If you have heard of Ford cars – which most people in the world have – chances are you know these are high-powered, performance-oriented, and luxurious cars that are extremely popular on the market today. Many of the Ford vehicles are now equipped with EcoBoost, making many car buyers ask local dealerships – what is EcoBoost?
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This technology allows Ford vehicles to give more performance benefits, like increased horsepower and torque, while taking less, such as gasoline.
What is Ford EcoBoost?
Ford EcoBoost is the name of a specific line of turbocharged, direct-injection petrol engines that have been created to deliver a high level of horsepower and torque. In addition to the increased performance capabilities for vehicles with this feature, this specific engine type provides an enhanced fuel efficiency for the eco-conscious drivers out there.
With the first EcoBoost engine produced back in 2009, this lineup is still popular in car models produced by Ford today. Now available in multiple varieties and power ranges, Ford vehicles that contain These types of engines range from 1 to 3.5-liters depending on the power required by the specific vehicle.
Benefits of Ford EcoBoost
- Increased Fuel Economy – The direct-injection fuel systems reduce the need for additional engine cylinders and increase the fuel economy. To compensate for the lack of additional cylinders, Ford installed a turbocharger to make the combustion chambers more efficient and high-performing. This way, the measured fuel injection and the air forced in by the turbocharger create more power and energy than a non-turbo cylinder.
- Better Performance – The EcoBoost provides the same, or better, performance levels than other less-efficient V6 engines. The performance produced by the EcoBoost V6 engine is comparable to a standard V8 engine, showing how higher horsepower levels and quicker acceleration can be achieved.
- Since the EcoBoost engines are smaller, they are easier to produce, less expensive to make, and more fuel-efficient.
How Do Ford EcoBoost Engines Function?
The EcoBoost engines set themselves apart from the crowd by the enhanced performance capabilities and fuel-friendly mechanisms. With the ability to provide high power metrics and efficiency in terms of accelerating and overall performance, the EcoBoost engines effectively use their turbocharged nature and direct injection in the best way possible.
Turbocharged engines use a specific construction that helps force in extra air than a normal engine is able to, improving the power output without increasing the necessary size of the engine in the internal system of the car.
The use of direct injection reduces the intact tract portion of the entire fuel delivery process, improving the fuel efficiency and the streamlined nature of the entire mechanism.
Inline Three-Cylinder Ford EcoBoost Engines
When asking yourself ‘what is EcoBoost,’ you need to know the different types of EcoBoost engines used in Ford models today.
1.0 L Fox Engine
Ford produces a 1.0-liter turbocharged in-line three-cylinder engine that is used in the EcoBoost family. Built over two different versions, the 74kW and the 88-92 kW, the more powerful version delivers a maximum of 130 pound-per-foot of torque from 1,400 to 4,500 RPM.
The 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine was first produced in the American market with the 2014 Ford Fiesta sedan and hatchback, with the engine awarded the International Engine Award in 2006.
1.5-Liter Dragon
In 2007, Ford announced the new inline 3-cylinder 1.5-liter Ecoboost engine that produced 200 horsepower at 6,000 RPM. The engine increases the capacity per cylinder up to 500cc to help maximize thermal efficiency.
The 1.5-liter engine is used in the 2018-present ford Focus, the 2020 Ford Escape, and the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport. If you are wondering ‘what is EcoBoost,’ you need to know the different 1-liter engine types used in Ford vehicles.
Inline Four-Cylinder Ford EcoBoost Engine Types
1.5-Liter Option
The 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder option was first used in the 2014 Ford Fusion as a smaller version of the 1.6-liter EcoBoost Engine. The 1.5-liter is used in various models today, such as the following:
- 2014 Ford Fusion
- 2015 Ford Focus
- 2017-2019 Ford Escape
- 2015 Ford Mondeo
- 2015 Ford C-Max
1.6-Liter Option
The 1.6-liter Ford EcoBoost was first introduced in 2009 for the Lincoln C concept model. Rated with 197 horsepower and producing 207 pound per foot of torque, this model could produce more power than the 1.5-liter option.
