2003-2007 Ford F-250/F-350 Superduty 6.0L Powerstroke Guide

Posted on September 25, 2023October 14, 2023 by Kamil

2003-2007 Ford F-250 and F-350 Superduty trucks contain one of the most well-known diesel engines in modern day diesel trucks, the 6.0L Powerstroke V8 engine. Upon being released, consumers had high hopes for this latest iteration of the Superduty. This was especially true considering this engine was replacing the legendary 7.3L Powerstroke V8 Diesel engine which had set the bar extremely high for Ford trucks.

Despite the reliability of its predecessor, the 6.0L Powerstroke became well-known for entirely different reasons. In this post, our 2003-2007 Ford F-250/F-350 Superduty 6.0L Powerstroke Guide, we’re going to dive in deep about the good, the bad, and the ugly of these trucks.

We’ll cover Ford Superduty 6.0L Powerstroke performance, specs, history, and tow ratings. We’ll also list common Ford Superduty 6.0L Powerstroke problems, and what can be done to fix them. Let’s get started.

6.0L Powerstroke V-8 Diesel Engine

The 6.0L Powerstroke engine was built by International Navistar, similar to the 7.3L Powerstroke. Planning and design for this new engine began in the late 90s as Ford was aware of upcoming and stringent emissions guidelines that were being implemented. In addition to stricter emissions, the 7.3L Powerstroke was becoming underwhelming from a performance aspect. Both the 5.9L Cummins and the LB7 Duramax engines were catching up, or even surpassing the 7.3L Powerstroke in capabilities.

In 2003, Ford introduced the 6.0L Powerstroke engine in Ford F-250 and F-350 Superduty trucks. It was in production until the 2007 model year, after which it was replaced by the 6.4L Powerstroke V8 Diesel Engine.

Graphic Taken From a Ford Superduty Brochure — 6.0L Powerstroke V8 Diesel engine Graphic taken from a Ford Superduty Brochure.

Engine Design

The 6.0L Powerstroke is a direct-injection, 32-Valve, 8-cylinder Diesel engine that boasts significantly improved power, fuel economy, and NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) over the previous 7.3L Powerstroke V8 Diesel engine. It also contains a lower displacement, and is more compact than the engine it replaced. This engine has an Overhead valve design, with a single, block-mounted camshaft, featuring hydraulic valve-lash adjustment. This results in lesser friction resulting in greater valvetrain durability, improved longevity, quieter operation, and better performance.

Utilizing a cast-iron cylinder block for superior strength, the 6.0L Powerstroke features a sturdy foundation. To help accomplish its compact design, the geartrain for the crankshaft, camshaft and the HPOP (high-pressure oil pump) were moved to the engine’s rear. Further bottom-end strength was accomplished by the use of a crankcase bed plate.

Similar to the 7.3L Powerstroke, powdered-metal connecting rods are used, with great success. These connecting rods have been found to be capable of supporting massive performance improvements. Cast Aluminum Pistons are also used.

6.0L Powerstroke engines contains cast iron cylinder heads, which are significantly higher flow than the outgoing 7.3L Powerstroke. Four valves are used per cylinder, for a total of 32 valves. Aluminum rocker boxes mount to the top of each cylinder head. The cylinder heads themselves are mounted to the block with four 14mm TTY head bolts used per cylinder. These Torque-to-yield bolts are small compared to those used in other diesel applications, and also fewer in number. They’re known to stretch when the engine is put under higher loads due to heavy towing or engine mods like 6.0L Powerstroke Tuning. Once they’ve stretched, they will no longer apply the same clamping force, ultimately resulting in a blown head gasket.

Engine Highlights

The 6.0L Powerstroke V8 Diesel Engine brought some innovations never before seen on a Ford Diesel truck. These engines use EGR, or exhaust gas recirculation, as a means of significantly reducing emissions output and meeting federally mandated emissions requirements. Electronic Variable Response Turbocharging is introduced through the use of a variable geometry turbocharger. An updated fuel design also was introduced, helping to reduce emissions output and increase performance capabilities.

Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR)

Exhaust gas recirculation is the process in which cooled exhaust gases get re-circulated back into the combustion chamber. This lowers the burner temperature at which combustion occurs, ultimately leading to reduces NOx emissions.

While the EGR did help reduce emissions enough for Ford to meet emissions requirements, they essentially opened a can of worms. EGR failure is one of the most common 6.0l Powerstroke Problems. Exhaust gas recirculation is extremely hard on engine coolant and introduces excess carbon and soot into multiple components including the EGR valve, EGR Cooler, intake manifold, and more.

Picture above is the **Sinister Diesel 2004-2007 Ford Superduty 6.0L Powerstroke EGR Cooler**.

Variable Geometry Turbocharger & Electronic Variable Response Turbocharging

A revolutionary turbocharging system was introduced the 2003 Ford Superduty with the introduction of the 6.0L Powerstroke engine. A variable Geometry, Garrett GT3782VA turbocharger is used in conjunction with an air-to-air intercooler. This turbocharger optimizes boost and performance over a wide range of driving scenarios.

This variable geometry turbocharger, also called Electronic Variable Response Turbocharging, or EVRT, uses a set of electronically controlled, hydraulically actuated vanes. These vanes automatically adjust, changing airflow within the turbo. This design results in optimum performance in the entire operating range. At lower speeds, it functions as a smaller turbocharger, resulting in quicker spooling and faster response. At higher operating ranges, it functions as a larger turbo for maximum power output.

While extremely innovative, the VGT actually is a common 6.0L Powerstroke problem as well. The VGT can experience buildup that causes the vanes to get stuck. A thorough cleaning or total replacement can fix the problem. There are plenty of 6.0L Powerstroke aftermarket turbocharger upgrades available on the aftermarket.

2005.5-2007 Garrett GT3782 VA Stock Replacement Turbocharger

The stock 6.0L Powerstroke was incredibly innovating and featured electronic variable response turbocharging. If your OEM turbocharger is in rough shape, you can replace it with an OEM 2005.5-2007 Garrett GT3782 Stock Replacement Turbocharger.

Garrett Powermax Turbocharge for 04.5-07 6.0L Powerstroke

For those looking to upgrade their turbocharger, the 2004.5-2007 Ford Superduty 6.0L Powerstroke Garrett Powermax Turbocharger is a common upgraded turbocharger kit capable of supporting up to 175 horsepower over stock.

Hydraulic Rail Fuel Injection

Ford’s Superduty with the 6.0L Powerstroke V8 Diesel engine gained an updated fuel injection system. In this system, commonly referred to an a HEUI system, high-pressure engine oil helps compress diesel fuel. The Fuel injectors are controlled by a high-pressure hydraulic rail system that’s capable of delivering injection pressures of up to 26,000 psi. The result is a more powerful, efficient, and cleaner combustion.

Key Components of the Hydraulic Rail Fuel Injection System include:

Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
Injector Driver Module (IDM)
High-pressure Oil Pump (HPOP)
Injection Pressure Regulator (IPR)
Siemens Injectors

This system, while it did help significantly boost the 6.0L Powerstroke’s performance and helped reduce emissions, is actually a common failure point of these engines too.

Ford 6.0L Powerstroke V8 Diesel Engine Specs

Engine:	6.0L Powerstroke V-8 Diesel Engine
Engine Design:	Turbocharged V-8 Diesel
Engine Weight	Approximately 966 lbs
Transmissions:	5-Speed 5R110W Torqshift Automatic ZF6 6-Speed Manual
Displacement:	6.0 Liters or 365 Cubic Inches
Bore:	3.74 inches or 95 mm
Stroke:	4.134 inches or 105 mm
Block Material:	Cast Iron Block
Connecting Rods:	Powdered-metal
Pistons	Cast Aluminum
Cylinder Head Material:	Cast Iron Cylinder Heads 4 valves per cylinder head 4 14mm head bolts per cylinder
Intake Manifold:	Aluminum
Compression Ratio:	18.0:1
Firing Order:	1-2-7-3-4-5-6-8
Turbocharger/Air:	Garrett VGT GT3782 TurboCharger, Air-to-Air Intercooler
Fuel Injection:	HEUI, Hydraulic Actuated electronic unit injectors
Valvetrain:	OHV (Overhead Valve) Single Cam, 32 Valve (4 valves per cylinder)
Engine Oil Capacity:	15 Quarts with filter
Emissions Devices	EGR – Exhaust Gas Recirculation
Cooling System Capacity:	27.5 Quarts or 8.75 Gallons.
Fuel:	Diesel
Fuel Tank Size:	29 Gallon or 38 Gallon Options
Horsepower:	325 horsepower @ 3,300 rpms
Torque:	2003-2004: 560 lb.-ft @ 2,000 rpm 2005-2007: 570 lb.-ft @ 2,000 rpm

Ford Superduty 6.0L Powerstroke Performance

There was a lot to be excited about with the introduction of the 6.0L Powerstroke V8 Diesel to the Ford F-250 and F-350 Superduty. For starters, the 6.0L Powerstroke engine gave the Ford Superduty a big increase in performance. 2003 Ford Superduty trucks with the 6.0L Powerstroke engine produce 325 horsepower and 560 lb.-ft of torque. When compared to the max figures of 275 horsepower and 525 lb.-ft of torque produced by the 7.3L Powerstroke, these were much needed performance gains. The 5.9L Cummins and the 6.6L LB7 Duramax were already posting figures that were vastly superior to those of the 7.3L Powerstroke as well, solidifying the need for an updated engine to stay competitive.

In addition to benefitting from the addition of a new, higher performance diesel engine, a new 5-speed TorqShift automatic transmission was also introduced. After being around for an extended period of time, this 5-speed automatic has proven itself to be quite reliable and capable of withstanding moderate performance upgrades.

These additions made the trucks drive smoother, made them more capable, and added to the max towing capacities of these trucks. It also aided these trucks in meeting federally mandated emission standards. Overall, the 6.0L Powerstroke allowed Ford’s Superduty to better compete with rivals thanks to the large jump in performance.

6.0L Powerstroke V8 Engine Bay Picture — 6.0L Powerstroke V8 Diesel engine Bay Picture.

2003-2007 Ford Superduty Performance Comparison

The introduction of the 6.0L Powerstroke V8 Diesel engine made Ford more competitive against rival automakers GM and Dodge. How does it hold up against the other powertrains available within the Superduty lineup though? Check out how the 6.0L Powerstroke holds up against it’s fellow Ford Superduty powertrains in this chart down below.

Spec Type	Transmission	Years	Horsepower	Torque
5.4L V8 Triton	Automatic Manual	2003-2004 2005-2007	260 horsepower 300 horsepower	350 lb.-ft 365 lb.-ft
6.8L V10 Triton	All Options	2003-2004 2005-2007	310 horsepower 362 horsepower	425 lb.-ft 457 lb.-ft
6.0L Powerstroke V8 Diesel	Automatic	2003-2004 2005-2007	325 horsepower	560 lb.-ft 570 lb.-ft
7.3L Powerstroke V8 Diesel	Manual Automatic	2003 Only	275 horsepower 250 horsepower	520 lb.-ft 525 lb.-ft

Ford Superduty 6.0L Powerstroke Towing Capacity

The following Charts display max towing capacity for 2003-2007 Ford Superduty Trucks with the 6.0L Powerstroke V8 Diesel engine. Actual tow capacity for your vehicle can vary. Check your owner’s manual or Ford resources for exact towing capacity.

Manual Transmission F-250/F-350 Superduty SRW Towing Specs

Manual Transmission Spec Types	Year	F-250/F350 SRW Regular Cab	F-250/F-350 SRW SuperCab	F-250/F-350 SRW Crew Cab
Max Conventional Tow Capacity 4×2	2003 2004 2005 2006 2007	12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs	12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs	12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs
Max Conventional Tow Capacity 4×4	2003 2004 2005 2006 2007	12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs	12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs	12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs
Max 5th-wheel/Gooseneck Tow Capacity 4×2	2003 2004 2005 2006 2007	13,600 lbs 13,600 lbs 16,400 lbs 16,400 lbs 16,400 lbs	13,300 lbs 13,300 lbs 16,100 lbs 16,100 lbs 16,100 lbs	12,900 lbs 12,900 lbs 15,900 lbs 15,900 lbs 15,900 lbs
Max 5th-wheel/Gooseneck Tow Capacity 4×4	2003 2004 2005 2006 2007	13,300 lbs 13,300 lbs 15,900 lbs 16,000 lbs 16,000 lbs	12,900 lbs 12,900 lbs 15,600 lbs 15,600 lbs 15,600 lbs	12,700 lbs 12,700 lbs 15,400 lbs 15,400 lbs 15,400 lbs

Automatic Transmission F-250/F-350 Superduty SRW Towing Specs

Automatic Transmission Spec Types	Year	F-250/F350 SRW Regular Cab	F-250/F-350 SRW SuperCab	F-250/F-350 SRW Crew Cab
Max Conventional Tow Capacity 4×2	2003 2004 2005 2006 2007	12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs	12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs	12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lb 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs
Max Conventional Tow Capacity 4×4	2003 2004 2005 2006 2007	12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs	12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs	12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs 12,500 lbs
Max 5th-wheel/Gooseneck Tow Capacity 4×2	2003 2004 2005 2006 2007	13,700 lbs 13,700 lbs 16,500 lbs 16,500 lbs 16,500 lbs	13,300 lbs 13,300 lbs 16,100 lbs 16,100 lbs 16,100 lbs	13,100 lbs 13,100 lbs 15,900 lbs 15,900 lbs 15,900 lbs
Max 5th-wheel/Gooseneck Tow Capacity 4×4	2003 2004 2005 2006 2007	13,300 lbs 13,300 lbs 15,800 lbs 15,800 lbs 15,800 lbs	13,000 lbs 13,000 lbs 15,600 lbs 15,700 lbs 15,700 lbs	12,700 lbs 12,700 lbs 15,600 lbs 15,500 lbs 15,500 lbs

Manual Transmission F-350 Superduty DRW Towing Specs

Manual Transmission Spec Types	Year	F350 DRW Regular Cab	F-350 DRW SuperCab	F-350 DRW Crew Cab
Max Conventional Tow Capacity 4×2	2003 2004 2005 2006 2007	13,300 lbs 13,400 lbs 15,000 lbs 15,000 lbs 15,000 lbs	13,000 lbs 13,000 lbs 15,000 lbs 15,000 lbs 15,000 lbs	12,800 lbs 12,800 lbs 15,000 lbs 15,000 lbs 15,000 lbs
Max Conventional Tow Capacity 4×4	2003 2004 2005 2006 2007	12,900 lbs 13,000 lbs 15,000 lbs 15,000 lbs 15,000 lbs	12,600 lbs 12,600 lbs 15,000 lbs 15,000 lbs 15,000 lbs	12,400 lbs 12,400 lbs 15,000 lbs 15,000 lbs 15,000 lbs
Max 5th-wheel/Gooseneck Tow Capacity 4×2	2003 2004 2005 2006 2007	13,300 lbs 13,400 lbs 16,400 lbs 16,600 lbs 16,600 lbs	13,000 lbs 13,000 lbs 16,300 lbs 16,100 lbs 16,200 lbs	12,800 lbs 12,800 lbs 16,100 lbs 16,100 lbs 16,100 lbs
Max 5th-wheel/Gooseneck Tow Capacity 4×4	2003 2004 2005 2006 2007	12,900 lbs 12,900 lbs 15,900 lbs 16,100 lbs 16,100 lbs	12,600 lbs 12,600 lbs 15,800 lbs 15,600 lbs 15,800 lbs	12,400 lbs 12,400 lbs 15,600 lbs 15,600 lbs 15,600 lbs

Automatic Transmission F-350 Superduty DRW Towing Specs

Automatic Transmission Spec Types	Year	F350 DRW Regular Cab	F-350 DRW SuperCab	F-350 DRW Crew Cab
Max Conventional Tow Capacity 4×2	2003 2004 2005 2006 2007	13,400 lbs 13,400 lbs 15,000 lbs 15,000 lbs 15,000 lbs	13,000 lbs 13,000 lbs 15,000 lbs 15,000 lbs 15,000 lbs	12,800 lbs 12,800 lbs 15,000 lbs 15,000 lbs 15,000 lbs
Max Conventional Tow Capacity 4×4	2003 2004 2005 2006 2007	13,000 lbs 13,000 lbs 15,000 lbs 15,000 lbs 15,000 lbs	12,600 lbs 12,600 lbs 15,000 lbs 15,000 lbs 15,000 lbs	12,400 lbs 12,400 lbs 15,000 lbs 15,000 lbs 15,000 lbs
Max 5th-wheel/Gooseneck Tow Capacity 4×2	2003 2004 2005 2006 2007	13,400 lbs 13,400 lbs 16,700 lbs 19,200 lbs* 19,200 lbs*	13,000 lbs 13,000 lbs 16,300 lbs 18,800 lbs* 18,800 lbs*	12,800 lbs 12,800 lbs 16,100 lbs 18,600 lbs* 18,600 lbs*
Max 5th-wheel/Gooseneck Tow Capacity 4×4	2003 2004 2005 2006 2007	13,000 lbs 13,000 lbs 16,200 lbs 18,700 lbs* 18,700 lbs*	12,600 lbs 12,600 lbs 15,900 lbs 18,300 lbs* 18,300 lbs*	12,400 lbs 12,400 lbs 15,600 lbs 18,100 lbs* 18,100 lbs*

* max tow capacities with the * have the max tow capacity package featuring the 4.30LS Rear Axle Ratio.

2003-2007 Ford Superduty 6.0L Powerstroke History

2003 Ford Superduty 6.0L Powerstroke

In 2003, the 6.0L Powerstroke engine is introduced to Ford’s Superduty powertrain lineup. Producing 325 horsepower and 560 lb.-ft of torque, it was revolutionary and helped make Ford diesel trucks more competitive in the diesel market.

2004 Ford Superduty 6.0L Powerstroke

In 2004, the 7.3L Powerstroke V8 Engine is removed from the Ford Superduty powertrain lineup. Slight 6.0L Powerstroke modifications were made. 2004 models feature an updated turbo design, done to reduce sound.

2005 Ford Superduty 6.0L Powerstroke

In 2005, the 6.0L Powerstroke benefitted from. Max torque was improved to 570 lb.-ft, an improvement of 10 lb.-ft over last year’s model. Also, all super duty trucks for this year benefit from some chassis improvements that improved max payload towing capacity.

2006 Ford Superduty 6.0L Powerstroke

In 2006, Ford Superduty trucks get a large tow capacity increase in DRW models.

2007 Ford Superduty 6.0L Powerstroke

2007 marked the last year for the 6.0L Powerstroke engine. In 2008, it gets replaced by the 6.4L Powerstroke Engine.

Best Ford Superduty 6.0L Powerstroke Upgrades

Since the 2003-2007 Ford Superduty with the 6.0L Powerstroke V8 Diesel engine has been around for many years now, we’ve learned a lot about what can both improve their durability and lifespan, as well as what you can do to improve their performance. In this section of our guide we’ll explore what upgrades can be done to both make your truck last longer, and how you can increase horsepower, torque, and throttle response.

Top 6.0L Powerstroke Upgrades for Improved Reliability

6.0L Powerstroke Head Stud Upgrade Kit from ARP

ARP Head Stud Kit

If you’re going to add any performance modifications, or even if you just plan on towing frequently, the addition of an ARP 6.0L Powerstroke Head Stud Kit is a must-have upgrade! The TTY head bolts are known to stretch, resulting in a blown head gasket.

Mishimoto Coolant Filtration Kit

Coolant breakdown due to the EGR process is a frequent contributor to 6.0L Powerstroke failure. Keep your coolant and engine components cleaner with this simple upgrade that won’t break the bank! Check out the Mishimoto Coolant Filtration Kit.

Edge Insight CTS3

One of the best upgrades for any truck is a performance monitoring system. Performance monitors like the Edge Insight CTS3 provide real-time data and allow you to monitor critical engine parameters like Coolant and Oil temp simultaneously. This makes spotting things like a plugged oil cooler significantly easier. If you’re also interested in tuning, you can opt for the Edge Evolution CTS3 instead which gives you the benefits of a performance monitor and a tuner all in one! Check out our Edge Insight CTS3 review here!

Top 6.0L Powerstroke Performance Upgrades For Improved Power

The 6.0L Powerstroke comes from the factory producing 325 horsepower and 560-570 lb.-ft of torque. While these numbers were incredible at the time, these are only a fraction of what modern-day diesel engines like the latest 6.7L Powerstroke engine can churn out. Fear not, however, there are a multitude of aftermarket solutions that can improve 6.0L Powerstroke Performance, fuel economy, and throttle response dramatically! Check out some of our favorites down below.

Edge Evolution CTS3

If you want the real-time performance monitoring and tuning all in one unit, the Edge Evolution CTS3 is one of the latest, and most capable box tuners available for the 6.0L Powerstroke. Get power gains of up to 100 horsepower and 200 lb.-ft of torque. It also helps improve fuel economy and throttle response! It’s also CARB and emissions compliant!

Banks Ram Air Intake

Cold air intakes are an excellent and inexpensive performance upgrade for any diesel truck! The 6.0L Powerstroke is no exception. If you’re familiar with diesel performance, than you know who Gale Banks is. Bank’s Performance builds the 6.0L Powerstroke Bank’s Ram Air Intake that improves air flow up to 38% and helps bring in cooler, denser air.

Banks Intercooler Upgrade

Maintaining lower coolant, engine oil, and exhaust gas temperatures is absolutely critical on the 6.0L Powerstroke engine. Factory intercoolers feature plastic end tanks and vastly inferior performance. Check out the Banks Power Intercooler Upgrade. 03-04 Powerstroke needs the Banks Power Intercooler Upgrade Kit #25974. 05-07 Powerstrokes need Banks Power Intercooler Upgrade Kit #25975.

For more 6.0L Powerstroke upgrades, visit our post, The Best 6.0L Powerstroke Powerstroke Upgrades.

Most Common 6.0L Powerstroke Problems

Head Gasket Failures Caused by TTY Head Bolts

6.0L Powerstroke engines come from the factory with only four, 14mm Torque-to-Yield (TTY) head bolts per cylinder. Putting these trucks under high load, or increasing cylinder head pressures due to performance modifications can quickly cause the factory TTY bolts to stretch. This significantly reduces their clamping pressure, resulting in a blown head-gasket. By upgrading to ARP Head Studs, you can remove these underperforming TTY head bolts and save yourself from the headache of a blown head gasket.

Oil Cooler

One of the most common 6.0L Powerstroke problems is a failed oil cooler. When this Powerstroke’s oil cooler fails, it causes oil temperatures to jump drastically. This occurs due to build up in the coolant passageways that accumulates overtime. Once this occurs, it’s time for a new Engine Oil Cooler. Ford’s OEM Replacement Oil Cooler is an option, or you can opt for an aftermarket solution like the PPE Heavy Duty Oil Cooler upgrade kit.

EGR problems

Exhaust Gas Recirculation was first introduced to Ford diesels with the 6.0L Powerstroke. As with anything new, especially emissions devices in automobiles, there were plenty of kinks that needed to be worked out. If your EGR goes out, consider buying a significantly better quality Bulletproof Diesel EGR Cooler. Carefully select the one you need your truck because there are different models between model years.

