Ford is once again facing legal challenges related to its EcoBoost engines, this time concerning the V6 variant. Following a previous billion-dollar lawsuit over its three-cylinder engine, the automaker now has a class-action lawsuit on its hands regarding the EcoBoost V6, commonly found in models like the Ford Bronco. This legal action follows a recall issued by Ford last year to address the very issue at the heart of the lawsuit. Dissatisfied with Ford’s remedy, some owners have decided to take the matter to court.
Ford Bronco with EcoBoost V6 engine facing recall lawsuit
The $5 million class-action lawsuit is spearheaded by plaintiffs Matthew Barkus of Pennsylvania, owner of a 2021 Ford F-150 with a 2.7L EcoBoost engine, and Dan Silberman of New York, who owns a 2021 Ford Bronco equipped with the same engine. While neither plaintiff claims to have experienced the intake valve issue that prompted the recall, their lawsuit argues they would not have purchased their vehicles, or would have paid significantly less, had they been aware of the potential engine defect.
The lawsuit identifies a range of Ford and Lincoln vehicles potentially affected by this EcoBoost V6 engine intake valve problem:
- Ford Bronco
- Ford Edge
- Ford Explorer
- Ford F-150
- Lincoln Aviator
- Lincoln Nautilus
Defective Intake Valves: Cracking and Engine Damage
The core issue revolves around potentially defective intake valves in certain 2.7-liter and 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engines. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), these valves may be prone to cracking or breaking. Such a failure could lead to severe engine damage, potentially causing a catastrophic loss of power while driving. The recall issued by Ford was initiated after the defect was initially identified through owner petitions in 2022, prompting further investigation and action from the automaker. The recall encompassed 90,736 vehicles manufactured between May 1 and October 31, 2021, all equipped with either the 2.7-liter or 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engines.
Close-up of Ford EcoBoost V6 engine intake manifold, component at the center of recall lawsuit
Ford’s recall remedy involved replacing the entire EcoBoost engine assembly in affected vehicles. The replacement engines were fitted with intake valves manufactured to the correct hardness specifications. This service was provided to owners free of charge. Ford also established a reimbursement program for owners who had already paid for repairs related to this issue prior to the recall announcement. Notably, the problematic intake valves were supplied to Ford by Eaton Corporation. In addition to the engine replacement, Ford offered an extended warranty of 10 years or 150,000 miles through customer satisfaction campaign 24N12, aiming to reassure owners and address concerns about long-term reliability.
Related Image of Ford F-150 Lightning Recall
Despite the recall and extended warranty, the class-action lawsuit contends that Ford’s actions have been insufficient. The lawsuit argues that Ford “has yet to provide an adequate remedy, such as a replacement of their defective valves, or compensate consumers for the amount they overpaid for these defective vehicles.” The plaintiffs are seeking further compensation and a more comprehensive solution to the alleged defect. The case is currently filed in the US District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan. The outcome of this lawsuit could have significant implications for Ford and owners of affected vehicles, highlighting ongoing concerns about the EcoBoost V6 engine and the effectiveness of Ford’s recall efforts.
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Source: Car Complaints
