Detractors of Ford love to say that the brand’s name is shorthand for ‘Found On Road Dead.’ Unfortunately for drivers of certain models built by the Blue Oval, this proved to be all too true after a manufacturing deficiency compromised critical components used in two popular Ford EcoBoost engines, leading to hundreds of reports of sudden and catastrophic engine failures. The problem was so severe and concerning that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration opened an investigation into the problem.
While the investigators may have officially made their conclusions and closed their case, owners of cars affected by this issue — including models made by Ford as well as Lincoln, the automaker’s luxury brand — must still grapple with the fallout. What happens if your car suffers an engine failure or is affected by the recall Ford issued to try and remedy the issue? What if other problems are also plaguing your Ford?
Luckily, legal recourse may be available thanks to the Lemon Law, something an attorney at Bad Vehicle can share more about. Check out the details behind the recent Ford EcoBoost problems below, then give us a call today for your free consultation — we may be able to help.
What Caused These Major Ford Engine Issues?
Engineering data, forensic analyses and other evidence proved that certain valves made by a Ford parts supplier are too brittle due to improper manufacturing. The compromised parts aren’t able to withstand the stresses of ordinary engine operation, leading to their total failure.
The importance of a valve and its placement within an engine means that when one fails, it does so with spectacular destruction — and that’s what happened in the case of the Ford EcoBoost. Valve failure with these engines results in the bad valve dropping into the cylinder and contacting the piston. Since engines are built with incredibly tight tolerances, quick and catastrophic engine damage follows suit.
For Ford owners who experienced this firsthand, their expensive and nearly new cars would have turned into paperweights within a few very dramatic seconds — and the sudden loss of power could have potentially led to panicked drivers getting into a severe accident or collision.
What Models Are Affected by Ford EcoBoost Valve Problems?
The bad Ford valves that are at the root of this issue were all manufactured between May and October 2021. They were installed in 2.7-liter and 3.0-liter V6 EcoBoost engines, which are found in several popular Ford and Lincoln models. Vehicles equipped with potentially compromised engines include:
- 2021-2022 Ford Bronco
- 2021-2022 Ford Edge
- 2021-2022 Ford Explorer
- 2021-2022 Ford F-150
- 2021-2022 Lincoln Nautilus
- 2021-2022 Lincoln Aviator
How Did Ford Address This Problem?
Ford became aware of EcoBoost valve issues in July of 2021. Once they determined the root cause of the problem, internal manufacturing processes were adjusted accordingly. Ford issued a recall in August of 2024 to remedy affected cars, and they also announced they would be extending warranty coverage for these models through the earlier of 10 years or 150,000 miles.
Does Ford’s Actions Change the Window to File a Lemon Law Claim?
Importantly, the newly announced recall and extended warranty does not change the window of time you have to file a Lemon Law claim. If you want to pursue a Ford Lemon Law buyback due to EcoBoost valve issues, you still have just two years from the date of purchase to do so.
Even if your vehicle is fixed under recall, its association with a problem of this magnitude and the related investigation will likely affect its trade-in and market value. Shoppers do not want a car that is known to potentially self-destruct without warning.
That’s why we suggest filing a Ford Lemon Law buyback claim if your vehicle meets certain eligibility rules. In most states, a car meets the minimum Lemon Law requirements if:
- The vehicle has spent at least 30 nonconsecutive days in the shop for repairs.
- It was purchased or leased new from a dealership within the last 24 months.
- You have made at least 3 attempts to fix the same problem.
While your Ford may have let you down, we won’t. As experts in Lemon Law cases, we’ve helped countless drivers and vehicle owners get the justice they deserve when their new car let them down. Just give us a call to speak directly to an attorney during your free consultation. Once you contact Bad Vehicle, you’ll see how we can turn your automotive nightmare into a satisfying resolution.
Read More: What Is a Lemon Law Buyback? | Is an Actual Attorney Handling Your Case?