What are common problems with a Ford 6.2 gas engine?

The Ford 6.2-liter V8 gas engine has been used in a variety of Ford and Lincoln vehicles, including the F-150, Super Duty trucks, Expedition, and Navigator. While generally a reliable engine, the 6.2L has experienced some common issues that owners should be aware of.

Spark Plug Fouling

One of the most frequently reported problems with the Ford 6.2 engine is spark plug fouling. The spark plugs can become coated with carbon deposits, leading to misfiring and reduced engine performance. This issue is often caused by the engine's design, which can allow oil to seep past the valve seals and into the combustion chambers.

Timing Chain Stretch

Another common problem is premature timing chain stretch. The timing chain, which synchronizes the opening and closing of the engine's valves, can wear out prematurely in some 6.2L engines. This can result in a loss of power, poor fuel economy, and potentially engine damage if left unaddressed.

Oil Consumption

Some owners have reported higher-than-expected oil consumption with the 6.2L engine. This can be caused by worn piston rings or valve seals, allowing oil to be burned in the combustion process. Regularly checking and topping up the oil level is recommended to prevent engine damage.

Transmission Issues

The 6.2L engine is often paired with Ford's 6R140 transmission. Some owners have experienced problems with the transmission, such as harsh shifting, slipping, or even complete failure. These issues may be related to the engine's high torque output or the transmission's design.

Preventive Maintenance

• Regularly change the engine oil and filter according to the manufacturer's recommendations.


• Monitor the spark plugs and replace them if they show signs of fouling.


• Have the timing chain inspected and replaced if necessary, especially if the engine is used for towing or hauling heavy loads.


• Pay attention to any changes in oil consumption and address the issue promptly.


• Ensure the transmission is serviced regularly and monitor for any shifting problems.

By being aware of these common issues and following a proactive maintenance schedule, owners of vehicles with the Ford 6.2L gas engine can help ensure their engine performs reliably for years to come.

Is the Ford 6.2 gas engine reliable?

The Ford 6.2L V8 gas engine is generally considered a reliable and durable engine, with many owners reporting high mileage (over 200,000 miles) with proper maintenance. Common issues that arise with higher mileage include oil consumption and leaks, and some earlier models had problems with broken valve springs. However, the overall reputation is positive for its toughness and longevity, especially with regular servicing.
 
Reliability factors

• Longevity: Many owners have reached or surpassed 200,000 miles, and some have even gone beyond 300,000 miles with good care. 
• Proper maintenance: Regular oil changes, tune-ups, and addressing issues promptly are crucial for extending the engine's life. 
• Durability: The engine has a reputation for being tough and a reliable workhorse, especially in Super Duty trucks. 

Potential issues

• Oil consumption: As the engine ages, oil consumption can increase, which is a normal part of the engine's life cycle at high mileage. 
• Oil leaks: Leaks can be a common problem, especially as the engine gets older. 
• Broken valve springs: Some earlier versions of the engine have been known to suffer from broken valve springs, which can lead to catastrophic engine failure. 
• Other problems: Other less common issues can include rough idling and issues with head bolts. 

Things to consider

• Fuel economy: The 6.2L engine is not known for its fuel efficiency, with many drivers reporting poor gas mileage. 
• Maintenance history: When buying a used truck, checking the maintenance history is important to understand how the engine has been cared for. 
• Engine hours: For trucks that do a lot of idling, engine hours can be a better indicator of wear and tear than just the odometer reading. 

What is the life expectancy of a Ford 6.2 engine?

The 6.2L V8 Ford engine is powerful and reliable. Most owners claim to reach 200,000 miles without any issues.

What year 6.2 to avoid?

You should avoid GM 6.2L V8 engines from the 2021-2024 model years due to a major recall for engine failure related to crankshaft and connecting rod defects. This is because a manufacturing defect in some engines can lead to catastrophic failure, loss of power, and potential crashes. The issue is believed to have been addressed in the 2025 model year vehicles. 

• Affected years: 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024.
• Affected vehicles: Trucks and SUVs from GM that use the 6.2L V8 L87 engine, such as the Chevy Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, Chevy Tahoe/Suburban, GMC Yukon/Yukon XL, and Cadillac Escalade.
• The problem: A manufacturing defect in the crankshaft or connecting rods can lead to engine failure.
• The solution: GM issued a recall for these vehicles. Affected vehicles will either receive a new engine (if the code P0016 is present) or a preventative oil change with a thicker viscosity oil (0W-40) if they don't show signs of internal damage.
• 2025 model year: Vehicles from the 2025 model year with this engine are not included in the recall because GM implemented manufacturing improvements to address the contamination and quality issues.

What is the problem with the 6.2 gas engine?

The main problem with the 6.2L gas engine is a potential manufacturing defect in the crankshaft or connecting rod bearings, leading to catastrophic engine failure, according to GM Authority. This defect affects certain models from 2021-2024 and has led to a NHTSA investigation and a recall for affected vehicles. Other reported issues include excessive oil consumption and, in older or higher-mileage engines, potential oil pump failures, YouTube videos and Powertrain Products. 
Primary issue: Manufacturing defect 

• The problem: Some 6.2L engines have a manufacturing defect in the connecting rod or crankshaft components, causing them to fail prematurely. 
• Symptoms: This can result in engine seizure, a connecting rod breaking through the engine block, or sudden loss of power. 
• Affected models: This recall primarily affects certain 2021-2024 Cadillac Escalades, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburbans, and Tahoes, and GMC Sierra 1500, Yukons, and Yukon XLs equipped with the L87 6.2L engine. 
• What to do: If your vehicle is affected, GM is offering an inspection and will replace the engine if the defect is found. They will also perform an oil change with a thicker viscosity oil as a preventative measure for vehicles that pass inspection. 

This video explains the recall and the inspection process: 1mPickup Truck Plus SUV TalkYouTube · Apr 28, 2025
Other common problems

• Excessive oil consumption: As a direct injection engine, the 6.2L is prone to consuming oil, which can lead to carbon buildup on the intake valves. 
• Oil pump failure: Older or high-mileage engines (over 150,000 miles) may experience oil pump failures, which can lead to a lack of lubrication and potentially spun bearings. 
• Rough idling: This can be a symptom of other issues, such as a spark plug problem. 
• Spark plug issues: The engine uses 16 spark plugs, and failure of one can lead to a rough idle. They can also be difficult to access and replace. 
• Transmission problems: Some older 6.2L engines are paired with problematic 8-speed transmissions, while the 10-speed transmission is considered more reliable.