3.5 EcoBoost: years, specs & known problems

By CarWhere Research · Updated

The 3.5 EcoBoost is Ford’s twin-turbo V6, offered in the F-150 since 2011 plus the Raptor, Expedition and Navigator. Standard F-150 output rose from 365 hp to 400 hp, and the High-Output Raptor version makes 450 hp. The one thing to know: 2017–2020 trucks had cam phaser rattle covered by Ford program 21N03.

The 3.5 EcoBoost arrived in the F-150 for 2011 as a direct-injected, twin-turbocharged V6 meant to replace larger V8s, and it quickly became the most popular F-150 engine. The first generation also powered the Taurus SHO, Explorer Sport, Flex and 2015–2017 Expedition and Navigator.

The second generation (2017 F-150 onward) added port fuel injection alongside direct injection, new turbochargers, a revised timing drive and the 10-speed 10R80 automatic. The 2021-on F-150 generation raised output again, and the same block underpins the PowerBoost hybrid and the High-Output engines in the Raptor, Expedition Timberline and Navigator.

3.5 EcoBoost at a glance

Ford 3.5L EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V6: model years, fuel and peak Ford-published output by engine
EngineModel yearsFuelPeak hpPeak torque (lb-ft)Documented problemsRecalls
Gen 1 3.5 EcoBoost (2011–2016 F-150)2011–2016Gasoline36542023
Gen 2 3.5 EcoBoost (2017–2020 F-150)2017–2020Gasoline45051012
Gen 3 3.5 EcoBoost, High-Output and PowerBoost (2021+)2021–presentGasoline45057012

CarWhere lists 4 documented problems and 7 NHTSA recalls for the 3.5 EcoBoost, each with a source.

Gen 1 3.5 EcoBoost (2011–2016 F-150)

Direct injection only, with twin turbochargers and a single-stage primary timing chain. Known for charge-air-cooler condensation stumble on early trucks and for timing chain wear at higher mileage.

Gen 1 3.5 EcoBoost (2011–2016 F-150) specifications

Gen 1 3.5 EcoBoost (2011–2016 F-150): design facts (2011–2016)
SpecificationValue
Configuration60° V6, DOHC 24-valve, twin turbochargers[2]
Displacement3,496 cc (213 cu in)[2]
Bore × stroke92.5 × 86.7 mm[2]
BlockAluminum[2]
Fuel systemDirect injection[2]
BuiltCleveland Engine Plant, Brook Park, Ohio[2]

Gen 1 3.5 EcoBoost (2011–2016 F-150) horsepower and torque by year

Gen 1 3.5 EcoBoost (2011–2016 F-150): Ford-published horsepower (hp) and torque (lb-ft) by model year and application
Model yearsApplicationHorsepower (hp)Torque (lb-ft)Source
2011–2016F-150365420[1]
2015–2017Expedition365420[2]
2013–2019Taurus SHO / Explorer Sport / Flex365350[2]

"—" means we could not confirm the figure from a primary source.

Which Fords have the Gen 1 3.5 EcoBoost (2011–2016 F-150)?

Ford models and model years offered with the Gen 1 3.5 EcoBoost (2011–2016 F-150)
ModelModel yearsNotes
F-1502011–20166R80 6-speed automatic
Expedition / Expedition EL2015–2017
Taurus SHO2010–2019Transverse version
Explorer Sport2013–2019Transverse version
Flex2010–2019Transverse version

Gen 1 3.5 EcoBoost (2011–2016 F-150) problems and what to check

Intercooler condensation stumble or misfire (2011–2013)

Moderate

Moisture can collect in the charge air cooler during long, steady highway driving in humid weather; under hard acceleration it is drawn into the engine and causes a stumble, misfire or brief loss of power. NHTSA opened investigation PE13-018 on about 360,000 2011–2013 F-150s and closed it without a recall after Ford issued service bulletins, the latest calling for a PCM update and a revised cooler with an air deflector.[3][4]

