The Ford Transit is a popular choice for many commercial businesses. It offers a lot of space, excellent fuel economy, and a comfortable ride. As such, many business owners choose to purchase a Transit for their company fleet.
The Ecoboost engine used in the Ford Transit is also popular among many consumers. It offers an incredible amount of power for its size and is relatively efficient. However, there have been some issues with the Ecoboost engine in the past. Here are some common problems with Ford Transit Ecoboost engines, as well as preventive maintenance tips to keep your Transit running smoothly.
COMMON PROBLEMS
Overheating
The Ecoboost engine in early models is known for running hot. It had a nylon coolant pipe that often failed when exposed to high temperatures. This caused coolant to leak and the engine to overheat. Ford recalled this issue and replaced the faulty parts with metal ones.
The 1.0 Ecoboost engine also tends to overheat. This is due to the small size of the engine and the amount of heat it produces.
The best way to prevent this problem is to ensure your coolant level is topped off, and you have a good quality coolant in your system. Installing a larger radiator or an aftermarket cooling system can also help.
Intercooler Condensation
If you have a 3.5-L Ecoboost V6, you have probably noticed the intercooler in the front of your engine. This is a common issue with this particular engine. The intercooler gets very cold, and the air’s moisture condenses. This can cause water to build up and eventually freeze, causing damage to the intercooler.
If you live in a cold climate, it is best to park your Transit in a garage or other sheltered area to prevent this from happening. You can also purchase an intercooler cover to protect it from the elements.
Oil Leaks
All engines will leak oil at some point, but the Ecoboost engine is known for leaking more than most. These engines’ oil seals and gaskets are known to fail, causing oil to leak from the engine.
You can prevent this by regularly checking your oil level and topping it off as needed. You should also check for leaks regularly and have them fixed as soon as possible. You can try using an oil additive to help with this issue, but it is not a guarantee.
Turbocharger Failure
The turbocharger is one of the most essential parts of the Ecoboost engine. It is responsible for forced induction, and the engine will lose power when it fails. There are many reasons a turbocharger can fail, but the most common is oil leaks. You can identify a failing turbocharger by a loud whining noise from the engine.
If you think your turbocharger is failing, have it checked by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Turbocharger failure can cause extensive damage to your engine if not fixed on time. You can enhance the longevity of your turbocharger by changing your oil regularly and using a high-quality oil filter.
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE TIPS
Check Coolant Level Regularly
As mentioned, overheating is one of the most common problems with Ford Transit Ecoboost engines. It is relatively easy to prevent this problem by regularly checking your coolant level and keeping it topped off. You should also check your coolant’s condition and ensure it is still effective. If not, you can flush your system and add new coolant.
Change Oil Regularly
Engine oil is essential for keeping an engine running smoothly. It lubricates the moving parts and prevents them from overheating. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes less effective. That is why it is essential to change your oil regularly. Most mechanics recommend changing your oil every 5,000 miles or so. However, you may need to change it more often if you drive in dusty or dirty conditions.
Service Spark Plugs
Spark plugs are responsible for igniting your engine’s air/fuel mixture. Over time, they can become fouled or damaged, causing your engine to misfire. That is why it is vital to service your spark plugs regularly. Most mechanics recommend changing them every 30,000 miles or so.
Give it Space to Breathe
Just like humans, engines need oxygen to function correctly. That is why giving your engine plenty of space to breathe is essential. Make sure nothing is blocking the air intakes, and consider installing an aftermarket cold air intake system. This will help your engine run more efficiently. If you live in a cold climate, you may also want to consider installing a block heater. This will help your engine warm up faster in the morning, preventing it from working too hard.
Check Belts Often
The different accessories in the engine depend on the drive belts to function properly. Over time, these belts can become loose or worn out, causing them to slip or break. That is why it is important to check the condition of your drive belts often and replace them when necessary. Most mechanics recommend replacing them every 50,000 miles or so.
Never Ignore the Check Engine Light
The check engine light is your car’s way of telling you something is wrong. It could be a minor issue, or it could be something more serious. Either way, you should never ignore the check engine light. If it is on, take your car to a qualified mechanic and have them diagnose the problem.
Overall, the Ford Transit Ecoboost is a great engine, but it is not without its problems. The most common issues are overheating, oil leaks, and turbocharger failure. However, you can prevent these problems with proper maintenance. Regularly check your coolant level, change your oil, and service your spark plugs. Give your engine space to breathe, and check the belts often. Most importantly, never ignore the check engine light. If you do all these things, your Ford Transit Ecoboost will give you many years of trouble-free service.