While I only included three problems that are frequently encountered with this engine in this post, there are actually many more problems that can occur. Check out our comprehensive guide with the most common 6.0L Powerstroke problems and how to fix them in our Most Common Ford Superduty 6.0L Powerstroke Problems post.

2003-2007 Ford Superduty 6.0L Powerstroke Maintenance

One of the best ways to make your 6.0L Powerstroke more reliable is by properly maintaining your truck. Due to the EGR process, your system’s coolant and engine oil are under significantly more strain, especially if your truck is used for heavy towing, or if it’s modified with aftermarket products like tuners. Even stock trucks that operate under minimally harsh conditions experience problems at some point. That’s why it’s absolutely critical you perform 6.0L Powerstroke maintenance frequently, and that you use the best fluids, oil, and filters possible.

In this section, we’ll provide a brief overview of how to maintain your 6.0L Powerstroke-equipped Ford Superduty truck.

Ford Superduty 6.0L Powerstroke Diesel Truck

6.0L Powerstroke Service Intervals

One of the most important things to keep in mind when it comes to 6.0L Powerstroke maintenance is that just because of your truck’s engine design, we recommend following the severe maintenance schedule. It requires more frequent service, but your truck will thank you for it. It’ll help keep your truck on the road for a longer period of time.

Maintenance/Service Type	Miles	Kilometers
Change Oil	5,000 miles	8,000 km
Change Oil Filter	5,000 miles	8,000 km
Change Fuel Filter(s)	10,000 miles	16,000 km
Replace Air Filter	Check Filter restriction gauge. Replace as necessary.	Check Filter restriction gauge. Replace as necessary.
Flush Cooling System	Every 40-50,000 miles or once every 1-2 years.	64-80,000 km or once every 1-2 years.
Replace Auto Transmission Fluid	30,000 miles	48,000 km
Replace Manual Transmission Fluid	60,000 miles	96,000 km
Change External transmission filter	30,000 miles	48,000 km
Change internal transmission filter	30,000 miles	48,000 km
Replace Transfer Case Fluid	150,000 miles/ 60,000 miles under severe operating conditions	240,000 km/96,000 km under severe operating conditions.
Replace Rear Differential Fluid	100,000 miles/ 30,000 miles under severe operating conditions	160,000 km/ 48,000 km under severe operating conditions
Replace Front Differential Fluid	100,000 miles30,000 miles under severe operating conditions	160,000 km/ 48,000 km under severe operating conditions

2003-2007 Ford Superduty 6.0L Powerstroke Fluid & Oil Capacity

Oil/Fluid	Capacity – Quarts	Capacity – Liters
Engine Oil	15 Quarts /w filter	14.2 Liters
Auto Transmission Fluid	17.5 Quarts	16.6 Liters
Manual Transmission Fluid	5.8 Quarts	5.5 Liters
Transfer Case	2 Quarts	1.9 Liters
Engine Coolant	27.5 Quarts	26 Liters
Front Differential Fluid (Dana 60)	3 Quarts	2.8 Liters
Rear Differential Fluid Sterling 10.50″ Dana 80 Dana S110 Dana S130	See Below 3 Quarts 3.5 Quarts 6.98 Quarts 6.98 Quarts	See Below 3.3 Liters 4.0 Liters 6.6 Liters 6.6 Liters

2003-2007 Ford Superduty 6.0L Powerstroke Oil, Fluids, and Maintenance Parts

6.0L Powerstroke Engine Oil

Engine oil type	Outdoor Ambient Temperature	Part # Buy it on Amazon	Part # Buy it at Walmart
SAE 15W40	Acceptable at temperatures over 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Recommended Oil for temperatures over 30 degrees Fahrenheit.	Motorcraft XO-15W40-5Q3SD	Motorcraft XO-15W40-5Q3SD
SAE 10W30	Preferred engine oil at temperatures between 30 to -10 degrees Fahrenheit. Acceptable at temperatures from -10 to 90 degrees fahrenheit.	Motorcraft XO-10W30-5Q3SD	Motorcraft XO-10W30-5Q3SD

6.0L Powerstroke Filters And Fluids

Part Type	Part #
Engine Oil Filter	Ford: 3C3Z-6731-AA Motorcraft FL-2016
Oil Filter Cap	Ford: 3C3Z-6766-CA Motorcraft EC-781
Fuel Filter	Ford: 3C3Z-9N184-CB Motorcraft FD-4616
Engine Air Filter	Ford: 4C3Z-9601-AA Motorcraft FA-1778
Coolant	Concentrated : Motorcraft VC-7-B Diluted: Motorcraft VC-7-DILB
Automatic Transmission Fluid For TorqShift 5R110W Trans	Motorcraft Mercon SP ATF
Manual Transmission Fluid For ZF	Motorcraft Mercon V
External Transmission Filter	Motorcraft FT-145 (Re-Use your O-Ring)
Internal Transmission Filter	Motorcraft FT-144
Transfer Case Fluid	Motorcraft Mercon V
Front Differential Fluid	Motorcraft SAE 80W-90 Premium Rear Axle Lubricant XY-80W-90–QL
Rear Differential Fluid Sterling 10.50″ Dana 80 Dana S110 Dana S130	See Below (May need to add Additive) Motorcraft SAE 75W-140 XY-75W140–QL Motorcraft SAE 75W-90 XY-75W90–QLS Motorcraft SAE 75W-140 XY-75W140–QL Motorcraft SAE 75W-140 XY-75W140–QL

Looking for more Ford Superduty 6.0L Powerstroke Maintenance Information? Visit our Comprehensive Ford Superduty 6.0L Powerstroke Maintenance Guide.

2003-2007 Ford Superduty 6.0L Powerstroke FAQs

Is the 6.0L Powerstroke a good engine?

The 6.0L Powerstroke V8 Diesel engine was revolutionary when it was released in 2003 in Ford Superduty trucks. Boasting 325 horsepower, 560 lb.-ft of torque and featuring an advanced variable geometry turbocharger, it offered significantly greater performance than the outgoing 7.3L Powerstroke. Despite its impressive performance characteristics, this engine has a myriad of engine flaws and design issues that make them unreliable and problematic in many cases.

How much oil does a Ford Superduty 6.0L Powerstroke take?

Ford Superduty trucks with the 6.0L Powerstroke diesel engine require 15.0 quarts of oil, including the filter.

What oil does a Ford Superduty 6.0L Powerstroke require?

Most Ford Superduty F-250/F-350 owners who have the 6.0L Powerstroke Diesel engine will use Motorcraft SAE 15W40(Motorcraft XO-15W40-5Q3SD). If you are in a cooler climate, you may require different engine oil. See our maintenance section for more information.

What year was the 6.0L Powerstroke released in Ford Superduty Trucks?

The 6.0L Powerstroke made its debut in 2003 in Ford Superduty Trucks. It was available until the 2007 model year. In 2008, Ford replaced the 6.0L Powerstroke with the 6.4L Powerstroke V8 Diesel Engine.

How much does it cost to bulletproof a Ford Superduty 6.0L Powerstroke?

Bulletproofing a 6.0L Powerstroke can thousands of dollars. Depending on the degree of bulletproofing you are undertaking, the parts and labor can reach up to $10,000-$15,000 to make a perfect 6.0L Powerstroke.

Who made the 6.0L Powerstroke?

International Navistar built the 6.0L Powerstroke engine for Ford. Ford used the 6.0L Powerstroke engine in their Ford Superduty Trucks, the Excursion, and also the Ford E-series vans.

Check Our Other Ford Superduty 6.0L Powerstroke Posts

Comprehensive Ford Superduty 6.0L Powerstroke Maintenance Guide
Best Ford Superduty 6.0L Powerstroke Upgrades
Most Common Ford Superduty 6.0L Powerstroke Problems & How to Fix Them

Article Sources

2003 Ford F-250, F-350 Super Duty Brochure, Ford Motor Company, 2002.
2004 Ford Superduty Brochure, Ford Motor Company, 2003.
2005 Ford Superduty Brochure, Ford Motor Company, 2004.
2006 Ford Superduty Brochure, Ford Motor Company, 2005.
2007 Ford Superduty Brochure, Ford Motor Company, 2006.
“The 6.0L Power Stroke Engine.” Powerstroke Diesel, Ford Motor Company, powerstrokediesel.com/engine6.0. Accessed 25 Sept. 2023.

AFFILIATE LINKS DISCLAIMER: This website page contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links and purchase the product, I’ll receive a commission. This helps support Truck Insiders and allows us to continue to produce helpful pickup truck insight and content. Thank you for the support!

Ford F-150 5.0L V8 Maintenance Guide

Posted on July 18, 2022July 18, 2022 by Kamil

Since it joined the Ford F-150 powertrain lineup in 2011, the 5.0L V8 “Coyote” engine has been a popular choice amongst potential F-150 buyers. Despite its natural aspiration, it is remarkably fuel efficient, especially in its latest iterations. When paired with the 2022 Ford F-150, an impressive fuel economy of 24 miles per gallon on the highway is achieved. The 5.0L V8 Engine’s natural aspiration also provides another advantage compared to engines like the 2.7L EcoBoost or the 3.5L EcoBoost turbocharged engines, which is simplicity. The lack of a turbocharger system and other sophisticated components make these engines likely cheaper to maintain in the long term and help prevent certain expensive repairs from ever happening. Furthermore, maintenance is also simpler and if you observe a strict Ford F-150 5.0L V8 Maintenance routine, you can almost ensure a long life out of your truck.

In this post, we’re going to concrete on giving you all the information you need to properly maintain a Ford F-150 with the 5.0L V8 Engine. We’ll cover Ford F-150 5.0L V8 Maintenance & Service Schedules, provide Fluid Capacity numbers for the various fluids required, and even list the most common 5.0L V8 Maintenance Parts, Fluids, and the engine oil that you will need. Let’s Dive in.

2021 Ford F-150. Picture taken from Ford Media Website.

How to Maintain a Ford F-150 with the 5.0L V8 “Coyote” Engine

Servicing a Ford F-150 with the 5.0L V8 Engine is something that can be at home by yourself, or you can take it somewhere else to have it serviced. You can take your F-150 to either a Ford Dealer or another Mechanic shop where they will do everything for you. If you choose this method, you can expect to spend a couple hundred dollars every time you take your vehicle in for service. We also recommend you pay attention and request only Motorcraft or Ford parts be used in your truck. Some shops will use cheap alternatives and different oils than what is recommended by Ford which can shorten the life of your vehicle.

If you have basic mechanical skills and tools, you should be able to complete a majority of the maintenance on your Ford F-150 by yourself. By doing so, you can save yourself hundreds or even thousands of dollars throughout the lifetime of your truck and you can also make sure your vehicle is using the right fluids, filters, and engine oil that will help provide the greatest longevity.

To service your Ford F-150 on your own, you just need to be aware of your vehicles service intervals, the vehicle’s fluid capacities, and what parts, fluids, and oil you’re going to need. We cover each of these, but we also recommend you procure an owner’s manual for your truck if you don’t already have one. All this information is also found in there.

Ford F-150 5.0L V8 Maintenance Intervals

The first step in understanding how to complete proper Ford F-150 5.0L V8 maintenance is knowing how frequently you need to service your truck. Different tasks need to be completed at different mileage intervals so you need to know where your truck is at in terms of mileage and adopt the following schedule. If you just purchased your truck, ask the dealer you bought it from if it was serviced and what exactly was done.

There are two separate sets of Ford F-150 5.0L V8 Maintenance Intervals that you can follow. Be brutally honest with yourself about how you use your vehicle. Most drivers should use the normal operating conditions set of maintenance intervals. If you put more than the average amount of stress on your truck however, you should be using the severe maintenance intervals.

Normal Operating Conditions

This set of operating conditions is for the average driver that mostly uses their truck for commuting. Some light towing or infrequent heavy towing is fine.

Maintenance Task	Miles	Kilometers
Change Engine Oil & Engine Oil Filter*	7,500-10,000 miles*	12,000-16,000 kilometers*
Replace Cabin Air Filter	20,000 miles	32,000 kilometers
Install new climate-controlled seal filter (if Equipped)	30,000 miles	48,000 kilometers
Replace Engine Air Filter	30,000 miles or as needed Inspect Frequently	48,000 kilometers or as needed Inspect Frequently
Replace Fuel Filter(s)	30,000 miles	48,000 kilometers
Change Spark Plugs 2011-2022	100,000 miles	160,000 kilometers
Inspect Accessory Drive Belt(s)	60,000 miles	96,000 kilometers
Replace Accessory Drive Belt(s) (Vehicles with Pickup Bed Power Outlet)	100,000 miles	160,000 kilometers
Change Auto Transmission Fluid & Filter 6-Speed Auto Transmission (2011-2017) 10-Speed Auto Transmission (2018+)	See Below 150,000 miles 150,000 miles	See Below 240,000 kilometers 240,000 kilometers
Replace Front Axle Fluid**	150,000 miles**	240,000 kilometers**
Replace Rear Axle Fluid** 2011 2012+	See Below 100,000 miles 150,000 miles**	See Below 160,000 kilometers 240,000 kilometers**
Change Transfer Case Fluid	150,000 miles	240,000 kilometers
Replace Accessory Drive Belt(s) (Vehicles without Pickup Bed Power Outlet)	150,000 miles	240,000 kilometers
Initial Coolant Change 2011-2018 2019+	Varies by Model Year 100,000 miles or 6 years 200,000 miles	Varies by Model Year 160,000 kilometers or 6 Years 320,000 kilometers
Subsequent Coolant Flush Intervals 2011-2018 2019+	Varies by Model Year 50,000 miles or 3 years 100,000 miles or 5 years	Varies by Model Year 80,000 kilometers or 3 years 100,000 kilometers or 5 years

The Ford F-150 with the 5.0L V8 engine is equipped with an Intelligent Oil Life Monitoring System that will notify you when it is time to change the oil. ** Change Axle Fluid immediately if a leak is suspected or fully submerged. If the vehicle is used for off-roading consider more frequent service intervals.

Severe Operating Conditions

The severe operating conditions set of maintenance intervals is for fleet vehicles, commercial vehicles, or trucks that are used to tow frequently. If you go off-roading or if you idle extensively, you should also follow this set of service intervals.

Maintenance Task	Miles	Kilometers
Change Engine Oil & Engine Oil Filter*	3,000-7,500 miles*	5,000-12,000 kilometers*
Replace Cabin Air Filter	20,000 miles	32,000 kilometers
Install new climate-controlled seal filter (if Equipped)	30,000 miles	48,000 kilometers
Replace Engine Air Filter	30,000 miles	48,000 kilometers
Replace Fuel Filter(s)	30,000 miles	48,000 kilometers
Change Spark Plugs 2011-2022	60,000 miles	96,000 kilometers
Inspect Accessory Drive Belt(s)	60,000 miles	96,000 kilometers
Replace Accessory Drive Belt(s) (Vehicles with Pickup Bed Power Outlet)	100,000 miles	160,000 kilometers
Change Auto Transmission Fluid & Filter 6-Speed Auto Transmission (2011-2017) 10-Speed Auto Transmission (2018+)	See Below 150,000 miles 150,000 miles	See Below 240,000 kilometers 240,000 kilometers
Replace Front Axle Fluid**	150,000 miles**	240,000 kilometers**
Replace Rear Axle Fluid** 2011 2012+	See Below 100,000 miles 150,000 miles**	See Below 160,000 kilometers 240,000 kilometers**
Change Transfer Case Fluid	60,000 miles	96,000 kilometers
Replace Accessory Drive Belt(s) (Vehicles without Pickup Bed Power Outlet)	150,000 miles	240,000 kilometers
Initial Coolant Change 2011-2018 2019+	Varies by Model Year 100,000 miles or 6 years 200,000 miles	Varies by Model Year 160,000 kilometers or 6 Years 320,000 kilometers
Subsequent Coolant Flush Intervals 2011-2018 2019+	Varies by Model Year 50,000 miles or 3 years 100,000 miles or 5 years	Varies by Model Year 80,000 kilometers or 3 years 100,000 kilometers or 5 years

Replace Brake Fluid

Every 3 Years Regardless of Mileage

Multi-Point Inspection

In addition to completing the tasks listed in the intervals above, we also recommend taking the time to complete a multi-point inspection when you are performing any kind of service on your truck. While you probably can’t do 100% of the tasks listed below, you can definitely do most of them.

Inspect Accessory Drive Belts.
Test Battery Performance and inspect the batteries and terminals. Clean if needed.
Inspect the Engine Air Filter. Change it if needed.
Check the Exhaust System for leaks and obstructions.
Visually Inspect under the vehicle and in the engine bay for fluid/oil leaks.
Check Interior/Exterior Light Operation.
Check All Fluid Levels.
Ensure Proper Horn Operation.
Check All Hoses for signs of wear and tear.
Inspect Suspension and Steering Components for wear and tear.
Check all tires, including the spare, for wear and tear. Make sure they have the proper PSI.
Check the windshield for damage like cracks, chips, or pits.
Inspect the Windshield Wipers and Washer Spray Operation.

Other Required Maintenance

In addition to completing the maintenance listed in the charts above, Ford also recommends performing some basic tasks on a monthly basis as well as a semi-annual basis.

Monthly Maintenance Checklist

Engine Oil Level
Function of all Interior and Exterior Lights
Tires (Including Spare) : Check for Proper PSI and any signs of damage like nails, screws, or abnormal wear
windshield washer fluid
check underneath your vehicle for leaks and check the driveway at your home where you park for signs of a leak.

Semi-Annual Maintenance Checklist

Check Battery Connections and terminals. Clean if needed.
Inspect body and door drain holes for obstructions. Remove any obstructions found to be present.
Check Coolant Level and Coolant Strength.
Inspect door weatherstrips for wear. Lubricate if needed.
Inspect hinges, latches, and locks for proper function.
Engage and disengage the parking brake. Make sure it is operating properly.
Confirm proper operation of all seatbelts.
Check for DTC codes.
Inspect windshield washer system. Make sure your windshield wipers perform properly. Replace them if needed. Ensure proper washer spray operation.

Ford F-150 5.0L V8 Fluid Capacity

Now that you know how often maintenance needs to be completed and specifically what tasks need to be done, the next step in 5.0L V8 Maintenance is knowing how much of each fluid this truck requires. This is important because without knowing, you’d be guessing at how much fluid or oil you need which could cause you to purchase either too little or too much. The following chart breaks down how much of each fluid these trucks require. Make sure you pay special attention when identifying the fluid needed for your truck because the 5.0L V8 engine has different fluid capacities for different model years.

Fluid/Oil Type	Quarts/Pints	Liters/Kilograms
Engine Oil /w Filter 2011-2017 2018-2020 2021-2022	Varies by Model Year 7.7 Quarts 8.8 Quarts 7.75 Quarts	Varies by Model Year 7.3 Liters 8.3 Liters 7.33 Liters
Engine Coolant 2011-2014 2015-2017 2018-2020 2021-2022	See Below 17 Quarts 15.9 Quarts 13.9 Quarts 13.2 Quarts	See Below 16.1 Liters 15 Liters 13.2 Liters 12.5 Liters
Brake Fluid	Fill as Required	Fill as Required
Front Axle Fluid (4WD Standard) 2011-2014 2015-2022	See Below 3.5 Pints/1.75 Quarts 3.5 Pints/1.8 Quarts	See Below 1.8 Liters 1.7 Liters
Front Axle Fluid Torsen Limited Slip Axle 2021+	1.64 Quarts * Requires the addition of 4.0 Fl. Oz of Additive Friction Modifier XL-3 or equivalent. Include the Additive Friction Modifier in the total lube volume of 1.64 Quarts	1.55 Liters * Requires the addition of 118.5 ml of Additive Friction Modifier XL-3 or equivalent. Include the Additive Friction Modifier in the total lube volume of 1.64 Quarts
Additive Friction Modifier	4.0 Fl. Oz	118.5 ml
Rear Axle Fluid 2011-2020	5.5 Pints/2.7 Quarts	2.6 Liters
Rear Axle Fluid 2021+ 8.8″ Axle 9.75″ Axle	See Below 2.0-2.1 Quarts 2.2-2.3 Quarts	See Below 1.9-2.0 Liters 2.1-2.2 Liters
6-Speed Automatic Transmission Fluid (DRY FILL CAPACITY)* 2011-2017	13.1 Quarts	12.4 Liters
10-Speed automatic transmission fluid (DRY FILL CAPACITY)* 2018 2019-2020 2021+	Varies by Model Year See Below 13.1 Quarts 13.2 Quarts No OEM Fluid Capacities listed	Varies by Model Year See Below 12.4 Liters 12.5 Liters No OEM Fluid Capacities listed
Transfer Case Fluid (2011 Trucks)	1.6 Quarts	1.5 Liters
Transfer Case Fluid 4WD (Electronic Shift On The Fly) 2012-2022	1.5 Quarts	1.4 Liters
Transfer Case Fluid Auto 4WD (Torque On Demand) 2012-2022	1.5 Quarts	1.4 Liters
Transfer Case Fluid 2-Speed Auto 4WD 2021-2022	1.9 Quarts	1.8 Liters

Fuel Tank Capacity

Model Year	Cab Size	Fuel Tank Capacity in Gallons/Liters
2011	All Cab Types Optional Upgrade	26 Gallons/98.4 Liters 36 Gallons/136.3 Liters
2012	All Cab Types Optional Upgrade	26 Gallons/98.4 Liters 36 Gallons/136.3 Liters
2013	All Cab Types Optional Upgrade	26 Gallons/98.4 Liters 36 Gallons/136.3 Liters
2014	All Cab Types Optional Upgrade	26 Gallons/98.4 Liters 36 Gallons/136.3 Liters
2015	All Cab Types Optional Upgrade	23 Gallons/87.1 Liters 36 Gallons/136.3 Liters
2016	All Cab Types Optional Upgrade	23 Gallons/87.1 Liters 36 Gallons/136.3 Liters
2017	All Cab Types Optional Upgrade	23 Gallons/87.1 Liters 36 Gallons/136.3 Liters
2018	Regular/Super Cab Supercrew Cab Optional Upgrade	23 Gallons/87.1 Liters 26 Gallons/98.4 Liters 36 Gallons/136.3 Liters
2019	Regular/Super Cab Supercrew Cab Optional Upgrade	23 Gallons/87.1 Liters 26 Gallons/98.4 Liters 36 Gallons/136.3 Liters
2020	Regular/Super Cab Supercrew Cab Optional Upgrade	23 Gallons/87.1 Liters 26 Gallons/98.4 Liters 36 Gallons/136.3 Liters
2021	Regular/Super Cab Supercrew Cab Optional Upgrade	23 Gallons/87.1 Liters 26 Gallons/98.4 Liters 36 Gallons/136.3 Liters
2022	Regular/Super Cab Supercrew Cab Optional Upgrade	23 Gallons/87.1 Liters 26 Gallons/98.4 Liters 36 Gallons/136.3 Liters

2015 Ford F-150. Picture Taken from Ford Media Website

Ford F-150 5.0L V8 Maintenance Parts: Fluids, Oil, & Filters

The last step in Ford F-150 5.0L V8 Maintenance is identifying the different parts you’re going to need. In this chart, we’ve listed out the most common 5.0L V8 Maintenance parts including engine oil, filters, and fluids. If you are going to proceed with doing maintenance on your own, we’ve also included part numbers with affiliate links to buy these parts directly. If you purchase any of the products through our links we receive a commission which helps support us at TruckInsiders.com and allows us to write more content.

