I’m shopping for a used SUV for my family and noticed most Expeditions (2012 and newer) come with the EcoBoost engine. I know it’s a turbocharged V6, but is it reliable for such a big vehicle? I currently have one with the 5.4L V8, and it’s always been great, so I’m a little hesitant about switching to a V6.
Just so you know, the EcoBoost wasn’t available in the Expedition until 2015.
I’m a Ford Parts Manager, and my wife drives a 2017 F-150 Platinum with the 3.5 EcoBoost. We’ve had no issues, and I don’t see many problems with them in service compared to other engines.
The 3.5L EcoBoost is much more reliable than the 5.4L modular motor. It has better horsepower, torque, and fuel economy. EcoBoost started in the Expedition around 2015 or 2014 for the Navigator twin.
Kaius said:
The 3.5L EcoBoost is much more reliable than the 5.4L modular motor. It has better horsepower, torque, and fuel economy. EcoBoost started in the Expedition around 2015 or 2014 for the Navigator twin.
Just to clarify, the 3-valve (3V) 5.4L engines had issues, not the 2-valve ones.
@Jules
The 3V isn’t bad if you maintain it properly: change the oil religiously with high-quality oil and replace the spark plugs before 100k miles. I’ve had two high-mileage 3Vs without any issues.
Paris said:
@Jules
The 3V isn’t bad if you maintain it properly: change the oil religiously with high-quality oil and replace the spark plugs before 100k miles. I’ve had two high-mileage 3Vs without any issues.
The problem with 3V engines is spark plugs breaking or ejecting, but there are tools for removal. I still think the EcoBoost is a better option overall.
Kaius said:
The 3.5L EcoBoost is much more reliable than the 5.4L modular motor. It has better horsepower, torque, and fuel economy. EcoBoost started in the Expedition around 2015 or 2014 for the Navigator twin.
The 2010+ 5.4s are better if maintained correctly, but the EcoBoost is a better engine in terms of performance and efficiency.
I have a Navigator with the 3.5 EcoBoost. It’s at 120k miles and running perfectly. Other than a broken coil pack clip, it’s been very reliable.
The EcoBoost engines are good, but you might need to replace the turbos after 100-125k miles. I’ve had two in work trucks—one lasted to 150k, but it was mostly highway use. Turbos tend to last longer with highway driving.
@Penn
If you use high-quality oil like Amsoil, the turbos can last much longer. My dad has a 2012 EcoBoost with 400k miles on the original turbos.
We’ve had a 2017 Navigator with the 3.5 EcoBoost since new, and it’s been flawless. At 70k miles, we’ve had zero issues. Regular maintenance with full synthetic oil seems to help a lot.
Early EcoBoost models had high failure rates, especially in larger vehicles. I’d recommend avoiding them and going for a naturally aspirated engine instead.
Delaney said:
Early EcoBoost models had high failure rates, especially in larger vehicles. I’d recommend avoiding them and going for a naturally aspirated engine instead.
There’s never been a naturally aspirated V6 in the Expedition—it’s always been V8s or turbo V6s.
The 2015-2016 EcoBoost models are probably the most reliable, as Ford fixed some of the earlier timing chain issues. The 2017+ models are still reliable, but some have issues with cam phasers.
Corey said:
The 2015-2016 EcoBoost models are probably the most reliable, as Ford fixed some of the earlier timing chain issues. The 2017+ models are still reliable, but some have issues with cam phasers.
I’m leaning towards a 2015 to find one with lower mileage. That’s good to hear about the updates.
Check the maintenance history if you’re buying used. Lack of proper service can shorten the engine’s lifespan. Watch for cam phaser noise on the 2017+ models—it’s a common issue, but there’s a warranty extension for it.