If you are looking for a powerful and efficient engine, you might be interested in the Ford 2.7 EcoBoost.
This engine is a 2.7-liter V6 twin-turbo that delivers up to 335 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque.
It is used in various Ford models, such as the F-150, the Edge, the Fusion, and some Lincoln vehicles.
However, before you decide to buy or drive a car with this engine, you should be aware of some of the common problems that it may have.
In this article, we will cover the most frequent issues that owners of the 2017 Ford 2.7 EcoBoost have reported, such as carbon build-up, oil pan leaks, and ignition system failures.
We will also explain the causes, symptoms, and solutions for these problems, and how they affect the reliability and performance of the engine.
By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of the 2017 Ford 2.7 EcoBoost problems and how to deal with them.
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What Are The 2017 Ford 2.7 Ecoboost Problems?
1: Carbon build-up
Carbon build-up is the accumulation of carbon deposits on the intake valves, pistons, and cylinder walls of the engine. It is caused by the incomplete combustion of the fuel-air mixture, which leaves behind some unburned hydrocarbons. These hydrocarbons then stick to the hot surfaces of the engine and form a hard layer of carbon over time.
Carbon build-up is a common problem for direct injection engines like the 2.7 EcoBoost, because they inject the fuel directly into the cylinder, bypassing the intake valve. This means that the intake valve does not get cleaned by the fuel spray, and thus becomes more prone to carbon deposits. Moreover, direct injection engines tend to run at higher pressures and temperatures, which also increase the likelihood of carbon formation.
Carbon build-up can affect the performance and reliability of the engine in several ways. Some of the symptoms of carbon build-up are:
– Misfires
Carbon deposits can interfere with the proper sealing of the valves and the compression of the cylinder, leading to incomplete or uneven combustion. This can cause the engine to misfire, which means that one or more cylinders do not fire as they should. Misfires can damage the engine components and reduce the power output and fuel efficiency of the engine.
– Rough idle
Carbon deposits can also affect the airflow and the fuel-air ratio in the engine, causing it to run rough or unevenly at idle. This can result in vibrations, noises, and fluctuations in the engine speed and temperature. Rough idle can also affect the emissions and the drivability of the vehicle.
– Hesitation
Carbon build-up can also cause the engine to hesitate or stumble when accelerating or changing gears. This is because the carbon deposits can restrict the airflow and the fuel delivery to the engine, making it less responsive and agile. Hesitation can also affect the safety and performance of the vehicle, especially when overtaking or merging.
– Power loss
Carbon build-up can also reduce the power and the torque of the engine, as it lowers the compression and the combustion efficiency of the cylinder. This can make the engine feel sluggish and weak, and require more throttle input to achieve the same speed or acceleration. Power loss can also affect the fuel economy and the emissions of the vehicle.
There are some possible solutions for carbon build-up, such as:
– Using catch cans: Catch cans are devices that are installed between the crankcase and the intake manifold, and they are designed to capture and filter the oil vapors and the blow-by gases that are produced by the engine. These vapors and gases can contribute to carbon build-up, as they contain unburned hydrocarbons and other contaminants. By using catch cans, the engine can breathe cleaner air and reduce the amount of carbon deposits on the intake valves and the pistons.
– Using fuel additives: Fuel additives are substances that are added to the fuel tank, and they are meant to improve the quality and performance of the fuel. Some fuel additives can also help to prevent or remove carbon build-up, as they contain detergents and cleaners that can dissolve and wash away the carbon deposits from the engine. However, not all fuel additives are effective or compatible with the 2.7 EcoBoost engine, so it is important to check the manufacturer’s recommendations and the product reviews before using them.
– Performing intake valve cleaning: Intake valve cleaning is a service that involves spraying a special solvent or foam into the intake manifold, and letting it soak and loosen the carbon deposits from the intake valves. Then, the solvent or foam is flushed out with compressed air, and the carbon deposits are removed along with it. Intake valve cleaning can restore the airflow and the fuel-air ratio in the engine, and improve the engine performance and reliability. However, intake valve cleaning can also be expensive and time-consuming, and it may not be enough to remove all the carbon deposits from the engine.
3: Oil pan leaks
Oil pan leaks are leaks that occur in the oil pan, which is the metal container that holds the engine oil at the bottom of the engine. The oil pan is sealed with a gasket or an RTV (room temperature vulcanizing) sealant, which prevents the oil from escaping. However, over time, the gasket or the sealant can wear out, crack, or break, allowing the oil to leak out of the oil pan.
