Hey everyone! I’m thinking about picking up a 2015 FX4 with the 3.5 EcoBoost. It’s got 121K miles and seems like it’s been pretty well maintained. I know these engines have been around for a while—what’s the general life expectancy? Should I be worried about anything long-term?
Honestly, the 2015 and 2017 models aren’t the best years for the 3.5. The water pump is inside the timing area, so when it fails (and it will), you’re looking at a timing chain job. I have a 2012, and I think it’s the best year for the 3.5. But that’s just me. Anything newer than 2013… I dunno, feels like all vehicles went downhill after that.
@Julian
Why do you say 2017 was a bad year? And do you think the Gen 2 or Gen 3 3.5 EcoBoosts are any better?
Jason said:
@Julian
Why do you say 2017 was a bad year? And do you think the Gen 2 or Gen 3 3.5 EcoBoosts are any better?
I think it’s mostly because of the issues with the phasers and some internal components. The Gen 2s have had some of these problems ironed out, but it’s hit or miss.
If the previous owner kept up with maintenance, you should be good for a while. These engines can go the distance if they’ve been taken care of. Definitely ask for service records and maybe get an independent inspection before buying, just to be safe.
@Winter
Good idea, I’ll definitely ask for the records. I’d hate to buy someone else’s problem, but it seems like it was well-maintained.
My 2015 has been great. I’m at 70K miles, and the engine’s been solid aside from a few ignition coils. Did a Blackstone oil analysis, and everything came back super clean. No transmission issues either. I’d say just keep an eye on things like timing chains and exhaust manifolds. I had to replace the exhaust manifold around 60K, but it wasn’t too bad.
@MysticWanderer
That’s reassuring. Did you have any warning signs with the timing chain? I’ve heard it can be an issue around 150K miles.
Foster said:
@MysticWanderer
That’s reassuring. Did you have any warning signs with the timing chain? I’ve heard it can be an issue around 150K miles.
Yeah, you’ll usually get a check engine light if the chain starts to stretch. You should have plenty of warning before anything major happens, but it’s good to stay on top of it.
I’ve had my Gen 1 EcoBoost for a few years now. It’s a solid engine if you maintain it right. Some people freak out about Facebook horror stories, but honestly, if you change the oil and don’t beat on it too hard, you’ll get plenty of miles out of it. My advice: don’t let the internet scare you too much!
@Fritz
Lol, I’ve definitely fallen down the rabbit hole of scary posts! But yeah, I’ve always taken care of my vehicles, so I’m hoping that’ll help with this one too.
The water pump on the F-150 3.5 isn’t internal like on some other models, so that’s one less thing to worry about. Just keep an eye on the usual suspects like timing chains, and you should be good. These trucks can go for hundreds of thousands of miles if treated right.
@Leandro
That’s a relief to hear. I’ve been hearing mixed things about the water pump, but good to know it’s not as big of a deal on the F-150.
I’ve had my 2015 for about 4 years now, and it’s been pretty reliable. Did the timing chain around 120K miles just for peace of mind. Other than that, it’s been a solid truck. I’d say go for it if everything checks out. These trucks can easily push past 200K miles if they’re maintained properly.
@Ember
That’s good to hear! I’ll make sure to check for any signs of chain wear, but I’m hoping I can get a lot more miles out of it.