Ford F150 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Engine **Heavy Mechanic Review** | The Best Half-Ton Engine ??
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 27 พ.ค. 2023
- I Review a 2023 Ford f150 3.5L EcoBoost v6 engine as a heavy duty mechanic. This ecoboost engine puts out 400HP and is very quick. I dive into the engine specs, fuel economy (mpg) heavy towing and why this twin turbo charged engine can make so much power out of a small displacement. I also give you 5 benefits of owning this f150 engine.
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I hope everyone is having a good weekend. Today I had the pleasure of reviewing this ecoboost engine. It actually blew me out of the water how fast this truck is. I was very surprised.
today I review this3.5 L ecoboost engine and talk about 5 things that I really like about this ford f150 engine. firstly I like that it is built in Ohio. I also love that 90% of peak torque is availible at 1,700rpm which really helps with towing and acceleration. I was surprised about this given this engine is a twin turbo charged set up.
I also talk about the changes made to the second gen ecoboost engine that launched in 2017.
the big upgraded included port fuel injection alongside direct injection to minimize carbon issues. secondly ford changed up the timing chain issues and moved to 2 timing chains. they also bumped the power numbers up from the original ecoboost engine.
Next week I'm going to towing with this engine to give it a full real world review and we'll get to see real world fuel economy and torque.
overall I think ford did a good job with this engine and I like what I saw!
hope you guys liked the video. - ยานยนต์และพาหนะ
Had a 13. 3.5 Ecoboost + optional 3.73 gear ratio = unstoppable towing. Ended up going to an F250 6.7L but it was never because of reliability or power. I traded the Ecoboost at 114k miles. Never a single issue. It was a great truck.
Thats awesome. I imagine with that gearing the truck was an awesome towing truck. With 3.31s it was crazy impressive
The 6.2 Boss was far more reliable but nothing can compete with the midrange power of the 3.5TT.
I was a "Chevy Guy" all my life. I was 55 when I bought a new F150 3.5 EcoBoost. I now have 130,000 miles and very minimal issues. Been VERY happy with it. I live in WI so having the aluminum body has been great. I'd buy again.
Have power boost with 3.73 since 2021 and it has been so fucking great for towing.
You picked a good time to move up to another
I also had a 13 Ecoboost. At about 135000 kms the tensioner on the timing belt decided to give me problems. One of Ford’s Tech issues that quite expensive. First off, the timing cover has to come off. That requires basically removing everything from the front of the motor. Just to take the cover off is $1000 plus whatever the problem is. Behind that cover is everything timing, plus the oil pump, the fuel pump and the water pump. At that mileage and the cost of just taking off and putting that front cover back on, I decided to replace the other 3 things.
$3700 later it’s was done. Can you imagine replacing those parts separately plus a 1000 each time.
Ford Tech.
I just got rid of it last fall. I actually get to keep some money in my pockets now.
221k on my 2012 ecoboost 3.5 v6 . Still running great!
Good to know.. just bought a 2013 with 220k miles 😂
@@VanquishAudiowe traded out a work truck w 275k on it. That’s the reason I’m looking for one 😂
Glad I bought the 2.7 instead of the 3.5. Plenty of power and better gas mileage. Very happy so far.
Curious as to what gas mileage you are getting out of the 2.7
Ive got a 15 lariat with max tow package and i absolutely love my truck. It pulls like a dream and i usually average about 17mpg (sometimes 18) when not towing. Frequent oil changes. Only issue i have with it is trying to keep my foot out of it because its fun.
2015 F150 Ecoboost owner and I love it. 105k miles without issue. Tows like a diesel
I can confirm when I was towing this thing pulled very well. It impressed me
Me too, have a 2015 ...love it!
Same here
Well I got the 2012 3.5 EB. I’ve owned many trucks and by far it’s my favorite. Lots of power for what it is. Bought it with 93 k and now I’m at 167k never had any issues with the engine. Regular maintenance, keep the oil clean for the turbos. Only thing I will tell people with the earlier models, the twin turbos have an est life span of 150k. It’s a pain in the neck to change them yourself, almost impossible unless you have a shop with a lift and every tool you need.. Also don’t put any additives in the oil or gas, it breaks down the oil that goes into the turbos which keep the bearings lubricated. Those bearings are under enough heat spinning that fast they need the lube. Also one thing or problem the 11’s, 12’s, 13’s and so on have is problems with the engine sputtering, hesitating and just plain losing power when you step in it on the Highway say to pass. Well, many people thought it was the catastrophic problem of carbon buildup on the valves do to the direct injection. Most all the mech blogs were making that claim but it was false. The problem was in the inner cooler. It built up an exhaust sludge sort of like if you had water and oil on your dip stick. Anyway it lays in the bottom of the inner cooler until it eventually fouls the engine when it runs into the turbos. FIX: After months of trying to figure out what was wrong it narrowed down to the inner cooler as the culprit. You need to take a 1/16 drill bit and drill a small drainage hole in the bottom left hand rear corner (drivers side) of the inner cooler. This fixed the problem perfectly. The only downside is you will have to give up 1 lbs of turbo pressure on average. Not noticeable at all and when I drilled the hole you should have seen how much oil sludge came out of it. That’s the fix for my 2012 and it worked like a charm but I had to give up a pound of boost due to the small hole. But this was way better then giving up all that performance not drilling the whole. I drilled that two years ago and the truck is still running great.
