The Ford 3.0 EcoBoost engine first emerged on the car scene when installed in the Lincoln MKZ fr the 2017 model year. Although it usually powers Lincoln models, the engine is also found in the Ford Explorer. The 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine is similar to the 2.7 EcoBoost, but the former offers more power.
This guide will cover the Ford 3.0 EcoBoost engine, its reliability, and some common problems you might come across while using this engine.
What Cars Have the Ford 3.0 EcoBoost?
You can find a Ford 3.0-liter engine in a wide range of models, including the 2017 to 2020 Lincoln MKZ and Lincoln Continental, 2020 Ford Explorer Platinum, 2021 Ford Explorer ST, and higher models, 2021 Lincoln Aviator or Aviator Hybrid, and higher models.
When installed in the Lincoln MKZ vehicle and paired with front-wheel drive, it gives out 350 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. But with all-wheel drive and Continental models, it rises to an impressive 400 horsepower.
In the Ford Explorer ST and Lincoln Aviator, the horsepower from this 3.0l engine offers 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. And if you have the engine in hybrid-electric engines, the 3.0l engine has 494 horsepower and 630 lb-ft of torque. Despite the seemingly small size, the 3L engine has an impressive performance.
Is the Ford 3.0 EcoBoost Reliable?
Yes, it is. The engine provides above-average reliability, so you can depend on it while using your car. Ford EcoBoost engines are known for their high reliability and technology, and the 3.0l is just the same. Even if it is reliable, the engine will last longer if you maintain it properly. This twin-turbo engine takes a lot of attention regarding the fluid changes and ignition system, so you need to keep an eye on it to prevent damage.
The common problem with the EcoBoost engine is a faulty oil pan, but asides from this and carbon buildup, it’s a good engine. When maintaining it, you should change the fluids regularly, use high-quality oils, and fix any engine issues once you notice them.
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Common Problems with the 3.0 EcoBoost
The two most common problems in the Ford 3.0 EcoBoost engine are carbon buildup, ignition system, and leaks in the oil pan. Whenever something is wrong, these are the first two places you should look at before fixing any other problems.
Oil Pan Leaks
One of the significant problems in 2.7 and 3.0 EcoBoost engines is oil pan leaks, so it would be pretty easy to find other owners who have had this issue. The problem is gotten from the RTV seal on the oil pan, which Ford made a mistake. Since the oil pan is made of plastic and has an aluminum block, which is not an advisable design for the engine.
In 2019, the oil pan’s design was tweaked with the addition of a press-in-place gasket, which is hopefully a permanent fix. If you notice any leaks from the oil pan, you need to address them immediately.
- Symptoms
The main sign of this problem is a visible leak, but you’ll also notice light smoke and burning oil smells. The problem is quite simple since the oil pan is at the lower part of the engine, so you’ll quickly notice the oil dripping to the ground. If you see any oil drips, you should check the oil pan. In worse cases, the oil might leak and burn off, leading to the smoke and burning smell.
- Solution
The best solution, in this case, is a replacement. Usually, oil pans in Ford 3.0 EcoBoost engines fail early, so the warranty will still cover it. The problem can be fixed overnight for the sealant to dry, but the warranty coverage makes it cheaper.
You should also use the updated design for your oil pan, rather than the old one. If you put the old design, you might face the same problem again.
Carbon Buildup Issues
Today, many engines have direct injection technology, which leads to higher performance and good fuel economy. But, it usually leads to carbon buildup, and the same goes for the 3.0l twin-turbo engine. Engines usually blow some oil into other parts of the ports and valves. This engine is sprayed directly into the cylinder rather than intake ports, where you can remove it quickly. Since it’s on the cylinder, you can’t wipe it off.
The more it lands on the cylinder, the higher the carbon buildup. Since Ford also uses direct injection on the 3.0 EcoBoost, you can end up with carbon buildup. It usually doesn’t cause any harm to the reliability, but it should be cleaned every 100,000 miles.
- Symptoms
Some of the significant symptoms of this problem are misfiring, stuttering in acceleration, rough idle, and no power. The carbon buildup can restrict airflow into the engine cylinders, leading to engine misfires. It can also lead to hesitation while accelerating and a rough idle too.
One primary symptom, although challenging to notice, is power loss. The carbon residue can build up over a long time, leading to a gradual loss in power and performance, so you might not notice.
- Solution
The primary way to get rid of carbon buildup in a 3.0l engine is through walnut blasting. It can take a few hours, at most a day, and cost as high as $600 depending on the shop you visit. It’s best to call a mechanic rather than do it yourself. You might be asked to use intake sprays, but this is only a temporary solution.
Conclusion
Regardless of the problems of carbon buildup or oil pan leaks, the Ford 3.0 EcoBoost is generally reliable. You can easily use this engine for about 200,000 miles, especially if you properly maintain it and take care of it.
