Which 6.7 Powerstroke Years to Avoid and Why? Explained

The recent 6.7 Powerstroke engine versions have been one of the prime choices for many users. However, the older versions upset many 6.7 Powerstroke users due to a lack of performance or engine efficiency. So, which 6.7 Powerstroke Years to Avoid and Why?

You should avoid the first generation of 6.7L Powerstroke engines manufactured between 2011 and 2014. Well, there are reasons behind it.

The older versions have many flaws, such as the EGT Sensor Problem, the Injection Pump Problem, and many more. These issues in the engine can resist your car from attaining optimum performance.

Therefore, to aid you with this troubleshooting, our automobile experts have shortlisted 6.7 Powerstroke years to avoid. We’ll also discuss the best 6.7 Powerstroke engine and why you should consider it.

Contents show

Which 6.7 Powerstroke Years to Avoid and Why?

The 6.7-liter turbodiesel and its function are to power heavy-duty commercial-grade vehicles and pickup trucks.

This engine also features a valve design, which is more like a V configuration and has been there for the Ford Company since 2010.

However, due to several drawbacks, it’s wise not to choose the first generation of 6.7L Powerstroke engines built between 2011 and 2014.

There are solid reasons why you should avoid the first generation of 6.7L Powerstroke. Below are the in-depth explanations for this:

EGT Sensor Issue

The first issue most users faced using 6.7L Powerstroke engines built between 2011 and 2014 was EGT Sensor failure. In a 6.7L engine, you will find four EGT sensors. For different reasons, any of these sensors may stop working.

However, one of the common misconceptions amongst users is that replacing a problematic sensor will solve the problem and make it more durable. Well, that’s not how it goes! The sensor will fail again shortly, so replacing it will be a complete waste of money.

The good news is that this problem with the EGT sensor has been identified and solved in recent versions of 6.7 Powerstroke. The latest engine has a service bulletin to update the powertrain control module.

FICM Failure

Besides the diesel engine, there is a FICM (Fuel Injection Control Module). At times, the control module gets overheated, and it may fail because of the extreme vibration and heat release from your engine.

Due to FICM failure, the engine won’t start. Moreover, the capacitors of the FICM may also get damaged due to the detrimental impact of excessive voltage or cold weather.

Although, there is a way around this issue. To begin, you must locate the defective control module, and to do this, you’ll require a scan tool. After finding the faulty control module, look at your PID data and scan the FICM.

Jammed EGR Cooler

The EGR cooler is clogged if you see engine code with P0401 or notice the engine getting overheated. People face another common problem with older 6.7 Powerstroke engines built between 2011 and 2014: frequent EGR coolers getting clogged. This clog happens due to high carbon deposition.

Even though it blocks the core entirely, it can also be a challenging job to replace the EGR cooler.

Injection Pump Issue

Generally, older versions will have some sort of design flaw. As a result, metal contamination in the fuel system is quite common in the 1st generation of the Powerstroke engines.

Moreover, this metal contamination in the fuel system leads to injection-pump failure. This issue is caused due to metal-on-metal contact within the pump. If this problem occurs, it’s wise to replace the injectors, regulators, and fuel lines.

However, you must first ascertain the gravity of the circumstance. There are many ways in which you can detect the problem. You can check for loss of power, stuttering, stalling, long cranking, and rough idle.

TTY Head Studs and Head Gasket Failures

TTY (The Torque to Yield) head studs are connected to the 6.0L diesel engine. At times, if you add a tuner, it may cause damage to your head gasket. The function of the auxiliary tuner is to increase your cylinder head pressure above the TTY capability.

It’s a very serious problem that one can face, and it may also lead to dangerous events and mishaps. However, you have to replace the TTY from your Powerstroke engine to solve this issue.

Experts’ Advice: Do make sure to replace your TTY with a brand new one, not any used TTY.

Radiator Issue

Powerstroke engines consist of two radiators. In the 6.7L models, the primary radiators cause more problems. For instance, you’ll notice low coolant or signs of overheating.

Then you have to get your coolant checked, and most likely, you’ll notice that the radiator coolant is leaking, causing these signs to appear. So, to solve this issue, you can upgrade the OEM radiator.

Turbocharger Issue

The last problem you can face while having an older model is the turbocharger. This is another issue that occurs as a result of a design defect. At first, Ford tried to resolve this problem by introducing a smaller turbo.

However, the method failed miserably. A larger turbocharger is present in the new models, which solves the problem. The advantage of designing a larger turbocharger is that the engine is more powerful than before and ensures long-lasting smooth performance.

What Year 6.7 Powerstroke Is the Best and Why?

With time, Ford has tried many ways to improve the performance of its 6.7L Powerstroke engine. Many users complained about the problems they faced with the 1st generation engines. So, in 2015, Ford emerged with a new product.

According to many users, it is a near-perfect one. From 2015 to 2019, the second generation of 6.7 Powerstroke was launched with all new updates and resolved versions. Then from 2020 onwards, the 3rd generation skyrocketed the entire market with amazing and high-performing engines.

Ford’s improvements to the second-generation engines are lower main bearing with an IROX coating. This IROX coating helps improve fuel consumption and reduce carbon dioxide emissions.

The coating also reduces friction and wears on the bearings. Ford upgraded the fan clutch, which gave the engine a heavier crankshaft damper.

Moreover, the turbo updates are made so that the engine can support more power and torque. The last improvement that Ford made was in the EGR cooler flow. Overall, the engines have become more reliable, user-friendly, and packed with high-performing features with all these improvements.

Bottom Line

Which 6.7 Powerstroke years to avoid and why?” Even though the 2011-2014 engine production years are considered the most economical products, yet, these versions may not be the best place to put your money.

If you plan to buy a 6.7 Powerstroke engine, you should go for 2015 or later models to experience the best bang for your buck.

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