Solid comment.👍
I have a 2020 Transit Van T-150 crew model with the 3.5L EcoBoost and 10 speed transmission. I got the lowest roof and shortest wheelbase available so it fits in my garage. It's got the towing package and all wheel drive. This thing is a joy to drive. It's a rocketship. Smooth even power at all RPMs. I don't often pull a trailer so i can't comment on that but it handles heavy payloads like nothing. I get about 19 mpg on average. It has about 45000 miles on it and I've had no problems. I put a catch can on it early (300 miles) and I've run Mobil 1 synthetic since day 1. I've changed oil more regularly than manufacturer suggests because i think turbo charged engines are tougher on oil in general. I change it around 5k to 7k depending on driving conditions. I was a "dyed in the wool" Chevy guy and always had fuel injected V8s but this EcoBoost is no joke. Most powerful truck I've owned. I live in Arizona USA and drive to Wyoming at least once a year. There are mountainous stretches of highway with 80 mph speed limits and pretty steep grades. That EcoBoost with 10 speed goes up like nothing. Cruise control doesn't budge and you can't feel it downshift. Other drivers think because it's a van, it must be slow lol. No respect until they just can't keep up in the hills lol. I hope i don't have the high mileage problems that some folks report because at 45000 miles and 3 years of ownership, I'm still giddy about the performance of this truck. I have a short TH-cam video on my channel of the van when i first got it if anyone is interested. Sorry I'm so long winded but it's my best truck so far and I've owned quite a few.
I remember taking trash about these back in 2011, saying a full size truck with a V6 is not a real truck. 10 years later I bought a 3.5 Platinum and it's been the best truck I've ever had. 90% of torque available at like 1,700rpm makes this thing a BEAST at towing. When not towing, that torque just means you shift at 2k rpm and still get moving. The max tow package comes with a 36 gallon tank = 600 miles of range if I'm easy on it. Torque right off the line like an electric truck, range of a Prius.
If its so good then howcome Ford didn't put one in the Super Duty as a base gas engine?
What gears?
@@CJColvin Same reason you don't put the 7.3L gas engine in a Ranger -- that's an order of magnitude change in service conditions. Look at the numbers, and you'll get an idea. The 3.5 was designed for a full-size truck. At a certain point you are overtaxing the design.
@@kdcarver What job do you have and how much money do you make to afford that overpriced EcoBoost truck of yours with ease?
@@CJColvin , I am not sure what my finances have to do with the suitability of an engine for a use case, but I'm a retired engineer, and I'm currently going back to school for a degree that interests me. My EcoBoost is 13 years old. I just sold my 2002 5.4L F150, so I am knowledgeable about both engine types. I tend to keep vehicles awhile as I don't like to waste money on the "newest and best".
I have a 23 powerboost max tow XLT and I just towed my 27ft toy hauler to Utah and back. 10,800 lbs on the CAT scale and I was so impressed by the power. Its unbelievable what they are getting out of these engines today. I cant be happier with this truck. Also the fact that it can make the 5.0 look bad in a drag race!
Very well done. I own a 2018 3.5 and I love it. I tow a travel trailer, and it pulls like nothing is back there. I had a 2010 with a V-8 and this tows much better.
The 2021 and up 3.5 ecoboost engines are rated at 400hp and 500tq not 375 470. Cam phasers where also updated in the 21 and up engines and are not prone to failure as much as the 2017-2020 trucks. Also timing chain is is updated to 2 chains instead of one big chain which eliminates the cold start rattle by using 2 Tensioners instead of one. Also water pump is located on the outside unlike the front wheel drive models which had problems when the water pump failed and got coolant in the oil.
I have a 21 F-150, 2.7L ecoboost. Very fast, low end torque is crazy! Even with the smaller size it still puts in work.
I know several people now with over 300,000 miles on their Ecoboost F-150’s. I hope I can do the same on my 2022 3.5. Only 22,000 miles so far, but this motor performs unlike any other.
I just got 2018 F150 3.5l ecoboost XLT with upgraded towing & payload packages, upgraded 200amp battery, performance upgrade. $35k only 19,895mi. Have had it about a month. I put in a K&N performance filter. Pushing 400-425hp.
The previous owner upgraded nearly everything & only drove it 3mo out of the year, towed a 12ft travel trailer to National Parks. I feel fortunate to have found it.
Been getting 19.2mpg total tank.
On a trip got 23.1mpg. 3 of us, full bed of luggage, 20gal water, etc.
still learning all the capabilities/options, overall I really like/enjoy it.
We have the 2011 F-150 3.5 and so far it's been a great truck. Bought used it had 12000 miles on it and now we have 270000+. My next truck will be F150 with ECOBOOST, best service out of trucks we owed.
Thats awesome you have had such reliability out of your 2011. It seems like its a mixed bag with these engines. Some people have issues and others have absolutely none
That's because Ford is awful at making engines, the 150 has the worst mpg vs all other half tons. Might as well get a 3/4 ton, get the same mpg and better truck.
Ram was smart enough to know they make awful engines so they put someones else's engine in their trucks, Ford does make good chassis though.
Curious, do you use synthetic oil or premium fuel?
I bought a 2011 3.5 because my 5.3 slug didn't like pulling my enclosed trailer. Ecobeast pulls the 10,000 pounds just fine down the highway. I like how the truck will apply the trailer brakes in case of trailer sway. 207,000 miles, and still strong.
What ingredients does it have to make the Ecoboost so strong, tough, and durable?
