Hey everyone, what are your thoughts on the Ecoboost engine? I was about to buy an SUV this weekend but decided against it because something didn’t feel right with the motor. It sounded like it needed an oil change, and it was pretty loud. Anyone have experiences or stories about its reliability? By the way, I’m talking about the 3.5 version.
The 2016+ 3.5 Ecoboost engines with regular synthetic oil changes (5-7k miles) are great and reliable. If you miss oil changes or delay them, though, it’s a big risk. Both the engine and turbos need good oil to keep running smoothly. It’s a solid engine overall. Great low RPM power, and not noisy. I can’t stand V8s where you need to push past 3500 RPM to get decent power.
@Bennet
I agree. As long as you keep up with maintenance and use good oil, many of the common issues can be avoided.
@Bennet
Sounds like what I’ve heard too. I follow the manual for oil changes every 6k miles, but I stick to 5k just to be safe. I always use full synthetic.
Modern engines tend to be noisy because of things like HPFP and direct injectors, which contribute to the sound. The newer 3.5s don’t have an engine cover, which used to help mute the noise. I drive a GX460, which has a great V8 but can’t keep up with the Ecoboost. If you want a truck that performs, the Ecoboost will blow anything else away. It can go fast without much effort, plus it has better gas mileage. I’ve had no issues with the 3.5 in my 2020 after 70k miles, though the transmission could use some work.
@Nico
Lexus has also removed the V8 in the GX now. You’re spot on about the performance. We traded in our GX460 for an Expedition, and while I miss the Lexus for reliability, the Ecoboost is much better performance-wise.
I’ve had the 3.5 Ecoboost in my 2015 Limited for 156k miles. It’s been flawless. I keep the oil changed and the engine clean. I love hearing the turbos kick in. No complaints here.
There’s a known issue with cam phaser rattle at cold starts, and many of these get fixed under warranty. If it’s out of warranty, you may need to pay for it yourself. But if you didn’t hear the cold start sound, it might be the turbo waste gates. That’s a common issue too, but it’s easy to fix with new springs.
I’ve had both the 3.5L Ecoboost (65k miles) and GM’s 5.3L V8 (136k miles). The 3.5 Ecoboost is quick, smooth, and packs a punch. The torque comes on strong and gets the truck moving no matter the load. If only it didn’t sound like a vacuum cleaner trying to suck up a sock. Aside from that, it’s been mostly reliable. I had the cam phaser recall done, and I’ve had a few antifreeze leaks after the engine was opened up (water pump and thermostat), but that’s been it. I average 15mpg in the city and 20-21 on the highway. I also use mid-grade fuel, as it’s more responsive than regular. The 5.3 V8 is also a good engine. The ride between my Expedition and Silverado was pretty similar in performance. I get about 14mpg in the city and 22-24 on the highway with the Silverado. Both engines are solid, but for big SUVs, I’d probably go with a 6.2L Tahoe, even though it’s pricey. I think I’ll stick with another Ecoboost Expedition for now.
That 3.5 Ecoboost really surprises me with how much power it has. It’s fun to floor it and feel that power kick in.
It’s a great engine with solid power, but like everyone says, you need to take care of it. Honestly though, it sounds terrible. I prefer the deeper rumble of a V8. But if you’re looking for power and capability, a 2019 Expedition is as good as it gets.
@Zayne
I switched from a 2004 with a 5.4 V8 to a 2022 Timberline with the 3.5HO. Honestly, I don’t think it sounds bad at all. It actually has a nice growl when it starts up, which surprised me. The sound might be subjective, though. Or maybe the Timberline has a different exhaust system.
@Charlie
Yeah, I get that. It’s definitely subjective. I think the Triton V8 sounds better. For me, a V6 usually just doesn’t have that deep tone I like. But the Ecoboost is a great engine! Just curious, does the HO version let you run higher ethanol fuel at stock?
@Zayne
I don’t think it’s meant to run on higher ethanol. I only use 93 octane with a 10% ethanol blend. But I’ve been thinking about getting a JB4 tuner, and I hear it has tunes for E30 fuel.
My 2015 Ecoboost is still running strong with 179k miles. I bought it in 2019 with 65k miles, and just like everyone says, keeping up with oil changes and regular maintenance has been key.