The 1.6-liter engine has been used in the following car models:
- 2010 Ford C-Max
- 2010 Ford Focus
- 2010-2018 Volvo S60
- 2011 Ford Mondeo
- 2011 Ford Galaxy
- 2013-2016 Ford Escape
- 2013 Ford Fiesta ST
- 2013-2014 Ford Fusion
V-Type Six-Cylinder
To get an idea of ‘what is EcoBoost’ in Ford cars today, drives need to know the six-cylinder engines utilized. The final type of EcoBoost engine used in Ford vehicles is the V-type six-cylinder engine. First introduced with the 2015 Ford F-150, the twin-turbo 2.7-liter V6 EcoBoost engine can produce 325 horsepower.
This kind of engine was used in the following Ford vehicles:
- 2015-2017 Ford F-150
- 2015-2018 Ford Edge Sport
- 2019 Ford Edge ST
- 2018 Ford F-150
- 2021 Ford Bronco
2021 Ford Fusion
The 2021 Ford Fusion uses the Ford EcoBoost engine technology. With a total price starting at around $23,170, the Ford Fusion has an EPA-estimated rating of around 21 miles per gallon in the city, 31 miles per gallon on the highway, and 25 combined miles per gallon overall.
When asking yourself ‘what is EcoBoost,’ the driver should know that the EcoBoost engine uses a 6-speed automatic transmission, complete with various powertrain options, driver-assist safety features, and easy-to-use infotainment technology to make the car accessible and functional.
- The Fusion SE has a starting price of just below $25,000, with this trim containing a 181-horsepower turbo-four EcoBoost engine.
2021 Ford Expedition
The 2021 Expedition earned the #2 spot in the Large SUVs category due to the powerful engine, towing capacity, enhanced gas mileage, straightforward infotainment controls, and spacious cabin.
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- Every Ford Expedition model has the 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engine, producing 374 horsepower and 470 pound-per-foot of torque at every time level.
- The twin-turbo engine delivers ample power for everyday driving, complete with quick acceleration and plant ufo hauling capacity.
2021 Ford Mustang
If you are questioning ‘what is EcoBoost,’ car buyers should know this technology is used in the 2021 Ford Mustang. The 2021 Ford Mustang contains the EcoBoost engine option for enhanced performance capabilities. Earning the #1 ranking in the Sport Cars category, the Mustang boasts various powerful engine options, agile handling, intuitive and easy-to-use in-car technology, and a decent trunk size for the convertible and sport car class.
The negatives of the Ford Mustang are the cramped rear seat. However, the small seating area is often overlooked due to the high horsepower, with the engines producing between 310 and 489 horsepower depending on the trim level purchased.
The EcoBoost engine and the naturally aspirated V8 engine both come with a six-speed manual transmission or an optional 10-speed automatic transmission for enhanced performance.
- The base engine (the EcoBoost) is the 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 310 horsepower and 350 pound-per-foot of torque.
- The car also comes with the EcoBoost handling package, complete with MagneRide adaptive suspension, summer tires, powerful brakes, and a limited-slip differential.
- The EcoBoost engine means the Mustang can go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just 5 seconds.
2021 Ford F-150
The 2021 Ford F-150 earned the #1 spot in the Full-Size Pickup Trucks category due to the class-leading hauling performance, powerful engine lineup, intuitive infotainment system, and excellent reliability rating. This car can earn between 16-25 miles per gallon in the city, and 22-26 miles per gallon on the highway. When asking yourself ‘what is EcoBoost’ technology, drivers should be aware of the various engine types in the Ford F-150 model.
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- There are six different options when picking a powertrain for the Ford F-150; a 290-horsepower V6 engine, 325-horsepower twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engine, 400-horsepower EcoBoost V6 engine, 400-horsepower V8 engine, 240-horsepower turbo diesel, and the hybrid engine.