I had the first gen 3.5 2012 and now a 2021 gen 2. Both are exceptional trucks. Sold the 2012 with 180,000 miles. Zero issues. The power has just blown me away. Milage has been great too. When I get another new one it will a 3.5 also.
Love my 19' F150 with the 3.5 Ecoboost, amazing engine for towing
my towing experience was incredible, I honestly thought I messed up the weight because it towed it soo well.
Great Video, I have the tiny 2.7 Ecoboost, tow a 4,500 lb. Camper 4 to 6 times a year. Been perfect so far, not the first problem and has plenty of grunt for this old man. Get 20.4 in town, around 23 highway and 12 trailering. 90,000 mile and been the best vehicle I’ve ever owned so far. Stay on top of oil changes and I let the Turbos cool maybe 2 minutes before I shut her down. First Turbo vehicle I’ve ever owned and I was nervous at first, only down side is a V8 goes by, man they sound so good!
My dad and I just used our 2016 Expedition EL to tow my aunt's Jeep Patriot over 200 miles yesterday. That thing handled it no problem. What a beast these motors are. We averaged around 15mpg while towing it.
I have a 2018 F 150 and I have gotten 26.7 on the highway all day long. Also I pull a stick & tin 34' Travel trailer, which is 6496 lb dry weight. Have now problems pulling my trailer.
I have a 2014, I have had to replace Throttle Body. Truck showed no sign of a problem. I started it one day, it hesitated then died. The computer had Throttle Body code. I ordered OEM Throttle Body. Installed myself and wahlaa. Truck ran perfect. Throttle Body failure happened around 115K Miles. Now truck has 140K miles.
Have a 2019 F150 with the 3.5l and 3.31 axles. Rented a 26 foot travel trailer at 8,000 pounds GVW for a family camping trip to Palo Duro State Park. Did the trailer thing to maintain my version of marital bliss. First time towing with the truck. Departing the canyon with a 13% grade was fine. No unusual trouble at approximately 10 pounds boost. Could run at 75 mph (120 kph for our northern friends) on flat sections at 2,200 rpm and 7th Geer. While 8,000 pounds is about the top end I’d feel comfortable with, the truck never got squirrelly. Only thing that surprised me was how thirsty it was at 7.5 mpg (3.2 kpl).
I had a 2013 3.5 with the 3:31. I liked it. I only see the 3:31 available with the 5.0 these days.
I'm not sure where this guy gets his info from, but the ecoboost didn't come out until 2010 in the Ford taurus SHO and the Lincoln MKS. In 2007, it was a naturally aspirated 3.5l v6. The twin force name was during development before they figured out its final name, the ecoboost.
In 2007 ford released an MKS concept car with the 3.5L twin turbo set up. I guess it was not until 2010 until the MKS and Taurus could be optioned with the ecoboost.
Have 4 eco boosters in my fleet. The 3.5 twin turbo in my SHO is my favorite with the 2.7 a close second, other 2 1.5's are great gas savers. I run catch cans on all of them with oil changes every 3k. No major problems with any of them.
I just wish the transversal 3.5, 3.7, and 3.5 EcoBoost did not have a timing chain driven water pump. It still gives a warning when it is beginning to fail, but most people ignore it until coolant starts mixing with the oil.
What internals does it have that makes em so strong and durable?
Awesome EcoBeast 💨
Good video I’m looking forward to the rest of the series
Thank you sir!
I currently own a 2014 F150 3.5 EcoBoost. I put a catch can system on it early. It has had the oil changed with synthetic oil since 1st oil change. No issues period. Only thing I have done is change the plugs,after 60,000 miles you need to change them my only bitch .....260,000 miles.
Great video! I’ve been eyeing used 2017-2019 Fords with this engine. The low end torque is what really draws me to it.
The low end torque is actually incredible. It really impressed me
Aaron it is an impressive, strong engine! My engine of choice
Better wait until Ford publicly addresses their parts supply problem. My mechanic has a '17 F-150 Ecoboost in their garage that's been there for 6 months and still no word on parts. I was told I might get a new valve cover in 8-9 months. Oil pans are +2 years backordered right now. You're taking a serious risk buying a used Ford right now.
2017 Explorer Platinum has the 3.5L EcoBoost engine, and my dealership had to wait a month to get twin turbo replacement parts in to fix a coolant leak issue.
I have a 2017 3.5 I abuse it and have 207000 miles on it and it has been a great truck and really reliable
Nice review. I've had a 2023 F-150 "Rattler" for about 2 months with the 3.5L EB and trailer tow package. I initially wanted the 5.0 engine but have to admit I'm impressed with this 3.5L engine. Plenty of power. Very smooth and comfortable. It hauls my 3,500 lb r-pod travel trailer around no problem.
@working_country ___ yeah and my dad can beat up your dad! lol
Agree with folks that dispute mpg claims. My 3.5 2018 gets just around 21 with mixed driving according to the computer. If I do gas pump math it tends to be at least 1 mpg less. Highway I can get to 23+ if I don’t go over 65 or so on flat grades. Faster legal speeds and slight grade changes spin up the turbos and mpg takes about a 10% hit.
Fuel economy goes right out the window when my wife takes the wheel.
I've had three 2015,2018,with 65,000 now 2021 power boost 430hp 570 ftlb best damn motors ever had. The 3.5 has great power and good fuel economy.
I have a 22 Lariet with a 3.5 and 3.55 gears. I have a tune for 87, a lot of fun to drive and never have to push it past 3500 rpm. Dealer told me to do regular oil changes before the truck tells you to and it will last. No towing issues, very happy and 13.4 L/100 here in Canada.
