The Ford Ranger Dependability and Common Issues. Throughout this engine guide, we will look at some of the advantages and disadvantages of the Ford Ranger 2.3L Ecoboost engine. The 2.3 Ecoboost is a dependable engine with many favorable characteristics. However, no engine is perfect in and of itself, and the Ford Ranger’s 2.3L EcoBoost has some minor design and performance shortcomings.
The 2.3L Ecoboost engine first appeared on the automobile market in 2015, powering the Mustang and Lincoln MKC vehicles. However, the 2.3L Ecoboost engine was initially used in the Ford Ranger in 2019. A twin-scroll turbocharger boosts the total power of these smaller inline-4 engines. The Ford Ranger has long been synonymous with dependability and durability. But, do the 2.3 EcoBoost models still meet such high criteria of durability? This essay will investigate whether those criteria are still upheld. Further down, we’ll look at the engine value of the Ford Ranger 2.3 EcoBoost and identify some of its most prevalent issues.
A 2.3 Ecoboost Ranger should have little trouble reaching 200,000 miles. As is customary, proper maintenance and repairs are required. These smaller-sized truck engines, with 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, seek to give efficiency and power at a fair price without jeopardizing the Ranger’s reputation. However, throughout this guide, we will examine the reliability of both the 2.3 Ecoboost engine and the current generation Ford Ranger separately. Now, let’s look at how the Ecoboost Rangers compare to past Ford models, as well as what the Ranger’s current reputation is post-2019.
2.3L Ford Ranger Specifications
Let’s start with the fundamentals of the Ford Ranger’s 2.3L Ecoboost Engine:
On paper, the 2.3L Ecoboost has enough power for its size. Until the Maverick was debuted in 2022, the Ford Ranger was regarded the company’s smallest vehicle. The base Ranger has a towing capability of 3,500 lbs, increasing to 7,500 lbs for enhanced variants. That is plenty of power for individuals looking to tow RVs or other cars, as many RVs on the market now weigh roughly 5,200 pounds.
The use of an aluminum block and head helps to minimize overall weight without compromising structural integrity. One of the more noticeable faults with this engine is blown head gaskets. Throughout this part, we will look at failed head gaskets and other regularly reported Ford Ranger 2.3 Ecoboost problems. Again, no engine is perfect, and despite the benefits of the Ranger’s new Ecoboost engine, it has drawbacks. Check out our earlier post on the Ford 3.5L Ecoboost against the 5.0 Coyote in F150 models for additional information on a larger Ecoboost use in Ford trucks.
Now, let’s look at some of the most typical Ford Ranger 2.3 Ecoboost issues.
Common Ranger 2.3 Ecoboost Issues
- Failure of the Head Gasket
- Overheating of the engine
- Carbon Accumulation
To be honest, Ford never intended to build the most powerful small to mid-sized vehicle when it designed the Ford Ranger. What the Ranger lacks in power, it more than makes up for in dependability and convenience. The 2.3L Ecoboost isn’t bulletproof, but it does have an outstanding track record of longevity.
As the 2.3L Ecoboost engine ages, a few more issues become apparent. It’s worth noting that this engine series has had an above-average reputation in the many distinct models to which it’s been applied in recent years. Aside from early Mustang and Focus RS cars, the 2.3L EB has had few serious problems. Certain parts of the 2.3L Ecoboost, however, can be regarded lacking. As previously stated, head gaskets are prone to failure. With that said, let’s dig deeper into some of the most prevalent issues, beginning with head gasket failure.
1) Failure of the Head Gasket
Regardless of the 2.3 Ecoboost’s above-average dependability rating, head gasket difficulties are one of the Ranger’s most common faults. Many drivers believe this is a hotly debated topic since head gasket difficulties might be exaggerated in internet postings. However, we believe it is necessary to point out the presence of gasket failures in the 2.3L Ecoboost.
This problem was most typically encountered in older deployments of the 2.3L Ecoboost engine. Some Focus RS and Mustang vehicles have burst head gaskets and coolant leaks. The Ford Ranger does not appear to have as many head gasket difficulties as smaller Ford cars built during the early life of the 2.3L Ecoboost (2015-2017). A blown head gasket, on the other hand, can cost thousands of dollars to replace. As a result, if the problem does occur with the latest Ranger models, it can be a major annoyance.
Various signs will appear signaling head gasket problems, ideally in time for a driver to identify them before they blow. First, one of the symptoms of this problem is engine overheating. Following that, drivers may notice a variety of issues, including bubbling in the radiator and coolant reservoir, coolant loss without obvious leaks, darkening of engine oil, and even smoke coming from the exhaust.
It is critical to try to recognize and repair any of the symptoms listed below in the hopes of discovering head gasket concerns before they explode and necessitate a costly repair.