Symptoms

  • Shudder, stumble or hesitation when accelerating hard after highway cruising
  • Flashing check-engine light or misfire codes in wet or humid conditions

Check before buying

  • Ask for records of the charge air cooler / PCM update bulletin work
  • Test-drive with a hard pass after several minutes at steady highway speed

Primary timing chain stretch (2011–2014)

Major repair

The primary timing chain on first-generation engines can wear and lengthen, which throws off cam-to-crank correlation. Ford service information for 2011–2014 F-150s describes diagnosing chain wear via code P0016 and replacing the primary timing chain; Ford later redesigned the timing drive for the second-generation engine.[5][2]

Symptoms

  • Rattle for a few seconds on cold start
  • Check-engine light with cam/crank correlation codes such as P0016

Check before buying

  • Listen to a true cold start — ask the seller not to run the truck beforehand
  • Scan for stored or pending P0016–P0019 codes
  • Ask whether timing chains, guides or phasers have been replaced

Gen 1 3.5 EcoBoost (2011–2016 F-150) recalls

NHTSA safety recalls related to the Gen 1 3.5 EcoBoost (2011–2016 F-150) (campaign numbers link to NHTSA)
NHTSA campaignReportedVehiclesSummary
16V-2482016-042011–2012 F-150, 2012 Expedition/Navigator, 2012 MustangAutomatic transmission could unexpectedly downshift to first gear regardless of vehicle speed.
19V-0752019-022011–2013 F-150 (6-speed automatic)Transmission could unexpectedly downshift into first gear; remedy was a PCM software update.
20V-0982020-022015–2016 F-150 with 3.5L GTDIBlock heaters that had been relocated could sit too close to hot engine parts, damaging the cable and creating a fire risk.

Gen 2 3.5 EcoBoost (2017–2020 F-150)

Ford added port fuel injection alongside direct injection, fitted new turbochargers and paired the engine with the 10R80 10-speed. The same generation powers the 2017–2020 Raptor in 450-hp High-Output form and the 2018–2021 Expedition.

Gen 2 3.5 EcoBoost (2017–2020 F-150) specifications

Gen 2 3.5 EcoBoost (2017–2020 F-150): design facts (2017–2020)
SpecificationValue
Fuel systemDual injection: direct + port injector per cylinder[8]
TurbochargersNew twin turbos with lighter turbine wheels[9]
Timing driveRevised primary chains with thicker side plates[2]
Transmission10R80 10-speed automatic[6]

Gen 2 3.5 EcoBoost (2017–2020 F-150) horsepower and torque by year

Gen 2 3.5 EcoBoost (2017–2020 F-150): Ford-published horsepower (hp) and torque (lb-ft) by model year and application
Model yearsApplicationHorsepower (hp)Torque (lb-ft)Source
2017–2020F-150375470[6]
2017–2020F-150 Raptor (High-Output)450510[7]
2018–2021Expedition375470[2]
2018–2021Expedition Platinum400480[2]
2018–2021Lincoln Navigator450510[2]

"—" means we could not confirm the figure from a primary source.

Which Fords have the Gen 2 3.5 EcoBoost (2017–2020 F-150)?

Ford models and model years offered with the Gen 2 3.5 EcoBoost (2017–2020 F-150)
ModelModel yearsNotes
F-1502017–2020
F-150 Raptor2017–2020High-Output version
Expedition2018–2021
Lincoln Navigator2018–2021High-Output tune

Gen 2 3.5 EcoBoost (2017–2020 F-150) problems and what to check

Cam phaser rattle on startup (2017–2020)

Major repair

The variable cam timing units (cam phasers) can rattle when the engine starts after sitting, or knock at warm idle. Ford first released a PCM reflash (field action 21B10), then Customer Satisfaction Program 21N03, which covers replacement of all four phasers on 2017–2020 F-150s, with coverage prorated by mileage. Ford said the noise does not affect safety, performance or emissions; Raptor and Limited are excluded from 21N03.[10]

