Solving the Ford EcoBoost Oil Mystery

Nov. 16, 2022

Some 2018-2020 Ford F-150 trucks equipped with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine and built on or before Sept. 11, 2020 may exhibit excessive oil consumption with no visible oil leaks or without DTC P0365 and//or P0369. To correct the condition, re-program the PCM and if necessary, replace the engine valve covers.

Some 2018-2020 Ford F-150 trucks equipped with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine and built on or before Sept. 11, 2020 may exhibit excessive oil consumption with no visible oil leaks or without DTC P0365 and//or P0369. To correct the condition, re-program the PCM and if necessary, replace the engine valve covers.

Note: when checking engine oil level (always check on level ground), it is critical to allow the full 15-minute drain back period. Failure to allow for the drain back period will result in false oil level reading.

Does the vehicle meet at least one of the following criteria?

1. Built on or after April 1, 2019

2. Both valve covers have previously been replaced

3. The vehicle has more than 4000 miles

Yes: Replace the engine oil and filter

No: Replace both valve covers.

About the Author

Information courtesy of Mitchell 1

Information for Technical Service Bulletins comes from ProDemand, Mitchell 1's auto repair information software for domestic and import vehicles. Headquartered in San Diego, Mitchell 1 has provided quality repair information solutions to the automotive industry since 1918.

About the Author

Mike Mavrigian | Motor Age Editor

Mike Mavrigian has written thousands of automotive technical magazine articles involving a variety of  specialties, from engine building to wheel alignment, and has authored more than a dozen books that crisscross the automotive spectrum. Mike operates Birchwood Automotive, an Ohio shop that builds custom engines and performs vintage vehicle restorations. The shop also features a professional photo studio to document projects and to create images for articles and books.

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