Is the 6.7 turbo diesel a good engine?
Yes. The 6.7 turbo diesel engines—primarily Ford's 6.7 Power Stroke and Ram's 6.7 Cummins—are among the most capable heavy‑duty truck powerplants, delivering class‑leading torque and strong towing performance, with robust longevity when properly maintained.
What these engines are and who uses them
In the pickup world, “6.7 turbo diesel” usually refers to two dominant powerplants powering heavy‑duty models: Ford's 6.7 Power Stroke V8 (in the F-Series Super Duty) and Ram's 6.7 Cummins inline‑six (in the Ram 2500/3500). Both are turbocharged, high‑torque diesels designed for demanding work, and both have evolved through mid‑cycle updates to improve efficiency and emissions.
Performance and capabilities
The main factors owners weigh are torque delivery, towing ability, and reliability under load. Here’s how these engines stack up in real‑world use.
Pros
What makes the 6.7L turbo diesels appealing for work and long‑haul driving:
- Exceptional low‑end and mid‑range torque that helps with heavy towing and payloads
- Large towing capacities and sustained performance on grades
- Strong durability when properly maintained, contributing to long service life
- Extensive aftermarket support for performance and maintenance options
- Resale value remains solid in the heavy‑duty truck segment
- Proven track record of reliability in many model years, especially after mid‑cycle refinements
Taken together, these strengths explain why fleets and serious haulers favor these engines for demanding tasks.
Cons and caveats
There are tradeoffs and ongoing maintenance considerations to keep in mind:
- Diesel maintenance and repairs can be costly, particularly for high‑pressure fuel system components
- Emissions systems (DPF, DEF/ SCR) require regular upkeep and can incur downtime or service costs
- Turbo/chamber, intercooler, and intake plumbing can wear or leak with high mileage
- Fuel economy varies with use; long highway driving is typically better than city driving for diesels
- Transmissions and drivetrain components add their own maintenance costs for heavy‑duty use
In practice, reliability is strong for well‑maintained trucks, but potential buyers should be prepared for higher maintenance costs relative to gasoline engines.
Maintenance, reliability, and common issues
Maintenance discipline is the biggest determinant of long‑term reliability. The following points summarize common considerations for 6.7‑liter diesels.
- Follow manufacturer service intervals for oil changes, filters, coolant, and DEF quality
- Be mindful of high‑pressure fuel system wear and injector or pump issues on older units
- Emissions components (DPF, SCR) can require cleaning or replacement at high mileage
- Turbocharger and intercooler seals may develop leaks with age
- Choose a maintenance‑oriented shop familiar with diesel pickups and emissions systems
With proactive maintenance, owners report reliable operation and predictable service costs, though parts replacement can be expensive.
Model year variations and ownership costs
Over the years, both engines saw refinements that improved reliability, emissions handling, and efficiency. Model year choice can influence maintenance costs, warranty coverage, and performance characteristics, so prospective buyers should review year‑specific data and service histories. Diesel ownership generally involves higher fuel costs, longer service intervals, and the potential for expensive part replacements, but also the benefit of strong resale value and capable towing.
Bottom line verdict
For buyers needing serious torque and towing capability in a full‑size heavy‑duty pickup, the 6.7 turbo diesels remain a strong option. They perform well in demanding duty cycles and can deliver long lifespans with attentive maintenance. As with any diesel, verify maintenance records, inspect the emissions system, and budget for potential high‑cost repairs as the vehicle ages.
Summary
The 6.7L turbo diesels—Ford's Power Stroke and Ram's Cummins—offer exceptional torque, strong towing, and durable design that suit heavy‑duty duties. Proper maintenance and model‑year awareness are key to maximizing reliability and minimizing ownership costs. For many buyers, these engines remain among the best options in the heavy‑duty pickup segment.
