Ford 1.6L EcoBoost Engine: Longevity, Problems, And Specs

The 1.6L EcoBoost engine produced by Ford may be small, but it is more than capable. For almost a decade since its introduction, the power unit has become a staple for the American brand's famous lines of compact cars, crossovers, and vans.

Due to its reliable features, it was also used in some Volvo models. This is the reason why it has become such an important part of the famous automaker's history.

Key features and my opinion about the engine

• Production years:2010-now
• Average lifespan of 1.6L EcoBoost:160,000-190,000 miles
• Fuel supply type:direct injection
• Power range:118-197 hp
• Fuel efficiency:good
• Engine block material:aluminum
• Engine reliability score:low
• The most common problems:risk of catching fire, overheating problems, coolant leaks, no lifters, turbocharger failure.

The durability of the Ford 1.6L EcoBoost

The 1.6L EcoBoost hasn't been regarded by automotive analysts as one of the most reliable engines of Ford. The data was also backed by different reviews and complaints from a lot of vehicle owners using the engine.

According to industry experts, vehicles carrying the 1.6L EcoBoost can last up to 100,000 to 150,000 miles before needing an engine overhaul or replacement. And this is not a lot if you compare it with the average figures. Some owners still claimed to go over the numbers.

Regardless, the longevity figures can be lower or higher depending on how you are using your auto. With regular maintenance and proper care, you can easily prolong your engine life between one to two decades.

Most Common Problems Found in Ford 1.6L EcoBoost

We have surfed in forums, reviews, and reports and we've also talked to Ford shop mechanics to find out the most common complaints about the Ford 1.6L EcoBoost engine. According to the sources, these are the issues that it is prone to:

1. Premature Wear of the Timing Belt

Ford recommends changing the timing belt after 10 years or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first. However, if you are a car owner, then you'll know that this is quite a stretch. There have been many complaints about the timing belt of vehicles with the 1.6L EcoBoost wearing out in just a few years of use, especially when your vehicle is driven daily in stop-and-go traffic.

This can lead to several symptoms, including engine misfires, decreased power, and poor fuel economy. Additionally, it can cause serious engine damage if not addressed promptly.

There are several possible causes of premature timing belt wear, including incorrect installation, improper tensioning, etc. However, the most likely cause is simply age and mileage. Over time, the belts will naturally stretch and deteriorate, which can lead to the aforementioned symptoms.

Fortunately, there are several things you can do to help prevent premature timing belt wear. First, make sure to have the belt replaced at the recommended interval. Second, have the belt inspected and tensioned regularly. Finally, if you live in an area with harsh winters, consider using a synthetic belt, which is less susceptible to cold weather damage.

By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your timing belt lasts as long as possible. However, if you do experience any of the symptoms of premature wear, be sure to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible.

2. Carbon Accumulation

A direct injection engine such as the 1.6L EcoBoost definitely works well in optimizing the power, fuel economy, and emission of your vehicle. However, this setup has a high tendency to accumulate carbon deposits over time. These types of engines are prone to carbon buildup because of the way they operate.

In a direct injection engine, fuel is injected directly into the combustion chamber, rather than into the intake manifold. This means that the fuel doesn't have a chance to mix with the air before it is combusted, which can lead to incomplete combustion. When this happens, carbon deposits can build up on the piston and valves, causing performance issues.

Additionally, direct injection engines tend to run at higher temperatures than other types of engines, which can also contribute to carbon build-up.

Carbon deposits can accumulate in the Ford 1.6L EcoBoost engine, causing a variety of symptoms. These include a loss of power, decreased fuel economy, and increased emissions.

There are several causes of carbon accumulation, including incomplete combustion, oil contamination, and excessive idling. Solutions include changing the oil more frequently, using higher-quality oil, and avoiding extended periods of idling.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to have the carbon deposits cleaned from your engine right away. Doing so will restore power and fuel economy and help keep your emissions low.

The cleaning process for carbon deposits can vary depending on the symptoms and severity of the issue. In most cases, a mechanic will just use a carbon cleaner to dissolve the deposits and flush them from the system.

3. Hard Starts

There are a few potential causes for a hard start problem in the Ford 1.6L EcoBoost engine. One possibility is that the fuel injectors are not delivering the correct amount of fuel to the engine. This can be caused by clogged injectors or incorrect injector settings. Another possibility is that the air filter is dirty and needs to be replaced. The third possibility is that the spark plugs are fouled and need to be replaced.