- The EcoBoost V6 engine is a great choice for Ford F-150 buyers due to the versatility and the large powertrain.
Is Ford EcoBoost Engine Reliable?
When drivers ask themselves or the car dealership ‘what is EcoBoost,’ they also need to know if this mechanism and technology are reliable. No driver wants to purchase an unreliable vehicle with a low-powered engine that can break down after minimal use. Fortunately for Ford vehicles, the Ecoboost engines are known for their high-powered performance reliability.
The Ford F-150 is one of the best-selling trucks in the United States. Not to mention, many other Ford vehicles that contain the EcoBoost choice are also top-selling across the nation due to the performance benefits, reliability, safety mechanisms, and user-friendly features that encourage new car buyers to take a chance on the Ford lineup.
As we learned earlier, most of the ford F-150 vehicles contain the Ecoboost engine, which is one of the main reasons why the new and older models are quick-selling and very popular cars on the market today. Although the engine can’t be considered foolproof or perfect in all situations, the majority of customers are happy with the overall performance.
Consumer Reports put together a list of predicted problems that can arise from EcoBoost engines that plague the Ford F-150 models and other Ford vehicles. Some of the most common issues include the following:
- Tires rapidly losing pressure and needing replacements
- Battery cables leading to engine stalling
- Temperamental front seat assemblies
Despite these negative reports about some Ford vehicles that contain the EcoBoost engine, none of the aforementioned complaints deal with the powertrain or the engine, showing the reliability and safety when using an EcoBoost engine car. Therefore, when car owners ask mechanics or car sellers ‘what is EcoBoost,’ the car seller or dealership can respond with confidence.
EcoBoost Turbocharger Replacement Cost
To get an idea if the EcoBoost engine is worth your current price predicament, you need to ask additional questions along with ‘what is EcoBoost’ to your local mechanic or dealership. Here is a breakdown of replacement parts prices that include labor times at a Ford dealer that focus on the EcoBoost turbocharger replacement:
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- Turbocharger Left Core – $793
- Turbocharger Right Core – $837
- Gasket x2 – $15
- Total Parts cost = $1,146
- Labor Price = 9.3 hours
- Total Labor cost = $1,116
- Total Price = Approximately $2250
EcoBoost Replacement Price
- Buying the new EcoBoost option typically costs around $2,395 for most engines.
- Replacing the turbos at some point during the Ecoboost lifetime will add an additional $2,250 to your car
- You will spend at least $6,000 regarding your EcoBoost engine throughout its lifetime.
Sample Ford EcoBoost Engine Prices
To give you an idea of how much you might spend on the EcoBoost engine, we have included some sample aftermarket costs for a Ford Mustang EcoBoost engine.
- A Ford Performance 2015-2017 Mustang 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine control pack costs around $2,050.
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- This pack includes wiring and engine control for the EcoBoost engine, helping to control the engine.
- It includes an electronic throttle control, accelerator pedal, vehicle calibration, power distribution module, air box, and includes PCM with Ford calibration.
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- A Ford Performance 2018 2.3-liter Mustang EcoBoost Crate engine costs around $6,550.
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- This engine can produce 310 horsepower and 350 pound per foot of torque at 3,000 RPM with a 93 octane fuel rating.
- The engine kit includes the engine, turbocharger, alternator, starter, engine harness, and throttle body.
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- A Ford Performance 2.3-liter Mustang EcoBoost crate Engine costs around $7,795.
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- This engine was used in the 2015-217 Mustang and was designed for rear-drive installations.
- Includes a production turbocharger, engine wiring harness, and powertrain control module.
The Bottom Line
As you can see, Ford vehicles that contain an EcoBoost engine have increased performance, reduced fuel consumption, and better acceleration than other cars on the market. When car buyers ask ‘what is EcoBoost,’ Ford dealerships can confidently respond with the benefits of this high-powered engine.