I’ve been analyzing the reliability of my 2017 Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost using Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF). It’s interesting to see how design flaws like cam phasers and transmission issues, combined with regular wear and tear, impact overall reliability.
Here’s a breakdown of my truck’s failure timeline:
300 miles: Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure (infant failure).
40,000 miles: Door actuator failure (minor issue).
70,000 miles: Cam phaser failure (design defect).
95,000 miles: Radiator shutter actuator failure (wear and tear).
Including design defects: 97,000 miles ÷ 5 failures = 19,400 miles
Excluding design defects: 97,000 miles ÷ 3 failures = 32,333 miles
Design flaws like the cam phasers and transmission significantly reduce reliability. This highlights the importance of addressing systemic issues to improve long-term ownership experiences.
How does your F-150 compare? Let’s share experiences and data to get a clearer picture of these trucks’ reliability.
Drew said:
2017 is the worst year for the EcoBoost.
I disagree. My 2017 3.5 has been great.
Seems like I got the short end of the stick. Between the cam phasers, oil pan, and transmission, 2017 has been rough for me. And let’s not forget the plastic oil pan…
Drew said:
2017 is the worst year for the EcoBoost.
It does seem that way for many of us.
The company I work for has several EcoBoost trucks with 150k+ miles. Most have only had regular oil changes. The oldest is a 2015, and it’s being replaced this year.
Same truck here. At 100k miles, I had the entire cam phaser timing assembly replaced—$4,600 repair. My A/C compressor failed at 74k but was replaced under warranty. I’ve got an XLT SuperCab with a 6.5-ft bed. Bought it new for $44k, and trade-in offers now are $12,500. Switching from Toyota to Ford hasn’t been my best decision.
Lin said: @Case
The cam phasers scare me. I replaced mine myself, and it was a nightmare. Took me 4 days because I was so worried about messing something up.
My shop took 4 days as well. They replaced the water pump and thermostat while they were at it, which I appreciated.