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Symptoms · 3.5 EcoBoost (gas)
3.5 EcoBoost (gas): ticking, knocking, rattle or whine
4 documented failures on this engine list this among their signs. They are ordered from the most widespread down. Each one shows the signs in its record's own words, how to tell it from the others, the usual fix and any recall or bulletin.
Not sure which engine you have, or want the recalls for your exact truck? Check your VIN: it names the engine and lists the campaigns for that model year. Whether a recall is still open on your VIN: nhtsa.gov/recalls.
aggregated
How widespread: Very common
107 NHTSA owner complaints match it, out of 667 checked
How it shows up
- cold-start rattle or ticking that fades as oil pressure builds
Its other signs
- MIL with cam-timing DTCs (P0011/P0015/P0016-P0019/P0021/P0025) or VCT circuit codes (P0365/P0369)
- rough or delayed cold start
- PCM updates required after VCT unit or long-block replacement (per Ford SSM)
How to tell it apart
- listen for the cold-start rattle versus a deeper knock; warm-engine repeat check
- scan cam-timing and VCT DTCs on both banks; freeze-frame at start
- verify oil level/condition and oil-filter type before condemning phasers
Usual fix
phaser / VCT unit replacement with the updated hardware and the PCM calibration update; oil-system service while in there
Recalls and bulletins
21N08TSB 20-2315SSM 48055
Root cause, parts and sources →
aggregated
How widespread: Common
52 NHTSA owner complaints match it, out of 667 checked
How it shows up
- chain rattle/slapper noise at start-up or under light load
Its other signs
- MIL with cam/crank correlation DTCs
- progressive rough running as correlation drifts
- metal finding in oil on advanced cases
How to tell it apart
- listen for chain slap vs phaser rattle (chain noise tracks rpm, phaser noise is start-up transient)
- scan for P0016-family correlation DTCs on both banks
- inspect guides/tensioner through the service access before committing to a chain job
Usual fix
timing chain, guides and tensioner replacement with phaser inspection; long block if guide debris advanced
Recalls and bulletins
TSB 17-0026TSB 16-0027
Root cause, parts and sources →
aggregated
How widespread: Occasional
43 NHTSA owner complaints match it, out of 667 checked
How it shows up
- deep knock or metallic noise
Its other signs
- sudden engine death / no restart
- coolant or oil loss with internal damage confirmed
- long-block replacement recommended by the shop
How to tell it apart
- before condemning the block: verify which upstream mode escalated (chain, water pump, turbo, oil supply)
- borescope / compression / leak-down to scope the damage
- cost-compare long block vs repair given the parts-pass prices; document the escalated mode for the record
Usual fix
long block / short block replacement with the SSM-required PCM calibration updates; fix the upstream cause in the same job
Recalls and bulletins
SSM 47394
Root cause, parts and sources →
aggregated
How widespread: Occasional
13 NHTSA owner complaints match it, out of 667 checked
How it shows up
- wastegate rattle at idle or on shutdown
- turbo whine or oil traces at the charge pipes
Its other signs
- MIL with boost-pressure DTCs (P0236/P0238/P0299/P025E/P007D family)
- loss of power / failsafe boost
How to tell it apart
- scan boost DTCs and desired-vs-actual boost PIDs under load
- smoke-test the charge system (pipes, CAC, clamps) before condemning a turbo
- listen for wastegate rattle vs phaser/chain noise
Usual fix
charge-system leak repair first (pipes/clamps/CAC), then wastegate actuator / boost sensor; turbo replacement for confirmed bearing/oil-flood cases
Recalls and bulletins
23B65TSB 22-219822U0815-0071TSB-13-6-12
Root cause, parts and sources →
Other symptoms on the 3.5 EcoBoost (gas)
Hard start, long crank or no-startLoss of power, limp mode or derateLosing coolantOverheating or temperature creeping upOil leak, oil consumption or rising oil levelMisfire, rough idle, hesitation or surging
Everything on the 3.5 EcoBoost (gas)Its recalls and bulletins