I've got a 2011 F-150 with a 3.5 EcoBoost it has 278,000 plus miles on it. It's a great truck I drive. Only issues I've ever had is a battery and a fuel pump. So far North Elmwood my timing chain has been great and I've never had a carbon buildup.
No problem with the timming chain or any carbon buildup. I hate autocorrect!
Thats awesome! My co-worker has around the same mileage as you on a 2013. He says the only thing hes really replaced on his truck is a 4x4 actuator
15’ F150 as of June 23’ still have it 190,000 miles. A few issues tho’ ECM replaced i bricked the first one with a tune. Then two used finally went to a new ECM let’s see. Replaced coils and plugs, IWE and Hub, replaced O2 sensors, replaced one broken skirt on piston #4 replaced lane departure cámara, replaced two front axle seals. Recently drained “all” fluids. Yes, a few costly repairs but I do want to get another 200k miles out it. Let’s see. Has always talented me and family in many trips.
I have a 2013 3.5 ecoboost and found the best way to get optimal fuel economy is with the cruise control. Anytime you spool slightly the fuel greatly decrease. Best on highway 26 mpg, flat surface.
Also with ac or air off and tires properly inflated
My work had a fleet of 3.5 ecoboosts. (Well over 100 trucks) MANY of them had engine problems. They were having to tow them in quite often. It was under 50% of them, but still. And we never saw the claimed mpg advantage. More recently they only order the 5.0 V8s. Those have been dead reliable except for electronic issues. I saw enough that I would never buy an eco boost.
Same here mate
I had a heavy tow 2015 3.5l eco with 3.31 rear. Pulled my 7400# trailer like a dream going up large hills and passes were no issues when the turbos kicked in; away you go. Went to a 5L v8. The eco pulls better. Now running a 7.3 Godzilla in a f350. Heavier truck but the 7.3l feels about the same.
Exactly what I was looking for
I have an OG 2011 F150 3.5 still, 178k miles. Lifted, cat back exhaust, 35's, zero issues. I had to replace ignition coils here and there, and change my own spark plugs often because of the turbos but the engine is great. Treat em good and they treat you good. I also tow my 78 bronco often through mountains, Atv, etc.
I operate a 2013 F150 that is a work vehicle. I work for a trailer manufacturer and regularly tow trailers from the east coast to OH, WV, etc. It's all uphill. My thoughts: under load, with a load, this thing will pass anything on the highway but a gas station. Let me be fair. 10 MPG is not bad, all things considered. Truthfully, it's a beast with power galore. I have a very thorough shop caring for this truck, and the 230k on the clock with original internals and turbos will vouch for that. The key is oil changes. Mine average from 3-5k, no more.
Also I had a P0299 *underboost condition* which autoshop said the turbos needed replacing ($5700 job/ $3000 parts). When it just needed the blow off valve replaced ($70 part 30mins) easy quick job.
193k on my 11 ecoboost and all original everything engine wise. Oil changes done every 5k miles and runs like a top with no issues. These engines get a bad rap due to poor maintenance. Blow by thins the oil and when not changed religiously causes premature wear on things like timing chain. If you maintain the 3.5 it’ll last!
Really excellent history of the eco boost! Great analysis overall!!!
Excellent review nothing overstated or pushed quite accurate delivery solid what's not to like
Kool vid, ty for sharing it, ya these 2.7 and 3.5 engines really are awesome for power and I was surprised how well they performed on low octane fuel ... did you ever review a titan?
I have not got my hands on a Titan yet!
I towed my 8,500 lb travel trailer with my 2021 Expedition Platinum (3.5L EcoBoost w/10 speed transmission - 400hp/480tq) from Virginia to Yellowstone and crossed the plains of Iowa and South Dakota with a hell of a head wind and at my worst got 7.3mpg. After the total cross country trip I had averaged 10.3mpg over 10,000 miles. I couldn't ask more out of it in regards to towing, even at elevation. The only thing that caused me any stress was the size of the fuel tank, it is an Expedition after all......
Might add that I have the 3.73 gear in my Expedition, which is the smallest gear you can get on it. Best for towing.
I like the fuel economy on this model. Thank you for the education!
Anytime for you Lindsay
I have the 2011 f150 3.5 ecoboost with 410,000 miles and it’s been awesome. I don’t like the 10 speed transmission I love the 6 speed
wow that's a high mileage unit. any major component failures?
@@TheGettyAdventures the worst thing I ha
@@TheGettyAdventures was the transmission pcm $1500 otherwise 1 water pump and a 4WD shift motor
I have an "18 F150 3.5 Ecoboost, With 167,000 mi. had to have the oil pan replaced since the oil pan was weeping @ 130K mi. Replace the high pressure fuel pump at 166k mi, now it is in again with a bad replacement high pressure fuel pump and needs rocker that drives the fuel pump. This is my daily driver and use it to pull a fifth wheel camper. It had no issues pulling a fifth wheel with plenty of power. Fuel mileage began to drop at about 130k miles.
having a 2014 3.5 ext. cab it is cool how easy it moves a 5500 lb truck with no effort i agree either eco or boost but dam it feels good in boost has been a good truck for me
the driving experience was honestly shocking. I could not believe how fast this truck was and how easily it towed 8,500lbs.
Just traded my 2012 ecoboost for a 2023 ecoboost. No problems with my previous truck after 11 years!
