Loading

Is there a class action lawsuit against Ford for EcoBoost engine?

The answer is yes. There have been several class action lawsuits filed against Ford Motor Company alleging defects in EcoBoost engines, with outcomes varying by case, engine size, and model year.


This article provides a broad overview of the current landscape, the kinds of claims that have been raised, and practical steps for owners who think they might be affected. It is not legal advice and the situation can change as new filings and settlements occur.


Current status of lawsuits against Ford for EcoBoost engines


Below is a snapshot of how these cases have evolved across different models and claims. The details can vary by jurisdiction and the specific engine involved.



  • Classification of claims: Most lawsuits center on specific EcoBoost engines (for example, smaller displacement 1.0L and 1.6L variants, as well as larger 2.0L and 3.5L configurations) and allege defects such as sludge buildup, oil consumption, timing chain/tensioner failures, or premature engine damage.

  • Litigation status: Some actions have proceeded through discovery, motions, or settlement discussions, while others have been dismissed or remained active in federal or state courts. The status is dynamic and depends on the particular case and court.

  • Relief sought: Plaintiffs have sought various remedies, including recall-style fixes, monetary settlements, or reimbursement for repairs and related costs, depending on the nature of the alleged defect and the engine involved.

  • Relation to recalls: In some instances, plaintiffs have referenced or leveraged Ford recall campaigns as context for alleged systemic engine issues; recall actions themselves may or may not overlap with private class actions.


In short, there are multiple active and historical consumer actions tied to EcoBoost engines, but each case has its own facts, scope, and procedural posture. Owners should monitor developments in the courts and recall communications from Ford or regulatory agencies.


What kinds of claims have been made about EcoBoost engines?


Owners and plaintiffs have asserted a range of defects and failures that allegedly stem from EcoBoost technology. The most common categories include:



  • Engine sludge and oil-related failures leading to severe damage or failure to start

  • Timing chain and timing chain tensioner problems causing loss of engine synchronization or catastrophic failure

  • Excessive oil consumption requiring frequent top-offs or leading to low oil conditions

  • Premature engine wear or failure in normal driving conditions, sometimes with reduced performance or warning indicators

  • Associated repair costs and decreased resale value resulting from the alleged defects


These claims are typically complex, requiring technical and forensic evidence, and outcomes depend on engine type, model year, maintenance history, and whether the vehicle was subject to any recall or service bulletin.


How to determine if you might be affected or have a potential claim


If you own a Ford vehicle with an EcoBoost engine and you’re concerned about these issues, consider the following steps to assess potential exposure. The list below provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal advice.



  • Gather documentation: Collect your purchase records, service and maintenance receipts, oil-change history, and any communications from Ford about recalls or service campaigns.

  • Check for recalls and bulletins: Look up current recalls on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website and Ford’s official recall notices for your specific model/year and engine.

  • Identify the engine and model: Note the exact EcoBoost engine (for example, 1.0L, 1.6L, 2.0L, 2.3L, 3.5L) and the model affected (e.g., Escape, Focus, F-150, Edge, Explorer) since eligibility can depend on engine type and vehicle year.

  • Consult with a consumer-law attorney: If you believe you’ve incurred repair costs or faced engine failure that may be connected to an EcoBoost defect, speak with a lawyer who specializes in automotive consumer class actions to evaluate potential options.

  • Monitor docket and recall developments: Stay informed about new filings, settlements, or recall expansions that relate to EcoBoost engines by checking class-action resources and major law firm updates.


Owners who see symptoms such as unexpected oil consumption, warning lights related to engine oil, or rough or failing engine performance should seek professional inspection and document any related costs for potential later steps.


Where to follow developments and verify information


To stay current on class actions and engine-related notices, consider these sources. They can help you confirm whether your vehicle might be involved in a case or recall and what remedies might be available.



  • Official recall databases, such as the NHTSA recall lookups, and Ford’s own recall notices

  • Federal court dockets and multi-district litigation (MDL) databases for updates on consolidated EcoBoost engine cases

  • Independent class-action trackers and consumer law news outlets that publish updates on Ford EcoBoost-related suits


Because lawsuits and recall actions can change with new filings and settlements, regular verification is recommended for owners who are concerned about potential exposure.


Summary


There is a history of class action lawsuits related to Ford EcoBoost engines, with claims focusing on sludge buildup, oil consumption, timing chain/tensioner failures, and premature engine damage. The status and outcomes of these cases vary by engine type, model year, and jurisdiction. Owners should gather documentation, verify recalls, and consult a specialized attorney if they believe they have a potential claim. Stay informed through official recall notices and reputable legal reporting sources, as the landscape can evolve with new lawsuits or settlements.

What is the lawsuit for the 2.3 EcoBoost engine?


