Consumer ProtectionLaw Group
Consumer Protection Law Group
Consumer Protection Law Group
If you own a Ford truck, it’s bound to have a diesel engine (in most cases). Ford has been using these bad boys since the ‘90s. The 6.7L iteration made its debut in 2011. It’s a flagship product by Ford, often found in its Super Duty trucks. It blends immersive output with rugged durability.
This V8 turbo diesel has claimed a passionate following among truckers, fleet operators, and heavy-duty users in the US. Its towing strength is unmatched; you get up to 475 horsepower and more than 1,000 lb-ft of torque. This diesel engine powers Ford’s F250, F350, larger trucks, and other machines. But is the 6.7 PowerStoker reliable, given the concerns by its owners?
Many owners have pinpointed certain faults in this engine. If you are thinking about investing in a pre-owned Ford truck powered by a 6.7L, you need to be aware of these particular issues.
Also, find out if lemon laws are applicable to used vehicles or not in the first place!
The problems experienced by 6.7L engine owners are the same as the problems facing people who had Ford vehicles equipped with 3.3 V6 engines. The 6.7 PowerStroke was a successor to the 6.4L engine. It represented a technological leap when it made its appearance 14 years ago! It had a CGI (compacted graphite iron) block and aluminum cylinder heads that deliver boosted strength & heat dissipation. But Ford kept refining this powerful engine after its initial debut.
We saw a major redesign in 2017. The engine received improved fuel injection & turbocharging technologies. More advancements were made in 2020 with better emissions controls. It’s used primarily today in the Ford Super Duty truck lineup. The 6.7 PowerStroke is mainly for tasks like agriculture, construction, towing trailers, etc. Its telltale features include the following:
Many automobile experts compare the 6.7 PowerStroke with its rivals, like the 6.7 Cummins. But is the 6.7 PowerStroke reliable? This question demands that we go deep into the major failure points that have made several users doubt this engine’s reliability.
The CP4.2 high-pressure fuel pump is a major vulnerability in the 6.7L PowerStroke engine. All models made between 2011 and 2020 experience this issue. This pump’s role is to pressurize diesel fuel to extremely high levels for precise delivery to the engine’s injectors. This process is essential for combustion. But “metal-on-metal contact with the pump” can cause CP4.2 failures.
When the pump malfunctions, you may have to spend up to $10,000 on repairs. These repairs cost so much because the damage is collateral (due to the fuel injection system). This failure stems from contamination from water or dirt in the fuel system, low fuel levels that cause CP4.2 to ingest sediment from the tank bottom, and manufacturing defects with metallurgical issues.
You may notice early symptoms like engine hesitation, stumbling under load, rough idle, longer cranking times (especially when warm), and the illumination of check engine or wrench lights. You may also hear mechanical noises like metallic knocking or ticking near the engine bay (it may indicate a failing pump). Another definitive sign is the presence of metal shavings or “gold dust” in the fuel filter. It shows that internal pump components are wearing alarmingly fast.
When damage from the CP4.2 pump spreads, it contaminates fuel rails, injectors, and return lines, compounding repair complexity. So, you need to address these symptoms right away.
Turbocharger failures took place quite often in early 6.7L PowerStroke models because Ford was using ceramic ball bearings back then. They were lightweight, but they could crack easily and wear prematurely under high stress. This caused decreased boost pressure. Drivers also observed a loss of horsepower, excessive smoke, & engine performance issues, e.g., sluggish acceleration or hesitation. But this issue was resolved when Ford redesigned the engine.
The 2017 redesign switched to steel ball bearing turbos. They were more durable and enjoyed a longer lifespan. But you should still look for signs of turbo problems. If you hear whining/grinding noises coming from the turbo area, it’s a sign! Seeing black or blue smoke from the exhaust? A cause for concern. A noticeable drop in engine power. You need to be on your guard, too!
The original plastic cold side charge pipe that connects the turbocharger to the intercooler is not entirely faultproof; it may crack or rupture because of heat cycles & constant vibrations. So, the answer to your question, “Is the 6.7 PowerStroke reliable?”, depends on the turbo boost leaks stemming from this particular concern. It leads to:
Some 6.7L engines have a fuel filter housing made from plastic. Over time, this plastic ends up cracking or leaking. This problem causes fuel loss and also becomes a fire hazard if this fuel comes into contact with hot engine components. That’s why you need to:
Ford had to recall 115,500+ trucks in September due to a defect that could cause the steering column’s upper shaft to detach. So, this manufacturer is no stranger to product defects and the ensuing recall campaigns. If you want to prolong your Ford truck’s lifespan, consider these tips:
| 6.0L Powerstroke | 6.4L Powerstroke | 6.7L Powerstroke | |
| Production Years | 2003 – 2007 | 2008 – 2010 | 2011 – Present |
| Engine Type | 6.0L V8 turbo diesel, Bosch fuel system | 6.4L V8 twin-turbo diesel, advanced emissions control | 6.7L V8 single turbo diesel, high-pressure common rail injection |
| Power & Torque | Up to ~350 hp, 650 lb-ft torque | Up to ~350 hp, 650 lb-ft torque | Up to 475 hp, 1050 lb-ft torque |
| Known Strengths | Strong power and towing capability | Improved emissions compliance over 6.0L, smoother ride | Most refined and powerful, best emissions compliance |
| Common Problems | Head gasket failures, EGR cooler clogging, oil cooler leaks, injector problems | Turbo failures, complex emissions system issues, and high-pressure fuel system failures | CP4.2 high-pressure fuel pump failures, early turbos with ceramic bearings, plastic charge pipes, and fuel filters cracking |
| Maintenance Needs | Requires bulletproofing upgrades to improve reliability, and proactive maintenance is essential | Meticulous maintenance due to complexity, emissions systems need constant care | Generally, more forgiving with proper upkeep, though early CP4 pumps need attention |
| Reliability Rating | Lower reliability, frequent major repairs are common | Mixed reliability, prone to emissions-related, expensive failures | Highest reliability among the three, with fewer major issues reported |
| Emissions Compliance | Struggled with emissions, often requiring deletions | Designed for 2007 EPA standards, more complex than 6.0L | Meets latest regulations with DEF and SCR systems, more advanced technology |
| Popularity/Aftermarket Support | Strong aftermarket following, many rebuild kits available | Less aftermarket support due to short production span and system complexity | Growing aftermarket, highly favored for performance upgrades and durability mods |
The Ford 6.7 Powerstroke is a reliable diesel engine with impressive power. Some early model engines exhibited some notable issues, such as turbo failures and CP4.2 pump problems, but ongoing design improvements have mitigated many concerns. Preventive maintenance, quality fuel, and timely repairs can help you avoid costly breakdowns on busy highways.
If you suspect that your Ford truck’s PowerStroke engine isn’t reliable due to a fault caused by the manufacturer, call us right away. We at the Consumer Protection Law Group can help you get compensation for your lemon. We can determine the eligibility of your claim and see if your car merits compensation. We will review your case for free. Almost 4,000 clients have been served by CPLG. Contact us right away if you believe you’re owed compensation.
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