What is the failure of the 2.7 EcoBoost engine?

The 2.7 EcoBoost does not have a single universal failure mode, but owners have reported several recurring issues. Most problems involve carbon buildup, oil consumption or leaks, and turbocharger-related failures. With timely maintenance, recalls, and dealer service, many of these issues can be managed without affecting overall reliability.

What the 2.7 EcoBoost is and how it works

The 2.7-liter EcoBoost is Ford’s twin-turbocharged V6 engine used in several trucks and SUVs, most famously in the Ford F-150. It relies on direct fuel injection and twin turbochargers to deliver a blend of power and efficiency. While generally regarded as a modern, capable engine, its direct-injection design and turbocharged setup introduce failure modes that owners should monitor, especially as mileage climbs.

Common failure modes reported by owners

The issues below are drawn from owner reports, service bulletins, and recall data. They are not universal, but they represent the failures most frequently discussed by owners and technicians.

• Carbon buildup on intake valves and passages due to direct injection, which can cause rough idling, reduced power, misfires, and degraded fuel economy. Remedies range from professional intake cleaning to targeted software updates alongside maintenance of the fuel system.


• Oil consumption and leaks around seals, gaskets, or turbo oil lines that can necessitate additional top-offs or repairs under warranty or later. Regular oil level checks and using the correct synthetic oil spec are advised.


• Turbocharger and boost-control issues, including wastegate actuator failures or boost leaks, which can manifest as a loss of power or abnormal engine behavior and may require turbo or actuator replacement.


• Electrical or sensor-related intermittents that trigger misfires or rough running in some cases, often addressed by software updates, coil pack or injector replacements, or other component repairs.

These issues are not guaranteed to occur on any given vehicle, but they reflect the patterns seen in service data and owner forums. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to warning lights help mitigate risk.

Maintenance and mitigation strategies

Proactive upkeep can reduce the likelihood or impact of the commonly reported failures. The following steps are frequently recommended by technicians and manufacturer guidance:

1. Keep up with scheduled oil changes using the manufacturer-recommended oil grade and viscosity, and monitor oil consumption between service intervals.


2. Periodically inspect for oil leaks around turbo lines, valve covers, and the lower engine area; address any leaks promptly to prevent engine damage or turbo issues.


3. Watch for signs of carbon buildup on high-mileage engines (rough idle, decreased performance, misfires). If symptoms appear, schedule an intake cleaning from a qualified shop and consider a diagnostic check of the fuel system and ignition components.


4. Stay current with recalls and service bulletins via your VIN lookup. Many issues are addressed through software updates, warranty repairs, or part replacements under recall or extended coverage.

Different model years and configurations may have unique service recommendations, so always confirm with an authorized Ford dealer for your specific vehicle.

What manufacturers and service histories show

Ford and its dealers have issued recalls and technical service bulletins (TSBs) related to engine and turbo systems on various 2.7 EcoBoost applications. These actions typically focus on software recalibration, fuel system components, turbocharger controls, or oil/system sealing improvements. For any owner, checking the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall database and obtaining a VIN-specific service history is the best way to understand applicable fixes and protections.

Additionally, consumer feedback and independent reviews generally indicate that when properly maintained, the 2.7 EcoBoost provides strong performance and efficiency, with failures mainly tied to the common, addressable issues outlined above rather than a single catastrophic design flaw.

Summary

The 2.7 EcoBoost does not suffer from one universal failure mode, but several issues recur: carbon buildup from direct injection, oil consumption and leaks, turbo/boost-control problems, and occasional electrical or sensor-related faults. Regular maintenance, timely recall/service bulletin adherence, and proactive diagnostics help keep these engines running reliably. Always verify recall status for your exact vehicle and consult a qualified technician if you notice performance changes or warning indicators.

Which EcoBoost engine to avoid?

You should be wary of certain EcoBoost engines, particularly the 2.7L and 3.0L from 2021-2022 due to faulty intake valves, and the 1.5L, 1.6L, and 2.0L four-cylinder EcoBoost engines in older models (like 2013-2019 Escapes and Fusions) that can have coolant leaking into the cylinders. The 1.0L EcoBoost can also have issues with overheating and head gaskets due to coolant leaks.
 
Engines to be cautious about

• 2.7L and 3.0L V6 EcoBoost (2021-2022):
  • Problem: A recall was issued for vehicles equipped with these engines due to brittle intake valves breaking, which can cause rough running or total engine failure. 
  • Affected Models: 2021-2022 F-150, Bronco, Explorer, Edge, Lincoln Aviator, and Nautilus. 
• 1.5L, 1.6L, and 2.0L Four-Cylinder EcoBoost (various years, particularly 2013-2019):
  • Problem: These engines can suffer from coolant leaking into the cylinders due to a design flaw in the cylinder head, leading to overheating, engine damage, and potential fires. 
  • Affected Models: 2013–2019 Ford Escape, 2013–2019 Ford Fusion, 2015–2018 Ford Edge, 2016–2019 Lincoln MKC, and 2016–2019 Lincoln MKZ. 
  • Fix: The only reliable fix is often a long block replacement with an updated design, as noted in ClickMechanic and this YouTube video. 
• 1.0L Three-Cylinder EcoBoost (various years):
  • Problem: The timing belt runs in oil and can fail prematurely. There have also been reports of coolant leaks and head gasket issues, leading to overheating. 
  • Affected Models: 2016–2017 Ford Fiesta, 2018–2021 Ford EcoSport, and 2016–2018 Ford Focus. 

