Surprised by how good the 3.5L Ecoboost is… anyone else?

So, I just got my third Expedition, and while I loved my old 5.4L Triton, I ended up getting a 2015 Limited with the 3.5L Ecoboost after totaling my truck. I was a bit worried about the turbochargers, but after test driving it, I was impressed. I even bought a 24-month protection plan just in case something goes wrong. I’m keeping up with the maintenance like the previous owner did, so hopefully, the plan is just a backup. Anyone else have experience with the 2015 model?

It runs way better with higher octane gas. Trust me on that.

Totally agree, I noticed a huge difference with 89 over 87. Didn’t feel much change between 89 and 91-93 though. I was able to get around 21.6 MPG with 6 passengers and a full hitch luggage carrier on 89 octane. No issues with the turbos so far, but I’ve had a few antifreeze leaks since they did the cam phaser recall. Not sure if it’s related, but it’s been back to the shop 3 times for that.

Interesting, I usually fill up at Costco and they only have 87 or 93. I’ll try 89 next time from a different station and see if there’s a difference. I’m going to check the service records to see if the cam phasers have been worked on and keep an eye out for any antifreeze issues.

Don’t skip on oil changes. You should also install an oil catch can because of the direct injection system. If you’re unsure, do some research, but it’ll help in the long run.

I’ve heard about catch cans before but haven’t really looked into them. I’ll definitely research it more now, thanks for the tip.

I’ve got the J&L oil catch can on mine, and it’s been awesome. Super easy to install too.

Is it good for a 2020 model too? What exactly does it do?

Yeah, it should work for the 2020 as well, just make sure you get the right one for your model year. The catch can collects oil blow-by from the turbos to keep it from entering the combustion chamber. It prevents carbon buildup, which helps the engine last longer. But you still have to keep up with regular maintenance and empty the can when needed.

Don’t wait too long on getting the catch can. It’s worth installing ASAP.

I’ve got a ‘15 Expedition and I always use synthetic oil every 7,000 miles. I run 89 or higher octane gas too. One time I put in 87, and it didn’t run as well.

I just filled up with 87, hoping it doesn’t act up. I usually do oil changes every 5,000 miles with full synthetic, just out of habit. Better safe than sorry!

People recommend changing the oil every 5,000 miles until you hit 75,000 miles, then switching to every 3,500 miles. This will help your engine last longer and prevent carbon buildup. I’ve got a 2015 Platinum, and I love it.

Thanks for the advice, I’ll keep that in mind.

I’ve been thinking about upgrading too. I’ve got an ‘03, and it’s been all over the east coast, but I love the look of the 15-17 models. Not a fan of the floor shifter though!

I’d say give one a test drive and see how you feel about it. I wasn’t sure at first, but the 2015 body style really grew on me. As for the shifter, I don’t mind it either way.