Parts	Part #
Engine Oil Filter	Motorcraft FL-500-S
Engine Oil 2011-2020 2021-2022	Varies By Model Year Motorcraft SAE 5W-20 Premium Synthetic Blend XO-5W20-QSP Motorcraft SAE 5W-30 Premium Synthetic Blend XO-5W30-QSP
Climate Control Seat Filter (2012-2014)	Motorcraft FS-106
Cabin Air Filter	Motorcraft FP-92
Engine Air Filter:	Motorcraft FA-1883
Engine Coolant 2011-2018 2019+	See Below Motorcraft Orange Antifreeze/Coolant Prediluted VC-3DIL-B Motorcraft Yellow Prediluted AntiFreeze VC-13DL-G
Ignition Coil 2011 – Early 2016 Late 2016-2017 2018-2020 2021-2022	Varies by Model Year Motorcraft DG-542 Motorcraft DG-561 Motorcraft DG-565 (all cylinders except 3)/ Motorcraft DG-566 (cylinder 3) Motorcraft DG586
Spark Plugs 2011-2017 2018-2020 2020-2022	Varies by Model Year Motorcraft SP-519/SP-548 Motorcraft SP-551 Motorcraft SP-588
Serpentine Belt (MAIN ACC DRIVE) 2011-2014 2015-2022	Varies By Model Year See Below Motorcraft JK6645 Motorcraft JK6648
Serpentine Belt (AC DRIVE) 2011-2013 2014-2017	Varies by Model Year See Below Motorcraft JK6541 Motorcraft JK4540
Serpentine Belt (Accessory) 2018-2022	Motorcraft JK4533
Serpentine Belt (Power Inverter #2) 2021-2022	Motorcraft JK6544A
Auto Belt Tensioner (Main ACC Drive) 2011-2022	Motorcraft BT103
Auto Belt Tensioner (AC) 2011-2013 2014-2022	See Below Motorcraft BT111 Motorcraft BT127
Auto Belt Tensioner (Power Inverter #2) 2021-2022	Motorcraft BT170
Windshield Wiper Blades 2011-2014 2015-2017 2018-2019 2020-2021 2022	Varies By Model Year Motorcraft WW-2201-PF Motorcraft WW-2242 Motorcraft WW-2247 Motorcraft WW-2248 Motorcraft WW-2208
Windshield Washer Fluid	Motorcraft Windshield Wash Concentrate ZC-32-B2 Rain-X Windshield Washer Fluid
Transmission Pump Inlet Filter	Motorcraft FT138
Auto Transmission Fluid 2011-2017(6-Speed) 2018-2022 (10-Speed)	See Below Motorcraft MERCON LV Automatic Transmission Fluid XT-10-QLVC Motorcraft Mercon ULV Automatic Transmission Fluid XT-12-QULV
Transfer Case Fluid (ESOF) 2011-2016 2017-2022	Varies By Model Year See Below Motorcraft Transfer Case Fluid XL-12 Motorcraft MERCON LV Automatic Transmission Fluid XT-10-QLVC
Transfer Case Fluid 2-Speed Auto 4WD 2021-2022	Motorcraft MERCON LV Automatic Transmission Fluid XT-10-QLVC
Transfer Case Fluid (Torque on Demand) 2011-2022	Motorcraft MERCON LV Automatic Transmission Fluid XT-10-QLVC
Front Axle Fluid (STD) 2011-2016 2017-2022	See Below Motorcraft SAE 80W-90 Premium Rear Axle Lubricant XY-80W90-QL Motorcraft SAE 75W-85 Premium Synthetic Hypoid Gear Lubricant XY-75W85-QL
Front Axle Fluid Limited Slip Torsen Axle 2021+	Motorcraft SAE 75W-85 Premium Synthetic Hypoid Gear Lubricant XY-75W85-QL
Additive Friction Modifier	Motorcraft XL-3
Rear Axle Fluid 2011-2014 2015-2022	Varies by Model Year Motorcraft SAE 75W-140 Rear Synthetic Axle Lubricant XY-75W140-QL Motorcraft SAE 75W-85 Premium Synthetic Hypoid Gear Lubricant XY-75W85-QL
Rear Axle Fluid (2021+) 8.8″ Axle 9.75″ Axle	Motorcraft SAE 75W-85 Premium Synthetic Hypoid Gear Lubricant XY-75W85-QL
Brake Fluid (ALL YEARS)	Motorcraft DOT 4 LV High Performance Brake Fluid PM-20

Ford F-150 5.0L V8 Maintenance FAQs

How Much oil does a Ford F-150 with the 5.0L V8 Engine take?

The oil capacity for Ford F-150s with the 5.0L V8 Engine vary according to model year.
2011-2017 Ford F-150s with the 5.0L V8 engine take 7.7 Quarts (7.3 Liters).
2018-2020 Ford F-150s with the 5.0L V8 engine take 8.8 Quarts (8.3 Liters).
2021-2022 Ford F-150s with the 5.0L V8 engine take 7.75 Quarts (7.33 Liters).

What kind of oil does the Ford F-150 with the 5.0L V8 Engine take?

2011-2020 Ford F-150s with the 5.0L V8 Engine use Motorcraft SAE 5W-20 Premium Synthetic Blend Engine Oil (XO-5W20-QSP). 2021-2022 Ford F-150s with the 5.0L V8 engine use Motorcraft SAE 5W-30 Premium Synthetic Blend (XO-5W30-QSP).

How often do you need to change the engine oil and filter on a Ford F-150 with the 5.0L V8 Engine?

Under normal operating conditions, these vehicles should be serviced with new engine oil and a new engine oil filter every 7,500-10,000 miles. Under severe operating conditions, they need to be serviced more frequently at intervals of 3,000 miles to 7,500 miles dependent on use.

What engine oil filter does the 5.0L V8 Ford F-150 require?

Motorcraft FL-500S

Learn More About the 5.0L V8 Engine

Check out some of our other posts about the Ford F-150’s 5.0L V8 Engine By clicking on some of the links below.

Ford F-150 5.0L V8 Engine Specs & Performance
Best Ford F-150 5.0L V8 Performance Upgrades
Common Ford F-150 5.0L V8 Problems & How to Fix Them

Ford F-150 2.7L EcoBoost V6 Engine Specs & Performance Guide

Posted on June 7, 2022June 7, 2022 by Kamil

After years of success with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine, Ford decided to expand their EcoBoost platform and introduce a new, smaller EcoBoost engine. This engine is known as the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 Turbocharged engine. Despite the smaller displacement, the 2.7L EcoBoost packs a punch and it delivers impressive performance specs in a compact package. In 2015 when it was introduced, it gave the 2015 Ford F-150 a whopping 325 horsepower and 375 lb.-ft of torque, numbers similar to many V8, naturally-aspirated engines of the same time period. It did this while vastly outdoing competitors larger, V8 engines and even the Ford F-150’s other powertrains when it comes to fuel economy. This is due to a number of the 2.7L EcoBoosts innovative features like twin turbocharging and direct fuel injection that help maximize the engines power-to-weight ratio.

Twin turbocharger system and direct fuel injection aren’t the only innovating features of the 2.7L EcoBoost however, as a plethora of other features and lightweight materials like a CGI block also had a tremendous impact on this engine’s success. The result is a very lightweight, compact engine that delivers tremendous fuel economy and performance out of a very small package. So much so, that the engine was labeled “Pocket Hercules” by Ford’s Engineers.

In this post, our Guide to the Ford F-150’s 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine, we’ll go over this engine’s unique features and capabilities. We’ll Cover 2.7L EcoBoost Specs, Performance information, and Towing Capabilities. We’ll also differentiate between the different generations of the 2.7L EcoBoost engine. Let’s Dive in.

2.7L EcoBoost V6 Engine Specs — 2.7l EcoBoost V6 Engine. Picture taken from Ford Media.

The 2.7L EcoBoost V6 Engine Meets the Ford F-150

The 2015 model year marked numerous changes for the Ford F-150. 2015 Ford F-150s benefitted from a redesigned exterior, a newly refined interior, and a new fully-boxed, ladder frame. Ford also introduced two new engines. One of these engines was the 3.5L Ti-VCT V6 Engine, which became the new standard powertrain for the F-150. The other, more exciting new engine was the 2.7L EcoBoost Turbocharged V6 engine.

The 2.7L EcoBoost brought a new level of fuel efficiency to Ford’s F-150 without compromising on capability. The 2015 Ford F-150 with the 2.7L EcoBoost, despite it’s small displacement and size, could tow up to 8,500 lbs and has a maximum payload of 2,250 lbs. This engine churns out 325 horsepower and 375 lb.-ft of torque, numbers similar to many larger displacement, naturally-aspirated engines. Best of all, the 2.7L EcoBoost provides fuel economy of up to 26 miles per gallon while on the highway, making it the most fuel efficient F-150 for 2015.

Since the 2.7L EcoBoost was introduced, it has underwent several revisions to improve reliability and overall performance. A second generation of the 2.7L EcoBoost was introduced in 2018 that featured some more major changes. We’ll go over those changes later in this post.

Ford 2.7L EcoBoost V6 Engine Specs

Engine Years	2015-2022
Manufacturing Plant	Lima Engine Plant in Ohio
Applications	Ford F-150
Configuration	V6 DOHC
Displacement	2.7 Liters (164 cubic inches)
Cylinder Bore	3.27″
Cylinder Stroke	3.27″
Compression Ratio 2015-2017 2018+	See Below 10.0:1 10.3:1
Firing Order	1-4-2-5-3-6
Engine Block Material	Two-Piece Block using Compacted Graphite Iron for the upper portion and aluminum for the bottom.
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum
Valvetrain	Roller Finger Follower
Ignition System	Coil on Plug
Fuel System 2015-2017 2018+	See Below Direct Fuel Injection Twin-Port and Direct Fuel Injection
Air Delivery/Aspiration	Twin turbocharged and intercooled. Electronic wastegates were added in 2018+ models
Horsepower 2015-2017 2018+	See Below 325 Horsepower @ 5,750 rpm 325 Horsepower @ 5,000 rpm
Torque 2015-2016 2018-2020 2021+	See Below 375 lb.-ft @ 3,000 rpm 400 lb.-ft @ 2,750 rpm 400 lb.-ft @ 3,000 rpm
Recommended Fuel (Standard Output)	Regular Unleaded
Engine Oil Capacity	6 Quarts (5.7 Liters)
Engine Oil Type/Recommended Engine Oil	Motorcraft SAE 5W-30 Premium Synthetic Blend Motor Oil XO-5W30-QSP
Recommended Engine Oil Filter	Motorcraft FL-2062
Engine Air Filter	Motorcraft FA-1883

2.7L EcoBoost Engine Design & Characteristics

Similar to the 3.5L EcoBoost Engine, the 2.7L EcoBoost uses a smaller displacement, direct fuel injection, and turbocharging to produce astounding performance and fuel efficiency out of a very small package. In fact, Ford coined the term “Pocket Hercules” for the 2.7L EcoBoost engine due to its impressive performance and smaller size. The similarities pretty much end there however, as the 2.7L EcoBoost engine is significantly different than the 3.5L EcoBoost and is made up of different parts and materials.

Here are some of the most important characteristics of the 2.7L EcoBoost engine.

Ford F-150 2.7L EcoBoost V6 Engine Specs And Engine Design — 2.7L EcoBoost V6 Engine. Photo taken From Ford Media Website.

Two-Piece Engine Block

The 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine uses a two-piece engine block design that increases durability while simultaneously reducing overall weight. The upper portion of the block is made of CGI, or Compacted Graphite Iron. CGI blocks are extremely durable, in fact, they’re used in the 6.7L Powerstroke Diesel engine and the 3.0L Powerstroke Diesel engine. Despite being a strong material, it’s also lightweight. The lower engine block is comprised of aluminum which further reduces the weight of this engine.

Direct Fuel Injection

Direct fuel injection is a key contributor to the 2.7L EcoBoost’s diesel-like performance. In direct fuel injection systems, fuel is sprayed in a precise pattern into the chamber during intake. It is here that fuel meets pressurized air before combustion occurs, creating a clean, more fuel-efficient combustion event. Direct fuel injection also removes the risk of detonation to occur.

Second Generation 2.7L EcoBoost Engines benefit from the addition of twin-port and direct fuel injection. In these style systems, two injectors are used. One is located on the intake port and the other is found within the cylinder. These two injectors work in tandem for even better fuel efficiency, power output, and it even helps reliability too.

Twin Turbochargers

The Twin Turbocharger design on the 2.7L EcoBoost is what makes this engine so capable out of such a tiny package. The twin turbo design recycles exhaust gases through their turbines, effectively pressurizing the air that is later introduced into the combustion chamber. Twin turbo set-ups also significantly reduce any kind of turbo lag compared to single turbocharger designs. This results in greater throttle response and instant power.

Weight-Savings to Optimize Power-To-Weight Ratio

When the 2.7L EcoBoost was introduced in 2015, the Ford F-150 also received an entirely new, all-aluminum exterior that reduced weight tremendously. This smaller EcoBoost continues the trend of weight reduction by incorporating materials that are lightweight, but still maintain long-term durability. The two piece engine block utilizes a CGI upper piece and an aluminum lower section. Aluminum cylinder heads also help reduce weight.

In addition to light-weight metals being used to reduce weight, Ford actually uses a composite material in the engine too. The intake system is largely made up of composite material for further weight savings. A composite oil pan also reduces weight. The end result of these and other features is a lighter engine and a lighter truck. This increases fuel efficiency and also helps acceleration.

Other 2.7L EcoBoost Engine Features

Auto Start-Stop Technology
Aluminum Cylinder heads with integrated, water-cooled exhaust manifolds.
Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC)
Ti-VCT/Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing
Reverse Flow Cooling System
Variable Displacement Oil Pump
Fractured Main Bearing Caps
Individual Position Cooling Jets
Offset I-Beam Connecting Rods

Ford F-150 2.7L EcoBoost Generations

Although the 2.7L EcoBoost engine has been around for less than a decade at the time I’m writing this, there have already been two variations of this engine. The first generation engine is used in 2015-2017 Ford F-150s. The second generation engine is present in 2018 and newer Ford F-150s.

1st Generation 2.7L EcoBoost

After the widespread success and popularity of the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Engine, Ford released another EcoBoost engine that was smaller and provided even better fuel economy. This engine was the First Generation 2.7L EcoBoost V6 Engine. Just like the 3.5L EcoBoost, this engine utilizes direct fuel injection and twin turbochargers to provide a massive punch out of a small package. In fact, the power-to-weight ratio was so impressive with the new 2.7L EcoBoost, Ford called it the “Pocket Hercules”.

Unlike the 3.5L EcoBoost, the 2.7L EcoBoost Engine is smaller, and uses more lightweight materials to further reduce weight. The focus of this engine was to provide Ford F-150 owners with a more fuel efficient and lighter engine. To accomplish this, this engine uses a two-piece engine block with a CGI, or compacted graphite iron, upper block, and an aluminum lower block. Aluminum cylinder heads are also used to reduce weight. Ford even introduced a composite material in this engine in the intake system.

Despite the use of these more lightweight materials, the 2.7L EcoBoost engine has proven itself to be quite reliable and capable. The first generation engine was only used for a short period of time however, 2015-2017 Ford F-150s, before it was replaced in 2018 with the 2nd Generation engine.

1st Gen 2.7L EcoBoost Engine Specs

Engine Years	2015-2017
Manufacturing Plant	Lima Engine Plant in Ohio
Applications	Ford F-150
Configuration	V6 DOHC
Displacement	2.7 Liters (164 cubic inches)
Cylinder Bore	3.27″
Cylinder Stroke	3.27″
Compression Ratio	10.0:1
Firing Order	1-4-2-5-3-6
Engine Block Material	Two-Piece Block using Compacted Graphite Iron for the upper portion and aluminum for the bottom.
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum
Valvetrain	Roller Finger Follower
Ignition System	Coil on Plug
Fuel System	Direct Fuel Injection
Air Delivery/Aspiration	Twin turbocharged and intercooled
Horsepower	325 Horsepower @ 5,750 rpm
Torque	375 lb.-ft @ 3,000 rpm
Recommended Fuel (Standard Output)	Regular Unleaded
Engine Oil Capacity	6 Quarts (5.7 Liters)
Engine Oil Type/Recommended Engine Oil	Motorcraft SAE 5W-30 Premium Synthetic Blend Motor Oil XO-5W30-QSP
Recommended Engine Oil Filter	Motorcraft FL-2062
Engine Air Filter	Motorcraft FA-1883

1st Gen 2.7L EcoBoost Performance

Ford F-150s with the First Generation 2.7L EcoBoost V6 Engine produce 325 horsepower and 375 lb.-ft of torque. If you think about it, those are some pretty impressive numbers for such a small displacement V6 engine. In fact, these numbers are similar to many of the V8 engines used in competitor’s trucks in the same time period. Horsepower and torque numbers aren’t the only aspects of performance that matter though. The 2.7L EcoBoost also delivers impressive fuel economy and max towing specs.

First Generation 2.7L EcoBoost Performance Specs
Horsepower	325 Horsepower @ 5,750 rpm
Torque	375 lb.-ft of Torque @ 3,000 rpm

1st Generation 2.7L EcoBoost Fuel Economy (MPG)

High Horsepower and torque numbers weren’t necessarily the goal with this engine. Instead, its lightweight design was meant to provide excellent fuel economy and still meet the needs of truck owners. These engines really outshine competitors when it comes to fuel economy. When the 2015 Ford F-150 debuted with the 2.7L EcoBoost engine, it could get up to 26 miles per gallon on the highway.

Model Year F-150 with 2.7L EcoBoost Engine	Drivetrain	City MPG	Highway MPG	Combined MPG
2015	4×2 4×4	19 mpg 18 mpg	26 mpg 23 mpg	22 mpg 20 mpg
2016	4×2 4×4	19 mpg 18 mpg	25 mpg 23 mpg	21 mpg 20 mpg
2017	4×2 4×4	19 mpg 18 mpg	26 mpg 23 mpg	22 mpg 20 mpg

FUELECONOMY.GOV EPA ESTIMATES. ACTUAL FUEL ECONOMY MAY VARY ACCORDING TO DRIVING CONDITIONS AND VEHICLE OPTIONS.

1st Generation 2.7L EcoBoost Towing Capacity & Payload Specs

The 2.7L EcoBoost’s twin turbocharging and direct fuel injection characteristics offer these trucks diesel-like performance when it comes to towing. Peak torque is reached relatively early at 3,000 rpm and largely maintained. Actual towing numbers are impressive for the Pocket Hercules as well. 2015-2017 Ford F-150s with the 2.7L EcoBoost engine can tow up to 8,500 lbs and max payload is up to 2,250 lbs.

Model Year	Drivetrain	Max Conventional Tow Capacity	Max Payload
2015	4×2 4×4	8,500 lbs 8,400 lbs	2,250 lbs 2,160 lbs
2016	4×2 4×4	8,500 lbs 8,500 lbs	2,210 lbs 2,110 lbs
2017	4×2 4×4	8,500 lbs 8,500 lbs	2,210 lbs 2,110 lbs

** ACTUAL FIGURES FOR YOUR TRUCK MAY VARY. THESE NUMBERS ARE THE MAX AVAILABLE TOWING CAPACITY AND PAYLOAD WHEN THE TRUCK IS PROPERLY EQUIPPED WITH THE MAX TOW PACKAGE AND OTHER FEATURES TO HAVE THE MAX TOW CAPACITY POSSIBLE. YOUR TRUCK’S TOW CAPACITY AND PAYLOAD MAY VARY DEPENDING ON YOUR TRIM LEVEL AND OTHER VEHICLE OPTIONS.

2nd Generation 2.7L EcoBoost

Ford introduced the 2018 model year Ford F-150 with the second-generation 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine. The upgraded engine received several updates, similar to the updates made to second-gen 3.5 EcoBoost engines. Key improvements made to the engine include combining port injection with direct fuel injection and a revised twin turbocharger design that utilizes an electrically controlled wastegate. Other improves like a new high-pressure EGR system, dual-chain camshaft drive system with lighter camshafts, and an electronic, variable displacement oil pump were also added. These improvements helped to reduce friction and ultimately make the 2nd Generation 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine more reliable and capable than the outgoing generation.

Ford also introduced the 2nd Generation in tandem with the all new 10R80 Automatic 10-Speed Transmission. It further helped to improve responsiveness, performance, and fuel efficiency. The Ford F-150s other powertrains also benefitted from the addition of the 10-speed automatic transmission.

2nd Gen 2.7L V6 EcoBoost Engine — 2nd Generation 2.7L EcoBoost V6 Engine. Photo taken from **Ford.com**

2nd Generation 2.7L EcoBoost Specs

Engine Years	2018-2022
Manufacturing Plant	Lima Engine Plant in Ohio
Applications	Ford F-150
Configuration	V6 DOHC
Displacement	2.7 Liters (164 cubic inches)
Cylinder Bore	3.27″
Cylinder Stroke	3.27″
Compression Ratio	10.3:1
Firing Order	1-4-2-5-3-6
Engine Block Material	Two-Piece Block using Compacted Graphite Iron for the upper portion and aluminum for the bottom.
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum
Valvetrain	Roller Finger Follower
Ignition System	Coil on Plug
Fuel System	Twin-Port and Direct Fuel Injection
Air Delivery/Aspiration	Twin turbocharged and intercooled. Electronically- actuated wastegate
Horsepower	325 Horsepower @ 5,000 rpm
Torque 2018-2020 2021+	See Below 400 lb.-ft @ 2,750 rpm 400 lb.-ft @ 3,000 rpm
Recommended Fuel (Standard Output)	Regular Unleaded
Engine Oil Capacity	6 Quarts (5.7 Liters)
Engine Oil Type/Recommended Engine Oil	Motorcraft SAE 5W-30 Premium Synthetic Blend Motor Oil XO-5W30-QSP
Recommended Engine Oil Filter	Motorcraft FL-2062
Engine Air Filter	Motorcraft FA-1883

2nd Generation 2.7L EcoBoost Performance

Ford F-150s with the Second Generation 2.7L EcoBoost V6 Engine produce 325 horsepower and 400 lb.-ft of torque. Horsepower remained the same, however, it is reached earlier at 5,000 rpm instead of 5,750 rpm. Torque was also improved by 25 lb.-ft from 375 lb.-ft. While these numbers don’t sound significant, the improved fuel system, revised turbocharger design, and the addition of the new 10-speed transmission result in a significantly better drive, improved acceleration, and even improved fuel economy.