I'm very glad my 3.5 Eco can run on regular - filling the 36 gallon towing tank even with regular is an unpleasant experience - at premium prices, big OUCH!
This engine is the only thing that is keeping me in a 1/2 ton truck. I tow a 7k lb travel trailer alot (15k miles last year). The low end torque is incredible. I pull hills at 2500 rpm compared to my last 3/4 ton gasser at 5000 rpm. On long drive days the quiet and smooth power is just so much nicer than a roaring V8 ( I do love the V8 sound just not all day long when towing). I really should have a 3/4 ton for my use case, but diesel doesn’t make sense financially and the gassers just do not compete with the 3.5. That being said I do not plan to keep one out of the 60k mile powertrain warranty.
very well said Adam! and in my next video when I tow 8,500 ish pounds with this truck it absolutely crushes it. I could not believe how well it towed that weight. A 5.7 would of been revving as you said at like 5k but this eco boost just kept to like 2,500- 3,000 rpm the whole time. very impressive
I would say the 7.3 Godzilla very much competes with the 3.5.
@@Retadin It’s definitely close as far as hp and torque (although Ive always found it comical that the 1/2 ton 3.5 bests it on torque). Just not sure it’s as enjoyable to tow with- higher rpm and more noise. When we are traveling pulling our camper I’ve got my wife and 3 kids in the truck- I need all the quiet I can get. When the ecoboost has to dig in and pull a hill about all you hear is a little turbo hiss. The godzilla is on my shortlist for when I need to replace my current truck in a year or so for sure, just not sure I can come to terms with the noise…
@@TheGettyAdventures Love your videos! I accidentally pulled 10k lbs in a dump trailer over the weekend (overloaded by the gravel pit). I was shocked at how it handled it from a power perspective- felt no different than my 7k travel trailer. Stability was a little sketchy as my truck is a ‘21 F150 Tremor so the suspension is definitely a bit soft towing without weight distribution. My only concern is long term durability when you use it as hard as I do.
I really wish Ford would upsize an ecoboost and strengthen it for HD use. Seems like they could do something like a 5 liter size with turbos and get 500hp and 600+ lbft of torque without pushing it too hard while hopefully getting 14-15mpg unloaded. That would dominate the HD gasser segment and probably even steal from diesel sales- my guess is the latter is why they haven’t already done it.
@@TheGettyAdventures Thry are amazing tow trucks, Previous to my F150 eco-boost I had a Duramax diesel in my work truck is a GMC 8.1 big block.They both were tuned with tow tune on the Dmax the ecoboost out pulled it all day long . Very impressive performance,effortless pulling power.
70,000 miles on my 2.7. Some recommend changing spark plugs at 60,000, but the engine still feels like new to me. I love the low end torque and almost silent exhaust tone. Reminds me of the 4.9 inline six in my first F150. I hope it is as bulletproof as that engine was. So far so good.
Ya the first thing I notice when driving this engine is how silent the power is. And when those turbos kick in you are gonw
I have a 2016 2.7 with 200,000 miles I change the plugs around every 35,000 miles and the oil at no more than every 5,000 miles although it is beginning to get the cold start wastegate rattle on the drivers side turbo, but other than that still runs strong.
@@AreaThirteenThirteen Mine is a 2019 and it's had a cold start waste gate rattle since I bought it new. I think the turbos on the 2.7 are just really rattly...🤷♂
Thanks for the explanation. I somewhat understood how turbos work, but you put it into easy terms. I know...I know, Ill go turn in my man-card before I leave
Great video! Very educational
Updated on new “Gen 3” 3.5 *21-23 is you have different wastegate arms controlling the turbos from the ewg (less prone to rattle) the oil squirters are huge, they also did different intercooler (cac) where the cac is more separated from the radiator so your getting cooler temps. Along with electric vents on the grill that adjust airflow. Different exhaust (no flex pipe) Thats just what I compared externally.
I have a 2013 3.5L EcoBoost with max trailer tow package, 4 wheel drive and locking differential. Milage 85,000 miles. Other than oil changes (synthetic oil only), no major issues. I tow a 2-axle trailer through the California desert, 2 to 3 times per summer, from sea level to 8,000 feet. Machine can tow easily, and keep cool inside and out. It also my daily commuter in stop and go traffic. Milage runs 9 to 11 mpg with trailer, and without trailer mixed HWY and Traffic 15 to 20 mpg. At about 60 mph, (approx 1,800 RPM) in ideal conditions, barely touching throttle, on freeway I was able to get 25mpg. The negative is the chrome, while in the desert at 110 degrees, don't touch the chrome, burned the back of leg from running board getting out of truck.
Have a 2012 supercab 4x4 . Love how fast these trucks are. Has so much low end torque. It only has 107000 on it.
It blew me away how fast these engine are.
Thanks for this review, especially the technical details. You mentioned that you wanted owners to post their experiences so you can learn, too. So below is a synopsis of my ownership.
I'm the original owner of a 2011 F150 FX4 SuperCrew (door plate reads production Feb 2011) with about 112,000 miles. It's been the best engine I've ever owned in a truck. I live in Texas, but on multiple occasions, I've easily pulled ~10,000 pounds up mountain passes in New Mexico and Colorado, even accelerating when needed during the climb. Fuel economy has been so-so (I average about 16-17, with a lot of city driving).
