Keen to know how reliable the modern 2.7 Ecoboost engine is? How does this little 2.7 liter twin-turbo stack up against normally aspirated v6 and v8 beats? Will this engine stand the test of time as previous models have with all its modern technology and emissions systems? If you’re wondering how this 2.7 has been performing over the last few years and how it compares to the tried and tested 3.5 EcoBoost then this article might share some insight.
What’s the maximum mileage you can get on a 2.7 Ecoboost? With proper maintenance and timeous replacement of oil, spark plugs, filters, and transmission fluid there should be no reason why this engine cannot last up to 200k miles or more.
The 2.7 Ecoboost engine has only been around a few short years, since 2015 with a second-generation being released in 2018. Since its release, the engine has been incorporated into many platforms of Ford and Lincoln models. The 2.7 is a more high-tech, sophisticated, and fuel-efficient engine than its predecessors. The idea was to develop a smaller displacement engine that was greener and more efficient while delivering similar power to the NA V6 and V8’s.
Has Ford managed to achieve this?
Let’s find out what the owners have to say…
How Long Will 2.7 Ecoboost Last
Below are a few real-world examples of the service, reliability, and issues they’ve experienced with the 2.7 mill.
User Experience
User Experience #1
I have a 2015 F150 2.7 Eco boost, and presently have 103,243 miles on it. I use, and have used, full synthetic oil, premium gas, and adding a Chevron Techron additive once a month. I’ve replaced the battery, and fuel pump. Otherwise only routine maintenance, I changed the plugs at 100,000, and found very little build up on the plugs. Oh yeah, one new set of tires, about to put another set on this month. I also changed the brake pads when I changed my plugs. Yes, I went 100,000 miles on the original brakes… any questions, please ask.
https://www.f150ecoboost.net/threads/who-has-the-highest-mileage-on-their-2-7-eb-so-far.64969/page-2
User Experience #2
111,000 on the 17 now. Motorcraft oil and filter per monitor. Drivers side turbo under warranty. Rear brake pads at 40k. All factory otherwise, Even plugs. Still rocking the factory Michellins even. Best running truck around.
https://www.f150ecoboost.net/threads/who-has-the-highest-mileage-on-their-2-7-eb-so-far.64969/page-2
User Experience #3
I’m now at 100K miles on truck (70k on engine). The 2.7 has been flawless. I’m getting better gas mileage now than I ever have before. I did drain and fill the tranny fluid at 90k and again at 95k miles. Still love this truck.
https://www.f150ecoboost.net/threads/who-has-the-highest-mileage-on-their-2-7-eb-so-far.64969/
User Experience #4
2015 2.7 Supercab 4×4 88,000 trouble free miles . Full synthetic every 5000. Flushed tranny at 50,000. 22.3 mpg in the winter. 25.5 in the Summer. Pulled a 5000# camper with it for a couple seasons. Handled it like a champ.
https://www.f150ecoboost.net/threads/who-has-the-highest-mileage-on-their-2-7-eb-so-far.64969/page-3
Is 2.7 Ecoboost Reliable?
The 2.7 Ecoboost has only enjoyed a short time on this planet and there aren’t many high-milers running around just yet. The general consensus, however, seems to be that there are no “common problems” on these lumps to be overly concerned about. For additional peace of mind, invest in this affordable Bluetooth OBDII Diagnostic scanner and clear CHECK ENGINE light device.
Certain owners have had turbo failures under 100k miles while others had engines replaced under warranty, however, these appear to be more the exception than the rule. Then there is the odd report of blown head gaskets, cylinder head replacements under warranty. Again, not a common occurrence.
Many are skeptical if the tiny 2.7 twin-turbo engine would go the distance and even make 200k miles before turbo failures and feel the older proven 3.5 or new 5.0L is a better prospect if you’re expecting to rack up high mileage or need a good towing truck.
At this stage of the 2.7 Ecoboost life, it appears most owners are happy with the little engine’s stellar performance. The 2020 model is reported to be even quieter and better overall experience than the 1st Gen.
Speak to any mechanic and he’ll tell you, that the longevity and reliability of your truck boil down to thorough and meticulous preventative maintenance being carried out. Combining that with the highest quality lubricants and using only the best fuel available, will do wonders for your engine’s lifespan.
Known 2.7 Ecoboost Problems
With any new range of vehicle or engine, it usually comes with a caveat. That being, there are almost always going to be little niggles and teething problems. This can usually be put down to improper assembly or premature parts failure.
At this stage there aren’t any known issues to report on, however, forums and discussion groups have reported a few of the following cases:
- Blown Turbo’s
- Blocked Catalytic Converters
- Blown head Gaskets
These little 2.7’s are turning out to be quite reliable with more praise than complaints from existing customers. Given many are not even close to 200k miles, however, the trucks appear to be holding up just fine even though it’s only been around for about 5+ years, since its inception in 2015. It seems the 2nd Gen is even more refined and reliable. It has an additional port injection, which is more optimal for turbocharged engines. This is a crucial feature that prevents carbon buildup on valves and walls of intake ports. LONG LIVE THE 2.7!
What Is Better The 2.7 Or 3.5 Ecoboost?
This question boils down to the age-old debate about displacement.
There’s no replacement for displacement…
Or, that’s how most large truck owners reasoned for many years. Recently though, we’re seeing large trucks being produced with smaller displacement engines. With gas prices constantly on the increase and manufacturers under constant pressure to develop safer greener vehicles, it appears the big displacement trucks are becoming a thing of the past.
So if you’re in the market for an F150 you basically have 3 options. The new 2.7 twin-turbo, the slightly older 3.5-liter V6 gasoline direct-injected and turbocharged engine, or the all-new 5.0-liter gasoline V8 engine, developed to compete directly with the GM 6.2L V8 engine and the new Chrysler 6.4L Hemi.
When it comes to daily driving and efficiency the 2.7 is the obvious choice. The 2.7L version is designed to deliver comparable power and torque of large displacement, naturally aspirated V6 and V8 engines but with less fuel consumption and emissions. It can even tow if required to and does so very well.
The 3.5 is a more proven platform, been introduced in the F150 since 2009. It’s proven to be reliable, robust, and durable with a proven track record. When it comes to towing the 3.5 is a freight train, so it comes down to what you’re looking for in a truck. The engine has good longevity if owners stick to the maintenance schedule and use only high-quality oil and lubricants. The average trouble-free mileage for the 3.5 EcoBoost engine is about 200k-250k miles, thereafter it’s down to the owner to keep it going.
Resources
Bluetooth OBDII Diagnostics + Clear Check Engine light & Scanner
2.7 Front Mount Intercooler Upgrade
Conclusion
F-150 2.7 Eco Boost has been around for over 5 years with an updated Gen2 released in 2018. This is enough time to prove its worth. In many cases, it’s not the engine that becomes problematic, but rather the complex electrical systems and management aids being implemented to these vehicles, which makes them appear niggly.