Is the Ford 2.7 engine any good?
The Ford 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine is generally considered a good and reliable engine, offering a balance of power, efficiency, and durability. It has become a popular choice for many Ford models, including the F-150 pickup truck, Explorer SUV, and Edge crossover.
Overview of the Ford 2.7L EcoBoost V6 Engine
The Ford 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine is a turbocharged, direct-injected gasoline engine that was first introduced in 2015. It is part of Ford's EcoBoost engine family, which aims to provide the power of a larger engine with the fuel efficiency of a smaller one. The 2.7L EcoBoost V6 produces between 325-400 horsepower and 400-500 lb-ft of torque, depending on the specific application.
Key Features and Benefits
- Powerful Performance: The 2.7L EcoBoost V6 delivers impressive power and acceleration, thanks to its turbocharging and direct injection technology.
- Fuel Efficiency: Despite its power, the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 is relatively fuel-efficient, with EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of up to 26 mpg combined.li>
- Durability: The engine is known for its reliability and long-term durability, with many owners reporting trouble-free operation for over 100,000 miles.
- Versatility: The 2.7L EcoBoost V6 is available in a wide range of Ford models, allowing customers to enjoy its benefits across different vehicle types.
Overall, the Ford 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine is a well-regarded and capable powerplant that offers a compelling combination of power, efficiency, and reliability. Its widespread use across Ford's lineup is a testament to its quality and performance.
What Ford engine to stay away from?
Ford engines to avoid include the 6.0L and 6.4L Power Stroke diesels, which had numerous issues like EGR cooler failures and injector problems, and the 5.4L Triton V8 known for spark plug and timing chain problems. Other engines to be cautious of are the 3.8L V6 due to head gasket failures and certain EcoBoost engines, especially early 1.0L and 1.6L models, which have faced issues like premature timing belt wear and overheating.
You can watch this video to learn about some of the worst Ford engines ever made: 59sCar WisdomsYouTube · May 2, 2025
Engines with high failure rates
- 6.0L and 6.4L Power Stroke diesel engines: These engines (2003-2007 and 2008-2010, respectively) are notorious for expensive problems, including head gasket failures, injector issues, and turbocharger failures.
- 5.4L Triton V8: This engine (1997-2010) is infamous for spark plugs breaking during removal and cam phaser/timing chain issues.
- 3.8L SX V6: From 1982 to 2008, this engine had issues with weak head bolts causing head gasket failures, and early versions were prone to coolant leaks.
This video discusses the 5.4L Triton V8 in detail: 53sSeats & WheelsYouTube · Aug 10, 2025
Problematic EcoBoost engines
- 1.0L EcoBoost (early versions): Early models used a rubber timing belt in hot engine oil, which could degrade and clog the oil pickup, leading to oil starvation and engine damage.
- 1.6L EcoBoost: This engine has been associated with overheating and coolant leaks.
- 3.5L EcoBoost: Problems can include carbon buildup, premature timing chain wear, and water pump failures.
- 2.7L EcoBoost: Early models (around 2016-2017) experienced issues with defective valve guides, excessive oil consumption, and leaking plastic oil pans.
You can watch this video for more information about EcoBoost engine issues: 1mExoticCar PlayPlaceYouTube · Nov 15, 2025
How long does a 2.7 L engine last?
How long can you expect your Chevy 2.7 turbo to keep chugging along? While new on the scene, early reports suggest that these engines can reach the 200,000-mile mark with proper care. However, a safer estimate would be between 120,000 to 200,000 miles.
What year to avoid 2.7 EcoBoost?
You should avoid 2.7L EcoBoost years 2015–2017 due to potential faulty valve guides and oil pan gasket leaks, and 2021–2022 due to a major intake valve defect that led to a recall. The 2021-2022 models were recalled for a serious defect where intake valves could break and cause engine failure.
Years to consider avoiding
This video explains the 2.7L EcoBoost recall in detail: 1mJohnny's car care & reviewsYouTube · Sep 3, 2024
- 2015–2017: These early models have a higher likelihood of faulty valve guides, which can lead to issues like oil burning, misfires, and rough idling. They were also prone to leaking oil pan gaskets due to a plastic design that would expand and contract.
- 2021–2022: These model years are known for a specific defect with the intake valves, which could break and cause catastrophic engine failure. Ford issued a recall for these vehicles, but the defect was significant enough to warrant avoiding the year range if you're concerned about potential engine problems.
What to know about the recalled years
- The fix: The 2021–2022 models were recalled to replace the faulty intake valves. If you are buying one, confirm that the recall repair has been completed by Ford.
- Other models affected by recall: Besides the F-150, this recall also includes the 2021-2022 Bronco, Edge, Explorer, and certain Lincoln models.
How reliable is Ford's 2.7 EcoBoost engine?
The Ford 2.7 EcoBoost is generally considered a reliable engine, with many owners achieving high mileage, especially with second-generation models. However, there is a known issue with a specific production batch of 2.7L engines (primarily 2021-2022 model years) where brittle intake valves, made with a faulty alloy, can fracture and cause catastrophic engine failure at low mileage. Ford has resolved this issue in trucks built after October 2021, and the recall covers affected engines by providing a replacement engine.
This video explains the potential issues with Ford's 2.7L EcoBoost engine: 1m8020 AutomotiveYouTube · Nov 22, 2022
Reliability overview
- Generally reliable: The 2.7L EcoBoost has a strong track record, with many reports of long-term reliability (over 250,000 miles) when properly maintained, especially with second-generation models.
- Low mileage issue: A significant, though specific, issue involves intake valves fracturing due to a flaw in the alloy used during manufacturing.
- Affected vehicles: This primarily affects certain 2021 and 2022 models, including F-150s and Broncos.
- Symptom: Fractured valves can drop into the combustion chamber, causing a sudden loss of power and potentially complete engine failure.
- Likely mileage: This failure typically occurs at very low mileage, often under 10,000 miles.
- Fixed in later models: Ford resolved this intake valve issue for vehicles built after October 2021.
You can watch this video to learn about the Ford 2.7 vs 3.0 EcoBoost engine comparison: 1m8020 AutomotiveYouTube · Feb 6, 2025
What to know if you own one
- If your truck was built after October 2021: Your vehicle is not affected by the intake valve issue.
- If your truck was built before October 2021: If you have an affected vehicle and have not had the issue arise, it's important to be aware of the potential risk.
- If the issue does occur, it typically happens before 10,000 miles. If your vehicle has higher mileage, it is likely fine.
- Ford has a recall to replace the engine in affected vehicles for free if the issue occurs.
- Regular maintenance is key: Like any engine, consistent maintenance is crucial for maximizing the lifespan of the 2.7L EcoBoost.