Oil pan leaks are a common problem for the 2.7 EcoBoost engine because the oil pan is made of plastic, which is more prone to damage and deformation than metal. Moreover, the oil pan is exposed to high temperatures and pressures, as well as road debris and vibrations, which can also cause it to crack or break.
Oil pan leaks can affect the engine oil level and pressure, which are vital for the lubrication and the cooling of the engine. Some of the symptoms of oil pan leaks are:
– Oil spots under the vehicle
Oil pan leaks can cause the oil to drip or seep out of the oil pan, and leave oil spots or stains on the ground under the vehicle. These oil spots can indicate the location and the severity of the leak, and they can also harm the environment and the pavement.
– Low oil warning
Oil pan leaks can also cause the oil level to drop below the minimum mark, triggering the low oil warning light or message on the dashboard. The low oil warning is a sign that the engine is running low on oil, and it needs to be topped up as soon as possible. Running the engine with low oil can cause severe damage to the engine components, such as the bearings, the pistons, and the camshaft.
– Engine noise
Oil pan leaks can also cause the oil pressure to drop below the optimal range, affecting the lubrication and the cooling of the engine. This can result in increased friction and heat in the engine, which can cause the engine to make loud or unusual noises, such as knocking, rattling, or ticking. Engine noise can indicate that the engine is wearing out faster and may fail soon.
There are some possible solutions for oil pan leaks, such as:
– Replacing the oil pan: Replacing the oil pan is the most definitive and permanent solution for oil pan leaks, as it eliminates the source of the leak and ensures a proper seal. However, replacing the oil pan can also be costly and labor-intensive, as it requires removing the engine or lifting the vehicle, and replacing the gasket or the sealant as well. Moreover, replacing the oil pan may not be necessary if the leak is minor or the oil pan is still in good condition.
– Replacing the RTV seal: Replacing the RTV seal is another possible solution for oil pan leaks, as it can restore the seal between the oil pan and the engine block. However, replacing the RTV seal can also be challenging and time-consuming, as it requires cleaning the old sealant, applying the new sealant, and waiting for it to cure. Moreover, replacing the RTV seal may not be effective if the leak is caused by a crack or a hole in the oil pan.
– Using stop leak products: Using stop leak products is a temporary and quick solution for oil pan leaks, as they can seal the leak from the inside of the engine. Stop leak products are additives that are poured into the oil filler cap, and they react with the oil and the air to form a rubber-like substance that plugs the leak. However, using stop-leak products can also have some drawbacks, such as clogging the oil filter, reducing the oil flow, and affecting the oil quality. Moreover, using stop leak products may not work if the leak is too large or the oil pan is too damaged.
3: Spark plugs and ignition coils
Spark plugs and ignition coils are parts of the ignition system, which is responsible for igniting the fuel-air mixture in the engine. Spark plugs are devices that create a spark across a gap, which ignites the fuel-air mixture in the cylinder. Ignition coils are devices that transform the low voltage from the battery into a high voltage that is needed to create the spark.
Spark plugs and ignition coils are essential for engine combustion and performance, as they determine the timing and the intensity of the spark. A good spark can ensure a complete and efficient combustion, which can produce more power and torque, and reduce the emissions and the fuel consumption. A bad spark can cause poor or incomplete combustion, which can affect the engine’s performance and reliability.
Spark plugs and ignition coils can wear out or fail over time, due to various factors, such as heat, corrosion, moisture, or oil contamination. Some of the symptoms of faulty spark plugs and ignition coils are:
– Misfires
Faulty spark plugs and ignition coils can cause the spark to be weak, erratic, or absent, which can prevent the fuel-air mixture from igniting properly. This can cause the engine to misfire, which means that one or more cylinders do not fire as they should. Misfires can damage the engine components and reduce the power output and fuel efficiency of the engine.
– Rough idle
Faulty spark plugs and ignition coils can also affect the airflow and the fuel-air ratio in the engine, causing it to run rough or unevenly at idle. This can result in vibrations, noises, and fluctuations in the engine speed and temperature. Rough idle can also affect the emissions and the drivability of the vehicle.
– Poor fuel economy
Faulty spark plugs and ignition coils can also cause the fuel-air mixture to burn incompletely or inefficiently, which can waste fuel and reduce the fuel economy of the vehicle. This can also increase the emissions and the carbon build-up in the engine.
– Check engine light
Faulty spark plugs and ignition coils can also trigger the check engine light or code on the dashboard, which indicates that there is a problem with the engine or the emission system. The check engine light or code can help to diagnose the cause and the location of the fault, and it should not be ignored.
