The 2.3 EcoBoost from Ford has been fitted to many important cars in the company’s catalog over the years. From the Ranger pickup and the compact Ford Focus (high-performance model) to the Bronco and Explorer SUVs; this engine can power anything and power it well. At the same time, the engine has been known to cause a couple of reliability issues. So, what are the Ford 2.3 EcoBoost problems then?
In short, the 2.3 EcoBoost engine suffers from carbon buildup in its valves, a prematurely failing head gasket, excessive oil consumption, and several overheating issues. However, it is true that the earlier models of this engine were more problematic as compared to the updated generations
Ford 2.3 EcoBoost Problems
There are many opinions online from the users of this engine. Hence, the following are some of the most commonly reported issues with the 2.3 EcoBoost:
Carbon buildup
This is a problem with most EcoBoost engines, like the 3.5 EcoBoost. These engines utilize direct fuel injection, a process in which the fuel is sprayed directly into the cylinders.
In this way, the fuel is unable to pass through the valve intakes; so, they won’t remain clean. As a result, carbon deposits tend to build up on them, and this can become problematic as the intakes can be clogged. This can ruin the engine’s performance and lower it exponentially, making the vehicle undrivable at a certain point.
Head gasket failure
A blown head gasket requires one of the costliest procedures as a solution. The 2.3 EcoBoost is an engine which is susceptible to premature head gasket failure. This causes the vehicle to lose all its coolant and it eventually heats up. You’ll be much better off at identifying this problem beforehand.
Turbo problems
Keeping the theme of expensive repairs, the highly lauded turbocharger of the 2.3 EcoBoost can also fail. It will hence need a replacement, and according to CARARAC, its price is similar to the cost of a whole new engine. If the 2.3 EcoBoost has a bad name for reliability, it is due to this turbo.
Excessive oil consumption
There are many drivers who report that their 2.3 EcoBoost engine is very thirsty for oil. This is an issue that should be identified as soon as possible since a lack of engine oil will lead to enhanced wear and tear. This can destroy the engine completely over time.
Overheating troubles
While the head gasket and the lack of oil are also responsible for overheating, it should be noted that the 2.3 EcoBoost is an engine that has been known to run hot. Ford even issued a recall a couple of years ago, stating the reason being higher than expected underbody temperatures.
Is the Ford 2.3 L 4 cylinder a good engine?
Is the Ford 2.3 engine any good? Well, now that the problems are out of the way, let’s discuss how it stands as an engine. Yes, the 2.3 EcoBoost is a great engine, especially its newer versions.
This motor offers it all from power and efficiency to reliability and durability. The 2.3 EcoBoost has managed to excel in whichever vehicle it is installed in. If you have it in your Ford Pickup it manages to provide a great towing capacity for the mid-sized truck category.
The Ranger also doesn’t feel underpowered and you can use it as a workhorse. If you have it in a top-spec Ford Focus, it ensures that you accelerate quickly and reach a high top speed.
This is due to the great power-to-weight ratio that is obtained because this EcoBoost engine is so powerful and lightweight. There is a reason why Ford has put it into their beloved Mustang.
It was a big decision by them to install it in their iconic muscle which had had large V8s powering it throughout its existence. The 2.3 EcoBoost showed that a 4-cylinder can power a legendary car, and bring power and efficiency both to the mix.
Is the Ford 2.3 EcoBoost reliable?
Yes, the 2.3 EcoBoost is considered to be a reliable engine. Sure, users have faced the problems discussed above. But there are around half a million of these engines in cars on the road and compared to this figure, the number of complaints is very few.
Furthermore, there is a clear difference between the initial versions of the 2.3 EcoBoost and the ones that came later. The overheating problems were more prominent in the earlier versions. Those variants of the engine also received a recall from Ford. Now, the reliability has gotten a lot better.
If you want a used 2.3 EcoBoost, try to find one that has been maintained well. After buying yours, change all the fluids and ensure that you change them according to the owner’s manual requirements. Then you need to take care of scheduled maintenance and you’ll do just fine.
How long will a 2.3 EcoBoost engine last?
This engine should easily cross the 200k milestone without needing any major repairs or overhauls. This is provided that the engine has been maintained properly. But remember, you could take care of it properly and it may still go bad due to a broken turbocharger. So, it is just better to invest in a newer version of this engine for maximum reliability and low mileage.