Second Generation 2.7L EcoBoost Performance Specs
Horsepower	325 Horsepower @ 5,000 rpm
Torque 2018-2020 2021+	SEE BELOW 375 lb.-ft Torque @ 2,750 rpm 375 lb.-ft Torque @ 3,000 rpm

2nd Generation 2.7L EcoBoost Fuel Economy (MPG)

As with the first generation engine, high horsepower and torque aren’t the goals of this engine. Instead, Ford wants to deliver impressive performance out of a smaller engine and ultimately provide amazing fuel efficiency for F-150 customers without totally compromising on performance. That’s what this engine does. Second Generation engines accomplish this goal a little better than first generation engines, posting an average one mpg increase over the first generation.

Check out Second Generation 2.7L EcoBoost Fuel Economy and MPG in our chart below.

Model Year F-150 with 2.7L EcoBoost Engine	Drivetrain	City MPG	Highway MPG	Combined MPG
2018	4×2 4×4	20 mpg 19 mpg	26 mpg 24 mpg	22 mpg 21 mpg
2019	4×2 4×4	20 mpg 19 mpg	26 mpg 24 mpg	22 mpg 21 mpg
2020	4×2 4×4	20 mpg 19 mpg	26 mpg 24 mpg	22 mpg 21 mpg
2021	4×2 4×4	20 mpg 19 mpg	26 mpg 24 mpg	22 mpg 21 mpg
2022	4×2 4×4	20 mpg 19 mpg	26 mpg 24 mpg	22 mpg 21 mpg

2nd Generation 2.7L EcoBoost Tow Capacity & Payload Specs

Ford F-150s with the Second Generation 2.7L EcoBoost V6 also offer high max tow capacity and payload specs than the first generation. 2018 Ford F-150s with this engine could tow 9,000 lbs, and improvement of 500 lbs over the 2017 model year with the 1st Gen engine. 2021 trucks could tow up to 10,000 lbs. Payload numbers are also higher, with the 2018 Ford F-150 2.7L EcoBoost being able to hold 2,470 lbs, compared to 2,210 lbs a year earlier in the 2017 Ford F-150.

Model Year	Drivetrain	Max Conventional Tow Capacity	Max Payload
2018	4×2 4×4	9,000 lbs 9,000 lbs	2,470 lbs 2,110 lbs
2019	4×2 4×4	9,000 lbs 9,000 lbs	2,470 lbs 2,130 lbs
2020	4×2 4×4	9,000 lbs 9,000 lbs	2,470 lbs 2,110 lbs
2021	4×2 4×4	10,000 lbs 10,000 lbs	2,480 lbs 2,165 lbs
2022	4×2 4×4	10,000 lbs 10,000 lbs	2,480 lbs 2,165 lbs

2.7L EcoBoost Key Generational Differences

The Second Generation 2.7L EcoBoost Engine improved upon an already great engine with a number of common-sense that were similarly added to the 2nd Generation 3.5L EcoBoost engine. Instead of simply using direct fuel injection, a new twin-port and direct fuel injection system is used, which helps reduce carbon accumulation and does a better job at keeping the intake system clean. Revised Turbochargers were also added that utilize an electronic wastegate.

Other 2nd Generation 2.7L EcoBoost Features that aren’t found on 1st Generation engines include:

paired with the 10-speed 10R80 Automatic Transmission
high-pressure EGR system
dual-chain camshaft drive system with lighter camshafts
electronic, variable displacement oil pump

Overall, the 2nd Generation 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine offers greater durability, performance specs, and fuel economy than first generation engines.

Ford F-150 2.7L EcoBoost Changes by Model Year

2015 Ford F-150 2.7L EcoBoost

In 2015, the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 turbocharged engine is introduced to the 2015 Ford F-150 featuring a 6-speed automatic transmission. These trucks produce 325 horsepower and 375 lb.-ft of torque and could get up to 26 miles per gallon on the highway. The impressive power-to-weight ratio led Ford to call this engine the “Pocket Hercules”.

2016 Ford F-150 2.7L EcoBoost

2016 marked minor changes for the Ford F-150. 2016 Ford F-150s with the 2.7L Ecoboost gained a new Pro-Trailer Backup Assist system and a few new trims and special packages were added.

2017 Ford F-150 XLT with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 Engine

2017 Ford F-150 2.7L EcoBoost

2017 was the last year of the First Generation 2.7L EcoBoost engine. A new STX Appearance package and new Sync Connect System for XLT and above trims is added. Lightning Blue, Avalanche, and White Gold are new color offerings.

2018 Ford F-150 2.7L EcoBoost

2018 Ford F-150s received both interior and exterior styling updates. In addition, 2018 was the year that the 2nd Generation 2.7L EcoBoost engine is introduced, replacing the first generation engine. 2nd Gen 2.7L EcoBoosts benefit from a redesigned fuel system, updated turbocharger design, and a new partnership with the 10R80 10-Speed Automatic Transmission.

2019 Ford F-150 2.7L EcoBoost

Minor Improvements were made to 2019 Ford F-150s with the 2.7L EcoBoost. Ford Leveling Kits are introduced.

2020 Ford F-150 2.7L EcoBoost

No major mechanical improvements were made in 2020. Three new color packages were added including Iconic Silver, Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clear Coat, and Star White Metallic Tri-Coat. New Driver Assist technologies were added.

2021 Ford F-150 2.7L EcoBoost

2021 Ford F-150s received a number of updates. A totally redesigned interior and exterior were introduced. 2021+ Ford F-150s with the 2.7L EcoBoost engine received improvements that give them both a higher tow capacity and better fuel economy.

2022 Ford F-150 2.7L EcoBoost

2022 was a year plagued by supply chain issues as well as the production start of the 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning. Little or no changes occurred this year.

2.7L EcoBoost FAQs

How much horsepower does the Ford F-150 2.7L EcoBoost Have?

2015-2022 Ford F-150s with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine have 325 horsepower.

How much torque does the Ford F-150 2.7L EcoBoost Engine Have?

First Generation 2.7L EcoBoosts in the 2015-2017 Ford F-150 have 375 lb.-ft of torque. Second Generation Engines found in 2018 and newer Ford F-150s have 400 lb.-ft of torque.

How much can a Ford F-150 with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 Engine Tow?

2.7L EcoBoost-powered Ford F-150s could tow up to 8,500 pounds when properly equipped in First Generation models. Second Generation 2.7L EcoBoost engines can tow up to 10,000 pounds when properly equipped. Check your owner’s manual or Ford’s resources for the most accurate towing information on your vehicle.

How long will the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine last?

2.7L EcoBoost engines can last quite a long time when they are properly taken care of. Many people have exceeded 100,000 miles in these trucks without a major mechanical failure.

Is the 2.7L EcoBoost reliable?

The 2.7L EcoBoost engine is a reliable engine thanks to its robust design. That being said, the sophistication of twin turbocharging when compared to a naturally-aspirated engine does leave the opportunity for more expensive repairs and more parts to break. We think the greater fuel economy, drivability, and performance are well worth it though.

How do you make the Ford F-150 with the 2.7L EcoBoost Engine Faster?

Ford F-150 2.7L EcoBoost performance can be increased in a number of different ways. Tuning provides the biggest performance gains and improves throttle response and acceleration greatly.

What Type of Oil Does the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine require when found in the Ford F-150?

Motorcraft SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend Motor Oil.
1-Quart Motocraft Part #XO-5W30-Q1SP
5-Quart Motorcraft Part #XO5W305Q3SP

Learn More About the 2.7L EcoBoost Engine

Check Out Some of our Other 2.7L EcoBoost Posts by clicking on the links below!

Comprehensive Guide to Ford F-150 2.7L EcoBoost Maintenance
Best Ford F-150 2.7L EcoBoost V6 Performance Upgrades
Most Common 2.7L EcoBoost Problems
1st Generation 2.7L EcoBoost V6 Engine Guide
2nd Generation 2.7L EcoBoost V6 Engine Guide
2.7L EcoBoost Vs. 3.5L EcoBoost

2nd Generation Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost Engine

Posted on April 25, 2022April 25, 2022 by Kamil

After six years of success in the Ford F-150 powertrain lineup, the First Generation 3.5L EcoBoost V6 turbocharged engine was retired after the 2016 model year, and a new, more powerful EcoBoost replaced it. This revised engine, known as the 2nd Generation 3.5L EcoBoost engine, joins the Ford F-150 powertrain lineup for the 2017 model year. It provides an array of improvements that not only increased power, but also reliability.

Just like the first generation engine, however, the second generation maintains the 3.5L EcoBoost’s record of delivering best-in-class performance, even against rival manufacturers using engines with almost twice the displacement. In this post, our guide to the 2nd Generation 3.5L EcoBoost engine, we’re going to explain how it’s all possible. We’ll cover Second Generation 3.5L EcoBoost specs, engine design changes, and performance information . We’ll also go into detail about the differences between this engine, and the previous one and how they translated into greater reliability.

2020 Ford F-150 Raptor — Photo taken from Ford Media

The 2nd Generation EcoBoost Meets the Ford F-150

After two years of sporting a new body style featuring military-grade aluminum exterior paneling, the Ford F-150 gets a revised 3.5L EcoBoost engine in 2017. This engine, the 2nd Generation 3.5L EcoBoost engine, raises the bar even further, providing greater fuel efficiency, more power, and even improved reliability. In addition to this engine, a high-output version was also introduced.

The new High-Output 3.5L EcoBoost Engine debuted on the 2017 Ford Raptor and later was added to 2019-2020 Ford F-150 Limited trucks. This engine took the 2nd Gen EcoBoost engine to new heights, and delivers a whopping 450 horsepower and 510 lb.-ft of torque making this one of the most powerful trucks available. Since it’s release, the High-output 3.5L EcoBoost engine is also now available in Ford’s other vehicles like the 2022 Ford Expedition Timberline Edition.

**2019 Ford F-150 Raptor**. Photo taken from Ford Media.

2nd Generation 3.5L EcoBoost Specs

Engine Years	2017-2022
Applications	Ford F-150 & Ford Raptor
Configuration	60-Degree V6 DOHC
Displacement	3.5 Liters (213 cubic inches)
Cylinder Bore	3.64″
Cylinder Stroke	3.41″
Compression Ratio 2017-2022 Standard Output 2017-2022 High Output	See Below 10.5:1 10.0:1
Firing Order	1-4-2-5-3-6
Engine Block Material	Aluminum
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum
Valvetrain	Roller Finger Follower
Ignition System	Coil on Plug
Fuel System	Twin-Port and Direct Fuel Injection
Air Delivery/Aspiration	Twin turbocharged and intercooled. Electronic wastegates were added in 2017+ models
Horsepower (Standard Output) 2017-2020 2021+	See Below 375 Horsepower @ 5,000 rpm 400 Horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
Horsepower (High Output) 2017-2022 Raptor 2019-2020 Limited	450 Horsepower @ 5,000 rpm
Torque 2017-2020 2021+	See Below 470 lb.-ft @ 2,500 rpm 500 lb.-ft @ 3,100 rpm
Torque (High Output) 2017-2022 Raptor 2019-2020 Limited	510 lb.-ft @ 3,500 rpm
Recommended Fuel (Standard Output)	Regular Unleaded
Recommended Fuel (High Output)	Premium Unleaded
Engine Oil Capacity	6 Quarts (5.7 Liters)
Engine Oil Type/Recommended Engine Oil	Motorcraft SAE 5w-30 Synthetic Blend Motor Oil XO-5W30-Q1SP
Recommended Engine Oil Filter	Motorcraft FL-500-S

2nd Generation 3.5L EcoBoost Engine Design & Information

Similar to the First Gen Ecoboost, the second Generation has a V6 configuration and uses a Dual Overhead Camshaft engine design. 3.5 Liter EcoBoost Engines use an aluminum for both the engine block and the head that have been proven adequately durable, despite the high numbers produced by these engines. These engines use direct fuel injection and turbocharging to provide diesel-like performance. Peak torque is reached very early in the RPM range and maintained for a long duration, making these engines a great choice for individuals who tow frequently.

Because of the smaller displacement and more efficient design, these engines are typically much better on fuel than naturally-aspirated engines like the 5.0L V8 engine also used in Ford F-150s. This is especially true in the second generation EcoBoost engine as it benefits from aluminum exterior body paneling that reduces a lot of weight, in addition to a number of weight-saving mechanical changes made to these engines for this generation.

The Second Generation 3.5L EcoBoost features a number of major mechanical improvements that help increase power and reliability. After years of production of the First Generation and seeing what the flaws were, Ford responded by engineering practical solutions and making the necessary improvements to make a better 3.5L EcoBoost engine. Key changes to the 2nd Generation engine include valvetrain improvements, an updated turbocharger design, new fuel system, and the addition of Auto Start-Stop technology. The engines lower-end also benefits from durability enhancements.

3.5L EcoBoost V6 Engine Maintenance — 2nd Generation 3.5L EcoBoost Engine. Picture taken from Ford Media.

Updated Valvetrain

An updated Twin Independent Variable Cam timing system improves reliability while still giving greater control of the camshafts, effectively increasing fuel efficiency and power output. Second Generation EcoBoost engines benefit from a more durable dual-chain cam drive system than the single chain found on the outgoing first gen engine. This dual-chain cam drive system also helps in reducing noise, vibration, and harshness of this engine.

Hollow camshafts, along with a new roller-finger valvetrain replace the old Direct Acting Mechanical Bucket valvetrain (DAMB) system found in first gen engines and reduce engine weight by as much as four pounds. Other valvetrain durability improvements were also made, including Hydraulic valve-lash adjusters, intake, and exhaust valves.

New Turbocharger System

A major factor in the improved capabilities and acceleration of the 2nd Gen 3.5L EcoBoost is a revised turbocharger design. Maximum boost increased thanks to a set of new turbochargers. Turbine wheels use Super ally Mar-M-247 which is stronger, lighter, and increases responsiveness. An electronic waste gate was also added.

Twin-Port and Direct Fuel Injection

2nd Generation 3.5L EcoBoost engines benefit in reliability and performance from a new fuel system that uses both Twin-Port and Direct Fuel Injection. In this system, two injectors are used per cylinder. One injector is present on the intake port, where air is introduced to the cylinder. The other injector is located within the cylinder itself. By working together, these injectors create greater fuel efficiency, power, and even lower emissions. This design also helps to significantly reduce the amount of carbon build-up experienced in these engines, which is one of the most common 3.5L EcoBoost Problems.

Auto Start-Stop

2nd Generation EcoBoost engines were given the controversial Auto Start-Stop standard feature. While this is a feature pretty much mandated by the EPA, it does decrease idle times because the vehicle is shut off when at a stop during operation. The result is lower CO2 and supposedly better fuel economy. When in 4WD or while towing, this feature is disabled.

Lower End Durability Improvements

To further improve the 3.5L EcoBoost engines reliability, second Generation engines were given a more robust lower end. A new upgraded crankshaft, bearing system, and more stout connecting rod undercuts help support the higher output of the new engine.

Other Changes

Variable Displacement Oil Pump
partnered with a new 10-Speed Automatic Transmission

2nd Generation 3.5L EcoBoost Engine — Photo taken From Ford Media.

10-Speed 10R80 Transmission Joins the 3.5L EcoBoost

Despite the number of upgrades giving to the 3.5L EcoBoost engine for its 2nd Generation model, there is another critical factor that makes the newer F-150s with the EcoBoost engine more desirable and capable. 2nd Gen EcoBoost engines in 2017+ Ford F-150s are mated to a 10-Speed Automatic Transmission that really boosts performance and provides a smoother ride.

This new transmission is known as the 10R80 transmission, and it is still being used to this day in the Ford F-150. It uses high-strength steel and aluminum alloys/composites allowing it to be lightweight, yet durable. The 10R80 transmission puts all this new found power to the ground and optimizes towing performance and fuel efficiency.

The 10R80 automatic transmission uses a wide-ratio span and optimized gear spacing. Three overdrive gears improve fuel efficiency in both city and highway driving environments. Max tow capacity at 12,200 is maintained in instances as well. Ford F-150s with this engine also benefit from an advanced tow/haul mode. A newly introduced electronic control system uses real-time adaptive shift-scheduling algorithms to select the right gear at the right time. This includes skip-shift and direct downshifting.

10-Speed 10R80 2nd Generation 3.5L EcoBoost Automatic Transmission — Picture taken from Ford Media.

2nd Generation 3.5L EcoBoost Performance

The Second Generation 3.5L EcoBoost engine, when found in the 2017-2020 Ford F-150, produces 375 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft of torque. That’s 10 more horsepower and 50 lb.-ft more torque than the outgoing 1st Generation engine. High-Output engines produce an impressive 450 horsepower and 510 lb.-ft of torque. There’s no doubt that Ford F-150s with the Second Gen EcoBoost offers greater performance numbers, quicker acceleration, and they’re more fun to drive.

Horsepower and torque aren’t the only thing that matter though. When it comes to trucks, tow capacity is really important. As I’m writing this, while gas is over $4 a gallon, fuel economy is also important to truck owners. In the following two sections, we’ll go over how this generation of the 3.5L EcoBoost engine holds up in terms of towing performance and fuel efficiency.

2nd Generation Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost Tow Capacity

Standard Output 3.5L EcoBoost

Model Year	Drivetrain	Max Conventional Towing Capacity
2017	4×2 4×4	12,200 lbs 12,000 lbs
2018	4×2 4×4	13,200 lbs 13,000 lbs
2019	4×2 4×4	13,200 lbs 12,900 lbs
2020	4×2 4×4	13,200 lbs 12,700 lbs
2021	4×2 4×4	14,000 lbs 13,900 lbs

Tow Capacity varies depending on Cab configuration and options selected. Check your owner’s manual or other resources from Ford to determine your actual max tow capacity. The numbers listed above are the max tow capacities with the high output towing models.

2019-2020 Ford F-150 Limited High Output 3.5L EcoBoost

Model Year	Drivetrain	Max Conventional Towing Capacity
2019	4×2 4×4	11,100 lbs 9,300 lbs
2020	4×2 4×4	11,100 lbs 9,300 lbs

Ford Raptor Tow Capacity

Model Year	Cab Type	Max Conventional Towing Capacity
2017	SuperCab SuperCrew	6,000 lbs 8,000 lbs
2018	SuperCab SuperCrew	6,000 lbs 8,000 lbs
2019	SuperCab SuperCrew	6,000 lbs 8,000 lbs
2020	SuperCab SuperCrew	6,000 lbs 8,000 lbs
2021	SuperCrew	8,200 lbs

2nd Generation Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost Fuel Economy

Standard Output

Model Year	Drivetrain	City Mpg	Highway Mpg	Combined Mpg
2017	4×2 4×4	18 mpg 17 mpg	25 mpg 23 mpg	21 mpg 20 mpg
2018	4×2 4×4	18 mpg 17 mpg	25 mpg 23 mpg	21 mpg 20 mpg
2019	4×2 4×4	18 mpg 17 mpg	25 mpg 23 mpg	21 mpg 20 mpg
2020	4×2 4×4	mpg 16 mpg	mpg 22 mpg	mpg 18 mpg
2021	4×2 4×4	18 mpg 17 mpg	24 mpg 23 mpg	20 mpg 19 mpg
2022	4×2 4×4	18 mpg 17 mpg	24 mpg 23 mpg	20 mpg 19 mpg

High Output Limited Models

Model Year	Drivetrain	City Mpg	Highway Mpg	Combined Mpg
2019	4×2 4×4	17 mpg 17 mpg	22 mpg 21 mpg	19 mpg 19 mpg
2020	4×2 4×4	17 mpg 17 mpg	22 mpg 21 mpg	19 mpg 19 mpg

Ford Raptor

Model Year	Drivetrain	City Mpg	Highway Mpg	Combined Mpg
2017	4×4	15 mpg	18 mpg	16 mpg
2018	4×4	15 mpg	18 mpg	16 mpg
2019	4×4	15 mpg	18 mpg	16 mpg
2020	4×4	15 mpg	18 mpg	16 mpg
2021 2021 (37″ Tires)	4×4 4×4	15 mpg 15 mpg	18 mpg 16 mpg	16 mpg 15 mpg
2022 2022 (37″ Tires)	4×4 4×4	15 mpg 15 mpg	18 mpg 16 mpg	16 mpg 15 mpg

Performance Upgrades for 2nd Generation 3.5L EcoBoost Ford F-150s

The EcoBoost engines incredible performance can be largely attributed to the use of twin turbochargers and direct fuel injection. These two characteristics make increasing horsepower relatively easy too. By simply adding a 3.5L EcoBoost tuner with box tunes or custom tuning you can crank out over 50 more horsepower and 50 more lb.-ft of torque very easily. There are a number of other upgrades that are affordable and can improve horsepower, torque, and even fuel economy too. Check out some of our favorites.

Tuners

Edge Evolution CTS3 for Ford Gas Vehicles (2017-2020 EcoBoost)

If you’re looking for a programmer that offers moderate gains but has a ton of data parameter monitoring capabilities, the Edge Evolution CTS3 is a 3.5L EcoBoost Tuner you should consider. It offers box tunes capable of increasing horsepower and torque on your Ford F-150. Despite mentioning custom tune capabilities, this programmer isn’t really supported in the aftermarket with custom tuning.

Bully Dog BDX Programmer

Another tuner that allows you to monitor vehicle parameters, adjust settings, and still comes with preloaded tunes is the Bully Dog BDX programmer. This unit is also widely supported and preferred amongst tuning vendors. Custom tunes can also be downloaded via Wi-Fi, making it so easy to get custom tunes for your 3.5L EcoBoost F-150.

Cold Air Intake Systems

S&B Cold Air Intake (2018-2021)

S&B Filters Cold Air Intake System for 2018-2021 Ford F-150s with the 3.5L EcoBoost offers a less restrictive air intake system that gives your engine cooler, denser air. It focuses on bringing cooler air from outside of the vehicle instead of hot air from the engine bay.

Roush Cold Air Intake (2018-2021)

The Roush Cold Air Intake System reduces restrictions by up to 25% and improves intake sound.

For more ideas to increase horsepower, torque, and fuel economy in your 3.5L EcoBoost-powered F-150, visit our 7 Best 3.5L EcoBoost Performance Upgrades Post.

2nd Generation 3.5L EcoBoost Maintenance Basics

Second Generation 3.5L EcoBoost Maintenance plays an extremely important role in keeping your Ford F-150 reliable and on the road for a long time. It can be done at a dealership, mechanic shops, or even at home, by yourself. If you want to save yourself a couple bucks and make sure your truck is getting the best quality fluids and filters, you might want to try maintaining it yourself. Many of the tasks are easy and can be done at home. If you choose to go this route, we’ll supply you with some basic maintenance intervals to follow, in addition to some parts and fluids you’ll probably need.

Maintenance Intervals (Normal Operating Conditions)

Tasks	Miles	Kilometers
Change Engine Oil/Filter	5,000-10,000 miles	8,000-16,000 kilometers
Change Cabin Air Filter	20,000 miles	32,000 kilometers
Replace Engine Air Filter	30,000 miles	48,000 kilometers

If you truck is used for commercial purposes, as part of a fleet, or if you tow frequently, you’ll need to follow a severe maintenance schedule that requires more frequent maintenance intervals.

