Understanding Potential Engine Failures in Ford EcoBoost Engines

Understanding Potential Engine Failures in Ford EcoBoost Engines

Causes and Preventative Measures

Introduction
Ford EcoBoost engines have gained popularity for their performance and fuel efficiency. However, like complex machinery, they are not immune to potential issues, including engine failures. Understanding the causes behind these failures and taking preventative measures can help owners maintain their vehicles in top condition and avoid costly repairs.

Common Engine Failures in Ford EcoBoost

Timing Chain Tensioner Failure 
One of the most common issues reported with Ford EcoBoost engines is timing chain tensioner failure. This failure can lead to timing chain slack, causing erratic engine behaviour, loss of power, and in severe cases, engine damage. The primary reason behind this failure is often attributed to poor design or manufacturing defects in the timing chain tensioner components.

Turbocharger Failure
Turbochargers play a crucial role in enhancing the performance of EcoBoost engines by increasing air intake and improving power output. However, these components are subjected to high levels of stress and heat, leading to potential issues such as turbocharger bearing failure, oil leaks, or compressor wheel damage. Lack of proper maintenance, including regular oil changes and monitoring boost levels, can exacerbate turbocharger problems.

Carbon Buildup
Direct injection technology used in EcoBoost engines can contribute to carbon buildup on intake valves over time. This buildup restricts airflow and disrupts fuel atomization, leading to rough idling, misfires, and reduced engine performance. While carbon buildup is a common issue in many direct-injection engines, it can be more pronounced in EcoBoost units due to their high-pressure fuel delivery system.

Coolant Loss and Overheating
Some Ford EcoBoost engines have been prone to coolant leaks, leading to potential overheating issues. Common culprits include faulty water pumps, coolant hoses, or radiator caps. Overheating can cause severe damage to engine components, including cylinder head warping, head gasket failure, or piston ring damage.

Preventative Measures

Regular Maintenance
Adhering to Ford's recommended maintenance schedule is crucial for preventing potential engine failures. This includes regular oil changes, coolant flushes, and inspections of timing chain components, turbocharger system, and cooling system.

Use Quality Engine Oil
Using high-quality synthetic oil recommended by Ford can help reduce friction, prevent premature wear, and minimize the risk of timing chain tensioner failure and turbocharger issues.

Monitor Coolant Levels
Regularly check coolant levels and inspect for any signs of leaks. Addressing coolant leaks promptly can prevent overheating and potential engine damage.

Carbon Cleaning
Periodically performing carbon cleaning services, such as intake valve cleaning, can help mitigate carbon buildup issues and maintain engine performance.

Address Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Stay informed about any recalls or technical service bulletins related to your specific Ford EcoBoost engine model. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent potential failures and ensure optimal engine performance.

Conclusion
While Ford EcoBoost engines offer a balance of performance and efficiency, they are not without their potential issues, including engine failures. Understanding the common causes behind these failures and taking proactive measures can help owners mitigate risks, prolong engine longevity, and enjoy trouble-free driving. By adhering to a regular maintenance schedule, using quality fluids, and addressing issues promptly, owners can ensure their Ford EcoBoost engines remain reliable and efficient for years to come.

IMI Certified Tuning Specialist

MPG Tuning Ltd
Unit 44 Rumerhill Business Estate
Cannock, Staffordshire, WS11 0ET

 Tel: 01543 466662
 

 

MPG Tuning Offer Professional ECU Remap and Tuning services including but not limited to ECU Remapping, EGR Delete, DPF Solutions, VAG Emissions Recall Scandal Rollback, Tricore Processor Programming, Boot Mode and Traditional Chip Tuning.

MPG Tuning is based in Cannock Staffordshire but serves customers from further afield typically from the following areas, Lichfield, Burntwood, Rugeley, Stafford, Brownhills, Walsall, Wolverhampton, Birmingham, Tamworth plus many more areas throughout the West and East Midlands.

© Copyright MPG Tuning 2018 – Monitored by OC-RiS

contact us
WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS SAY

Choosing a Good Tuner is as important as choosing a Good Doctor.