What to consider when buying

• If you are looking at a used vehicle, it is crucial to ensure any necessary recalls have been performed. 
• For the problematic 1.5L, 1.6L, and 2.0L engines, a repair history showing a long block replacement with an updated component is a very good sign. 
• For any of these engines, a thorough inspection and pre-purchase check is highly recommended before buying.

What is the problem with the Ford 2.7 EcoBoost engine?

Common problems with the 2.7L EcoBoost include carbon buildup on intake valves, oil leaks from the pan or valve cover gaskets, and excessive oil consumption. A significant, though now resolved through recall, issue involved a defect in the intake valves that could cause them to fracture and lead to catastrophic engine failure, especially in engines built before October 2021. Other potential issues include problems with timing chains, spark plugs, and ignition coils. 
This video explains the 2.7L EcoBoost engine issues and concerns: 54sGetty's GarageYouTube · Feb 4, 2024
Common issues

• Carbon buildup: Direct injection engines can accumulate carbon on the intake valves from oil vapors. Symptoms range from rough idle and reduced fuel efficiency to misfires, which can cause irreversible damage if not addressed. 
• Oil leaks and consumption: Owners report oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets, oil pans, or turbo seals, as well as high oil consumption. 
• Intake valve fracture: This is a major concern for engines manufactured before October 2021. A flaw in the manufacturing process made the silchrome light alloy intake valves brittle, causing them to break. This can lead to complete engine failure. 
• Timing chain issues: Some first-generation 2.7L engines have experienced timing chain rattle due to loose tensioners. 
• Spark plug and ignition coil problems: These components are also known to be a potential point of failure. 
• Oil pan leaks: While this issue was common in earlier models, some still report leaks from the plastic oil pan. 

This video demonstrates the 2.7L EcoBoost engine failure: 1:13Getty's GarageYouTube · Feb 25, 2025
How to address issues

• Walnut blasting: A common preventative measure for carbon buildup is walnut blasting the intake valves. 
• Catch cans: Installing an oil catch can can help prevent oil vapors from entering the intake system. 
• Recall and Service: If your engine was manufactured before October 2021, check if it's part of the intake valve recall. Ford has provided free engine replacements for vehicles affected by the valve fracture issue. 
• Maintenance: Regular oil changes with high-quality oil and fuel can help slow down the carbon buildup process. 
• Professional diagnosis: If you experience a rough idle, misfires, or excessive smoke, it is best to have a mechanic perform a thorough diagnosis, as the issues can be complex and have various causes. 

What is the life expectancy of the Ford 2.7 EcoBoost?

The Ford 2.7L EcoBoost engine is expected to last 150,000 to 200,000 miles or more with proper maintenance, though some drivers report reaching 300,000+ miles. Key factors for longevity include following a consistent maintenance schedule with more frequent oil changes, keeping up with coolant flushes, and addressing issues like carbon buildup (in 2018+ models with dual injection, this is less of a concern).
 
This video discusses the longevity of the 2.7L EcoBoost engine and its common issues: 55s8020 AutomotiveYouTube · Nov 22, 2022
Factors that contribute to longevity:

• Regular maintenance: Adhering to a strict maintenance schedule, including frequent oil changes (every 5,000 miles or less), is crucial. 
• Coolant and other flushes: Regularly flushing the coolant helps prevent potential issues with the internal water pump, which is driven by the timing chain, as recommended by some sources. 
• Addressing carbon buildup: First-generation 2.7L engines are prone to carbon buildup on intake valves. This can lead to performance issues around 100,000 miles. Second-generation 2.7L EcoBoost engines (2018+) use a dual-injection system, which helps prevent this buildup. 
• Replacing components proactively: While the engine can last a long time, components like the timing chain, cam phasers, and water pump may need replacement to achieve high mileage. 
• Driving habits: How you drive the vehicle can impact its life expectancy. For example, aggressive driving or frequent towing can put more stress on the engine and other components. 
• Considering the transmission: Some owners have reported issues with the 10-speed transmission in models 2018 and newer, while the 6-speed in earlier models is generally considered more reliable. 

This video explains the common issues with the Ford 2.7L EcoBoost engine: 54sGetty's GarageYouTube · Feb 4, 2024

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.