There are some possible solutions for faulty spark plugs and ignition coils, such as:
– Replacing them with OEM or high-quality aftermarket parts: Replacing the spark plugs and the ignition coils is the most effective and reliable solution for faulty spark plugs and ignition coils, as it can restore the spark quality and the engine performance. However, replacing the spark plugs and the ignition coils can also be costly and complicated, as it requires removing the intake manifold, the fuel injectors, and the wiring harness, and following the correct torque and gap specifications. Moreover, replacing the spark plugs and the ignition coils may not be necessary if they are still in good condition or within the service interval.
– Cleaning them with a wire brush or a spray cleaner: Cleaning the spark plugs and the ignition coils is another possible solution for faulty spark plugs and ignition coils, as it can remove the dirt, carbon, oil, or moisture that may affect the spark quality and the engine performance. However, cleaning the spark plugs and the ignition coils can also be risky and ineffective, as it can damage the electrodes, the ceramic, or the insulation, and it may not solve the underlying problem. Moreover, cleaning the spark plugs and the ignition coils may not be enough if they are too worn out or damaged.
– Checking and adjusting the spark plug gap: Checking and adjusting the spark plug gap is another possible solution for faulty spark plugs and ignition coils, as it can ensure the optimal distance between the electrodes, which affects the spark quality and the engine performance. However, checking and adjusting the spark plug gap can also be tricky and unnecessary, as it requires a special tool, such as a feeler gauge or a spark plug gapper, and it may not match the manufacturer’s specifications. Moreover, checking and adjusting the spark plug gap may not help if the spark plug or the ignition coil is faulty or failing.
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What Is The Recall On Ford 2.7 Engines?
There is no official recall on Ford 2.7 EcoBoost engines, but the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is investigating the reports of engine failures in some Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with the 2.7-liter or 3.0-liter EcoBoost engines. The investigation covers more than 708,000 vehicles from the 2021-2022 model years, including the Ford Bronco, Edge, Explorer, F-150, and the Lincoln Aviator and Nautilus.
According to NHTSA, engine failures may be caused by defective intake valves that can fracture and cause catastrophic engine damage. The agency stated that under “normal driving conditions without warning the vehicle may experience a loss of motive power without restart due to catastrophic engine failure”.
Ford said that the defective valves were manufactured out of a specific alloy that can become excessively hard and brittle if an over-temperature condition occurs during the machining of the component.
A design modification was implemented in October 2021, which changed the intake valve material to a different alloy that is less susceptible to over-temperature during machine grinding.
Some of the symptoms of the engine failures are loss of power, check engine light, engine noise, and inability to restart the vehicle. Ford and Lincoln owners who experience these symptoms should contact their dealers or Ford customer service for assistance. NHTSA also encourages owners to report any problems or complaints to the agency through its website or phone number.
NHTSA has not announced any recall or remedy for the engine failures yet, but it is still conducting its engineering analysis to determine the scope and severity of the problem.
Which Is Better 2.3 Or 2.7 Ecoboost?
Both the 2.3 and 2.7 EcoBoost engines have their pros and cons. Here are some factors to consider when choosing between them:
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Power and torque
The 2.7 EcoBoost has more power and torque than the 2.3 EcoBoost, as it is a larger and more advanced engine. The 2.7 EcoBoost can produce up to 335 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque, while the 2.3 EcoBoost can produce up to 310 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. If you are looking for more performance and acceleration, the 2.7 EcoBoost may be a better option for you.
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Fuel economy and emissions
The 2.3 EcoBoost has better fuel economy and emissions than the 2.7 EcoBoost, as it is a smaller and more efficient engine. The 2.3 EcoBoost can achieve up to 21 mpg city and 32 mpg highway, while the 2.7 EcoBoost can achieve up to 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. If you are looking for more savings and sustainability, the 2.3 EcoBoost may be a better option for you.
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Vehicle compatibility and availability
The 2.3 EcoBoost and the 2.7 EcoBoost are compatible with different vehicles and have different availability. The 2.3 EcoBoost is mainly used in the Ford Mustang and the Ford Ranger, while the 2.7 EcoBoost is mainly used in the Ford F-150 and the Ford Bronco. If you have a preference for a specific vehicle model, you may have to choose the engine that comes with it. Moreover, the 2.3 EcoBoost is more widely available and affordable than the 2.7 EcoBoost, as it is a base or standard engine for most models, while the 2.7 EcoBoost is an optional or premium engine that may require an upgrade fee.