The lawsuit alleges, among other things, that Ford: failed to disclose that these vehicles have a defect that causes coolant to leak into the engine's cylinders, which can cause corrosion, oil dilution and contamination, and engine failure; and.



How to join Ford EcoBoost class action lawsuit?


To join a Ford EcoBoost class action lawsuit, first confirm your vehicle's eligibility and gather relevant documents like repair records. Then, contact the law firm handling the case through their website or by email/phone to express interest and receive instructions on how to officially join. 
1. Check your eligibility

  • Verify the vehicle and engine: Ensure you have a vehicle with a specific EcoBoost engine and model year that matches the lawsuit's criteria. 
  • Confirm the defect: Your vehicle must have experienced the specific defect or problem cited in the lawsuit, such as excessive oil consumption or engine failure due to a coolant leak. 

2. Gather your documentation
  • Collect all records: Compile all service records, repair invoices, and receipts related to the defect.
  • Keep correspondence: Save any written communication with Ford or authorized service centers.
  • Include purchase/lease information: Have your original purchase or lease agreements, and any sales or trade-in paperwork ready. 

3. Contact the law firm
  • Find the right firm: Look for the law firm or firms that are officially representing the class in the lawsuit. You can often find this information on dedicated lawsuit websites or legal news sites. 
  • Reach out to them: Follow the contact instructions on the law firm's website. This may involve filling out a form or sending an email with your contact information and vehicle details. 
  • Follow their instructions: A representative from the law firm will contact you for more information and guide you through the next steps to officially join the class. 

This video explains the general process of joining a class action lawsuit: 58sCounty Office LawYouTube · Jul 28, 2024
4. Stay informed and complete the process
  • Stay updated: Keep track of the lawsuit's progress through the handling law firm's website or by signing up for updates. 
  • Complete necessary forms: You may need to complete and submit a claim form to the settlement administrator to receive any potential compensation after the case is resolved. 



What Ford engines are being recalled for the EcoBoost?


If you Google "biggest EcoBoost recall ever" right now, this one is likely to pop up as one of the results. It's not actually the biggest, not by a long shot, but 90,736 Explorers, Edges, Broncos, F-150s, Nautiluses and Aviators is nothing to sneeze at. This recall affected the 2.7 and 3.0-liter Nano V6 engines.



What is the class action lawsuit against the Ford EcoBoost?


Ford is facing several class-action lawsuits related to EcoBoost engines, alleging defects that cause coolant leaks and engine failure, oil pump issues, and potential engine fires. These lawsuits cover a range of model years and vehicles, including the Ford Escape, Fusion, Mustang, and others, and accuse Ford of failing to disclose these known issues. 
This video explains how to join a Ford EcoBoost class action lawsuit: 1mCounty Office LawYouTube · Jul 28, 2024
Alleged defects and issues

  • Coolant leaks: Lawsuits claim that some EcoBoost engines (like the 2.0L) have a defect where coolant can leak into the cylinders, causing overheating, cracking cylinder heads, and potential engine failure or fires. 
  • Oil pump defect: One lawsuit alleges that a defective oil pump in certain 1.0L EcoBoost engines (found in models like the Fiesta and EcoSport) can cause oil to not circulate properly, leading to engine damage and premature failure. 
  • Timing chain/belt issues: Another lawsuit targets a problem where the oil can degrade the rubber belt in some 1.0L EcoBoost engines, causing it to fail and lead to sudden engine shutdown. 

Affected vehicles and models
  • Coolant leak cases:
    • 2013-2019 Ford Escape 
    • 2013-2019 Ford Fusion 
    • 2015-2018 Ford Edge 
    • 2017-2019 Lincoln MKC 
    • 2017-2019 Lincoln MKZ 
  • Oil pump cases:
    • 2016-2017 Ford Fiesta 
    • 2018-2021 Ford EcoSport 
    • 2016-2018 Ford Focus 
  • 2.3L EcoBoost cases:
    • 2015-2024 Ford Mustang 
    • 2019-2024 Ford Ranger 
    • 2016-2024 Ford Explorer 
    • 2021-2024 Ford Bronco 
    • 2015-2020 Lincoln MKC 
    • 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair 

What to do if you own an affected vehicle
  • Review the lawsuit details: If you own one of the listed vehicles, check the specific lawsuit to see if your vehicle is included and if you have experienced the alleged defects. 
  • Consult an attorney: Seek legal advice from an attorney specializing in class-action lawsuits to understand your rights and how to participate if you choose to. 
  • Gather documentation: Collect all relevant documents, including your purchase or lease agreement, repair receipts, and any communication with Ford about the engine problems. 
  • Stay informed: Lawsuits are ongoing. Check the case status for updates and potential settlements. 

This video discusses the settlement offer for a Ford class action lawsuit: 1mStern Law, PLLCYouTube · Aug 7, 2017


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.