In the past, we were always told that changing our oil every 3,000 miles was the standard practice. It was considered the golden rule for oil maintenance. However, with advancements in engine technology, many modern engines can go much longer without an oil change. Some manufacturers now recommend oil change intervals of up to 10,000 miles, especially when using synthetic oil. However, for Ford EcoBoost owners, it is advisable to change the oil every 5,000 miles, even if the vehicle’s oil reminder computer suggests otherwise. Failing to do so could result in severe consequences, as explained by Ford technician and YouTuber Brian Makuloco from the FordTechMakuloco channel.
In the video below, Makuloco emphasizes the significance of frequent oil changes for Ford EcoBoost engines. He demonstrates this by showcasing a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine taken from a 2015 Ford Expedition owned by a customer. Despite the potential for the engine to last much longer, with a lifespan of up to 300,000 miles, according to Makuloco, it failed prematurely at 224,000 miles. This failure could have been avoided if the owner had adhered to the recommended oil change interval of 5,000 miles, rather than relying solely on the vehicle’s recommendations.
The issue with EcoBoost engines lies in their tendency to experience excessive blow-by, a phenomenon where soot passes beyond the rings, leading to various problems. Regularly changing the oil helps eliminate this soot before it accumulates and causes damage. Additionally, it removes fine abrasive particles during the process. In the case of the aforementioned engine failure, the blow-by reached the turbochargers, causing blockages in the turbo oil intake screens and resulting in turbocharger failure. Turbochargers spin at high RPMs and rely on a constant supply of oil for lubrication and cooling purposes, making regular oil changes crucial.
In addition to frequent oil changes, Makuloco also emphasizes the importance of turbocharger maintenance. He mentions that the coolant fittings on the back side of the turbochargers tend to develop leaks and eventually fail over time. Furthermore, the manifolds often experience stud failures, resulting in exhaust leaks. When addressing these issues, it is opportune to replace the filters as well, which can lead to significant long-term cost savings.
It is clear that for Ford EcoBoost owners, adhering to a 5,000-mile oil change interval is highly recommended. This practice helps prevent blow-by-related problems, such as turbocharger failures, and ensures the longevity and optimal performance of the engine. Additionally, regular turbocharger maintenance, including addressing coolant leaks and manifold stud failures, is vital for avoiding further complications and costly repairs.
