The 6.0L Powerstroke engine is the successor of the infamous 7.3L Power Stroke engine. While the 6.0L power stroke engine isn’t as powerful as its predecessor, it is more eco-friendly and efficient.
But then, just as the 7.3L powerstroke has its problems, the 6.0L model(s) has its issues too. So, what are the the 6.0 Powerstroke problems?
The 6.0 Powerstroke engine is linked with various problems, such as EGR Cooler problem, HPOS failure, head gasket problems, FICM failure, and pretty other issues. The occurrence of these problems can be delayed or totally stopped through regular servicing and maintenance.
Now, let’s quickly learn more about the common problems associated with the 6.0 Powerstroke Ford engines!
What is 6.0 Powerstroke Engine?
The 6.0 Powerstroke engine was launched in 2003 as the successor of the 7.3 Powerstroke. This engine (6.0 Powerstroke) was designed for use in Ford Super Duty trucks, vans, and SUVs.
Yes, it is a diesel engine like the 7.3L model, but with more advanced components to satisfy the U.S. federal emissions regulations.
You’d find this Navistar-built engine in 2003-2007 Ford Super Duty 250/350/450 trucks. Also, it was used in 2003-2005 Ford Excursion SUVs and 2003-2012 Ford E-Series vans and chassis cabs.
Features of this engine include an Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system, four-valve cylinder heads, HEUI fuel injection system, and a quick-spooling variable geometry turbocharger. However, despite all these advanced features, the 6.0L engine was tagged as one of the most unreliable Powerstroke diesel engines.
Common 6.0 Powerstroke Problems
Listed and explained below are the most common issues with the 6.0L Powerstroke engine used in most Ford vehicles from 2003 – 2012.
The problems do not happen simultaneously, and you can avoid/delay their occurrence by keeping up with maintenance, servicing the engine regularly, and using OEM-recommended fluids.
1. HEUI Injector Problems
Power Stroke engines typically have injector problems; although the injectors used in the 6.0L Powerstroke were advanced, they were not immutable to high mileage. The 6.0L Powerstroke engine came with HEUI injectors (Hydraulically Actuated Electronically Controlled Unit Injectors).
These injectors are prone to static friction due to carbon and sludge build-up in the spool valves. When the injectors get stuck, they can cause a lot of problems, including hard starting, stalling, and rough idling. Unclogging the HEUI injectors doesn’t really cost much.
2. Head Gasket Failure
Cylinder head cracks are common with the 6.0L Powerstroke, and any problem with the head gasket affects the Torque-To-Yield head studs and vice versa.
Well, most reports regarding head gasket or TTY head stud failure on the 6.0L Powerstroke engine allegedly happened after the owners did aftermarket modifications on their trucks, which made the head studs unable to handle the additional pressure.
3. Turbo Problems
The Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT) in 6.0L Powerstroke uses “vanes” to adjust the turbine housing. Practically, the VGT seems to offer decreased spool times and better-operating characteristics than the one used in the 7.3L power stroke, but the vanes do get clogged.
When the VGT vanes can are clogged or stuck open, the turbocharger won’t perform as expected, and the engine’s throttle response would drop, too.
Well, you can unclog the vanes by removing the turbocharger to clean the vanes. Your mechanic may suggest another way to fix this issue.
4. Sensor Failure (ICP and IPR)
The ICP (Injection Control Pressure) sensor and the IPR Injection Pressure Regulator) sensor are the two commonest sensors that typically go bad in 6.0L Powerstroke engines.
While the ICP transmits information about the oil pressure in the high-pressure oil rail, the IPR controls pressure in the high-pressure oil system (HPOS). These two sensors are liable to fail in 6.0 power stroke engines.
5. EGR Problems
The EGR valves and EGR coolers in the 6.0L Power Stroke are among the commonest systems that develop issues after some time. EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valves control the amount of exhaust gases reintroduced into the engine; this valve help to reduce NOx emissions.
On the other hand, the EGR cooler, which is more like a “heat exchanger,” cools the exhaust gases just before they are reintroduced into the engine. When either or both of these EGR components fail, it could lead to poor fuel efficiency and excessive idling.
6. FICM Problems
Every power stroke engine is equipped with a computerized fuel injection controller. The 6.0 Powerstroke comes with a Fuel Injection Control Module (FICM). This module controls the fuel injectors; it amplifies the injectors’ circuits from 12V to 48V to supercharge them for better performance.
You’d know the FICM is bad when your truck or SUV with the 6.0 Powerstroke engine refuses to start, or you always notice a loss of power while driving. If you’re getting a new FICM installed for you, the new module must be configured to work with your car engine’s PCM.
See Also: How to Fix P1280 Code On 7.3 Powerstroke
What More?
Well, nothing more. These are the most likely problems you’d experience with the 6.0 Powerstroke engine. These 6.0 Powerstroke problems typically occur at high mileage and are quite avoidable through consistent maintenance.