a car mechanic, and blogger. I am co-founder of off-roadinternational.com – an off-road blog to share Tips & Trick for Off-road vehicles and review top off-road-related products.

I have over 7 years of experience in the field and now I want to share it with everyone who has the same off-road hobby. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter.