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Does the 2.3 EcoBoost engine have a timing belt or chain?

The 2.3 EcoBoost engine, a popular turbocharged four-cylinder engine found in various Ford vehicles, uses a timing chain rather than a timing belt. This design choice provides several benefits in terms of durability and longevity compared to a timing belt.


Timing Belt vs. Timing Chain


The primary difference between a timing belt and a timing chain lies in their construction and lifespan. A timing belt is a rubber-based component that connects the crankshaft to the camshaft, ensuring the proper timing of the engine's valves opening and closing. Timing belts typically need to be replaced every 60,000 to 100,000 miles as they can wear out over time.


On the other hand, a timing chain is a metal chain that serves the same purpose as a timing belt, but it is generally more durable and longer-lasting. Timing chains are designed to last the lifetime of the engine, typically requiring no scheduled replacement unless there is a specific issue.


The 2.3 EcoBoost Engine's Timing Chain


The 2.3 EcoBoost engine, which is found in models such as the Ford Mustang, Ford Explorer, and Lincoln MKC, utilizes a timing chain rather than a timing belt. This design choice offers several advantages:



  • Increased Durability: Timing chains are less susceptible to wear and tear compared to timing belts, which can stretch, crack, or break over time. This makes the 2.3 EcoBoost engine more reliable and less likely to require costly timing chain replacement.

  • Longer Service Life: Timing chains are designed to last the lifetime of the engine, typically requiring no scheduled replacement unless there is a specific issue. This can save owners money on maintenance costs over the long run.

  • Improved Efficiency: Timing chains are generally more efficient in transmitting power from the crankshaft to the camshaft, which can contribute to slightly better fuel economy compared to engines with timing belts.


Overall, the use of a timing chain in the 2.3 EcoBoost engine is a design choice that prioritizes durability, reliability, and long-term ownership costs, making it a popular and well-regarded engine in the Ford lineup.

Which EcoBoost engines have timing chains?


In 2019 Ford produced Focus and Fiesta models with a revised EcoBoost engine that uses a timing chain rather than a belt, so it is possible that the example you are looking at is fitted with a chain but you would need to confirm this either by checking yourself or asking the dealer to confirm this for you.



How many MPG does a 2.3 EcoBoost engine get?


Fuel Consumption Figures - 2.3L EcoBoost/5.0L

VariantUrbanCO2 Emissions
L/100 km ( mpg)g/km
2.3L EcoBoost Coupe - vehicles with automatic transmission.14.3 (19.8)225
2.3L EcoBoost Coupe - vehicles with manual transmission.*10.1 (28.0)179
2.3L EcoBoost Convertible - vehicles with automatic transmission.13.8 (20.5)225



What years of EcoBoost to avoid?


1.0 litre EcoBoost Engine
Coolant Leaks: These were particularly prevalent in earlier versions. Models from around 2011 to 2014 were more frequently reported to have issues where coolant would leak due to cylinder head cracks or failures in the seals.



Does the Ford 2.3 EcoBoost require premium fuel?


WARNING: Do not use leaded gasoline or gasoline with additives containing other metallic compounds, for example manganese-based. They could damage the emission system. We recommend regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 95 RON.



Does my Ford have a timing belt or chain?


Cars with a timing belt have a plastic cover near the engine block (often to the left-hand side), which provides easy access to the belt. It needs changing at regular intervals, which is why the removable cover is necessary. In cars with a timing chain, you won't see a plastic cover.



What is the life expectancy of the 2.3 L EcoBoost?


Provided routine maintenance and repairs are kept up and done when recommended, it should last 250K miles or more before major engine work needed. While age of a vehicle can affect things such as rubber bushings, age of a vehicle does not equate more accelerated wear of internal engine parts.



What is the timing belt problem on the Ford EcoBoost engine?


Potential issues from degraded wet timing belt
If your Ford 1.0L EcoBoost has a degraded wet timing belt, you may experience: Oil pump failure due to clogging with rubber debris. Turbocharger damage from circulating rubber or sludge. Engine oil starvation and increased wear on internal components.



Does the 2.3 EcoBoost have a timing chain or belt?


Very few ecoboost engines use wet belts. Our 2.3 has one timing chain with non keyed sprockets. The oil pump is gear driven and part of the balancer.



How long do Ford timing chains last?


between 80,000 and 100,000 miles
When Should It be Replaced? Unless your engine has a specific replacement interval, the commonly accepted mileage is between 80,000 and 100,000 miles. However, the timing chain isn't necessarily a maintenance item and can last the engine's life, provided you change the oil regularly and maintain the rest of the engine.



What is the lawsuit on the Ford 2.3 L EcoBoost engine?


Is There a Recall for Ford's 2.3 Ecoboost Engine? Currently, there is no specific recall for Ford's 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine. However, issues such as coolant leaks into the cylinders have been reported, which have led to a class action lawsuit against Ford.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.