I've had some accessory / trim issues over the 13 years I've owned the truck, but they were more headaches than real problems. The only engine issues I've had were 1) a bad fuel incident requiring new spark plugs and injectors, 2) coolant hoses that started to leak after about 115k miles, and 3) the turbocharger intercooler/exchanger being oversized by design.
That last quirk was a strange thing to diagnose and only affected those of us in Texas and similar states where we can get a huge swing in temperature in a humid air mass during a winter "norther" (when you Canadians send us a cold front to remind us what real weather is like). In this situation The exchanger would over-cool the saturated air, and moisture would drop out, stalling the engine -- not great if you are trying to pass or enter a highway at speed. The solution was to cover the exchanger partially with a piece of plastic Ford designed. Haven't had a problem for the 10 years after the fix was installed.
I did not know these engines could be tuned better than other gasoline engines. If you have any suggestions on tuners, I'm all ears as I'd like to get a bit better fuel economy with my truck.
I had not heard of the "cam phaser" and single-cam belt issue you mentioned. I'd like to know more about this as I'd like to keep my truck for a few more years. I've heard rumors that the turbos last only to 150,000 miles. If this is true, I am approaching that mark in about 38k and it may be prudent to trade for a new model. But with the good track record I've had with this unit, I may try my luck, considering new F150s can reach $75k modestly equipped!
In my experience with the 3.5s. No problems. I get high 21s to low 22s mpg on long highway trips. Obviously tons of power. Only thing i cant stand is the wastegate linkage rattle. Sounds terrible when just lugging around town. Good video 👍
Solution: drive in boost everywhere
Hook a soft spring to the linkage and attach it to a solid point of the turbo or nearby. Keep slight tension and it won't rattle if that bothers you.
@ShikiKaze thank you. Yes I did that about 2 years ago. I'm sure by now they've stretched. The springs actually do work well
Have a 2012 with 3.5 Ecoboost. Really like the performance and fuel mileage (25 on highway) at interstate speeds. So confortable and dependable.
Thanks for the review
Happy you liked it.
14:10 it’s not voodoo. It’s called boost. That’s how the 3.5 make 90% of 500 lbs-ft @ 1700 rpm.
My Bud has a 3.5 and tows heavy all the time. He loves the pulling power and has well over 200K on the truck. The only issue he has had, burst brake line. And he plans to buy a new one.
Had a 2011 3.5 and it was great for 50,000 miles and then I had a plug short out from carbon tracking. At 60,000 the vacuum pump was starting to go So I traded it for a 15 5.0. The 3.5 went up hills like they weren’t even there but fuel economy was all over the place. Higher octane improved mileage and I settled on 89 octane. Best I ever got was about 18 mpg and when I traded it I as getting 16. The 5.0 got a consistent 19 mpg on 87 octane. I just got a 22 with another 5.0. There’s just a lot less to go wrong without turbos.
The 5.0 is just a fantastic reliable engine
Agreed, for me I chose the 5.0L Coyote V8 over the Ecoboost V6 any day, also if these ecoboost engines are so good then how come Ford didn't put em in the Super Duty as a base gas engine?
Love when some sport coupes try to take you at traffic's lights. My 2020 eats them for lunch. Kind of hilarious.
I love this engine and never had any problems with it, Great economy and power. I tow a 26ft travel with mine and it has no problems going up mountains or going fast. However, you need to understand what Ecoboost means. It's either Eco or Boost. When towing hard it's no better than a large-size V8 like a Hemi, and sucks gas like crazy. Personally, I run it on Premium when towing through the Rockies at high altitude as it seems to help there, although under normal conditions I notice no difference. The economy is great under light loads especially when the turbos are not spinning.
This engine is amazing. Diesel like performance without diesel cost or emissions problem. We have one in our Expedition and love it. My next truck will have this engine.
without emission problems is a big thing. these modern diesels are just unreliable these days.
If they're so good then howcome Ford didn't put one in the Super Duty as a base gas engine?
2016 F-150 with the 3.5 Ecoboost and the max tow. Generally a great truck but over half my miles are towing horses (4 to 5 thousand pounds typically) and at around 56K miles the back exhaust manifold bolts sheered and warped the manifold on both sides. I believe in gen2 they may have improved the design but in the gen1 it's a thing.
Really ?? I'll have to take a look into that. How was your towing experience with towing horses ?
@@TheGettyAdventures According to the Internets this manifold issue does seem to be the type of thing that either happens to you a lot (in my case both sides before 60K) or doesn't happen at all. It's enough of an issue that there are after market solutions for stronger manifolds which I'll probably do after the truck is out of extended warranty. The warranty fix took 17 days and came in at around $3900. In my case it happened during a round-trip from California to Arizona that included some mountain towing which is the type of heavy work that seems to be where this is seen. You can see what it sounds like here: th-cam.com/video/JoNpAnPcegI/w-d-xo.html
Almost all of my towing is with this truck so don't have much to compare to but my experience has been very good. Truck has all the power and breaking I need for a two horse bumper pull in the mountains. When towing horses on long trips my top want is reliability and as much as this issue has been annoying, it didn't leave me stranded by the side of the road, so don't consider this to be a huge deal.
While this truck was being repaired I did some mountain towing with a current-gen Ram 2500 with the 6.7 diesel. I really love that truck for towing and the torque of that engine is a whole different thing. I've looked a lot into moving to a bigger diesel but it's all trade-offs and for now I'm planning on staying with my F-150.