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Reliability and longevity
The 2.3 EcoBoost and the 2.7 EcoBoost have similar reliability and longevity, as they are both modern and well-designed engines. However, they may also have some common or specific problems that can affect their performance and durability. Some of the common problems are carbon build-up, oil leaks, and spark plug and ignition coil failures. Some of the specific problems are timing chain issues for the 2.7 EcoBoost and head gasket issues for the 2.3 EcoBoost. To prevent or fix these problems, regular maintenance and inspection are essential for both engines.
How Do I Get More Power Out Of My 2.7 Ecoboost?
There are several ways to do that, but the easiest and most effective way is to increase the boost pressure of the turbochargers. Boost pressure is the amount of air that the turbochargers force into the engine, and more boost means more power.
To increase the boost pressure, you will need a device that can control the wastegates of the turbochargers. The wastegates are valves that regulate the exhaust flow to the turbine wheels, and thus the boost pressure. By closing the wastegates more, you can increase the boost pressure and the power output of the engine.
There are two types of devices that can control the wastegates: manual and electronic. Manual boost controllers are simple and cheap devices that use a spring and a ball to adjust the wastegate opening. Electronic boost controllers are more sophisticated and expensive devices that use a solenoid and a computer to adjust the wastegate opening.
Both types of boost controllers can increase the boost pressure, but they have some pros and cons. Manual boost controllers are easy to install and use, but they are not very precise or consistent, and they can cause boost spikes or surges. Electronic boost controllers are more accurate and reliable, but they are harder to install and use, and they may require tuning or calibration.
Some examples of manual boost controllers are:
- Turbosmart Boost Tee
- GrimmSpeed Manual Boost Controller
- Go Fast Bits G-Force III
Some examples of electronic boost controllers are:
- AEM Tru-Boost Controller Gauge
- Turbosmart e-Boost2
- HKS EVC-S
Before you decide to increase the boost pressure, you should be aware of some risks and limitations. Increasing the boost pressure can also increase the stress and the heat on the engine, which can lead to engine damage or failure. You should also make sure that your engine can handle the increased boost pressure, and that you have the proper fueling, cooling, and exhaust systems to support it. Moreover, increasing the boost pressure may void your warranty or violate the emission laws in your area.
What Years To Avoid 2.7 Ecoboost?
There is no definitive answer to what years to avoid the 2.7 EcoBoost, as different models and generations may have different issues and improvements.
However, based on some user experiences and reports, some of the years that may have more problems than others are:
- 2015: This is the first year of the 2.7 EcoBoost, and it may have some initial bugs and defects. Some of the common problems reported by owners are oil pan leaks, timing chain issues, and carbon build-up.
- 2017: This is the year that the NHTSA started investigating the engine failures in some Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with the 2.7 EcoBoost or the 3.0 EcoBoost engines. The engine failures may be caused by defective intake valves that can fracture and cause catastrophic engine damage.
- 2021: This is the year that the 2.7 EcoBoost was used in the new Ford Bronco, and it may have some compatibility and reliability issues. Some of the problems reported by owners are overheating, stalling, and checking engine lights.
Can You Put Bigger Turbos On 2.7 Ecoboost?
Yes, you can put bigger turbos on a 2.7 EcoBoost engine, but it is not recommended. Bigger turbos can increase the power and torque of the engine, but they can also cause more stress and heat on the engine, which can lead to engine damage or failure. You will also need to upgrade other parts of the engine, such as the fueling, cooling, and exhaust systems, to support the increased boost pressure. Moreover, you may void your warranty or violate the emission laws by installing bigger turbos on your 2.7 EcoBoost engine.
If you want to get more power out of your 2.7 EcoBoost engine, a better option is to increase the boost pressure of the stock turbos, using a manual or an electronic boost controller. This can improve the performance and efficiency of the engine, without compromising the reliability and durability of the engine. However, you should still consult a professional mechanic or tuner before increasing the boost pressure, and follow their recommendations and instructions.
Conclusion
The 2.7 EcoBoost is a powerful and efficient engine that can deliver great performance and fuel economy.
However, it also has some common and specific problems that can affect its reliability and longevity, such as carbon build-up, oil pan leaks, spark plug and ignition coil failures, and intake valve fractures.
To prevent or fix these problems, regular maintenance and inspection are essential, as well as following the manufacturer’s recommendations and the professional’s advice.
By doing so, you can enjoy the benefits of the 2.7 EcoBoost engine and avoid the drawbacks.