Symptoms

  • Loud rattle lasting a few seconds on a cold start after the truck has sat
  • Knocking or ticking at warm idle
  • Cam timing codes in some cases

Check before buying

  • Ask Ford or a dealer to check the VIN for 21B10 and 21N03 completion
  • Listen to a cold start after an overnight sit
  • Ask whether phasers were replaced and with which part revision

Ford program: Ford Customer Satisfaction Program 21N03 (cam phaser replacement; requires 21B10 PCM reflash; 100% to 69,999 mi, prorated to 0% at 90,000 mi; coverage window ended Sept. 1, 2022)

Gen 2 3.5 EcoBoost (2017–2020 F-150) recalls

NHTSA safety recalls related to the Gen 2 3.5 EcoBoost (2017–2020 F-150) (campaign numbers link to NHTSA)
NHTSA campaignReportedVehiclesSummary
17V-6722017-102018 F-150 with 3.5LSome cylinder heads were machined without oil supply holes for the camshaft journals, which can cause engine failure.
18V-3922018-062018 F-150, Expedition, Navigator with 3.5L GTDIHigh-pressure fuel pump welds could fracture and leak oil or fuel.

Gen 3 3.5 EcoBoost, High-Output and PowerBoost (2021+)

For the 14th-generation F-150 the 3.5 EcoBoost rose to 400 hp and 500 lb-ft. The same engine is the basis of the PowerBoost full hybrid (430 hp combined) and the High-Output versions in the Raptor, Expedition and Navigator.

Gen 3 3.5 EcoBoost, High-Output and PowerBoost (2021+) specifications

Gen 3 3.5 EcoBoost, High-Output and PowerBoost (2021+): design facts (2021–present)
SpecificationValue
Hybrid versionPowerBoost: 3.5 EcoBoost with an electric motor in the 10-speed transmission[11]

Gen 3 3.5 EcoBoost, High-Output and PowerBoost (2021+) horsepower and torque by year

Gen 3 3.5 EcoBoost, High-Output and PowerBoost (2021+): Ford-published horsepower (hp) and torque (lb-ft) by model year and application
Model yearsApplicationHorsepower (hp)Torque (lb-ft)Source
2021+F-150400500[11]
2021+F-150 PowerBoost hybrid (combined)430570[11]
2021+F-150 Raptor (High-Output)450510[2]
2022–2024Expedition380470[2]
2022+Expedition Timberline / Stealth Performance440510[2]

"—" means we could not confirm the figure from a primary source.

Which Fords have the Gen 3 3.5 EcoBoost, High-Output and PowerBoost (2021+)?

Ford models and model years offered with the Gen 3 3.5 EcoBoost, High-Output and PowerBoost (2021+)
ModelModel yearsNotes
F-1502021–present
F-150 PowerBoost hybrid2021–present
F-150 Raptor2021–presentHigh-Output version
Expedition2022–present
Lincoln Navigator2022–present

Gen 3 3.5 EcoBoost, High-Output and PowerBoost (2021+) problems and what to check

Misaligned engine cup plug oil leak (2024–2025) (2024–2025)

Major repair

Ford recalled certain 2024–2025 F-150, Expedition and Navigator models because an engine cup plug may be misaligned and cause a rapid oil leak. A fast oil loss can stall the engine, and oil on hot exhaust parts can create a fire risk. Ford issued a follow-up campaign covering additional vehicles in 2025.[12]

Symptoms

  • Oil puddle under the engine or fresh oil on the block
  • Low oil pressure warning

Check before buying

  • Run the VIN for recalls 24V-851 and 25V-198 and confirm completion
  • Look under the engine for fresh oil wetness

Gen 3 3.5 EcoBoost, High-Output and PowerBoost (2021+) recalls

NHTSA safety recalls related to the Gen 3 3.5 EcoBoost, High-Output and PowerBoost (2021+) (campaign numbers link to NHTSA)
NHTSA campaignReportedVehiclesSummary
24V-8512024-122024–2025 F-150, 2024 Expedition and Navigator with 3.5L GTDIA misaligned engine cup plug can cause a rapid oil leak, engine stall or fire risk.
25V-1982025-032024–2025 F-150 and Expedition, 2024 Navigator with 3.5L GTDIAdditional vehicles with the misaligned cup plug condition.