A few years ago during fire evacuations for horses I used this truck to pull a friend's three-horse gooseneck steel trailer (yes, have a gooseneck hitch which I've used once) with three heavy horses. We were probably up near 8-9000 pounds. It was OK and never felt unsafe but not something I'd do or recommend regularly. At that point braking was becoming more of a concern than power.
Rented a 2023 for this week. The ecoboost is impressive. Truck is very quick and has a long power range for a 10 spd
Great Vids! Wondering if you can do a review of the 2.7L, going over the 2015 model to present. Cheers from Ontario bud!
I’ve been a V8 pickup guy all my life but when I got a 2021 F150 I went with a 3.5 eco boost and I love it! This will pull 10,000 pounds no problem. My last F150 had the 5.0 and that was running at 4,000 RPM down the freeway, the 3.5 is about 2,000RPM. My only issue with the truck is the rear springs are too soft.
Do you have the big tow package?
I found the same thing when I towed with this ecoboost. RPM's were nice and low even on the hills. but I mean even though the engine can tow like crazy it's still a 1500 with a soft suspension set up i guess.
Firestone ride rite airbag kit. Only around $300. Worth every penny. Will stiffen up that rear suspension, guaranteed!
Timbren SES.....Put them on my last 3 trucks.
I installed the Roadmaster Active Suspension on mine and it stiffened up
So I have to admit. I grew up GM, but now I drive a 3.5 EcoBoost and safe to say I haven't been disappointed give. The F-150 looks by far the most like a good old pickup truck it's simple yet still Sharp
I have only had six 3.5EBs since 2011 and not one has ever failed me. Out pulls any other gas motor on the planet.
The F150 version of the 3.5 Ecoboost has its water pump mounted externally - I believe the SUV's with the 3.5 Eco have it mounted internally which is a much worse setup, but probably necessary for space considerations. I'm glad to have the F150 version.
I currently have a 2023 f150 2.7 ecoboost as a loaner from my dealer while my powerstroke is getting the upper oil pan repair done. I will say this thing really shits and gets, and really good fuel mileage. My wife wants one for her self now.
Love my Fx4 2023. With tow package rear springs are pretty good. Tows 8,000 pound with ease. Added 33 inch tires gained 3 mph at 70 mph. So run 67 mph to get a true 70 mph. Love my truck.
I towed 8,500lbs with this truck and it crushed it. I was amazed how well this engine pulls a load.
I was wondering your gear set?
@@KGeezydad1 3.55
@@nevillemcnaughton6306 did the 33's affect your power or mpg? Let me know. I want to put 33s on my 21 f150 3.5
@jake hard to tell to be honest. Put it in sport mode and you are at 90 by the time you cross 4 lanes od traffic getting on the freeway.
Greetengs Alex.
I think it's good enough for any job and outstanding for any weekend family and recreational mission; including towing a midsize RV.
3.5 lts is a lion in sheep's clothing.
Thank you Alex!
Yes I would agree. The 3.5L seems like it would ge underpowered but man does it have some speed and torque behind it
If its so good then how come Ford didn't put the Ecoboost in the superduty as a base gas engine?
Zero issues with my 2019 Ecoboost. Fast truck too.
I’m still not a V6 guy, however if it suits your needs, I’m glad people have the option. The turbo is a plus for sections of Ontario or BC/AB mountain region though.
I’m still V8 but who knows maybe next one …
yaa the V6 turbo is great if you are leasing a truck and aren't worried about 5 years down the road. if I was going to buy an f150 it would be a 5L v8.
Agreed!
@The Getty Adventures I'm not worried about mine
@@jasonbrushett2005eco boosts have some of the highest reliability % for the numbers produced.
At my last job we had 2 ecoboost trucks, a 2015 2.7 that needed turbos at 143K and a 2019 Expedition 3.5 that needed cam phasers at 109k($5800). Supposedly they have redesigned the phasers since they have been problematic. Mechanic at work did turbo job, don't know what they paid for turbos. Not perfect engines but when they are running they definitely are solid performers.
Ya when they are running well they are dynamite engines but reliability seems to be somewhat of a concern for these Eco boost units. as far as im concerned the phasers are still an issue even with he updated parts
Powerful yes! Reliable no! Way more problems than the 5.0 gm6 2 and rams 5.7. Fact!!!
It’s all about the oil in the base ,
Cam phaser issue is a tiny % of engines.
love my old 2011 ecoboost...good performance,trouble free so far.
224k miles on my 2016 3.5 ecoboost. No major repairs. I did add an air oil separator recently to prevent future carbon build up
I own a 2014 XLT 3.5 EB. I've found the key to longevity with 1st gen EB's is maintenance. Moreover not complying with Fords maint schedule. Basically, cutting in half whatever Ford recommends as a maint interval. 5k oil changes ( prefferably full syn oil) 80-90k trans fluid / filter, drain and fill coolant @ 75k etc. I've had mine since day 1, I use it for work, the bed is never empty. Other than a bad evap purge solenoid and an ignition coil. It's been solid as the ice at the south pole. Though I do miss the V8 sound of the Hemi in my old Ram.
Alex we own a 21 expedition and 17 powerstroke.
Love both. Ecoboost is ridiculous fast, and so far we have loaded about 6,000lbs worth of equipment on 16’ trailer and it bout pulls the tongue off the trailer! Zero issues with it and normal driving gets about 19-20mpg.
Very fortunate to have a 2021 f150 with 3.73. I can’t imagine what the 4.30 gears feel like.