You will be presented with a bewildering selection of companies, all claiming to be the best in the industry. Unfortunately the industry has been flooded with “Get Rich Quick” merchants all desperate to take your money from you. In many cases the “Get Rich Quick” operators have invested in “Cloned” counterfeit remapping tools off the internet. They have little “if any” industry knowledge, experience or liability insurance…

Don’t get sucked in by a good story and what appears to be an incredible price. Instead of taking the word of self-acclaimed tuning experts, a search on google will reveal some very interesting, yet disturbing facts about a few “so called” professionals. Unlike some testimonials “Bert for Bognor says we are Brill” our customers are real people. Don’t take our word for it, ask the people that know best “Our Customers”

I went for a remap on my T5 as it had an awful flat spot around 2800 rev's I got great personal service and its like having a new engine in the van smooth power and greater economy.... Highly recommended wish I'd done it months ago it would have paid for it self already thanks a lot hills are no longer a drag.

Adrian McManus

Popped in to see Mike on Friday to have my A4 2.0TDi 170hp remapped. Have to say I was a little pessimistic at first having being told by another firm that remaps on these were a nightmare so was expecting the worst! Thankfully, nothing of the sort, straight in, one error message unknown but Mike worked it out and all done in no time. Straight out for a test run and the drive is very different, certainly mid ranged (where these engines seem to suffer) pulls away nicely and can definitely feel the benefit. Best money I've ever spent on a car in, well, forever! Thanks again Mike

Mark Patterson

Had the ECU my 320D remapped by Mike yesterday. Very impressed with the results. Noticed it straight away after having it done. Service was also great, talked me through all of it to get exactly what I wanted out of it. Highly recommend mpg tuning.

James Aston

Took my Civic Mk VIII 2.2 CDTI to Mike following a recommendation from a friend who's had his last few cars remapped at MPG., professional service and answered any questions I had. Customised remap that gave me a good balance between performance and economy. Mike was happy to let me watch the whole procedure and explained what he was doing. Makes a good brew as well! Would highly recommend, Will definitely bring my future motors here.

Dan Wright

Just had the ECU on my BMW 320D remapped and it is absolutely superb the power is unbelievable and the service is outstanding would recommend it to anybody he has transformed my car from 160 bhp to 207 bhp no smoke at all and the power delivery is awesome throughout all of the gears really happy.

Tom Dawson

Had my Astra 1.9cdti remapped here with EGR delete for a great price, I have now got the full power and yes it's rapid lol.... Mike was helpful and talked me through it all and also good after care as well. Thanks again.

Scott Walker

Had my T5 remapped today. Over the moon with the results! Really reasonable price and customer service is second to none! Would highly recommend!

Ethan Tunnicliffe

I had my car remap done and I'm really pleased with MPG Tuning. Great atmosphere, great service and I will recommend it to all my friends. Thank you once again. Renault Megane 2.0 Turbo petrol with 165 hp standard

David Wojtasik

Took my Astra estate for a ecu remap, excellent job feels a lot more responsive!

Umair Khalid

Mike remapped my car. Perfect professional service from start to the end. For less than 2 hours everything was done. If you want a different feeling when you are driving MPG Tuning is your place to go.

Dimitar Dimitrov

My boyfriend has exactly the same car as me 1.5 diesel fiesta, had his remapped and was over the moon with it. I had never thought of having a car remap but after driving his, mine felt heavy and slow so decided to get mine done too, now I am converted I love it even more and I am getting about 80-90 miles per tank better than before, very happy , great friendly service and awesome cuppa while we waited

Kelly Williams

Had my renault van remapped at mpg tuning, awesome power, can now keep up with pigeons, thanks Mike for an excellent job 👍👍

Nick

WE USE ONLY THE MOST ADVANCED AND UP-TO-DATE EQUIPMENT AND SOFTWARE AVAILABLE IN THE INDUSTRY.

Our lead technician has over 18 years’ experience in the tuning industry and long term connections with some of the Worlds most experienced data programming and tuning specialists. We are extremely passionate about our customer satisfaction and strive for a perfect result every time.

Contact MPG Tuning today to discuss options for a professional ECU remap or Call Us: 01543 466 662

contact us