Ford F150 Life Expectancy and Max Miles: 2.7 vs 3.5 BATTLE
Whether you’re an existing owner or in the market for a used pickup, navigating the trade-off between mileage and reliability always poses a challenge. The F150 has secured its position as one of the safer options in this vehicle segment. Known for its power, safety, and reliability, the F150 has built a strong reputation. So, what can you expect in terms of F150 life expectancy and F150 max miles?
The maximum reliable mileage you can get from an F150 2.7 EcoBoost is around 200k to 230k miles. A factory standard 3.5 EcoBoost engine can safely deliver over 250 000 miles (402 000 km) If the vehicle has been well looked after with regularly scheduled maintenance and no major modifications.
As you well know, any used truck can prove reliable, provided it’s been well looked after and not abused and mistreated for several years. With that being said, let’s look at some of the items you should take particular note of when considering a high-mileage F150.
Table of Contents
Ford ECOBOOST 2.7 F150 Life Expectancy and Max Miles & Reliability
When shopping for a used vehicle, make sure you look at the obvious items first, such as:
| Check Description | Details |
|---|---|
| Extensive Off-road Usage | Assess if the vehicle has undergone extensive off-road driving, potentially impacting its overall condition. |
| Accident Damage and Bodywork | Inspect thoroughly for any signs of accident damage or repaired bodywork that could affect the truck’s integrity. |
| Theft and Recovery History | Investigate whether the truck has been previously stolen and subsequently recovered, which might impact its history. |
| Suspension Modifications | Watch for poorly executed or inexpensive suspension upgrades, ensuring all components are correctly installed. |
These are some obvious items to inspect for first.
- Inspect for Leaks and Rust: Check for water, fuel, and oil leaks. Examine beneath the truck for rust and frame damage.
- Turbo Pickup Considerations: Turbo pickups may use more oil. When test driving, start the engine cold and watch for smoke at startup or under load while shifting gears.
- F150 Insights: No specific concerns on the F150; thoroughly check the usual items. If not experienced, bring a knowledgeable person for inspection. The 2.7 Ecoboost, introduced in 2015 and updated in 2018, is a more efficient engine with a focus on greener technology while providing power comparable to larger engines. Research extensively before purchasing a used F150.
Ford F150 3.5 Life Expectancy and Max Miles & Maintenance
Certain people will tell you that It’s not highly recommended to purchase a used 3.5 EcoBoost with more than 125 000 miles (200 000 km) on the clock. However, it also depends on how much you are willing to pay and how much risk you are prepared to take since buying a used vehicle is always a bit of a gamble. So, the asking price of the truck should be directly proportioned to the overall, condition and mileage.
So what is the general life expectancy on a 3.5 EcoBoost? Let’s find out!
3.5 EcoBoost Life Expectancy
Hard usage and abuse negatively impact engine longevity. Modifications, tunes, and cheap suspension changes, along with large tires and heavy off-road gear, strain the engine, reducing its lifespan.
Even with proper oil and regular servicing, consistent abuse over extended periods affects engine durability. Nonetheless, caring for the EcoBoost and treating it well can lead to reaching 250,000 miles (400,000 km).
As the EcoBoost relies on direct injection and forced induction, strict oil changes and adherence to the service schedule are crucial. Use quality synthetic oil to minimize carbon build-up.
3.5 EcoBoost Reliability
Ford’s EcoBoost marked a significant leap in technology, embodying “built Ford tough” reliability. This sophisticated 6-cylinder engine delivers 8-cylinder performance with fuel efficiency and minimal maintenance.
Featuring direct fuel injection and dual overhead cams, it offers 365 HP & 420 TQ (Raptor’s 3.5L – 450 HP & 510 TQ). Impressively, it sustains 90% peak torque from 1,700 to 5,000 RPM, ideal for heavy loads or towing.
However, the 3.5 EcoBoost’s direct injection may lead to carbon buildup on valves, impacting performance. In response, Ford upgraded the 2.7L and 3.5L EcoBoost engines in 2018 with a hybrid fuel injection system to prevent excess carbon buildup and maintain clean valves.
Should I Buy an F150 with 200k Miles?
Like all Ford products, the EcoBoost is designed to last a long time. Both the 2.7 and the 3.5 engines are reported to reach well over 200,000 miles with only regular services and routine maintenance. There’s no way to guarantee any specific amount of miles on the EcoBoost, however, many owners have made light modifications without any long-term reliability side effects.
Modifications include upgrades like:
- Upgraded intakes
- Exhaust upgrades
- Engine tunes
How Many Miles Is a Ford F-150 Good For (F150 life expectancy)
F150 life expectancy is decent with many EcoBoost owners surpassing 300,000 miles report minimal major repairs. Some encountered throttle body issues due to worn plastic gear. A few experienced transmission select sensor failures and problematic oxygen sensors affecting fuel consumption.
However, numerous content owners reached 300,000 trouble-free miles. Regular plug changes and scheduled oil maintenance ensure EcoBoost reliability. Recommendations include oil changes every 6-7k miles for engine health, alongside transmission and fluid changes around 150,000 miles. This will greatly improve your F150 life expectancy.
Below is a link to an owner whose 2011 EcoBoost reached 200,000 miles – have a look!
Resources
Final Thoughts
The F150 life expectancy and max miles can be extended if you adjust your driving style to avoid prolonged high RPMs as it stresses the engine’s internals. Peak stresses occur when the piston changes direction, affecting components like the crank, rods, and pistons. The EcoBoost’s low-down torque keeps it at lower RPMs, enhancing its lifespan.