Common 3.5L EcoBoost Fluids, Oil, And Filters

Part Type	Part #/Affiliate Links
Engine Oil Filter	Motorcraft FL-500-S
Engine Oil	Motorcraft SAE 5w-30 Synthetic Blend Motor Oil XO-5W30-5Q3SP
Engine Air Filter	Motorcraft FA-1883
Cabin Air Filter	Motorcraft FP-92
Engine Coolant	Motorcraft Yellow Prediluted AntiFreeze VC-13DL-G

For more information on performing maintenance on these specific trucks, visit our Comprehensive Guide to 3.5L EcoBoost Maintenance.

1st Gen 3.5L EcoBoost Vs 2nd Gen 3.5L EcoBoost

There are numerous changes that were made to the 2nd Generation 3.5L EcoBoost engine to improve reliability and performance. In the following chart and bulleted list we’ll list the specific differences between these two engines.

Specs/Features	1st Generation	2nd Generation
Model Years	2011-2016	2017-2022
Configuration	60-Degree V6 DOHC	60-Degree V6 DOHC
Displacement	3.5 Liters (213 cubic inches)	3.5 Liters (213 cubic inches)
Cylinder Bore	3.64″	3.64″
Cylinder Stroke	3.41″	3.41″
Compression Ratio	10.0:1	Standard Output: 10.5:1 High Output: 10.0:1
Firing Order	1-4-2-5-3-6	1-4-2-5-3-6
Engine Block Material	Aluminum	Aluminum
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum	Aluminum
Valvetrain	Direct Acting Mechanical Bucket with polished buckets (DAMB)	Roller Finger Follower
Fuel System	High Pressure Direct Fuel Injection	Twin-Port and Direct Fuel Injection
Air Induction	Twin Turbocharged and Intercooled	Twin turbocharged and intercooled. Electronic wastegates are used.
Ignition System	Coil On Plug	Coil on Plug
Horsepower	365 Horsepower	Standard Output (2017-2020): 375 Horsepower Standard Output (2021+): 400 Horsepower High Output: 450 Horsepower
Torque	420 lb.-ft	Standard Output (2017-2020): 470 lb.-ft Standard Output (2021+): 500 lb.-ft High Output: 510 lb.-ft
Transmission Used	6-Speed 6R80 Automatic	10-Speed 10R80 Automatic

Other 2nd Gen Improvements

Better Fuel Economy due to a number of mechanical improvements that make this engine more efficient, along with lighter components being used in the engine. 2nd Gen engines are also used in trucks that utilize aluminum exterior paneling.
Updated Fuel System and Turbocharger Systems
Greater Horsepower and Torque
Increased Tow Capacity
Updated lower End with lighter, more durable components.
Standard Auto Start-Stop

Overall, these changes help make the Second Generation more durable and desirable than the previous one.

2nd Generation 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Engine Infographic

2nd Generation 3.5L EcoBoost Ford F-150 Changes By Model Year

2017 Ford F-150 with the 2nd Generation 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Engine

2017 Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost

In 2017, The Second Generation 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Turbocharged engine debuts, along with a new standard 10-speed automatic transmission that significantly improves fuel economy, power, and overall drivability. A new High-Output 2nd Gen 3.5L EcoBoost engine is also introduced on the 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor.

2018 Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost

In 2018, Ford F-150s with the EcoBoost engine received an updated body design featuring new grilles, bumpers, and headlights. New technologies were also added, including pre-collision assist, adaptive cruise-control, 4G LTE model for an on-board Wi-Fi hotspot, and a new B&O sound system. The 3.0L Powerstroke Diesel engine debuts, in addition to the 2nd Generation 2.7L EcoBoost engine.

2019 Ford F-150 Limited with the High-Output 3.5L EcoBoost engine

2019 Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost

In 2019, the High-Output 3.5L EcoBoost engine was made available on Ford F-150s in the Limited trim package.

2020 Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost

2020 was the last year before a substantial exterior and interior update of the Ford F-150. Only minor changes were made for 2020 Ford F-150s. Some exterior color options were added and others removed. Driver Assist technologies were also improved.

2021 Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost

2021 Ford F-150s received a massive overhaul resulting in a new exterior, interior, and powertrain additions and changes. The standard output 3.5L EcoBoost received improvements that resulted in new performance numbers. 2021 Ford F-150s with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine now have 400 horsepower and 500 lb.-ft of torque. The 3.5L PowerBoost engine was also introduced, which is a hybrid variant of the 3.5L EcoBoost engine.

2nd Generation 3.5L EcoBoost FAQS

How much horsepower and torque do 2nd Gen 3.5L EcoBoost engines have when present in the Ford F-150?

2017-2020 Ford F-150s with the standard output engine have 375 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft of torque. 2021-2022 Ford F-150s with the standard output engine have 400 horsepower and 500 lb.-ft of torque. 2017-2022 Ford F-150 Raptors and 2019-2020 Ford F-150 Limited models have 450 horsepower and 510 lb.-ft of torque.

What model years did the Ford F-150 use the 2nd Gen 3.5L EcoBoost engine?

2017-2022 Ford F-150s use the 2nd Generation 3.5L EcoBoost engine.

How many quarts of oil does the 2nd Generation 3.5L EcoBoost Engine take?

6 Quarts with Filter Change.

How much can a Ford F-150 with the 2nd Generation 3.5L EcoBoost engine tow?

2021-2022 Ford F-150s with the 2nd Gen EcoBoost engine can tow up to 14,000 lbs when properly equipped.

2021 Ford F-150 Limited. Picture taken from Ford Media.

1st Generation Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Turbocharged Engine

Posted on April 19, 2022April 25, 2022 by Kamil

In 2011, Ford made a dramatic change to the Ford F-150’s Powertrain. They added a new, smaller displacement V6 engine that featured twin turbochargers and direct fuel injection. This engine, the 1st Generation 3.5L EcoBoost engine, provided greater fuel economy, tow capacity, and even just overall drivability when compared to the big, bulky, naturally-aspirated v8 engines found in the same time period.

Since the 3.5L EcoBoost was added in 2011, it continues to dominate other half-ton powertrains by consistently offering the highest, or near the highest, tow capacity, fuel economy, and performance characteristics against its competitors. Today, the 3.5L EcoBoost Engine has even been modified to be a hybrid engine known as the 3.5L PowerBoost Engine. A high-output 3.5L EcoBoost engine is also present in the high-performance Ford Raptor.

While these newer 3.5L EcoBoost engine variants are very exciting, in this post, we’re going to focus on where it all started, the First Generation 3.5L EcoBoost. We’re going to cover 1st Gen 3.5L EcoBoost specs, engine design, and performance information. We’ll also go into detail about the common problems associated with 1st Gen 3.5L EcoBoost engines, and how to maintain these engines to limit the amounts of problems you have.

First Generation 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Turbocharged Engine — Photo taken from Ford Media. 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Engine

The EcoBoost Engine Meets the F-150

In the late 2000s and early 2010s, Truck manufacturers were beginning to feel the heat from EPA to produce more efficient and cleaner vehicles. Even diesel trucks were being mandated to be more efficient as we began to see the emergence of Diesel Exhaust Fluids, Diesel Particulate Filters, and EGR systems. Ford’s response was a smaller displacement V6 engine that incorporated twin turbochargers and direct fuel injection. The result was a powerful, fuel efficient, and capable engine that provides diesel-like performance. This was the 1st Generation 3.5L EcoBoost engine and it met the Ford F-150 in 2011. This first generation EcoBoost engine continued to be used in F-150 trucks until 2017, when the 2nd Generation 3.5L EcoBoost engine replaced it.

2011 Ford F-150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Engine — Photo taken from Ford Media

1st Generation 3.5L EcoBoost Specs

Engine Years	2011-2016
Applications	Ford F-150
Configuration	60-Degree V6 DOHC
Displacement	3.5 Liters (213 cubic inches)
Cylinder Bore	3.64″
Cylinder Stroke	3.41″
Compression Ratio	10.0:1
Firing Order	1-4-2-5-3-6
Engine Block Material	Aluminum
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum
Valvetrain	Direct acting mechanical bucket (Polished Buckets)
Ignition System	Coil on Plug
Fuel System 2011-2016	See Below High Pressure Direct Fuel Injection
Air Delivery/Aspiration	Twin turbocharged and intercooled.
Horsepower (Standard Output)	365 Horsepower @ 5,000 rpm
Torque	420 lb.-ft @ 2,500 rpm
Recommended Fuel	Regular Unleaded
Engine Oil Capacity	6 Quarts (5.7 Liters)
Engine Oil Type/Recommended Engine Oil	Motorcraft SAE 5w-30 Synthetic Blend XO-5W30-Q1SP
Recommended Engine Oil Filter	Motorcraft FL-500-S

1st Generation 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Engine Highlights

Ford’s First Gen 3.5L EcoBoost engine features a v6 configuration and DOHC, or Dual Overhead Camshaft, design. Twin Independent Variable Cam Timing (Ti-VCT) gives greater control over these dual Camshafts which improves fuel efficiency and performance. Other key engine design elements include a Direct-Acting Mechanical Bucket valve train that uses polished buckets, cast exhaust manifolds, durable manifold and cylinder heads, and pistons with optimized bowls to improve combustion efficiency.

The two greatest contributors to the EcoBoost’s impressive performance are the twin turbochargers and direct fuel injection. These two features contribute to the 3.5L EcoBoost engines diesel-like performance and make it the ideal gasoline-sipping towing machine. Up to 90% of peak torque is reached at only 1,700 rpm, with peak torque being reached at only 2,500 rpm. Torque is maintained all the way up to 5,000 rpm.

2011 Ford F-150 1st Generation 3.5L EcoBoost Torque Curve. Photo taken from the 2011 Ford F-150 Dealer Brochure.

Twin Turbochargers & Intercooler

A key characteristic of the EcoBoost engine is a set of Twin BorgWarner K03 turbochargers. These turbochargers recycle exhaust gases through their turbines which in turn pressurizes the air that mixes with fuel in the combustion chamber. The result is greater power and performance. Even after the EcoBoost engine is turned off, the turbo’s cooling system works to eliminate coking.

Direct Fuel Injection

The First Gen EcoBoost also uses direct fuel injection, which is often utilized in Diesel truck applications. Fuel is precisely sprayed in a pattern into the chamber during intake. Here, the fuel meets pressurized air before combustion occurs. This provides clean, fuel-efficient operation.

Key Characteristics of the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Engine:

Cast Exhaust Manifolds
Partnered with the 6-Speed 6R80 Automatic Transmission
Direct-Acting Mechanical Bucket valve train with polished buckets (DAMB)
High-Pressure direct fuel injection fed by a common rail
Twin Turbochargers & Charge Air Cooler (Intercooler)
Pistons with optimized bowls to improve efficiency during combustion
Twin-independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT)
Improved manifold & Cylinder Heads
Intake and exhaust camshafts optimized for improved fuel economy and performance

1st Generation 3.5L EcoBoost Performance

Ford F-150s with the new EcoBoost engine came off the lot boasting an impressive 365 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft of torque. Those were some pretty staggering numbers, especially since the EcoBoost is a small V6 engine. Only the F-150’s 6.2L V8 Engine produced greater power at 411 horsepower and 434 lb.-ft of torque. It came at a much higher cost however, as it averaged much lower fuel economy.

Performance isn’t just about horsepower and torque though. In this section, we will look at the First Gen 3.5L EcoBoost’s towing capabilities and fuel economy too.

2015 Ford F-150 with the 1st Generation 3.5L EcoBoost Engine — 2015 Ford F-150. Photo taken from Ford Media.

Tow Capacity

Model Year	Drivetrain	Max Conventional Towing Capacity
2011	4×2 4×4	11,300 lbs
2012	4×2 4×4	11,300 lbs
2013	4×2 4×4	11,300 lbs
2014	4×2 4×4	11,300 lbs
2015	4×2 4×4	12,100 lbs 11,900 lbs
2016	4×2 4×4	12,200 lbs 12,000 lbs

Fuel Economy (MPG)

Model Year	Drivetrain	City Mpg	Highway Mpg	Combined Mpg
2011	4×2 4×4	16 mpg 15 mpg	22 mpg 21 mpg	18 mpg 17 mpg
2012	4×2 4×4	16 mpg 15 mpg	22 mpg 21 mpg	19 mpg 17 mpg
2013	4×2 4×4	16 mpg 15 mpg	22 mpg 21 mpg	18 mpg 17 mpg
2014	4×2 4×4	16 mpg 15 mpg	22 mpg 21 mpg	18 mpg 17 mpg
2015	4×2 4×4	17 mpg 17 mpg	24 mpg 23 mpg	20 mpg 19 mpg
2016	4×2 4×4	17 mpg 16 mpg	24 mpg 22 mpg	20 mpg 18 mpg

Performance Upgrades

Thanks to direct fuel injection and turbocharging the 3.5L EcoBoost is one of the easiest gasoline engines to upgrade for greater performance. You can add horsepower or torque to your 1st Gen 3.5L EcoBoost relatively easily through a number of different products. We’ll list some of our favorites here.

#1 Tuning

Tuning provides the most efficient means off adding power to your First Generation 3.5L EcoBoost. 1st Generation 3.5L EcoBoost tuning is available in the form of box tunes or custom tuning. Box tunes like those found in the AutoMind 2 programmer give you moderate power gains while also focusing on maintaining reliability. Custom tuning allows you to get custom made tunes that factor in all of the other modifications your vehicle has too. They provide higher gains and can be rebuilt after you’ve added other mods too.

Just keep in mind, by tuning your vehicle you may be voiding your warranty. We recommend waiting until your manufacturer warranty is expired to modify your truck.

Banks Power AutoMind 2 Programmer/Tuner

The Banks Power AutoMind 2 Programmer provides moderate gains, maintains reliability, and has an incredible amount of research and engineering behind it. Banks Power released their own Dyno results showing this tuner can increase power in your First Gen EcoBoost by up to 50 horsepower and 50 lb.-ft of torque.

Bully Dog BDX Tuner

Bully Dog’s BDX Tuner comes with preloaded tunes on the device but also offers custom tuning capabilities. The BDX/SCT platform is widely preferred amongst performance tuning companies who specialize in 3.5L EcoBoost Tuning. Tunes can be delivered over the cloud when connected to Wi-Fi, removing the need for a computer to upload tunes. This 3.5L EcoBoost Tuner also comes with data parameter monitoring capabilities.

#2 Cold Air Intakes

Cold Air Intakes are another First Gen 3.5L EcoBoost Upgrade that is relatively inexpensive but offers decent gains. They provide your engine with colder, denser air that results in greater horsepower, torque, and even fuel economy.

Banks Ram Air Intake System

Banks Power also makes a dyno-proven Cold Air Intake system known as the Banks Ram Air Intake System. It helps provide Cooler, Denser air to your engine. This is opposite of many intake systems that take in hot, power-robbing engine air that can actually negatively impact performance. This CAI system is up to 64.6% less restrictive than the stock system.

S&B Cold Air Intake

The S&B Cold Air Intake also provides better performance than the stock system and makes filter maintenance easy. A clear sight glass is visible from the top, making it easy to know when it’s time for service.

#3 Intercoolers

Intercoolers are a great upgrade for First Gen 3.5L EcoBoost engines. Not only do they help solve the intercooler moisture problem in these engines, but they can also provide better performance.

2011-2014 Mishimoto 3.5L EcoBoost Intercooler Kit

Mishimoto Intercooler Kit for the 2011-2014 Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost

Mishimoto’s Performance Intercooler Kit is a direct fit for 2011-2014 EcoBoost-equipped Ford F-150s. It helps solve the Condensation problem found in these trucks while also reducing Air Intake Temperatures and reducing restrictions.

Visit our 7 Best 3.5L EcoBoost Performance Upgrades post for more information on how to increase performance and torque on these specific trucks!

1st Generation 3.5L EcoBoost Problems (2011-2016 Ford F-150)

Carbon Accumulation

One of the more nominal problems found in the First Gen 3.5L EcoBoost is Carbon Accumulation. The Direct fuel injection system inserts fuel directly into the cylinder, but because no fuel is washing over the intake valves, it can lead to carbon accumulation. When carbon accumulation is bad enough it can cause poor engine performance and power loss. This issue was largely corrected in 2nd Generation EcoBoost Engines because a Twin-Port fuel system was added.

How to Fix It

While carbon accumulation will occur, every truck is different and you may not suffer from any negative performance during the ownership of your vehicle. That being said, there are methods developed by the aftermarket industry to reduce carbon accumulation. You do this by utilizing a catch can. Catch Cans route blow-by away from your intake and valves and accumulate it in a catch can. After a base line is established, you can empty the catch at certain intervals. This will help keep your intake system clean.

Mishimoto Baffled Oil Catch Can Kit

Mishimoto’s Baffled Oil Catch Can Kit is built specifically for your truck and includes a mounting kit for DIY installation.

If you have an older EcoBoost engine and it’s too late, a professional shop can walnut blast carbon away. This should be done by a shop however, as it is important to do it right. Stay away from DIY induction system cleaners. They can which can cause more harm than good and lead to expensive repairs.

In 2nd Generation EcoBoost Engines a Twin-Port fuel system was added that corrected this issue.

PCV Hose Valve Cover Adaptor

The PCV Hose Valve Cover Adaptor is a First Gen 3.5L EcoBoost problem that occurs mainly in 2013-2015 Ford F-150s. The factory design is faulty and when this problem occurs, you will often experience blue or white smoke from the exhaust. These signs are especially visible after extended periods of idling.

How to Fix It

Simply Replace the stock PCV Hose Valve Cover Adaptor with the redesigned one. The part number is Ford HL2Z-6762-A.

Intercooler Condensation

If you don’t live in a humid environment you may never experience this problem. Intercooler condensation is a 3.5L EcoBoost problem that is experienced in 2011-2012 model year Ford F-150s. Basically, moisture may be trapped in the intercooler in humid operating conditions. Symptoms of intercooler condensation include engine misfiring, intermittent stumbling, or even trouble codes appearing. Symptoms usually occur after high engine load due to heavy towing or acceleration and extended highway driving. If you don’t live in a humid environment, you might never experience this issue in your 2011-2012 Ford F-150.

How to Fix It

This design flaw was fixed in later model F-150s due to a redesigned charge air cooler, or intercooler, being used. To fix 2011-2012 EcoBoost-powered F-150s however you can either follow Ford’s TSB and install a redesigned deflector on the bottom of the intercooler, or you can purchase a new aftermarket intercooler.

If you opt to use the OEM fix, take your truck to a dealer so they can isolate the problem to the intercooler specifically. This is explained in the TSB and should be done to make sure your truck is not suffering from other problems.

If you decide to replace your intercooler, there are several options that provide an improved design and greater durability than the OEM unit. They actually can increase performance and provide you with cooler, denser air too!

2011-2014 Ford F-150 Aftermarket Intercoolers

Mishimoto Performance Intercooler Kit

Mishimoto’s Performance Intercooler Kit fixes the Intercooler Condensation problem found in Early 3.5L EcoBoost engines while simultaneously reducing IAT temperatures and improving performance.

Calibration Problems

All new engines require tweaks and kinks to be worked out after release. The 3.5L EcoBoost is no different. Numerous calibrations were required after release to work out bugs and different engines with these engines. If you are experiencing issues with your truck a good place to start is making sure your truck is equipped with the latest software.

1st Gen Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost Changes By Model Year

2011 Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost

In 2011, the Ford F-150 is introduced, sporting the First Generation 3.5L EcoBoost Engine.

2012 Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost

36 Gallon tank is made standard for 4×4 3.5L EcoBoost-Equipped F-150s. Drivetrain upgrades are made for upper trim levels. 4×4 models can now be flat-towed. Updates are also made to the Ford Sync system.

2013 Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost

Harley Davidson Trim is removed and the Limited Trim is added. Unlike the Harley Davidson that was exclusively available with the 6.2L V8 engine, the 2013 Ford F-150 Limited is available with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine.

2014 Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost

Last Year of the Ford F-150 featuring steel exterior panels and this body style. New 2014 Ford F-150 Tremor edition featuring the 3.5L EcoBoost engine is introduced.

2015 Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost

The 2015 Ford F-150 received an overhaul. An all new aluminum exterior was introduced, making these trucks up to 700 lbs lighter than 2014 Ford F-150s. This helps fuel economy and acceleration. A new fully-boxed frame is also introduced. Ford also introduces the 2.7L EcoBoost engine, also called “Pocket Hercules”.

2016 Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost

3.5L EcoBoost Engine was used in the Ford F-150. 2016 Ford F-150s with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine gained towing technology in the form of Ford’s Pro Trailer Backup Assist. Ford’s entertainment system is upgraded to a new Ford Sync3 system. New interior and exterior styling options are also added.

1st Generation Ford F-150 Maintenance Basics

Maintaining Ford F-150s with the First Generation 3.5L EcoBoost engine isn’t difficult. You can easily complete most of the tasks at home. If you are the owner of a First Gen 3.5L EcoBoost engine, it would be wise to stock up on some of the filters and fluids you will need to complete maintenance on your truck. Here are some of the service intervals you will need to follow, in addition to the basic parts and fluids you will need.

Maintenance Intervals (Normal Operating Conditions)

Tasks	Miles	Kilometers
Change Engine Oil/Filter	5,000-10,000 miles	8,000-16,000 kilometers
Change Cabin Air Filter	20,000 miles	32,000 kilometers
Replace Engine Air Filter	30,000 miles	48,000 kilometers

Common 3.5L EcoBoost Parts, Filters and Fluids

Part Type	Part #/Affiliate Links
Engine Oil Filter	Motorcraft FL-500-S
Engine Oil	Motorcraft SAE 5w-30 Synthetic Blend Motor Oil XO-5W30-5Q3SP
Engine Air Filter	Motorcraft FA-1883
Cabin Air Filter (2015-2016)	Motorcraft FP-92
Transmission Filter (6R80)	Motorcraft FT-188
Transmission Inlet Filter (6R80)	Motorcraft FT-138
Transmission Fluid (6R80)	Motorcraft Mercon LV Automatic Transmission Fluid XT-10-QLVC

Find out more maintenance information in our Comprehensive 3.5L EcoBoost Maintenance Guide.

1st Generation Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost FAQs

What Model Years of the F-150 use the First Generation 3.5L EcoBoost?

2011-2016 Ford F-150s have the First Gen 3.5L EcoBoost Engine.

How much horsepower and torque does the First Generation 3.5L EcoBoost have?

First Generation 3.5L EcoBoost engines in the Ford F-150 produce 360 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft of torque.

What Fuel Economy do 2011-2016 Ford F-150s with the First Gen 3.5L EcoBoost get?

2011-2014 Ford F-150s with this engine could get as much as 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway, for a combined average of 19 mpg. 2015-2016 model years with the aluminum body can get as much as 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, for a combined average of 20 mpg.

Which engine is better, the first generation 3.5L EcoBoost or the second generation 3.5L EcoBoost?

While both EcoBoost engines have been wildly successful and popular, we prefer Second Generation 3.5L EcoBoost engines due to their greater power and reliability. They worked many of the kinks and minor issues out in the Second variation of this engine.

