Harry Gibson on October 2, 2023 No Comments
Are you planning to purchase a Ford model with the 2.7 engine and you want to learn more about the Ford 2.7 EcoBoost problems? Well, if that is the case, then you are at the right place because there will be quite a lot to cover on this topic and we are going to elaborate on everything in great detail.
- What Is Ford’s EcoBoost Engine?
- Ford 2.7 EcoBoost
- Engine Diagram
- Applications
- Specs & Features
- Horsepower
- Common Problems
- Reliability
- Final Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Doing your own research before you go out there and spend a ton of money on a car should be one of your top priorities. Especially nowadays when you have hundreds of models available to buy and each of these models has certain problems. So, getting the engine with the least issues should be one of the things that will benefit you the most.
The fewer possible problems with the engine, the lower the chance of you spending hundreds or even thousands of dollars in the long run on repairs and mechanics. And this is why we are going to help you out when it comes to this particular engine, Ford’s 2.7 EcoBoost.
First, we are going to learn what is EcoBoost and why knowing this is really important. Then we will move on to the 2.7 EcoBoost engine. We will discuss the engine diagram, applications, specs, Ford 2.7 EcoBoost problems, and the overall reliability of this engine. And we also going to determine whether this engine is a good purchase or not. So, you don’t want to miss that.
Ford EcoBoost
Now before we dive into the Ford 2.7 EcoBoost problems, let’s take a look at what EcoBoost really is. Why do we think that this is necessary? Well, this term “EcoBoost” confuses a ton of people. So, we think that you need a good introduction when it comes to the EcoBoost engine. That’s why we are going to cover it in-depth.
So, what is EcoBoost? Well, EcoBoost in general is the Ford lineup of gas-powered engines. And not any gas-powered engines but only turbocharged engines.
This means that all of the engines in the EcoBoost lineup work on forced induction and are not naturally aspirated. So, when you hear the term EcoBoost it is really safe to assume that this engine is turbocharged.
The EcoBoost lineup debuted in 2009 by Ford and up until now, there are dozens of engines released under this nameplate.
There are inline-3, inline-4, and V6 engines that wear the EcoBoost name, and the displacement ranges from 1.0L in displacement to 3.5L in displacement. And this is telling us quite a lot about the versatility of this engine. And the fact is that Ford created this lineup of engines to improve the fuel efficiency of their vehicles.
So, you will never see the EcoBoost badge on some models that have the 5.0L Coyote or the 7.3 Godzilla engines.
Nevertheless, these engines are usually all made out of lightweight materials like aluminum that allow the engine to deliver good performance and save some weight. Even though there are still some engines like the 2.7L that are made out of iron. And more about what we are going to understand next before we dive into the Ford 2.7 EcoBoost problems.
2.7 EcoBoost
Now let’s move on to the Ford 2.7 and learn more about it before we cover the Ford 2.7 EcoBoost problems. We need to learn more about this engine before we start learning more about the diagram and its overall specs. So, what is the Ford 2.7 EcoBoost?
Well, technically, this is a truck engine. Ford built this engine specifically for their lineup of SUVs and pickup trucks, as well. This is why the engine block of the 2.7L is produced from compacted graphite iron and not from aluminum like the other engine designs in the EcoBoost lineup.
This means that this engine is built to be particularly tough to meet the demands and always deliver and not fail under big stress. And also to be really lightweight and not as heavy as other cast iron blocks. This technology was used previously by Ford on their diesel engines. Namely, the 6.7L Powerstroke.
The 2.7L is known under the name Nano and is built at the Lima factory in Ohio which created many legendary engines before that created a ton of performance and also great fuel efficiency.
This engine has two different generations. The first generation was produced from 2015 to 2018 and the second generation was introduced in 2018 and is still in production today.
Another cool feature of this engine is that it implements integrated exhaust manifolds. This means that you will not see exhaust manifolds on the side of the engine. They are basically integrated into the block. But more on this, we are going to cover later on when we are going to discuss a little bit on the diagram before we cover the Ford 2.7 EcoBoost problems.
2.7 EcoBoost Engine Diagram
Now let’s discuss more about the engine diagram of the 2.7L before we dive into the Ford 2.7 EcoBoost problems. Knowing the diagram will help you understand how this engine works in general and why it is so special since this is not your ordinary engine design. So, let’s cover this real quick.
As we noted previously, the engine block is made out of a special metal that is known as compacted graphite iron or CGI. But what we didn’t tell you is that only the upper portion of the engine is made of this material. The bottom of the engine is still made out of aluminum. Only the places that need reinforcement are made of CGI material.
Also, the oil pan is not your regular oil pan. The oil pan in this truck is made out of plastic. Which was another method to save weight on the engine and produce an engine that creates a ton of power but is the most lightweight possible.
And also another feature to save weight is the removal of the exhaust manifolds. The exhaust manifolds are simply not there but are implemented inside of the block itself. Which crazy considering how hot they get. But Ford has made sure that proper cooling is always there.
Another cool feature of this engine is the usage of cracked main bearing caps. This is also an innovation that makes sure that the engine keeps its structural integrity under a lot of stress.
This engine also implements dual fuel injection after the 2018 update that makes sure that the engine does not develop carbon on the intake valves. But what about the Ford 2.7 EcoBoost problems? More on that in a bit.
Ford 2.7 EcoBoost Engine Applications
Another topic that we would like to cover before we learn more about the Ford 2.7 EcoBoost problems is the issue concerning the application of this engine. Let’s cover the models that this engine was and is offered in currently.
This engine as we mentioned was first introduced in 2015 and was purely designed for truck use. The first model that got the 2.7L was the Ford F-150.
Then the engine was offered in different Ford and Lincoln SUVs and sedans. Namely the Ford Edge Sport, Ford Edge ST, and Ford Fusion Sport.
While this model also was applied in many Lincoln models, as well. Namely, the Lincoln MKX, Lincoln Nautilus, and the Lincoln Continental. The Continental is one of the most legendary Lincoln nameplates that got the 2.7L engine.
As we noted previously, in 2018 there was a major revision of the 2.7L engine. This revision included a lot of improvements that made the engine a lot more durable and able to withstand a lot more stress.
And this updated engine only came with the F-150 and the newly built Ford Bronco model.
So, not every model has an updated engine. The Nautilus and Ford Edge ST are still running the old 2.7L engine from the data that is available to us.
For more precise information, you should contact the dealership and check exactly in which of the models this new engine is included. As of now, the only models that we can confirm that have an updated 2.7L engine are the Bronco and the F-150. But what about the Ford 2.7 EcoBoost problems? More on that we are going to cover in a bit after we cover some of the specs of this engine.
2.7 EcoBoost Specs
Now before we start discussing the Ford 2.7 EcoBoost problems, let’s take a look at the specs of this engine. Let’s learn in what specs this engine comes in and see its features.
The 2.7L as you probably know is a V6 engine. This means that it has six cylinders. The bottom of the engine block is made out of aluminum but the core as we already explained is produced out of graphite iron which is really lightweight and far more durable than aluminum.
The cylinder bore is 83mm and the stroke is 83mm. Quite even bore and stroke as you can notice.
The cylinder heads are made out of aluminum and the valvetrain layout is a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) design as most other modern engines are. There are 4 valves per cylinder.
The engine implements a direct injection between 2015 and 2017 but after the year 2017 with the new revision, the implemented direct injection + port injection. This type of fuel injection is quite useful since the fuel is cleaning the intake valves and you don’t have issues with carbon deposits on them.
Also, the engine uses forced induction. This means that it runs not only one but two turbochargers. Using a twin-turbo setup allows the engine to have one smaller and one larger turbo. The smaller turbo works at the low RPM range until the engine builds up the revs and the bigger turbo starts to kick in.
This guarantees that you don’t suffer some problems like turbo lag. Which can be rather annoying to deal with, especially on a truck when you need that towing capability. But what about the Ford 2.7 EcoBoost problems? More on that we are going to cover in a bit.
2.7 EcoBoost Horsepower
Another thing that we would like to cover before we dive into the Ford 2.7 EcoBoost problems is the horsepower that this engine produces. This is also an important thing since there are different setups for each application. So, let’s elaborate on them.
For the F-150 this engine is rated at 325hp and 375lb-ft of torque for the older pre-2018 version, and 400lb-ft of torque for the updated one. While for the Ford Bronco, the performance is a bit higher, rated at 330hp and 415lb-ft of torque.
The most powerful version of the engine is used in the Lincoln MKX, Lincoln Nautilus, Lincoln Continental, and Ford Edge ST, rated at 335hp and 380lb-ft of torque.
The weakest version was used on the other hand is used on the Ford Edge Sport, rated at 315hp and 380lb-ft of torque. Not that significant, but 20hp down is still a noticeable difference. But what about the Ford 2.7 Ecoboost problems? More on that in the following chapters.
Ford 2.7 Ecoboost Problems
Now as we learned all the important bits about this engine concerning its specs, features, and performance. We can move on and learn more about the Ford 2.7 EcoBoost problems.
What is worth noting is that this engine does not have any major problems. But there are still some issues that are worth discussing. So, let’s cover the Ford 2.7 EcoBoost problems.
Ford 2.7 EcoBoost Problems #1: Plastic Oil Pan Leaking Oil
The first problem on the earlier 2.7L engines was the problem with the oil pan leaks. As you probably know, oil pans are often made out of sheet metal or aluminum.
But the case of the 2.7L is different. The oil pan is made out of plastic. In order to save some weight and money, Ford decided to produce the pan out of plastic.
And this is the most common problem with this engine is this issue. And this problem often happens on engines that were built between 2015 and 2017. This means that the engines before the update are the ones that are most affected by these leaks.
To diagnose the problem, there is no other way than carefully inspect the oil pan gasket and search for leaks. If the pan is leaking, then it would probably have to be replaced since there is no other way to prevent future leaks. And this job can be pricey, costing about $500. Now let’s move on to the next Ford 2.7 EcoBoost problems.
Ford 2.7 EcoBoost Problems #2: Carbon Deposits On Pre-2018 Engines
The second in our list of Ford 2.7 EcoBoost problems is the issues with the carbon deposits on the first generation of this engine. So, why is this happening?
Well, this is mainly happening because of the direct injection system. As you probably know, older vehicles are using something known as port injection.
Port injection works by injecting the fuel through the intake ports of the cylinder head. And the fuel comes down right from the intake valve.
And what happens on a lot of direct injection engines is that they don’t use this method but a different method by installing the injector on the top of the cylinder head. This helps with efficiency. But the intake valves get dirty. Carbon deposits build upon them and basically prevent the valve from opening and closing correctly. Making the engine misfire and causing all sorts of issues.
And fortunately, Ford saw this problem and started installing dual injection from the 2018 model year. There is direct injection but also port injection to help clean off the valves.
If your valves get too polluted by carbon, you will have to perform walnut blasting on them or some similar method to remove the deposits. Now let’s move on to the next in our list of Ford 2.7 EcoBoost problems.
Ford 2.7 EcoBoost Problems #3: Head Gasket Failures
The third very common problem on these engines is the blown head gasket issues. Some engines, especially the first ones are more prone to these issues than newer ones.
What happens is that because of poor assembly or low-quality gaskets, the coolant finds its way into the cylinders or into the oil compartment and this then causes the oil to mix with the coolant and create sludge.
This consequently will overheat the engine and cause it to fail. The bearings will wear out and the engine will start to knock. This is why checking the oil and coolant levels is a really good idea. Especially if you tow a lot with your truck and expose it to a lot of stress. Now let’s move on to the last in our list of Ford 2.7 EcoBoost problems.
Ford 2.7 EcoBoost Problems #4: Spark Plugs And Ignition Coil Failure
The next on our list of Ford 2.7 EcoBoost problems is the issues with the spark plugs and ignition coils.
The 2.7L uses direct injection. And what happens is that these engines are much more prone to develop issues with the ignition components as well as with the valves like with the problem with the carbon buildup.
This is why Ford with the update has added an extra layer of protection and implemented a dual injection system on the newer models that incorporate direct and port injection.
In the earlier models, the problem of wearing down the spark plugs and coils is much more notorious. But since 2018, the problem has been more or less sorted out and there are no issues whatsoever. Enough on the Ford 2.7 EcoBoost problems. Let’s now discuss the reliability of this model.
Ford 2.7 EcoBoost Problems #5: Turbocharger Issues
One issue some owners have reported with the 2.7 EcoBoost engine is related to the turbochargers. Like many modern engines, the 2.7L is equipped with twin turbos for enhanced power and efficiency. Over time, some turbos may begin to fail prematurely, leading to a loss of power, excessive smoke, and even an unwelcome whining sound.
While not as common as some of the other problems on this list, a failing turbo can be a costly fix. Regularly checking for any oil leaks or unusual noises can help in early detection, potentially saving you from more significant repairs down the line.
Ford 2.7 EcoBoost Problems #6: Coolant System Leaks
Another hiccup faced by some Ford 2.7 EcoBoost owners is coolant system leaks. If left unchecked, these leaks can lead to engine overheating. There have been reports of thermostat housings and water pumps being the primary culprits behind these leaks.
To prevent potential damage, it’s advisable for owners to regularly check their coolant levels and inspect the engine bay for any visible leaks. If you’re experiencing frequent coolant top-ups, it’s a clear indication that there’s a problem that needs addressing.
Ford 2.7 EcoBoost Problems #7: Timing Chain Wear
The timing chain, which synchronizes the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft to ensure valves open and close at the correct times, can wear out prematurely in some 2.7L EcoBoost engines. Symptoms of timing chain wear include a rattling noise upon startup and reduced engine performance.
