While the 6.7L Powerstroke engine might have been praised and hyped as the best version in the Power Stroke series, the engine is not entirely flawless. Some specific model years of the 6.7 Powerstroke engine are flagged as the “worst” you can buy/have in your vehicle.
So, what are the worst 6.7 Powerstroke years to avoid?
The 2011 through 2014 models seem to have many problems; hence, they are easily the worst models you should avoid. Also, the 2011 – 2014 6.7L Power Stroke models are the older generation; the new-gen models from 2015 are much better and hold up pretty well.
6.7L Powerstroke Generations
There are three generations of the 6.7L Powerstroke engine; the first-gen models are the most problematic ones to choose from; you should avoid them. However, some people seem to not have any problems with the first-gen models in their trucks.
- First Generations: 2011 to 2014
- Second Generation: 2015 to 2019
- Third Generation: 2020 to date
The third-gen models are redesigned; they appear more decent and “good looking” than the older models. Also, the third-gen models are more efficient and produce more power for all kinds of activities.
See Also: What is P1211 Code On 7.3 Powerstroke?
Common 6.7 Powerstroke Years to Avoid
These model years are flagged as the worst years because they are unreliable and typically had a lot of issues – some of which could cost over $1,500 to fix.
It is advisable to avoid these 6.7 Powerstroke years – most especially if you’d be getting the engine in a used Ford truck.
Hereunder are the years of 6.7 powerstroke to avoid:
- 2011 6.7L Power Stroke
- 2012 6.7L Power Stroke
- 2013 6.7L Power Stroke
- 2014 6.7L Power Stroke
Why are these 6.7 power stroke years regarded as the ones to avoid? Well, below are the common problems you may face with these model years.
Problems With 6.7L Powerstroke Engines
1. Turbocharger Problems
Well, it’s the first generation; one should expect that the components haven’t been perfected yet. Yes, the first-gen turbocharger in the 6.7L typically fails after many miles.
The turbo failure starts in the charger (ceramic) bearings and exhibits some symptoms before it fails completely.
2. EGT Sensor Problems
The EGT (Exhaust Gas Temperature) sensor relays the exhaust gas temperature to the ECU/PCM; if this sensor fails, it will affect the engine’s after-treatment system, which may cause the check engine light to illuminate on the affected car’s dashboard.
Getting this sensor fixed costs approximately $200 (including labor and parts costs).
3. Overheating Due To EGR Cooler Clogs or Failure
The EGR Cooler is the device that helps the 6.7 power stroke to comply with the Euro 6 emissions standard.
It does this by cooling down the exhaust gas being recirculated into the engine; as the exhaust gas cools down, the NOx content drops significantly, resulting in environmentally friendlier emissions.
But then, when the EGR cooler is clogged or damaged, the engine would start producing more harmful emissions. EGR cooler failure can also lead to engine overheating and stalling. If left to linger, this problem could break down the engine completely. Getting a new EGR cooler costs less than $150.
4. Pump Failures
The fuel pump or injector/injection pump typically fails after many miles on the older-gen 6.7L Powerstrokes.
Failure of both or either of these pumps can cause engine stalling, rough idling, hard starting, or loss of power while driving (acceleration). Fixing this problem can cost up to $1,500 or more, depending on the level of damage.
5. Radiator Coolant Leaks
Some old-gen 6.7 power stroke engine owners complain of constant low coolant levels. This happens due to leaks in the primary radiator. The 6.7L Power Stroke engine comes with dual radiators; the primary radiator seems more unreliable than the secondary one.
Most Reliable 6.7 Powerstroke Years
The models in the second and third generations of the 6.7 Powerstroke series seem to hold up pretty. One can easily say that the years after 2014 (which ended the first-gen era) are the best years to buy. In other words, from 2015 thru 2022, 6.7 Powerstroke years are the best to buy.
These newer models are more reliable, fortified, charged, and flaunt a much better-looking appearance. There are just more improvements on 2015-to-date models that make them much better. Also, starting from the 2017 model, Ford redesigned the 6.7L turbo-diesel engine.
Wanna learn more? Here’s our detailed article on the common 6.7 Powerstroke problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Life Expectancy Of 6.7 Power Stroke?
This Ford turbo-diesel engine is predicted to last up to 500,000 miles with proper maintenance and regular servicing. The engine is powerful and well-built; it was completely designed and built by Ford’s in-house team of expert engineers. You should expect this engine to last over 20 years or 500,000 miles.
How Much Horsepower Does The 6.7 Power Stroke Have?
Straight out from the factory, the newer models of this engine produce up to 400hp and 800lb-ft of torque. Also, some models of this engine can produce a whopping 475 horsepower at 2,600 rpm along with 1,050lb-ft torque. It’s truly a powerful engine.
What is a 6.7 Scorpion?
The Ford 6.7L turbo-diesel V8 engine is nicknamed “Scorpion” because of the amount of power it offers. Literally, a 6.7 Scorpion is simply a 6.7L diesel engine from Ford Motors; this engine is used in most new Ford Heavy Duty and Super Duty vehicles. It is designed in a “V” configuration and features an Overhead Valve Design (OHV).
Is The 2017 6.7 Powerstroke a Good Engine?
Sure it is; Ford redesigned the 6.7 Powerstroke engine in 2017, so 2017 isn’t only a good engine, but it looked much better than the older models – and more powerful too.
What More?
This article explains the 6.7 Powerstroke years to avoid, as well as detail the reasons why you should avoid them.
Also, we listed the best years you can buy; hence, this article provides a comprehensive overview of information regarding all model years of the 6.7L Power Stroke engine. Overall, the 6.7 diesel engine is powerful, sturdy, and predicted to last over a very long time.