How many quarts of oil does the First Gen 3.5L EcoBoost engine take?

6 Quarts

How much could the First Generation 3.5L EcoBoost Tow?

Up to 12,200 lbs could be towed in 2016 Ford F-150s with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine when properly equipped.

Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost High Output V6 Engine Specs & Performance

Posted on April 13, 2022April 25, 2022 by Kamil

Ford’s 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Turbocharged engine is one of the most exciting and capable half-ton trucks since it was introduced in 2011. Since 2011 however, the 3.5L EcoBoost engine has come a long way, with numerous improvements being made throughout the years to increase reliability and capabilities. In 2022, there are even three separate variations of the engine in Ford F-150 trucks. There is the standard output 3.5L EcoBoost, the 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid, and even a 3.5L EcoBoost High Output version.

In this post, we’re going to focus on the 3.5L EcoBoost High Output V6 Turbocharged Engine. We’re going to cover the differences between standard output and high output 3.5L EcoBoost engines, as well as performance specs, Fuel Economy, and other important engine information too. Let’s dive right in.

2017 Ford Raptor with the 3.5L EcoBoost High Output Engine — Photo Taken From the Ford Media Website.

When Did the Ford F-150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost High Output Engine Become Available?

The Ford F-150’s 3.5L EcoBoost High Output V6 engine was first introduced in the 2017 Ford Raptor. 2017 Ford Raptors equipped with the 3.5L EcoBoost High Output V6 Turbocharged engine produce a whopping 450 horsepower and 510 lb.-ft of torque. Compared to the new 2nd Generation 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Engine that debuted in the 2017 Ford F-150, that was a difference of 75 horsepower and 40 lb.-ft of torque.

After a couple years of being married to the Ford Raptor exclusively, the 2019 Ford F-150 Limited was introduced to the High Output EcoBoost Engine too. Ford wanted to give its luxury customers the same performance capabilities as those seeking the Baja Race-ready Ford Raptor. 2020 Ford F-150 Limited trucks also came with the High Output EcoBoost engine.

The High Output engine was discontinued in 2021 Ford F-150 trucks except for the Ford Raptor. Instead, a revised 3.5L EcoBoost Engine is found in all trims that produces 400 horsepower and 500 lb.-ft of torque. The 2021-2022 Ford Raptor trucks have maintained a High Output 3.5L EcoBoost engine, however we suspect a revised engine is coming with the introduction of the Ford Raptor R.

3.5L EcoBoost High Output V6 Engine Specs

3.5L EcoBoost High Output Years	2017-2022
Applications Ford Raptor Ford F-150 Limited	See Below 2017-2022 2019-2020
Engine Build Location	Cleveland, Ohio
Configuration	60 Degree V6 DOHC
Displacement	3.5 Liters (213 Cubic Inches)
Cylinder Bore	3.64″
Cylinder Stroke	3.41″
Compression Ratio	10.0:1
Firing Order	1-4-2-5-3-6
Engine Block Material	Aluminum
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum
Valvetrain	Roller Finger Follower
Ignition System	Coil on Plug
Fuel System	Twin-Port and Direct Fuel Injection
Air Delivery/Aspiration	Twin-Turbocharged and Intercooled
Horsepower	450 horsepower @ 5,000 rpm
Torque	510 lb.-ft @ 3,500 rpm
Recommended Fuel	Premium Unleaded
Engine Oil Capacity	6 Quarts (5.7 Liters)
Engine Oil Type/Recommended Oil	Motorcraft SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend Motor Oil XO-5W30-5Q3SP (5 Quarts)
Engine Oil Filter	Motorcraft FL-500-S

3.5L EcoBoost High Output Tow Capacity

Ford F-150s with the standard output 3.5L EcoBoost engine actually hold a larger tow capacity and payload than those equipped with the High Output engine. If you are going to be towing frequently with loaded trailer weights greater than 6,000-8,000 lbs we actually recommend going with the standard output 3.5L EcoBoost engine. Ford F-150’s 3.0L Powerstroke Diesel engine also offers excellent towing performance and fantastic fuel economy as well.

2019-2020 Ford F-150 Limited Tow Capacity

Model Year	Drivetrain	Max Tow Capacity (Conventional)	Max Payload
2019	4×2 4×4	11,100 lbs 9,300 lbs	1,530 lbs 1,280 lbs
2020	4×2 4×4	11,100 lbs 9,300 lbs	1,520 lbs 1,270 lbs

2017-2022 Ford Raptor Tow Capacity

Model Year	Cabin Type	Max Tow Capacity (Conventional)	Max Payload
2017	SuperCab Crew Cab	6,000 lbs 8,000 lbs	1,000 lbs 1,200 lbs
2018	SuperCab Crew Cab	6,000 lbs 8,000 lbs	1,000 lbs 1,200 lbs
2019	SuperCab Crew Cab	6,000 lbs 8,000 lbs	1,000 lbs 1,200 lbs
2020	SuperCab Crew Cab	6,000 lbs 8,000 lbs	1,000 lbs 1,200 lbs
2021	Crew Cab	8,200 lbs	1,400 lbs

2017 Ford F-150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost Engine towing a boat and trailer — 2017 Ford F-150 EcoBoost Towing a Boat. Picture Taken From Ford Media.

3.5L EcoBoost High Output Fuel Economy

Fuel Economy is also lower in High Output 3.5L EcoBoost Engines compared to those with the standard engine. This is especially true with the Ford Raptor. That being said, the Ford Raptor comes with 35″ or 37″ tires and an off-road performance suspension. Fuel economy is better on 2019-2020 Limited Models as they more closely resemble the regular F-150.

Ford Raptor Fuel Economy

Model Year	City Mpg	Highway Mpg	Combined Mpg
2017	15 mpg	18 mpg	16 mpg
2018	15 mpg	18 mpg	16 mpg
2019	15 mpg	18 mpg	16 mpg
2020	15 mpg	18 mpg	16 mpg
2021 (with 35″ Tires) 2021 (with 37″ Tires)	15 mpg 14 mpg	18 mpg 16 mpg	16 mpg 15 mpg
2022 (with 35″ Tires) 2022 (with 37″ Tires)	15 mpg 14 mpg	18 mpg 16 mpg	16 mpg 15 mpg

Ford F-150 Limited Fuel Economy

Model Year	Drivetrain	City Mpg	Highway Mpg	Combined Mpg
2019	4×2 4×4	17 mpg 17 mpg	22 mpg 21 mpg	19 mpg 19 mpg
2020	4×2 4×4	17 mpg 17 mpg	22 mpg 21 mpg	19 mpg 19 mpg

3.5L EcoBoost High Output Engine Design Characteristics

The 3.5L EcoBoost High Output V6 Engine contains most of the same upgrades that are found with the 2nd Generation 3.5L EcoBoost that was also introduced in 2017. However, there are some unique engine improvements made to the high output engines to increase power and maintain reliability.

Upgraded Fuel System

Instead of a solely direct fuel injection system, the High Output EcoBoost engine gains a redesigned twin-port and direct fuel injection system. Two injectors are used per cylinder, one at the intake port and the other within the cylinder. They work together and produce greater power and efficiency while simultaneously decreasing emissions. This new design also makes carbon build-up, a common 3.5L EcoBoost problem, a significantly lesser issue compared to 2011-2016 EcoBoost engines.

New Twin-Turbocharger System With Upgraded Intercooler

High Output EcoBoost engines also receive the new Borgwarner turbocharger system introduced in the 2nd Generation EcoBoost. Unlike the standard engine however, High output engines have more aggressive compressors that allow for even greater boost. The high output engine also benefits from an electronic wastegate.

In addition to the differences with the turbocharger system, at least the Ford Raptor models gain an air-charge cooling system that features dual 100-watt fans, plus a standard heavy duty trailer-tow cooling system. This trailer tow cooling system features a 23% larger core radiator and dual 700-watt brushless radiator cooling fans.

**2021 Ford F-150 Raptor**. Photo taken from Ford Media.

Weight Reduction

Another important feature that enables the quicker acceleration of both standard 3.5L EcoBoost engines and High Output engines is the lighter weight of both the engine and the trucks themselves. In 2017, Ford Redesigned the F-150, utilizing aluminum body paneling. In fact, the 2017 Raptor shed up to 500 lbs compared to 2016 models.

Durability Enhancements

The 3.5L EcoBoost High Output engine also benefits from the new materials used within the engine. Hollow Camshafts are used in the roller-finger valvetrain, removing as much as 4 pounds of weight. A new lower end structure features an upgraded crankshaft and bearings, in addition to a two-piece oil pan. A new Dual-Chain cam drive design also improves reliability and provides simplicity.

Upgraded Exhaust System

Ford Raptors and the F-150 Limited with the High Output EcoBoost both benefit from a true dual exhaust system. They also utilize cast stainless steel manifolds.

2021 Ford F-150 Raptor Flexing — Ford Raptor Flexing. Picture taken from Ford Media.

What is the Difference Between the Standard 3.5L EcoBoost and the 3.5L EcoBoost High Output Engine?

Compared to the standard output 3.5L EcoBoost, High output engines in the Raptor and F-150 Limited feature more aggressive turbo compressors offering increased boost calibrations. Cast stainless steel manifolds are used, in addition to a full dual exhaust system. Ford also gave the high output EcoBoost oil-cooled pistons for increased reliability. Lastly, far more aggressive engine control calibrations were implemented to ink out as many ponies as possible.

Compared to standard output EcoBoost engines, the High Output EcoBoost spools quicker and providers greater acceleration. Horsepower and torque are greater, however, max tow capacity and payload is lesser on trucks with the High Output engine. If you need the maximum towing capacity offered by the 3.5L EcoBoost today, up to 14,000 lbs with the 2022 Ford F-150 Max Tow package, stick with the standard output engine.

Standard 3.5L EcoBoost Vs High Output 3.5L EcoBoost

Specs	Standard	High Output
Horsepower	2017-2020: 375 @ 5,000 rpm 2021+: 400 @	All Years: 450 @ 5,000 rpm
Torque	2017-2020: 470 lb.-ft @ 3,500 rpm 2021+:	All Years: 510 lb.-ft @ 3,500 rpm
Fuel Economy (4WD) (City/Highway/Combined)	2017-2020: 17/23/19 2021+: 17/23/19	Raptor (35″ Tires): 15/18/16 Raptor (37″ Tires): 14/16/15 2019-2020 Limited:17/21/19
Max Tow Capacity (Max Tow Package)	2017: 12,200 lbs* 2018-2020: 13,200 lbs* 2021+: 14,000 lbs**	Raptor (17-20): 8,000 lbs Raptor (2021): 8,200 lbs 2019-2020 Limited: 11,100 lbs

*2020 3.5L EcoBoost Engine with max tow package **Requires Max Tow Package.

3.5L EcoBoost High Output FAQS

What are the major differences between the standard 3.5l EcoBoost and the high output 3.5l EcoBoost engines?

High Output Engines offer 450 horsepower and 510 lb.-ft of torque, which is higher than the standard output EcoBoost engine. This can be attributed to a more aggressive turbocharger design with increased boost calibrations, upgraded intercooler, oil-cooled pistons, and more aggressive engine calibrations. They also benefit from a true dual exhaust and cast stainless steel manifolds. The result of this performance is quicker spool times and ultimately faster acceleration.

How Much Horsepower Does the High Output 3.5L EcoBoost Engine Have?

450 Horsepower @ 5,000 rpm

How Much Torque Does the High Output 3.5L EcoBoost Engine Have?

510 lb.-ft of Torque @ 3,500 rpm

Which Ford F-150s have the High Output 3.5L EcoBoost Engine?

2019-2020 Ford F-150 Limited
2017-2021 Ford Raptor

Learn More About the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Turbocharged Engine

Visit our other Posts on this EcoBoost Engine by clicking on one of the bulleted points below.

7 Best Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost Performance Upgrades

Posted on April 7, 2022April 20, 2022 by Kamil

How to Improve Your 3.5L EcoBoost-Powered F-150s Performance, Fuel Economy, and Reliability

When the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Turbocharged engine was introduced in 2011, it created a seismic shift in the pickup truck industry. Big, Bulky V-8 engines that were bad on gas took the back-seat to smaller, turbocharged engines in not only fuel economy, but also performance. The 2011 Ford F-150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine could out-tow Ford’s 5.0L V8 engine and get better fuel economy while doing it. Fast forward to today, and the 3.5L EcoBoost engine is still around, and it still leads the pack in terms of capabilities, especially with the high-output EcoBoost engine variant. Just because something is good, doesn’t mean you can’t make it better though. In this post, we’ll go over the 7 best Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost Performance upgrades to improve performance (horsepower, torque, acceleration), fuel economy, and reliability.

Photo taken from the Ford Media Website.

1. 3.5L EcoBoost Tuning

One of the most substantial 3.5L EcoBoost Performance Upgrades you can purchase is tuning. Tuning your 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Engine will increase horsepower, torque, acceleration, and even fuel economy. Traditionally, tuners provides the greatest benefits to diesel trucks, but because of the 3.5L EcoBoost’s Diesel-Like characteristics, this engine benefits significantly from tuning too.

3.5L EcoBoost Box Tuners

When it comes to 3.5L EcoBoost Tuners there are two distinct paths you can go down. Most tuners like Bully Dog’s BDX or the Edge Evolution CTS3 provide tunes straight out of the box. These tunes are built for the masses, however they are tested extensively and designed to meet all emission standards put forth by the Clean Air Act. 3.5L EcoBoost Box Tuners provide moderate gains and the easiest installation. Most of them are simply plug and play.

Before purchasing any of the tuners below, confirm fitment on the manufacturers website with your specific vehicle. Most of the tuners listed below will work with 2011-2020 3.5L EcoBoost trucks, but you still want to make sure.

Banks AutoMind 2 Programmer

Banks is without a doubt one of the biggest names in truck performance parts for a reason. They’re well-known for researching and testing their products against their competitors and broadcasting their results. The Banks AutoMind 2 Programmer provides increased performance via box-tunes that improve horsepower, torque, and fuel economy.

Edge Evolution CTS3

The Edge Evolution CTS3 is a highly capable monitoring device and tuner for the 3.5L EcoBoost Engine. It offers limited tuning for 3.5L EcoBoost engines but the parameter monitoring and other features make this a very valuable product to keep in your truck. This tuner does not offer 3.5L EcoBoost Custom tuning.

3.5L EcoBoost Performance Upgrades: Tuners

SCT Livewire TS+ Performance Programmer

SCT’s LiveWire TS+ Performance Programmer offers box tunes and custom tuning capabilities. It also offers a smaller degree of parameter monitoring characteristics.

SCT BDX Programmer

SCT’s BDX Programmer offers both box tunes and custom tunes. It also doubles as a monitor and can be customized to display parameters of your choosing!

3.5L EcoBoost Tuners with Custom Tuning

If you want to give your Ford F-150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost Engine the most horsepower and torque possible, then you need to go with custom tuning. With custom tuning, you will be required to purchase a box tuner that comes with the capability to store and upload custom tunes to your truck. SCT and Bully Dog build the most popular tuners to use with custom tuning for Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost trucks.

Once you’ve selected a tuner or programmer to use, you will need to find a company that designs 3.5L EcoBoost Custom Tunes. You will then have the option to purchase multiple different tunes that optimize different styles of driving. For example, you could opt for a max fuel economy tune or a towing tune. High performance tunes are also available. It is important to note that in the United States, custom tunes that disable emissions devices are illegal. Emissions Deleting 3.5L EcoBoost tuners should be avoided altogether unless your vehicle is used solely for racing or off-roading.

3.5l EcoBoost Tuning Performance Upgrade

SCT X4 Custom Tuner

If you have access to a computer that uses a Microsoft Windows operating system, you can use the SCT X4 Tuner for your 3.5L EcoBoost. This tuner provides simple operation and a range of other features like parameter monitoring that pair great with custom tuning.

Just keep in mind, this tuner is not CARB approved, and you will not be able to purchase it if you live in California.

SCT BDX Tuner

The SCT BDX Programmer makes accessing custom tuning for your 3.5L EcoBoost easy by downloading them directly from your custom tuning dealer by Wi-Fi. The BDX programmer also provides parameter monitoring that can be designed and modified to your liking. You can also adjust/change features on your truck using this programmer.

Bully Dog BDX Tuner

The Bully Dog BDX Programmer is almost identical to the SCT BDX. This programmer makes accessing custom tuning for your 3.5L EcoBoost easy by downloading them directly from your custom tuning dealer by Wi-Fi. The BDX programmer also provides parameter monitoring that can be designed and modified to your liking. You can also adjust/change features on your truck using this programmer.

How Custom Tuning Works

All tuning increases vehicle performance by updating the vehicles PCM. You can adjust fuel tables, boost, timing, shift points, and more to enhance performance. By doing this alone, you can increase 3.5L EcoBoost Horsepower, Torque, throttle response, and fuel economy.

Tuning can come at the cost of reliability however, as high performance tunes can often cause increased wear and tear on components and ultimately a shorter lifespan. On the 3.5L EcoBoost specifically, tuners and programmers can cause early problems to occur. It’s important to be aware of the common 3.5L EcoBoost problems so you can look out for them.

Despite this, many drivers still decide to tune their vehicles but to opt for tunes that are more moderate in nature. Moderate tunes still give you decent gains, but they don’t cause massive reductions in your trucks reliability.

To sustain higher performance tunes and maintain reliability, you will need to spend a lot more money on supporting modifications. Your transmission specifically is one vehicle component that will take a beating, and many truck owners purchase a “built” transmission featuring more robust internals and an upgraded torque converting in high-horsepower/torque applications.

We recommend moderate tuning that keeps all emissions in-tact. If you are going to tune your vehicle however, we recommend following the severe service intervals listed in our 3.5L EcoBoost Maintenance Guide. This will help keep your vehicle operational and maintain reliability.

Installing and Setting Up Custom Tunes

If you want to use a custom tuner like the SCT X4 that requires manual uploading/downloading of tunes, you will first need to purchase a blank tuner. Upon receiving your blank tuner, you must connect your blank tuner to your truck’s OBD2 Port and pull your ECU Data. Then you send out the required Data to your Custom Tuning provider of choice who will use this data to design custom tunes for your vehicle. Once they’ve been designed, they will send them to you.

Upon receiving your device, you have to download them to your device from your computer. Once they’ve been downloaded to your device, you can upload them to your vehicle. Once the tunes are uploaded you can select which tune you want to use.

Programmers like the SCT BDX or Bully Dog BDX can download tunes through the cloud when connected to Wi-F. This makes installing tunes on your truck much easier if you are tech savvy. You can cut the computer out of the equation and download tunes directly from your custom tuning provider instead.

3.5L EcoBoost Custom Tuning Providers

When choosing a custom tuning dealer for your Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost, you should go with someone who specializes in tunes for EcoBoost engines. There are plenty of people out there capable of building tunes, but you want someone who knows the ins-and-outs of these engines and has a ton of experience designing capable and reliable tunes for the 3.5L EcoBoost engine.

Here are some reputable 3.5L EcoBoost Custom Tuning Providers that are highly recommended on Ford F-150 and EcoBoost Forums.

2. 3.5L EcoBoost Intercoolers

Number 2 on our list of the best 3.5L EcoBoost Performance Upgrades is the Intercooler. There are a couple of reasons for this. In Ford F-150’s with the First Generation 3.5L EcoBoost Engine, specifically the 2011-2012 model years, the intercooler is actually a problem point. A TSB was even issued because of condensation accumulation in the intercooler. The problem is mostly experienced in high-humidity climates, but it’s still a potential problem nonetheless.

Aftermarket Intercoolers also can benefit any truck, especially the 3.5L EcoBoost Engine. They provide your engine with cooler, denser air and can also hold greater boost. These are a great supporting modification that is excellently paired with other 3.5L EcoBoost Performance Upgrades on this list like Tuners.

Intercoolers can also be purchased as kits that also include new intercooler piping. New piping provides less restrictions and greater durability.

Best 3.5L EcoBoost Intercoolers

2011-2014 3.5L EcoBoost Intercoolers

Mishimoto 2011-2014 3.5L EcoBoost Intercooler Kit

Replace that problematic OEM Intercooler and piping with Mishimoto’s 2011-2014 3.5L EcoBoost Intercooler Kit. This will take care of that pesky intercooler condensation problem and simultaneously lower air temperatures entering your engine!

2015-2016 3.5L EcoBoost Intercoolers

2015-2016 3.5L EcoBoost Intercooler Kit from Mishimoto

Mishimoto 2015-2016 3.5L EcoBoost Intercooler Kit

The 2015-2016 3.5L EcoBoost Mishimoto Intercooler Kit provides an upgraded intercooler and piping solution to increase performance and provide your engine with cooler air.

2017-2020 3.5L EcoBoost Intercoolers

Mishimoto 2017-2020 3.5L EcoBoost Intercooler Kit

Increase Performance and Reliability with Mishimoto’s 2017-2020 3.5L EcoBoost Intercooler Kit. It includes an upgraded aftermarket Intercooler and new piping that reduces restrictions and provides cooler air to your EcoBoost Engine.

3. Cold Air Intakes

Cold Air Intakes are another item on our list of the best 3.5L EcoBoost Performance Upgrades. The stock air intake is adequate for completely stock applications, but it can be easily upgraded to provide performance gains in even mostly stock applications. Upgraded Cold Air intakes provide cooler, denser air to the engine which results in more power and fuel economy.

Best 3.5L EcoBoost Cold Air Intakes

2011-2014 Ford F-150 EcoBoost Trucks

Banks Ram Air Intake System

The Banks Ram Air Intake System is one of our favorite 3.5L EcoBoost Cold Air Intake Systems. Like other Bank’s Power products, its been highly tested, and the results speak for themselves. This intake system is up to 64.6% less restrictive than the factory unit and provides better fuel economy and power!

2011 AFE Power Magnum Force Stage-2 Intake System

For 2011 Model Year 3.5L EcoBoost trucks, AFE Power built their own Magnum Force Stage-2 Intake System. If you are a gearhead and like to hear your truck, this is a good intake system for you. Turbo noise is generally increased, but so does horsepower and torque!

2012-2014 AFE Power Magnum Force Stage-2 Intake System

Another good intake system is the AFE Power Magnum Force Stage-2 Intake System. If you like to hear those turbochargers, this is the intake system for you. AFE mentions you can gain up to 32 Horsepower and 35 lb.-ft of torque with this system. The model displayed here is only for 2012-2014 models. 2011 EcoBoost Engines require Part # 54-12182

S&B Filters Intake System

Another big name in the CAI marketplace is the S&B Filters. S&B’s 3.5L EcoBoost Cold Air Intake System is a well-built CAI system designed to increase performance and filter change intervals. The Clear sight-glass also makes checking filter condition very easy.

2015-2017 Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost Trucks

2015-2016 3.5L EcoBoost Banks Ram Cold Air Intake System

Banks Ram Air Intake System

Banks Ram Air Intake System for 2015-2017 3.5L EcoBoost trucks offers a unique design compared to competitors. Instead of just sucking in more air, Bank’s Power designed this intake system to get colder, denser air from outside the engine bay. The results are astronomically better than other CAI systems as they simply draw air from the hot engine bay.

