Which 6.7 Power Stroke year to avoid?
The 6.7 Power Stroke diesel engine, introduced by Ford in 2011, has become a popular choice for truck enthusiasts due to its power, reliability, and towing capacity. However, like any engine, certain model years have faced more issues than others. If you're considering purchasing a vehicle with a 6.7 Power Stroke engine, it's important to know which years to approach with caution. In this article, we’ll explore the year you might want to avoid and why.
Why Some 6.7 Power Stroke Engines Had Issues
While the 6.7 Power Stroke is generally regarded as a robust and reliable engine, early production years experienced some growing pains. These issues were primarily due to design flaws and the use of certain components that didn’t hold up well under heavy use. Ford has since addressed many of these problems in later models, but it’s still worth being aware of the potential pitfalls of earlier versions.
The Year to Avoid: 2011
The 2011 model year, the first year of the 6.7 Power Stroke engine, is widely regarded as the one to avoid. Here’s why:
- Turbocharger Failures: The 2011 models were equipped with a single-sequential turbocharger that was prone to failure, especially under heavy towing conditions. This was a costly repair that frustrated many owners.
- Exhaust Gas Temperature (EGT) Sensor Issues: The EGT sensors in the 2011 models were known to fail prematurely, causing the truck to enter limp mode. This could be inconvenient and potentially dangerous if it occurred while driving.
- Radiator Leaks: Some 2011 models experienced radiator failures due to design flaws, leading to overheating and expensive repairs.
- Fuel System Problems: The high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) in the 2011 models was prone to failure, which could result in metal shavings contaminating the entire fuel system. This often required a complete system replacement.
While these issues were not universal to all 2011 6.7 Power Stroke engines, they were common enough to warrant caution. If you’re considering a 2011 model, it’s essential to ensure that these problems have been addressed by the previous owner or through recalls and repairs.
What to Look for in a Used 6.7 Power Stroke
If you’re set on purchasing a truck with a 6.7 Power Stroke engine, here are some tips to ensure you’re getting a reliable vehicle:
- Check Maintenance Records: Ensure the truck has been well-maintained, with regular oil changes and service intervals followed.
- Look for Updated Components: Verify if the turbocharger, EGT sensors, radiator, and fuel system have been replaced or upgraded in earlier models.
- Consider Later Model Years: Ford made significant improvements to the 6.7 Power Stroke in 2012 and beyond, addressing many of the initial issues.
- Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection: Have a trusted mechanic inspect the truck for any signs of wear or potential problems before buying.
By following these steps, you can minimize the risk of purchasing a problematic vehicle and enjoy the benefits of the 6.7 Power Stroke engine.
Conclusion
The 6.7 Power Stroke is a powerful and reliable engine, but like any new technology, its first production year came with some challenges. The 2011 model year is generally considered the one to avoid due to issues with the turbocharger, EGT sensors, radiator, and fuel system. If you’re in the market for a truck with this engine, consider later model years or ensure that any known issues have been resolved. With proper research and due diligence, you can find a 6.7 Power Stroke-equipped truck that will serve you well for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What year is super duty to avoid?
With over 400 complaints and seven recalls, the 2006 Ford F-250 is considered one of the worst, if not the worst iteration of the super duty pickup truck.
What is the life expectancy of a 6.7 Power Stroke?
200,000 miles
Life Expectancy and Reliability
The 6.7L Power Stroke is built for longevity – Many owners report reaching well over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. Regular servicing, especially for components like the turbocharger, exhaust systems, and fuel injectors, can extend the engine's lifespan even further.
What powerstrokes should I stay away from?
The first-generation 6.7 Powerstroke models were riddled with numerous issues. EGR cooler clogging was a common concern observed in both the 6.0L and 6.4L engines. The 6.7 models were prone to severe soot build-up. These carbon deposits can clog the EGR cooler core, resulting in poor engine performance.
What's the worst stroke to have?
Hemorrhagic strokes are less common, making up about 15 percent of stroke cases, but they are often deadlier, Sozener says. Patients may experience one of the following types: Intracerebral hemorrhage, a weak blood vessel breaking inside the brain.
What years of Power Stroke to avoid?
Even though all years of the 6.4 Powerstroke were problematic, the main year to avoid was 2008, which was the first year it came out. The 2008 model was plagued with problems that mainly involved the emissions systems, which were frustrating and costly to fix.
What year does 6.7 have a bad turbo?
Turbocharger failures have been a frequent issue with the 2011 and 2012 model year 6.7L Powerstroke equipped pickups. The early-production Honeywell DualBoost turbo's Achilles' heel appeared to be its ceramic bearings. However, these reliability concerns were resolved with the switch to steel ball bearings.
Which Power Stroke is the bad one?
6.0 Liter (2003-2007)
The 6.0s have a very bad reputation and the early '03s really deserve it with poor high pressure pumps, bad injectors, and head gasket problems.
What year 6.7 Power Stroke to stay away from?
But if you're in the market for a 6.7-liter Power Stroke and you want to avoid developing pesky maintenance issues or paying for repairs, your best bet is to search for a 2015 or newer model and avoid model years 2011 through 2014.
Is the 2017 6.7 Power Stroke reliable?
Life Expectancy and Reliability
The 6.7L Power Stroke is built for longevity – Many owners report reaching well over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. Regular servicing, especially for components like the turbocharger, exhaust systems, and fuel injectors, can extend the engine's lifespan even further.
What is the life expectancy of a 6.7 Power Stroke CP4?
between 200,000 and 300,000 miles
The Ford 6.7L Powerstroke diesel engine is known for its durability and can last between 200,000 and 300,000 miles on average. However, with consistent and proper maintenance, this engine can reach 400,000 miles or more, making it a reliable choice for many truck owners.
