I purchased a used 2015 XLT F150 2.7L V6 Twin Turbo 4WD less than two years ago out of Manassas, VA. Unfortunately, it didn't come with their warranty (called VINS CARE) since it was over 100K miles already. Like stated, its an eco-boost so I decided to fill up the gas with E85 at Sheetz near my place in Stafford, VA. I started on a trip to Louisville, KY this past week and when I reached West Virginia my engine light came on and it started to misfire. I had it towed to a local mechanic. The codes where for: transmission pump down, misfires, both banks too lean, and air leak. They changed all the sparks, PCV valve (Ford mechanic recommended it) and oil filter. They indicated small amount of metal fragments were in the old filter. They conducted a compression test on all cylinders and #3 was showing 0PSI (down hard). They recommended I find a shop with a machinist and they did not have the ability to fix the cylinder. I called around and was told I should go to a dealer. I drove it off their lot and took it for a second opinion, which also resulted in #3 cylinder is dead and oil in the new sparks. Question is; should I go to a dealer and expect to replace the entire engine, or continue to look for a machinist to pull everything apart, or is there is another option? (i.e. sell it on Facebook Market place "as is", rent a U-Haul and take it to my destination, etc.)
I'm in a hotel room since I'm not from WV and everyday that goes by is costing $$$, increased stress levels, and I missed obligations. Thanks for your assistance, Scotty and staff!
That's a tough break. I would think with that kind of damage the engine will need to be replaced, they're way too complex for the corner garage to attempt rebuilding. Check the cost of a rebuilt replacement engine versus what the truck is worth and its overall condition.
Thanks. I asked them to look into engines in the Beckley, WV area and they are on back order. This sucks, but I appreciate the remarks.
Is that just the Ford dealer or also engine rebuilders such as Jasper, ATK, etc.? Maybe a good used one from a low-mileage wreck? (Of course that's taking a chance unless sourced by a mechanic who guarantees it.)
They looked at Jasper, but not ATK. I plan to just trade it in for whatever I can get for it and chalk this one up as a hard lesson learned.
, its an eco-boost so I decided to fill up the gas with E85
Ecoboost is a type of turbocharged engine. You're confusing it with "Flex Fuel" which designates an engine built for E85.
You need to read your owner's manual or the sticker on the fuel door.
You'll have to empty the tank.
Good catch! (Some Ford F-150 engines that year are flex-fuel but not the V6 eco-boost.) It sounds from the description though that the engine has suffered some serious damage.
https://media.ford.com/content/dam/fordmedia/North%20America/US/2015_Specs/2015_F150_Specs.pdf
Appreciate the feedback. I'll chalk this one up as a hard lesson learned and E85 is the worst idea ever.
costing $$$, increased stress levels, and I missed obligations
Have it towed to your home by a reliable towing company.
Carry on with your trip in a rental or fly to your destination.
Deal with the car (sell as is or new engine) once you’re back and not stressed out.
All the best.