S&B Cold Air Intake System

S&B’s Cold Air Intake system is also designed to draw in cooler air from outside the engine bay. The result is increased performance and fuel economy. S&B also utilizes a sight-glass that makes viewing filter condition very easily.

Roush 2015-2017 3.5L EcoBoost CAI System

2015-2017 Roush 3.5L EcoBoost CAI System

Roush is a well-known and respected Ford performance provider. The Roush Cold Air Intake System for 2015-2017 3.5L EcoBoost engines offers increased performance and a less restrictive design than the factory air intake system.

2018-2021 Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost Cold Air Intakes

S&B Cold Air Intake System

S&B Filter’s 2018-2021 3.5L EcoBoost Cold Air Intake System offers a less restrictive design compared to the stock system and brings in cooler air to increase engine performance. It also makes filter maintenance easier by offering greater filter visibility so you know exactly when its time to change it or clean it!

Roush Cold Air Intake System

Roush developed their 2018-2021 3.5L EcoBoost Cold Air Intake System to improve performance, fuel economy, and intake sound. It offers up to a 25% reduction in restrictions compared to the stock air intake system.

Mishimoto Performance Cold Air Intake System

Mishimoto developed their own 2018-2021 3.5L EcoBoost Performance Cold Air Intake System that is up to 46.4% less restrictive than the factory system and provides dyne-proven gains of up to 14 horsepower and 17 lb.-ft of torque.

4. Oil Catch Can Kits

Blow-by and carbon accumulation are known 3.5L EcoBoost problems, especially on early variations of this engine. To resolve this issue, several companies have come out with Catch Can Kits that capture blow-by and prevents build-up by accumulating it in a “Catch Can” that simply has to emptied periodically. Catch Can Kits are one of the cheapest and and most effective 3.5L EcoBoost Performance Upgrades that improves longevity and can help prevent repairs down the road.

2011-2022 J&L Oil Separator 3.0 Passenger Side

J&L’s Oil Separator 3.0 is an inexpensive solution to blow-by and offers a multi-stage filtration system that collects vapors/oil and stores it in a can. This helps prevent carbon accumulation and keeps the intake system clean.

2011-2014 Mishimoto Oil Catch Can Kit

Mishimoto’s 2011-2014 3.5L EcoBoost Oil Catch Can Kit helps reduce the impact of blow-by and keeps your intake system clean. This is especially important in 2011-2014 EcoBoost engines because they strictly use direct fuel injection.

2015-2016 Mishimoto Baffled Oil Catch Can Kit

Mishimoto’s 2015-2016 3.5L EcoBoost Baffled Oil Catch Can System helps reduce carbon accumulation and keeps your Intake system clean.

2017-2020 Mishimoto Baffled Oil Catch Can System

Mishimoto’s 2017+ 3.5L EcoBoost Baffled Oil Catch Can System utilizes a dual-can design to collect blow-by from both the PCV and CCV systems and offers greater storage capacity than other companies.

5. Performance Monitors or Digital Gauge Displays

When you’re adding horsepower and torque to your 3.5L EcoBoost, it’s important to stay on track of your truck’s vitals. Performance monitors, sometimes called digital gauge displays, don’t necessarily improve performance themselves, but they are still one of the best 3.5L EcoBoost performance upgrades you can purchase. They offer large scale data parameter monitoring and can be paired with EGT probes or other sensors to offer precise, real-time monitoring while driving. Some can even be set to alert you should you reach high EGTS or coolant temps.

While newer editions of the 3.5L EcoBoost give you significantly more from the dash cluster, older models did not. So it’s even more useful for first gen 3.5l EcoBoost owners. That being said, newer truck owners can also benefit. Performance monitors also often give you the ability to read and clear DTC codes, re-calibrate the vehicles speedometer for bigger/small tires, and other cool features as well.

Best 3.5L EcoBoost Performance Monitors/Digital Gauge Displays

Banks iDash DataMonster

Banks iDash Datamonster gives you real-time access to almost 300 different parameters, and even some that are unique to Banks. You can also monitor almost anything you want if you purchase auxiliary sensors from Banks. The iDash Datamonster allows you Data Log everything, which makes it a perfect accompaniment to tuning. Up to 4 iDash Datamonsters can be connected to each other, allowing real-time parameter monitoring of up to 32 parameters at a time.

Edge Insight CTS3

The Edge Insight CTS3 is one of the most capable performance monitors available for your 3.5L EcoBoost. It offers the most data parameter viewing out of a single unit compared to other displays and it is also highly expandable with auxiliary sensors and probes.

Edge Evolution CTS3

The Edge Evolution CTS3 is the best of both worlds. It combines the Insight’s digital gauge capabilities and adds tuning. If you want moderate tuning and data parameter viewing, this product might be a good match for you.

Bully Dog BDX

Bully Dog’s BDX Programmer is another digital gauge/performance monitor with tuning capabilities. While it comes with box tunes, it is also a highly popular device to use with custom tuning.

6. Exhaust Systems

Despite the EPA crackdown on vehicular performance, exhaust systems are still valuable 3.5L EcoBoost Performance upgrades, and they do provide small additions in power and sound. Straight-pipe exhaust systems are a thing of the past, but you can still get better performance through a Cat-Back or Resonate-Back Exhaust system. Despite you only replacing a part of the exhaust system, you will still be reducing back-pressure and increasing exhaust flow. Exhaust systems also help reduce EGTs.

Before you purchase an Exhaust System for your 3.5L EcoBoost, check your local governments laws and sound ordinances.

2011-2014 Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost Exhaust Systems

Banks Power Monster Exhaust System (2011-2014 Ford F-150 all Cab/Bed Configurations)

The Banks Power Monster Exhaust System brings Banks-Quality Engineering to your 2011-2014 Ford F-150. Designed to fit all cab and bed configurations, this exhaust system improves the look, sound, and performance of your 3.5L EcoBoost’s exhaust system.

Roush Cat-Back Exhaust System (2011-2014 Ford F-150 All Cabs/Beds)

Looking to improve performance and sound of your 2011-2014 F-150? The Roush Cat-Back exhaust system improves exhaust flow, increases exhaust sound, and provides a sharp aesthetic thanks to the dual exhaust tip design.

2015-2020 Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost Exhaust Systems

Banks Monster Exhaust (2015-2019 Ford F-150 Crew Cab Short Bed)

Upgrade sound, lower EGTs, and improve performance with Banks Monster Exhaust system.

Roush Cat-Back Exhaust (2015-2020 Ford F-150 Standard Output)

Another quality Cat-Back Exhaust system is the Roush Cat-Back Exhaust System. Roush is a big name in Ford Performance and their kit has a more aggressive look and sound output.

7. Performance/Power Bundles

The Seventh item on our list of the best Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost Performance Upgrades are performance/power bundles. If you’re looking to knock out multiple performance upgrades without purchasing 6 different items, you’re in luck. There are a few quality power bundles out there that will help boost performance without breaking the bank.

2011-2014 Ford F-150 3.5l EcoBoost Banks Power Stinger Bundle

Experience performance increases of up to 72 horsepower and 87 lb.-ft of torque with the Banks Power Stinger Bundle. This system comes with a Monster Exhaust System, Cold air Intake, and an Automind 2 Programmer.

Learn More About the Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost

Visit some of our other posts to learn more about the 3.5L EcoBoost powered Ford F-150.

Ford F-150 3.5L Ecoboost V6 Engine Specs & Performance Information

Posted on March 23, 2022April 25, 2022 by Kamil

Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Engine Specs & Performance Information

At the turn of 2010, stricter fuel economy and emissions standards in pickup trucks began to take effect. Traditional, naturally-aspirated V8 engines began to struggle to meet these emissions and fuel economy standards, while also offering limited performance figures. In response to these standards, Ford created the innovative EcoBoost engine platform that provided lower emissions, better fuel economy, and even greater capabilities. The 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Turbocharged engine was introduced to the Ford F-150 pickup truck in 2011 offering an impressive 365 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft of torque and it hasn’t left the F-150 lineup since. In fact, they are one of Ford’s best selling powertrains and are used in a number of other vehicle applications like the Ford Expedition and the Ford Explorer. They’ve also continued to improve the Ford F-150’s 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Engine Performance Specs, Fuel Economy, and Tow Ratings since then.

Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost Engine Specs — 3.5L EcoBoost Engine. Picture Taken from the Ford Media Website.

Since the 3.5L EcoBoost’s introduction into the Ford F-150 pickup truck, it has been modified to provide higher performance figures, and today, there is even a Hybrid variation of this engine, coined the 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid V6 Engine. There are also “High-Output” 3.5L EcoBoost engines that are used in 2019 F-150 Limited models and the Ford Raptor. In this post, we’ll cover the various variations of the 3.5L EcoBoost Engine, along with this engine’s design characteristics, performance specs, and even fuel economy too.

Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost Performance

In a time when Big V-8 Engines were all the rage, the V6 EcoBoost Engine rattled the pickup truck industry. 2011 Ford F-150 pickup trucks with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine provided the best tow capacity, payload, and second highest torque amongst F-150 Powertrains. They actually provided better than tow capacity than every V-8 Half-ton pickup out there as well! In our next sections, we’ll go over how the EcoBoost engine was able to accomplish these feats.

2020 Ford Raptor 3.5L EcoBoost — Ford Raptor with the 3.5L V6 EcoBoost Engine. Picture taken from Ford Media.

Engine Design And Characteristics

The 3.5L EcoBoost Engine utilizes a smaller V-6 configuration and a Dual Overhead Camshaft or DOHC design. Twin Independent Variable Cam Timing, otherwise known as Ti-VCT, allows greater control over the camshafts, resulting in improved fuel efficiency and power.

Other key contributors to the 3.5L EcoBoost’s performance include twin turbochargers and direct fuel injection. This combination creates superior low-end torque that is maintained across a huge rpm range, similar to a Diesel engine. Peak torque is reached at 2,500 rpm, however, up to 90% of peak torque is available at only 1,700 rpm. This diesel-like performance also comes at a cheaper price, as 3.5L EcoBoost maintenance and operation is relatively inexpensive compared to diesel engines. This helps make the 3.5L EcoBoost the premier gasoline powertrain for towing. In fact, even today in 2022, the 3.5L EcoBoost engine continues to be the tow capacity leader amongst F-150 Powertrains.

Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Performance Specs

When the 3.5L V6 EcoBoost entered the F-150 lineup, it was originally mated to the 6-speed 6R80 automatic transmission. In 2017, it was paired with an advanced 10-speed automatic transmission, known as the 10R80. 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid engines, Ford’s latest hybrid variation of the 3.5L EcoBoost, utilizes the 10R80 with an additional 35-kilowatt (47-horsepower) electric motor integrated into the transmission.

10-Speed Automatic Ford F-150 Transmission

3.5l EcoBoost Engine Specs

Engine Years	2011-2022
Generations 1st Generation 2nd Generation PowerBoost Hybrid	See Below 2011-2016 2017-2022 2021+
Applications	Ford F-150 & Ford Raptor
Configuration	60-Degree V6 DOHC
Displacement	3.5 Liters (213 cubic inches)
Cylinder Bore	3.64″
Cylinder Stroke	3.41″
Compression Ratio 2011-2016 Standard Output 2017-2022 Standard Output 2017-2022 High Output	See Below 10.0:1 10.5:1 10.0:1
Firing Order	1-4-2-5-3-6
Engine Block Material	Aluminum
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum
Valvetrain 2011-2016 2017+	See Below Direct acting mechanical bucket Roller Finger Follow
Ignition System	Coil on Plug
Fuel System 2011-2016 2017+	See Below High Pressure Direct Fuel Injection Twin-Port and Direct Fuel Injection
Air Delivery/Aspiration	Twin turbocharged and intercooled. Electronic wastegates were added in 2017+ models
Horsepower (Standard Output) 2011-2016 2017-2020 2021+	See Below 365 Horsepower @ 5,000 rpm 375 Horsepower @ 5,000 rpm 400 Horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
Horsepower (High Output) 2017-2022 Raptor 2019-2020 Limited	450 Horsepower @ 5,000 rpm
Torque 2011-2016 2017-2020 2021+	See Below 420 lb.-ft @ 2,500 rpm 470 lb.-ft @ 2,500 rpm 500 lb.-ft @ 3,100 rpm
Torque (High Output) 2017-2022 Raptor 2019-2020 Limited	510 lb.-ft @ 3,500 rpm
Recommended Fuel Standard Output Engines High-Output Engines	See Below Regular Unleaded Premium Unleaded
Engine Oil Capacity	6 Quarts (5.7 Liters)
Engine Oil Type/Recommended Engine Oil	Motorcraft SAE 5w-30 Synthetic Blend XO-5W30-Q1SP
Recommended Engine Oil Filter	Motorcraft FL-500-S

Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Engine Generations

Generation 1 (2011-2016)

The first generation 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Engine was introduced in Ford F-150 trucks in 2011. It became an instant success due to its astounding performance and fuel economy. Despite being a smaller engine, the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine outperformed most V-8 engines used in both the F-150 and competitors trucks in the same time period. It also really shined when towing, offering owners diesel-like performance. Two major contributors to the EcoBoost’s performance include a set of BorgWarner K03 turbochargers and direct fuel injection.

As with any initial powertrain offering, the First Generation 3.5L EcoBoost had to have some kinks worked out. Despite this, they’re still favorable powertrains amongst Ford F-150 owners. Visit our 3.5L EcoBoost Problems post for the most common issues found on these trucks.

1st Generation 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Engine — 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Engine

Other key features of the first generation 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engines include:

Cast Exhaust Manifolds for maximum durability
Paired with the 6-Speed 6R80 Automatic Transmission
DAMB (Direct-Acting Mechanical Bucket valve train with polished buckets
High-Pressure direct fuel injection fed by a common rail
Pistons with optimized bowls to improve efficiency during combustion
Twin-independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT)
Improved manifold & Cylinder Heads

1st Generation Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Performance Attributes

Years	2011-2016
Transmission	6R80 6-Speed Automatic Transmission
Horsepower	365 Horsepower @ 5,000 Rpm
Torque	420 lb.-ft @ 2,500 Rpm
Max Tow Capacity 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016	See Below 11,300 lbs 11,300 lbs 11,300 lbs 11,300 lbs 12,200 lbs 12,200 lbs
Max Payload 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016	See Below 3,060 lbs 3,100 lbs 3,100 lbs 3,100 lbs 3,270 lbs 3,240 lbs
Fuel Economy (City, Highway, Combined) 2011-2014 2015-2016	See Below 16 Mpg, 22 Mpg, 18 Mpg 17 Mpg, 24 Mpg, 20 Mpg

1st Generation Ford F-150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost Engine

Generation 2 (2017-2021)

The second generation 3.5L EcoBoost engine was introduced in 2017. In addition to a revamped motor, these trucks also gained a new 10-speed automatic transmission, known as the 10R80. 2017 Ford F-150 with the second generation 3.5L EcoBoost engine gained 10 more horsepower and 50 lb.-ft more torque than 2016 First generation engines. Fuel economy also improved 1 MPG on 4×2 models, and 2 MPG on 4×4 Models.

2nd Generation Ford Raptor with the 2nd Generation 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Engine — 2nd Generation 2020 Ford Raptor equipped with the High-Output 3.5L EcoBoost Engine. Photo taken from Ford Media.

While the numbers show the improved performance, 2017 EcoBoost owners also received other benefits that are not quite as obvious on paper. Acceleration, Reliability, and overall driving experience were all improved. The second generation also has better low-end and peak performance, resulting in better towing performance.

Key 2nd Generation 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Engine Changes

Twin-Port and Direct Injection Fuel System

An important contributor to better performance and reliability on the 2nd Generation 3.5L EcoBoost engine is a re-designed fuel system. A new twin-port and direct injection fuel system was introduced. In this type of fuel system, two injectors are used per cylinder. One injector Is located on the intake port where air is introduced to the cylinder, and the other is positioned within the cylinder. These two injectors work together and ultimately result in greater efficiency, lower emissions, and more power. It also aids in reliability by reducing carbon build-up.

Updated Twin-Turbocharger System

Another significant contributor to the second generation 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Engines updated performance specs include a new BorgWarner turbocharger system. The updated design provides greater boost. In addition, a new, lighter turbine wheel is used that is made of high-temperature, super ally Mar-M-247. This turbine wheel upgrade increased responsiveness. An electronic waste gate was also added to the new turbocharger setup.

Weight Reduction & Durability Improvements

Ford’s newer aluminum body panels aren’t the only way they tried to reduce weight to improve performance. The 2nd Gen 3.5L EcoBoost engine features a variety of lighter, but more durable components. Hollow camshafts are used in the newly designed roller-finger valvetrain that remove as much as four pounds of weight. The Valvetrain was also updated with the addition of more durable intake and exhaust valves. Hydraulic valve-lash adjusters were also introduced that optimize engine durability throughout the trucks lifetime.

The 3.5L EcoBoost’s lower end was also improved. An upgraded crankshaft, bearing system, and more stout connecting rod undercuts provide greater durability to support all that new power. A Dual-Chain cam drive was also added providing greater simplicity and simultaneously reducing NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) of the engine.

Auto Start-Stop

2nd Generation Versions of this engine also benefit from lower CO2 emissions and sometimes better fuel economy thanks to a new Auto Start-Stop standard feature. Idle times are decreased because the engine is shut off when the vehicle is at a stop during normal driving operation. This feature is disabled when towing or in 4WD.

New High-Output Engine

In addition to the introduction of the new 3.5L Ecoboost engine in 2017, Ford also unveiled the 2017 Ford Raptor. It boasted significantly better performance characteristics including more horsepower/torque and fuel economy. This was in large part to a modified 2nd Generation 3.5L EcoBoost that was coined the “high-output” model. 2017+ Ford Raptors come standard with the 2nd Generation 3.5L EcoBoost High-Output engine that produces 450 horsepower and 510 lb.-ft of torque.

Later, 2019 Ford F-150 Limited models were also given the high-output 3.5L Ecoboost engine providing greater performance specs for luxury truck customers.

2nd Generation Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Performance Attributes

Years	2017+
Transmission	10R80 10-Speed Automatic Transmission
Horsepower Standard Output 2017-2020 Standard Output 2021-2022 High Output (2017 + Raptor & 2019-2020 Limited)	See Below 375 Horsepower @ 5,000 rpm 400 Horsepower @ 6,000 rpm 450 Horsepower @ 5,000 rpm
Torque Standard Output 2017-2020 Standard Output 2021-2022 High Output (Raptor + 2019-2020 Limited)	See Below 470 lb.-ft @ 2,500 rpm 500 lb.-ft @ 3,100 rpm 510 lb.-ft @ 3,500 rpm
Max Tow Capacity (Standard F-150s only) 2017 2018 2019 2019 High-Output (Limited Models) 2020 2020 High-Output (Limited Models) 2021 2022	See Below 12,200 lbs 13,200 lbs 13,200 lbs 11,100 lbs 13,200 lbs 11,100 lbs 14,000 lbs 14,000 lbs
Max Payload (Standard F-150s only) 2017 2018 2019 2019 High-Output (Limited Models) 2020 2020 High-Output (Limited Models) 2021 2022	See Below 3,220 lbs 3,230 lbs 3,230 lbs 1,520 lbs 3,230 lbs 1,520 lbs 3,250 lbs 3,250 lbs
Fuel Economy (City, Highway, Combined) 2017-2019 2020 2021-2022	See Below 18 Mpg, 25 Mpg, 21 Mpg 17 Mpg, 23 Mpg, 19 Mpg 18 Mpg, 24 Mpg, 20 Mpg

** FOR FORD RAPTOR Towing and fuel economy specs, visit our Ford Raptor Guide.

3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid (A Hybrid 3.5L EcoBoost Engine)

In 2021, Ford released the 2021 Ford F-150 equipped with a new 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid Engine. Essentially, it is a 3.5L EcoBoost engine with an added 35-kilowatt, or 47 horsepower, electric motor integrated into a 10-speed transmission. This engine produces a whopping 430 horsepower and 570 lb.-ft of torque. This is the highest torque offered in an F-150 yet, and it translates into more pulling power. 2021 Ford F-150 trucks with the 3.5L PowerBoost engine can tow up to 12,700 pounds when equipped with the max trailering package. Fuel Economy is also very impressive, offering almost similar fuel economy to the 3.0L Powerstroke Diesel engine available in the 2021 Ford F-150 too.

Graphic taken from the Ford Media Website.

3.5L PowerBoost Specs

Years	2021+
Transmission	10-Speed Modular Hybrid Transmission
Horsepower	430 Horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
Torque	570 lb.-ft @ 3,000 Rpm
Max Tow Capacity 2021 2022	See Below 12,700 lbs 12,700 lbs
Max Payload 2021 2022	See Below 2,120 lbs 2,120 lbs
Fuel Economy (City, Highway, Combined) * 2021 2022	See Below 25 Mpg, 26 Mpg, 25 Mpg 25 Mpg, 25 Mpg, 25 Mpg

* BEST FUEL ECONOMY ACROSS MODELS, DRIVETRAIN AVAILABLE FOR THE YEAR. FOR MORE ACCURATE AND SPECIFIC FUEL ECONOMY ESTIMATES VISIT FUELECONOMY.GOV OR VIEW OUR TRUCK FUEL ECONOMY GUIDES.

3.5L PowerBoost Emblem on 2021 Ford F-150 Driver's Side Door Panel — 2021 Ford F-150 Door Panel with the PowerBoost Emblem. Photo Taken From Ford Media Website.

Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Major Model Year Milestones

2011

Ford F-150 is introduced with the 1st Generation 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine offering impressive performance specs, fuel economy, and tow ratings.

2015

In 2015, Ford F-150 trucks received a new body-style made from high-strength, military-grade aluminum alloy to reduce weight. These trucks also contain an improve fully boxed ladder frame that uses more high-strength steel than previously. All together up to 700 lbs of weight was removed, giving the 2015 Ford F-150 trucks with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine greater towing and payload specs, while simultaneously helping acceleration, fuel economy, and stopping times.

2017

In 2017, the 2nd Generation 3.5L EcoBoost V6 turbocharged engine is introduced in Ford F-150 trucks. Power numbers increased substantially to 375 horsepower and 475 lb.-ft of torque. The 2nd Gen engine features a revised turbocharger design with electronic waste gates, a new fuel system, and other durability improvements. A high-output version of the 2nd Gen 3.5L EcoBoost engine becomes available on the new 2nd generation 2017 Ford Raptor. A new 10-Speed Automatic Transmission is also added.

2018

In 2018, Ford F-150 trucks with the 3.5L EcoBoost receive a big bump in towing capacity. 2018 Models can tow 1,000 lbs more than the previous 2017 model. 2018 models also received a freshened interior and exterior.

2019

2019 Ford F-150s in the Limited trim package now come with the high-output 3.5L EcoBoost engine that boasts an impressive 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque.