It’s essential to address timing chain issues promptly as ignoring them could result in severe engine damage. Regular oil changes and using quality motor oil can help in prolonging the life of the timing chain.
Ford 2.7 EcoBoost Problems #8: Electronic Throttle Body (ETB) Malfunctions
The Electronic Throttle Body controls the amount of air entering the engine. Some Ford vehicles with the 2.7 EcoBoost engine have faced issues with the ETB, which can result in unexpected stalling or rough idling.
While not a widespread problem, ETB issues can be concerning, especially if they occur while driving. It’s advisable to have your vehicle inspected if you notice any erratic behavior related to acceleration or idling.
Ford 2.7 EcoBoost Problems #9: Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Failures
The EGR system recirculates a portion of the exhaust gas back into the engine to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions. However, the 2.7 EcoBoost has had instances where the EGR valve gets stuck or the cooler leaks, leading to performance issues and reduced fuel efficiency.
Regular inspections and timely replacements can help ensure that the EGR system functions optimally and doesn’t contribute to further problems down the line.
Ford 2.7 EcoBoost Problems #10: Fuel Pump Failures
Last but not least, some owners have faced issues with the fuel pump on their 2.7L EcoBoost engine. A failing fuel pump can lead to a rough idle, difficulty starting, and even engine misfires. Keeping an ear out for whining sounds from the fuel tank and monitoring for a sudden drop in fuel efficiency can help detect fuel pump issues early on.
In conclusion, while the Ford 2.7 EcoBoost engine offers a blend of power and efficiency, like all mechanical devices, it has its set of potential problems. Regular maintenance, timely inspections, and addressing issues as they arise can help ensure that your engine serves you well for years to come.
Ford 2.7 EcoBoost Reliability
So, we covered the Ford 2.7 EcoBoost problems, now let’s discuss the 2.7 EcoBoost’s long-term reliability. So, is this engine reliable and a good purchase? Let’s elaborate.
The overall reliability of the engine is really good, much higher than average. There are still issues with the early engines that are pre-2018. Most of the problems are affecting this version of the engine.
After 2018 the problems are more or less patched out and there are no major issues. So, if you want something really reliable, we would recommend going for an engine that is produced after 2018. Just to be on the safe side that you will not come across a problematic engine with carbon buildup on the valves or a leaky oil pan.
You can also inspect the vehicle before purchase and have these things checked out. Just to make sure that there are no problems with the engine that you want to buy. And this is something that we always recommend. Pre-purchase inspection done by a professional will save you a ton of headaches in the future. Now let’s conclude this article, on Ford 2.7 EcoBoost problems.
In Conclusion…
In this article, we have covered quite a bit about the 2.7 EcoBoost engine. First, we learned about the EcoBoost lineup of engines and then we elaborated on the 2.7L engine.
We have covered the applications of this engine, its specs, and its performance. Then we focused on the Ford 2.7 EcoBoost problems and learned more about the issues this engine is having. Lastly, we commented on the overall reliability of the engine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Now let’s answer some frequently asked questions.
What Is EcoBoost
EcoBoost is a lineup of engines that was introduced by Ford. This lineup was specifically designed for good performance and fuel efficiency. This is why all the engines in this lineup are turbocharged. Thus the word “boost” in the name of the engine lineup.
What Does EcoBoost Do
EcoBoost does not do anything. This is the name that is given to a line of Ford engines. These engines are turbocharged gasoline engines that are built with fuel efficiency and good performance in mind.
When Did EcoBoost Come Out
The first EcoBoost engine came out in 2009. And Ford created this line of engines in order to replace the old inefficient engines that had poor fuel economy. In this lineup, there are more than a few engines. Ranging from 1.0L to 3.5L in displacement. All of them are turbocharged.
Are EcoBoost Engines Reliable
Yes, they are quite reliable. Especially in recent years. Some of the earlier ones had problems with head gaskets and coolant entering the cylinders. Namely, the 1.5L, 1.6L, and 2.0L. But in recent years these issues were more or less sorted out.
Is The 2.7 EcoBoost Twin Turbo
Yes, the 2.7 EcoBoost has twin turbo spec. This means that there is one smaller turbo working on lower RPM and one bigger turbo working on higher RPM. With the goal to reduce turbo lag.
How Long Do Turbos Last
This really depends on the maintenance. If you change your oil regularly, the turbo should last 200,000 miles. But if the vehicle was poorly maintained, then these turbos can fail even at 100,000 miles or less.