3.5 EcoBoost issues by model

The same engine shows up on these Ford known-issues pages, with model-specific details.

Related Ford research

Confirm a truck or car really has the 3.5 EcoBoost.

Engine, transmission and axle options are recorded against the VIN. The CarWhere build sheet decodes a Ford VIN into its factory record — powertrain, equipment groups and options as built. $9.99, instant.

Ford build sheet by VIN

Frequently asked questions

What are the common 3.5 EcoBoost problems?

By generation: 2011–2013 trucks could stumble from intercooler condensation, first-generation engines are known for timing chain stretch, and 2017–2020 engines had cam phaser rattle, which Ford covered under program 21N03. Some 2024–2025 engines were recalled for a misaligned cup plug that can leak oil.

What years of 3.5 EcoBoost to avoid?

No year is universally bad, but 2011–2014 engines need timing chain checks and 2017–2020 engines should have the cam phaser fix confirmed. Run the VIN for open recalls and ask for records of 21B10 and 21N03 work.

How much horsepower does the 3.5 EcoBoost have?

In the F-150 it made 365 hp (2011–2016), 375 hp (2017–2020) and 400 hp (2021 on). The High-Output Raptor version makes 450 hp, and the PowerBoost hybrid is rated at 430 hp combined.

What is Ford program 21N03?

21N03 is a Ford Customer Satisfaction Program for 2017–2020 F-150s with the 3.5L that replaces all four cam phasers if they develop noise. Coverage required the 21B10 PCM reflash, was prorated by mileage and ran until Sept. 1, 2022.

Does the 3.5 EcoBoost have port injection?

Since the 2017 F-150, yes. The second-generation engine uses both port and direct injectors in each cylinder; 2011–2016 engines are direct-injection only, which is one reason intake valve carbon is discussed more on early trucks.

Sources

Ratings are Ford-published figures as cited; descriptions are CarWhere’s own summaries of the sources below. Repair costs appear only where a source states them and vary by shop and region.

  1. Ford releases power ratings for new F-150 engines — Equipment World
  2. Ford EcoBoost engine — Wikipedia (secondary reference)
  3. Closing Resume PE13-018: 2011–2013 F-150 3.5L GTDI loss of power — NHTSA
  4. Ford: Moisture in Cooler Causing Loss of Power in F-150 EcoBoost Engines — Trucking Info (HDT)
  5. Ford TSB 14-0194 copy: 2011–2014 F-150 3.5L GTDI primary timing chain — Owner-posted Ford document (secondary reference)
  6. 2017 Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost Torque Boosted to 470 LB-FT — AutoGuide
  7. Ford Reveals F-150 Raptor Updates — Business Fleet
  8. Powertrain gains for ’17 Ford F-150 — WardsAuto
  9. Ford’s Gen II 3.5L EcoBoost Set For 2017 F-150 — EngineLabs
  10. Customer Satisfaction Program 21N03: 2017–2020 F-150 3.5L GTDI Cam Phaser Replacement — Ford Motor Company (via NHTSA)
  11. 2021 Ford F-150 Horsepower and Torque Numbers Revealed — Ford Authority
  12. NHTSA Recalls API — recalls by vehicle (Ford) — NHTSA

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Independent reference compiled by CarWhere — not affiliated with or endorsed by Ford Motor Company. Ford, Power Stroke, EcoBoost, Coyote and the model names are trademarks of their owner.