2021

2021 marked some major changes for the 3.5L EcoBoost Engine. The standard 3.5L EcoBoost engine now produces 400 horsepower and 510 lb.-ft of torque. The 3.5L PowerBoost engine is also introduced, which is a hybrid variant of the 3.5L EcoBoost engine, offering impressive fuel economy and an array of capabilities never before seen on a Ford F-150. The 2021 Ford F-150 also had a significant body-style change this year.

3.5L EcoBoost Specs FAQs

Does the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Engine use twin turbochargers?

Yes, the 3.5L EcoBoost utilizes a twin turbocharger design which is a major factor in these engines diesel-like performance characteristics.

How much horsepower does a 3.5L EcoBoost have?

Horsepower on a Ford F-150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost varies across model years.
2011-2016 Ford F-150s with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine produce 365 horsepower. 2017-2020 F-150s featuring the second generation standard output 3.5L EcoBoost engines produce 375 horsepower. 2017-2021 Ford F-150s equipped with the high-output 3.5L EcoBoost Engines provide 450 horsepower. Finally, 2021-2022 Ford F-150s with the standard output 3.5L EcoBoost engine produce 400 horsepower.

How much torque does a 3.5L EcoBoost Have?

Torque on a Ford F-150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost varies across model years.
2011-2016 Ford F-150s with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine produce 420 lb.-ft of torque. 2017-2020 F-150s featuring the second generation standard output 3.5L EcoBoost engines produce 470 lb.-ft. 2017-2021 Ford F-150s equipped with the high-output 3.5L EcoBoost Engines produce 510 lb.-ft of torque. Finally, 2021-2022 Ford F-150s with the standard output 3.5L EcoBoost engine produce 500 lb.-ft of torque.

How do you make a Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost Faster?

There are a number of Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost Performance Upgrades that allow you to increase horsepower, torque, fuel economy, and even speed. The most common Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost performance upgrade to increase speed and performance is tuning.

How much can a 3.5L EcoBoost-Equipped Ford F-150 Tow?

Early Ford F-150s with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine could tow 11,300 pounds. Today, in 2022, Ford F-150 trucks equipped with the 3.5L EcoBoost and Max Tow package can tow up to 14,000 pounds.

Learn More About the 3.5L EcoBoost Engine

Visit some of our other posts about this engine by clicking on the links below.

2022 Ford Maverick Maintenance Guide

Posted on December 14, 2021December 19, 2021 by Kamil

The “How-To” Guide for Maintaining the New Ford Maverick Truck

The 2022 Ford Maverick is the latest addition to Ford’s Pickup truck lineup. With its compact size, astounding fuel economy, and low price it’s the perfect starter truck for anyone who hasn’t previously owned a truck. It’s also a great truck for those wanting utility but don’t require the capabilities of a full-size pickup. If you’re the proud owner of a 2022 Ford Maverick, it’s important to understand the proper maintenance procedures to keep your truck on the road for years to come. If neglected, your truck can experience a significantly reduced lifespan and it can also cost you hundreds or thousands of dollars! Don’t fear though, in this post, our comprehensive 2022 Ford Maverick Maintenance Guide, we cover everything you need to know.

We cover the unique service intervals you need to follow dependent on which powertrain you have, fluid capacities, and we even provide the service numbers of commonly required parts and affiliate links that guide you to where to buy them! If you want to skip to particular section, click on one of the links below in our table of contents.

Section 4: 2022 Ford Maverick Pickup Truck Maintenance FAQS

2022 Ford Maverick Maintenance Guide — Photo taken From Ford Media Website

2022 Ford Maverick Maintenance Intervals

The first step in 2022 Ford Maverick Maintenance is understanding what service intervals you need to follow. Whether your truck contains the 2.5L Hybrid I-4 Engine or the 2.0L EcoBoost Turbocharged Engine, you will be following the same maintenance intervals. What really determines how frequently your truck needs service is how you use your vehicle. You need to be honest about how you use our truck and maintain it accordingly. If the truck is “babied”, or driven in easy conditions with minimal towing, follow the Normal Operating Conditions set of service intervals. If the vehicle is used commercially, for off-roading, or if you tow or idle frequently, use the Severe Operating Conditions set of service intervals.

Normal Operating Conditions

Major Service Tasks	Mile Interval	Kilometer Interval
Replace Engine Oil	7,500-10,000 miles or when Intelligent Oil Life Monitor System display demands an oil change.	12,000-16,000 Kilometers or when Intelligent Oil Life Monitor System display demands an oil change.
Replace Engine Oil Filter	7,500-10,000 miles or when Intelligent Oil Life Monitor System display demands an oil change.	12,000-16,000 Kilometers or when Intelligent Oil Life Monitor System display demands an oil change.
Change Cabin Air Filter	20,000 Miles	32,000 Kilometers
Change Engine Air Filter	30,000 Miles	48,000 Kilometers
Replace the Spark Plugs	100,000 Miles	160,000 Kilometers
Inspect Accessory Drive Belt(s)	100,000 Miles	160,000 Kilometers
Change Automatic Transmission Fluid	150,000 Miles	240,000 Kilometers
Replace Accessory Drive Belt(s)	150,000 Miles	240,000 Kilometers
Change Engine Coolant	200,000 Miles or 10 Years, Then every 100,000 Miles or 5 year intervals.	320,000 Kilometers or 10 years, then every 160,000 Kilometers or 5 year intervals.
Change Brake Fluid	Every 3 years regardless of mileage	Every 3 years regardless of Kilometers driven

Severe Operating Conditions

Major Service Tasks	Mile Interval	Kilometer Interval
Replace Engine Oil	3,000-7,500 miles or when Intelligent Oil Life Monitor System display demands an oil change.	5,000-12,000 Kilometers or when Intelligent Oil Life Monitor System display demands an oil change.
Replace Engine Oil Filter	3,000-7,500 miles or when Intelligent Oil Life Monitor System display demands an oil change.	5,000-12,000 Kilometers or when Intelligent Oil Life Monitor System display demands an oil change.
Change Cabin Air Filter	20,000 Miles	32,000 Kilometers
Change Engine Air Filter	30,000 Miles** Inspect Frequently. If frequently in dusty conditions, you will need to change your Engine Air Filter More frequently.	48,000 Kilometers** Inspect Frequently. If frequently in dusty conditions, you will need to change your Engine Air Filter More frequently.
Replace the Spark Plugs	60,000 Miles	96,000 Kilometers
Inspect Accessory Drive Belt(s)	100,000 Miles	160,000 Kilometers
Change Automatic Transmission Fluid	30,000 Miles	48,000 Kilometers
Replace Accessory Drive Belt(s)	150,000 Miles	240,000 Kilometers
Change Engine Coolant	200,000 Miles or 10 Years, Then every 100,000 Miles or 5 year intervals.	320,000 Kilometers or 10 years, then every 160,000 Kilometers or 5 year intervals.
Change Brake Fluid	Every 3 years regardless of mileage	Every 3 years regardless of Kilometers driven

Periodic 2022 Ford Maverick Maintenance Tasks

In addition to the tasks listed above, you should also be completing some basic maintenance on your Ford Maverick every month and every six months. These tasks don’t require any special parts and only should take a few minutes. They will help you catch problems early however, and could very well save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Monthly Checklist

Check the air filter restriction gauge.
Check engine oil level.
Inspect interior and exterior lights. ensure proper operation.
Check tire pressure levels.
Top off windshield wiper fluid. Use appropriate fluid for the season.
Make sure no blockages exist in the tailpipe.

Semi-Annual Checklist

Inspect the battery. Clean the connections if necessary.
Check the body and drain holes for debris. Clean if necessary.
Check coolant strength and fluid level.
Lubricate door weatherstrips if needed.
Make sure all hinges, latches, and locks work properly.
Test the parking brake and make sure it is operating properly.
Test Seatbelts and make sure they are operating properly.
If any codes are showing, check them with a scan tool or an aftermarket monitor like the Edge Insight CTS3.

2022 Ford Maverick Fluid Capacity

Now that you know what maintenance tasks are required, you need to know how much of each fluid is needed. The fluids and gases listed below are what are used when maintaining your 2022 Ford Maverick. Without knowing 2022 Ford Maverick Fluid capacity, you would just have to guess how much of each fluid is required when purchasing each fluid. Before going to our next section where we list the model numbers of the parts required, pay special attention to these charts. They’ll help you buy exactly how much oil or fluid is required.

2.0L EcoBoost I-4 Engine Fluid Capacity

Fluid Type	Quarts/Gallons	Liters
Engine Oil /w Filter	5.5 Quarts	5.2 Liters
Cooling System Trucks with Tow Package Trucks without Tow Package	See Below 9.2 Quarts 8.7 Quarts	See Below 8.72 Liters 8.2 Liters
Fuel Tank Capacity	16.5 Gallons	62.5 Liters
Air Conditioning System Refrigerant Oil	See Below 19.4 Oz 3.4 fl oz	See Below .55 Kg 100 ml
Brake Fluid	No Fill Capacity Listed. Fill as required	No Fill Capacity Listed. Fill as required
Automatic Transmission	No Specs Currently Listed	No Specs Currently Listed

2.5L Hybrid I-4 Engine Fluid Capacity

Fluid Type	Quarts/Gallons	Liters
Engine Oil /w Filter	5.7 Quarts	5.4 Liters
Cooling System Low Temperature Cooling Circuit High Temperature Cooling Circuit	See Below 5.3 Quarts 12.5 Quarts	See Below 5.04 Liters 11.87 Liters
Fuel Tank Capacity	13.8 Gallons	52.2 Liters
Air Conditioning System Refrigerant Oil	See Below 17.6 oz 5.1 fl oz	See Below 0.5 kg 150 ml
Brake Fluid	No Fill Capacity Listed. Fill as required	No Fill Capacity Listed. Fill as required
Automatic Transmission	No Specs Currently Listed	No Specs Currently Listed

2022 Ford Maverick Fluids, Filters & Other Maintenance Parts

The last step in 2022 Ford Maverick Maintenance is knowing which filters, fluids, and parts are needed to service your truck! While there are some aftermarket parts out there, we strongly recommend that you use strictly OEM Ford or Motorcraft parts exclusively! They will provide factory-like performance and provide the greatest longevity. Many aftermarket parts can cause problems or do not offer the same performance characteristics as the OEM ones. To make it easy on our readers, we’ve compiled a list of common 2022 Ford Maverick Service Parts for both the 2.0L EcoBoost Engine and the 2.5L Hybrid engine. We’ve also included affiliate links to buy these parts directly from Amazon! We receive a small commission and it helps us to continue creating content at TruckInsiders.com. Thank you for the support in advance!

2.0L EcoBoost Engines

Parts	Part # And Affiliate Link
Engine Oil Warm/Normal Climates Extremely Cold Less than -22 Degree F	See Below Motorcraft SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend Motor Oil XO-5W30-Q3SP SAE 0W-30 – Synthetic Blend
Engine Oil Filter	Motorcraft FL-910-S
Cabin Air Filter	Motorcraft FP-89
Engine Air Filter Element	Motorcraft FA-1939
Battery	Motorcraft BHEF-48H6
Engine Coolant	Motorcraft Yellow Prediluted Antifreeze/Coolant VC-13DL-G
Spark Plug	Motorcraft SP-594
Windshield Wiper Blades – Driver: – Passenger:	See Below Motorcraft WW-2249 Motorcraft WW-2054
Windshield Washer Fluid	Motorcraft Premium Windshield Wash Concrete with Bitterant ZC-32-B
Automatic Transmission Fluid	Not Currently Listed.
Brake Fluid	Motorcraft DOT 4 LV High Performance Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid PM-20
Air Conditioning Refrigerant	Motorcraft YN-33-A
Air Conditioning Refrigerant Oil	Motorcraft Motorcraft R-1234yf Refrigerant POE Oil

2.5L Hybrid Engines

Parts	Part # And Affiliate Link
Engine Oil	Motorcraft SAE 0W-20 Full Synthetic Motor Oil XO-0W20-QFS
Engine Oil Filter	Motorcraft FL-910-S
Cabin Air Filter	Motorcraft FP-89
Engine Air Filter Element	Motorcraft FA-1948
Battery	Motorcraft BXT-99RT4-A
Engine Coolant	Motorcraft Yellow Prediluted Antifreeze/Coolant VC-13DL-G
Spark Plug	Motorcraft SP-530
Windshield Wiper Blades – Driver: – Passenger:	See Below Motorcraft WW-2249 Motorcraft WW-2054
Windshield Washer Fluid	Motorcraft Premium Windshield Wash Concrete with Bitterant ZC-32-B
Automatic Transmission Fluid	Not Currently Listed.
Brake Fluid	Motorcraft DOT 4 LV High Performance Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid PM-20
Air Conditioning Refrigerant	Motorcraft YN-33-A
Air Conditioning Refrigerant Oil	Motorcraft Motorcraft R-1234yf Refrigerant POE Oil

2022 Ford Maverick Pickup Truck Maintenance FAQs

What oil does the 2022 Ford Maverick Require?

2022 Ford Maverick trucks require two different engine oils that are dependent upon powertrain type. The 2.0L Ecoboost engine requires Motorcraft SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend motor oil and the 2.5L Hybrid engine requires Motorcraft SAE 0W-20 Full Synthetic motor oil. In extremely cold conditions, these engines may require different motor oils. Check your owners manual for more information.

What oil filter does the 2022 Ford Maverick Require?

2022 Ford Maverick trucks with both the 2.5L Hybrid Engine and the 2.0L EcoBoost engine use Motocraft part number FL-910-S.

How often does the 2022 Ford Maverick need to be serviced?

The 2022 Ford Maverick needs to be serviced every 3,000-10,000 miles. These trucks are equipped with an intelligent oil life monitoring system that will determine oil life based on usage and external conditions. It notifies you when service is required.

Sources:

2022 MAVERICK Owner’s Manual. 1st version, 1st ed., Accessed 19 Dec. 2021.

2021 Ford Ranger Maintenance Guide

Posted on November 12, 2021November 12, 2021 by Kamil

How to Maintain a 2021 Ford Ranger Pickup Truck

The new 2021 Ford Ranger pickup truck is more capable than ever. Thanks to the addition of the new Tremor package, the Ranger can traverse some of the most difficult terrains in relative ease. It also has impressive on-road performance characteristics, like a max tow capacity of 7,500 lbs. This is in part to it’s Inline-4 Cylinder 2.3L EcoBoost Engine. While Ford’s EcoBoost engine platform has proven itself to be a reliable workhorse, this engine still needs your help to stay on the road for years to come. Proper 2021 Ford Ranger Maintenance can go a long way in ensuring that your truck continues to perform throughout your years of ownership.

In this post, our 2021 Ford Ranger Pickup truck maintenance guide, we are going to cover everything you need to know in order to properly maintain one of these trucks. We’ve included a comprehensive list of maintenance tasks you need to undertake at specific mileage intervals. We’ve also compiled a list of fluid capacities and the specific fluids, oil, and filters you will need when completing maintenance on one of these trucks.

How Often Do I Need to Service my 2021 Ford Ranger?

Before completing any kind of 2021 Ford Ranger Maintenance, you need to know when it’s needed! Now, everyone knows that when you own a vehicle you have to change the oil and complete other typical service tasks, but many people neglect to perform a multi-point inspection like they do when you take your vehicle into the dealership. People also don’t realize there are a few trivial tasks you should be completing between oil changes. Before we get into the major maintenance tasks required, we’re going to show you what needs to be done every time you service your truck and what to do between oil changes.

Once-A-Month Maintenance Between Oil Changes

Check Engine Oil Level
Inspect Exterior/Interior Lights for proper operation.
Check Tire Pressure Level for proper inflation. Visually check tires for signs of unusual wear or damage.
Check where you park your truck in your driveway for signs of a leak.

Bi-Annual Maintenance (Every 6 Months)

Check Windshield Wiper Fluid, Add more if needed.
Inspect Fuel/Water Separator. Drain if needed.
Check Tail Pipe for proper operation. Make sure no obstructions exist.
Inspect Battery Connections. Clean Terminals if needed.
Check Cooling system fluid level and coolant strength.
Examine Body & Door

2021 Ford Ranger Maintenance Intervals

Because the 2021 Ford Ranger only has one available powertrain, knowing how often you need to service your truck will be very easy. There are two separate sets of intervals you could follow depending on your vehicle use. For normal driving, light/moderate towing, and infrequent idling use the normal operating conditions set of maintenance intervals. For commercial vehicles, heavy towing, or extended idling follow the severe operating conditions maintenance intervals.

Normal Operating Conditions

If you use your truck for mostly commuting and don’t tow frequently, you should follow the normal operating conditions set of maintenance intervals.

Maintenance Task	Mile Interval	Kilometer Interval
Replace Engine Oil & Engine Oil Filter	Follow Intelligent Oil Life Monitor or every 7,500-10,000 Miles.	Follow Intelligent Oil Life Monitor or every 12,000- 16,000 Kilometers
Change Cabin Air Filter	20,000 Miles	32,000 Kilometers
Replace Engine Air Filter	30,000 Miles	48,000 Kilometers
Replace Spark Plugs	100,000 Miles	160,000 Kilometers
Inspect Accessory Drive Belt(s)	100,000 Miles	160,000 Kilometers
Change Automatic Transmission Fluid	150,000 Miles	240,000 Kilometers
Replace Automatic Transmission Filter	150,000 Miles	240,000 Kilometers
(4WD Vehicles) Replace Front Axle Fluid	150,000 Miles	240,000 Kilometers
Replace Rear Axle Fluid	150,000 Miles	240,000 Kilometers
Drain & Replace Transfer Case Fluid (4WD Vehicles)	150,000 Miles	240,000 Kilometers
Replace Drive Accessory Belt(s)	150,000 Miles	240,000 Kilometers
Replace Engine Coolant	200,000 Miles	320,000 Kilometers
Change Brake Fluid	Change Every 3 Years Regardless of Mileage	Change Every 3 Years Regardless of Mileage

Severe Operating Conditions

For more rugged use of your vehicle or for commercial trucks it’s best that you utilize and follow the severe operation conditions set of maintenance intervals. It’s also very important to know that you need to be paying special attention to your vehicle if you are working it very hard. You should be frequently inspecting components and sometimes performing maintenance even sooner than what is listed.

You should frequently be checking:

Engine Air Filter, especially if you are using your vehicle for off-road activities.
Accessory Drive Belts. Inspect them every oil change service.
Automatic Transmission Fluid and Filter. If you are towing frequently change your fluid and filter sooner!
Axle Fluids. If you are using your vehicle for off-road activities change your fluids sooner! If your axles get submerged, drain and re-fill with fresh fluid immediately!

Maintenance Task	Mile Interval	Kilometer Interval
Replace Engine Oil & Engine Oil Filter	Follow Intelligent Oil Life Monitor or every 3,000-7,500 Miles	Follow Intelligent Oil Life Monitor or every 5,000- 12,000 Kilometers
Change Cabin Air Filter	20,000 Miles	32,000 Kilometers
Replace Engine Air Filter	30,000 Miles	48,000 Kilometers
Replace Spark Plugs	60,000 Miles	96,000 Kilometers
Inspect Accessory Drive Belt(s)	100,000 Miles	160,000 Kilometers
Change Automatic Transmission Fluid	150,000 Miles	240,000 Kilometers
Replace Automatic Transmission Filter	150,000 Miles	240,000 Kilometers
(4WD Vehicles) Replace Front Axle Fluid	150,000 Miles	240,000 Kilometers
Replace Rear Axle Fluid	150,000 Miles	240,000 Kilometers
Drain & Replace Transfer Case Fluid (4WD Vehicles)	150,000 Miles	240,000 Kilometers
Replace Drive Accessory Belt(s)	150,000 Miles	240,000 Kilometers
Replace Engine Coolant	200,000 Miles	320,000 Kilometers

Wait… There’s More

So now you know what service tasks need to be completed at different mileage intervals. But there is still more work to be done. Every time you service your truck, the 2021 Ford Ranger Owner’s Manual calls for these tasks to be completed as well.

Tasks to be Completed at Every Oil Change

Engine Oil & Filter Replacement
Rotate tires and inspect them for signs of wear
Check Battery terminals and connections.
Check horn for proper operation
Inspect the automatic transmission fluid
Inspect the entire brake system. Check the pads, shoes, rotors, drums, brake linings, hoses, and the parking brake
Check cooling system and coolant strength
Examine the exhaust system and heat shields
Inspect suspension and steering components

2021 Ford Ranger Fluid Capacity

Fluid Type	Quarts/Gallons	Liters
Engine Oil /w Filter	6.2 Quarts /w Filter	5.9 Liters
Cooling System	11.6 Quarts	11 Liters
Fuel Tank Size	18.8 Gallons	71.2 Liters
Transfer Case	Approx 0.74 Quarts (23.67 fl oz)	0.7 Liters (700 ml)
Front Differential	0.82 Quarts ( ± 0.03 qt )	0.775 Liters ( ± 0.025 L )
Rear Differential Standard Axle Locking Axle	See Below 1.9 Quarts 1.7 Quarts	See Below 1.78 Liters 1.595 Liters
Automatic Transmission	12.8 Quarts	12.1 Liters

2021 Ford Ranger Maintenance Parts, Fluids, and Oil

Parts	Part #
Engine Oil	Motorcraft SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend Motor Oil XO-5W30-Q1SP
Engine Oil Filter	Motorcraft FL-910-S
Cabin Air Filter	Motorcraft FP-88
Engine Air Filter	Motorcraft FA-1943
Automatic Transmission Fluid	Motorcraft Mercon ULV Automatic Transmission Fluid Motorcraft XT-12-QULV
Automatic Transmission Filter	Motorcraft FT-215
Engine Coolant	Motorcraft Yellow Prediluted AntiFreeze/Coolant Motorcraft VC-13DL-G
Brake Fluid	Motorcraft DOT 4 LV High Performance Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid Motorcraft PM-20
Transfer Case Fluid (Power Transfer Unit Fluid)	Motorcraft Mercon LV Automatic Transmission Fluid XT-10-QLVC
Front Axle Fluid	Motorcraft SAE 80W-90 Premium Rear Axle Lubricant Motorcraft XY-80W90-QL
Rear Axle Fluid	Motorcraft SAE 80W-90 Premium Rear Axle Lubricant XY-80W90-QL
Spark Plugs	Motorcraft SP-578
Windshield Wiper Blades (Driver Side)	Motorcraft WW-2615
Windshield Wiper Blades (Passenger Side)	Motorcraft WW-1615
Washer Fluid	Motorcraft Premium Windshield Wash Concentrate /w Bitterant Motorcraft ZC-32-B2

How Many Quarts of Engine Oil Does a 2021 Ford Ranger Take?

2021 Ford Rangers Require 6.2 Quarts Of Oil with the filter according to the Owner’s Manual.

What Engine Oil Does the 2021 Ford Ranger Require?

For the best longevity and performance, use Motorcraft 5W-30 Synthetic Blend Motor Oil when changing the oil on your 2021 Ford Ranger. The Part number is Motorcraft XO-5W30-Q1SP.

What Engine Oil Filter is needed for 2021 Ford Rangers?

For the best results and longevity, use Motorcraft FL-910-S as your engine oil filter on 2021 Ford Ranger pickup trucks.

SOURCES

2021 RANGER Owner’s Manual. 1st ed.