I have a 2.7 ecoboost 2016. I wish I had the dual injection. But good truck so far. Only 2 faults I have found with it. 1 the center tail light being sealed with foam strip, now it leaks. 2- the oil plug is a huge mess, basically have to get an aftermarket piece so you don't make a huge mess every oil change.
Of course not to mention the oil crude buildup in the air intake system and lifters.
I pull a 9000lb fifth wheel camper with a 18 3.5eb. The last truck I used on the camper was a 03 dodge 2500 Cummins. All things considered the f150 with the eco is a better experience, I do use sumo helper springs to help with the payload. I know it's over payload cap...call the dot lol
Great video, just wanted to mention, I've got a powerboost f150 which if you're not familiar is the 3.5L Ecoboost mated with a HEV, so far, 38k miles in, it has been a fantastic vehicle. I have a few campers, mowers, and a boat that I tow pretty often. The paperwork says the output is 430HP, and 570ft/lb of torque. Towing usually gets me about 15-17 mpg with boats and campers, 20 for my mowers, and 24-30 with no load. I have a video I made celebrating my first 800 mile tank of fuel(30.6gallons).
I keep hearing about these powerboost engines being monster towing truck. maybe I'll have to go drive one and see how they feel!
@@TheGettyAdventures make sure it has the 7.2KW inverter, you can run a camper off it for a weekend and only use about 5-15 gallons of fuel mattering how much power you are using.
Cam Phasers failed at 36K miles. Truck was stuck in Amarillo Ford for 11 weeks. Got it back missing 4 bolts on heads and still had a check engine light. These trucks have problems in Colorado mountains with overheating when at altitude and pulling trailer. I bough the 2023 F-150 V-8 and have not been happier and it gets better mileage.
I've inquired at our local Ford Dealer in Bennington VT and a Master Tech said stay away from the 5.0 due to oil consumption issues. Have you run into this with yours?
@jeremygaillard5924 our 2020 is consume lots of oil doing a consumption test today
I have almost 5K miles on my new V-8 and it's not using any oil. I did switch to Mobil 1 Truck/SUV and a top of line Wix oil filter for synthetic oil
Enjoyed your review very much. The one question i would be curious of the answer is you had remarked about the the less work you have w the twin turbos. I have a 2021 F-150 w 3.73 rear end. For reduced fuel flow, is it better to run at higher boost in a higher gear or using a lower gear at Lower boost pressures? Thanks.
Great video, can you please do a video like this but on the 2.7
Bought a 2011 EB almost a year ago with 97k and I'm at 122k now, so fair to say I drive it. Love the power, economy and ride, but sure do wish they got the cooling system better and that annoy cam phaser issue (has it been fixed yet for 2023 models?). I tow a 36ft/9k TT and have needed a few suspension/tires upgrade. Put E-rated tires on it last fall, and now I've got Bilstein shocks and air bags on the rear. Will tow heavy again soon and hope to see some of the squat taken out.
What's wrong with the cooling system? No issues with mine.I was told on long grades to drop a couple gears manually to bring rpms up ,which in turn circulates coolant better.You may have a thermostat on its way out as well.I agree,the cam phasers are an issue and luckily Ford has extended the warranty on those parts well past the regular warranty expiry date
@@jasonbrushett2005swapped in a 170 stat which helps, but doesn't prevent overheating while towing uphill. Cooling system and IC are simply undersized in my opinion.,
I have a 2017 3.5L f150 4x4. The truck was great until almost 100k miles. At 98k miles the cam phasers failed. Then the transmission failed at 102k miles. Just wanted to share my experience so far.
Basicly right at the end of the extended warranty period it seems. Thats what these manufacturers hope for lol
My buddies cam phasers went out at 70k on his 2018 Expedition. Transmission is also failing. Refuses to shift out of 3 into 4 or 5th.
Was it light use or towing included ?
5 star 91 tune really wakes up these motors, have the 91 performance and 91 tow on my '22, no problem pulling 6700 lbs travel trailer up and down the hills of collingwood and back to Stratford this week.
Stratford Ontario! love to see it. I grew up in London, the family all still lives there also. but she does get pretty hilly up through that area near Collingwood. I pulled 8500ish lbs with this ecoboost. I was honestly shocked how well it pulled it.
@@TheGettyAdventures yep, always teased the ecoboost v6 guys when i had my gm 5.3/6.2 , only thin missing is the v8 exhaust note, the 91 sucks to pay for with the tune but even the tow tune is around another 100hp/100tq
I have a 2019 Expedition 4WD Tow Package. I am happy with it I am at about 55k. I had my cam phasors changed under warranty. I wend from a 3/4 ton dodge to this when I sold my ranch. The GM offerings couldn't compare to the low end torque. I have towed up to a 27 ft cabin cruiser and it does it with ease. I know people like to complain about reliability. I think the main thing with these eco boost it religious oil changes. Change every 5k miles with a synthetic oil and I think that will help with some issues I have seen them have. Most of the failure videos I have seen attribute failure to dirty oil. The second gens with the direct and port fuel injection has taken care of the carbon build up the earlier engines had.
Great video
I have had both the 3.5 and the 2.7 Ecoboost. From a driveability standpoint both were wonderful. Fuel efficiency was ok but not stellar. I now have a RAM with the 5.7 hemi and get about the same efficiency. At low rpm both Ecoboost engines felt stronger but the n/a hemi is more linear and more lively at higher rpm. I think the upcoming I6 from Stellantis will be a bit of it proves to be reliable.