The most likely cause of a hard start problem in the Ford 1.6L EcoBoost engine is dirty or fouled spark plugs. When the spark plugs get too dirty, they can't create enough of a spark to ignite the fuel in the cylinders. This can be caused by a build-up of deposits on the spark plugs, or by the spark plugs themselves being damaged. The best way to clean dirty or fouled spark plugs is to replace them with new ones.

One more possible cause of a hard start problem in the Ford 1.6L EcoBoost engine is a dirty air filter. When the air filter gets too dirty, it can restrict the amount of air that gets into the engine. This can make it difficult for the engine to start because it doesn't have enough oxygen to combust the fuel properly. The best way to clean a dirty air filter is to replace it with a new one.

If you're having a hard time starting your Ford 1.6L EcoBoost engine, it's a good idea to take it to a mechanic and have them diagnose the problem. They can determine which of these possible causes is causing the hard start problem and then fix it accordingly.

4. Overheating

There are several possible causes for this issue, and some simple solutions that can help keep your engine running cooler.

One cause of overheating could be a coolant leak. A leaking coolant hose or radiator can cause the engine to overheat by not providing enough fluid to keep it cool. Inspect all hoses and connections for leaks, and replace any damaged parts.

Another possibility is a faulty thermostat. If the thermostat is stuck in the closed position, it will not allow enough coolant to flow through the engine, causing it to overheat. Replace the thermostat if it is defective.

If the engine is still overheating after checking for leaks and replacing the thermostat, it may be due to a blockage in the cooling system. This can be caused by deposits of sludge or scale buildup, preventing coolant from flowing freely. Flush the cooling system to remove any debris and improve circulation.

Overheating can also be caused by a failed water pump. The water pump circulates coolant through the engine, and if it fails, the engine will overheat. Inspect the water pump for signs of leaks or damage, and replace it if necessary.

Lastly, an overheating engine can also be caused by a problem with the cylinder head gasket. The gasket seals the cylinders and prevents coolant from leaking into the engine. If the gasket is damaged, it can cause a coolant leak, resulting in overheating. Replace the gasket if it is defective.

5. Fires

There are some known cases when 1.6 EcoBoost engines ran in fires because of high-pressure oil leaks. Actually, there were just a couple of cases, but you are still under the risk of this. So, any leaks in this engine should be treated seriously. Also, proper maintenance is highly recommended. Without this, this engine will not live up to the expected end of its life but may just burn. Literally.

6. Head and block cracks

Overheating may lead to more problems. One of the worst is the crack in the cylinder block or head. The crack will not be repaired. If you see this, just start counting up your money because you will need a replacement engine or a complete overhaul which will cost approximately the same.

Head cracks were pretty common for the 1.6 EcoBoost, so Ford issues a recall and added a coolant sensor for this engine for free. If you own a vehicle with this engine, you should check whether it was repaired according to the recall. If not, just visit the nearest Ford dealer and ask them to install the coolant sensor for free.

Ford 1.6L EcoBoost Specs

The Ford 1.6L EcoBoost was launched in 2010, and since then, it was used in a variety of vehicles until 2018. Among the products that utilized it were the Ford Fiesta (ST), Fusion, Escape, and C-Max. Volvo rebadged the engine as the B416T as it integrated the unit into its V70, V60, and V40 models.

The 1.6L EcoBoost is a turbocharged, direct injection, gasoline-fed, inline-four engine featuring a DOHC valvetrain with an aluminum block and head. It comes with a displacement of 1,596cc, a bore of 3.1 inches, a stroke of 3.2 inches, and a compression ratio of 10.0:1. The unit utilizes a wet sump oil system, a water-cooling system, and a belt camshaft drive. The engine has a dry weight of 251 lbs.

Depending on its application, the 1.6L EcoBoost can produce 150 to 197 hp at around 5,700 to 6,000 rpm and 177 to 214 lb-ft of torque at around 1,600 to 5,000 rpm. At its ideal configuration, it can deliver an estimated 23 mpg in city drives and 33 mpg on the highway.

Conclusion

For what it's worth, save from a few hiccups it is prone to, the 1.6L EcoBoost is definitely a good match for compact cars and small crossovers. But fortunately, it is no longer in production. If you are looking to buy a used car it is worth considering checking this engine thoroughly because it has a load of problems that come with it.

If you happen to own one already, then make sure that you follow its maintenance schedule plus always keep your engine clean and lubricated to save yourself from all the problems we have uncovered here.