2.3L Ecoboost Head Gasket Blown Symptoms:
- Overheating of the engine
- Radiator and coolant reservoir gurgle
- Rapid coolant loss without obvious leaks
- Engine oil staining
- Smoke coming from the tailpipe
Because blown head gaskets can directly cause engine overheating, let’s have a look at the other possible causes of an overheating 2.3L Ecoboost.
2) Overheating Ranger 2.3L Ecoboost Engine
Before we go into the problems with the 2.3L Ecoboost running hot, it’s important to understand that Ford has made several design improvements to avoid this problem. Initially, several early vehicles experienced a hot undercarriage producing exhaust difficulties. Because of the severity of the issue, Ford recalled an earlier version of the 2.3L Ecoboost application. Fortunately, this recall only affected 2015 Mustang vehicles, and overheating issues appear to be less common in current Ranger versions.
Regardless, it is critical to detect any significant increase in exhaust temperatures before they create more serious engine problems. Many 2.3L Ecoboosts have been running at substantially higher usual predicted temps after the recall. However, running hot is still an issue with the 2.3L Ecoboost, which is found in Ford Ranger vehicles. Fortunately, Ford has done an outstanding job of creating efficient intercoolers to overcome these concerns. Engine overheating is substantially more common in aggressively driven customized 2.3L Ecoboost engines. Again, it is critical to perform regular maintenance and repairs, as well as to research and install suitable supportive mods on bespoke engines.
Finally, the most prevalent indications of overheating in the Ford Ranger 2.3L Ecoboost engine are listed below.
Symptoms of Ranger 2.3L Ecoboost Engine Overheating:
- Dashboard temperature gauge indication/warning light
- Steam coming from the hood/hot hood
- Engine power has been reduced.
- Coolant spills beneath the vehicle
- Ticking or pounding noises from the engine
Finally, let’s look at the Ford Ranger 2.3L Ecoboost’s last most prevalent issue. Another issue that may cause engine overheating and limit power and performance is a coincidence.
3) Carbon Build-up in Ford Ranger 2.3L Ecoboost
We must not overlook carbon buildup difficulties, even though this may not be a common issue for many drivers. Unfortunately, direct injection engines have higher carbon accumulation difficulties. Direct injection engines lack a critical cleaning mechanism for mitigating this issue. Because direct injection engines do not have fuel flowing through the valves, which effectively cleans them, these engine systems can accumulate a significant amount of carbon.
Carbon buildup isn’t always the result of bad engine design. Poor maintenance and low-quality oil are also significant contributors to this issue. Carbon deposits will continue to accumulate on the engine valves if they are not properly maintained. This deposit will harden on internal engine components over time unless cleaned or further harm occurs. To avoid this problem, it is critical to utilize high-quality engines and maintain them on a regular basis.
Let’s look at a list of the most prevalent indications of carbon buildup in the Ford Ranger’s 2.3L Ecoboost engine below.
Related : The Upgrade Guide for the Ford Mustang 2.3L EcoBoost Intercooler
Carbon Buildup in 2.3L Ecoboost Symptoms:
- Idle time
- Engine starts up slowly.
- The exhaust emits black smoke.
- Acceleration and performance have been reduced.
- Misfiring engine cylinders
- Sensor failure and the check engine light
Summary of Ford Ranger Reliability and Common Issues
Fortunately, following some of Ford’s initial recalls and remedies, many drivers find that the 2.3L Ecoboost is a fairly reliable everyday vehicle. Two of the key issues we focused on (blown head gaskets and carbon buildup) are uncommon enough for us to grade the engine’s overall reliability as above average to very good. Furthermore, the investigated engine overheating issues are becoming less common in the current generation of Ford cars powered by the 2.3L EcoBoost engine. As a result, it is difficult to scrutinize an engine that balances durability and economy in its diverse applications. Check out our previous post on the most common 2.3L EB faults for more information on overall difficulties with the Ford 2.3L Ecoboost engine.
Ranger 2.3L Ecoboost Conclusion and Verdict
The Ford Ranger appears to be an excellent match for this engine. The model has a lightweight, economical engine with adequate power to support the standard towing capacity of 3,500 lbs. For current trucks, 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque aren’t regarded outrageously powerful. Nonetheless, the Ranger remains an effective and efficient alternative for anyone looking for a dependable vehicle in today’s automotive market. We anticipate that these engines will achieve 200,000 miles without experiencing any major issues. Again, this is based on a variety of factors, including appropriate maintenance, prompt repairs, and the degree of aggressive driving. Upgraded Ford Ranger options can increase towing capability to 7,500 pounds. However, the Ford Ranger 2.3L Ecoboost standard engine is still a fantastic choice for drivers looking for a reliable, efficient everyday engine that meets the needs of the majority of truckers.
