Some 2011-2024 Mustang and F-150 vehicles equipped with a 5.0L engine may exhibit a tick tap and/or typewriter ticking noise at idle after an engine oil change. It is often referred to as typewriter noise because of its similarity to the sound of a mechanical typewriter. The noise in question may be heard on some engines when engine temperatures reach 150°F (65°C) or higher and engine speed is at idle up to approximately 1700 RPM. It can typically be heard at the front wheel well and is often isolated to the transmission bell housing or oil pan area. The typewriter noise tick rate can be faster or slower and is not detrimental to the engine function or durability and has no short or long t
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2014 Ford F-150 engine problems
moderate 94 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $3,100 · see engine across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
94
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$3,100
1fire
What stands out
Owners have filed 94 engine complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering engine on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
Some 2011-2021 Mustang and F-150 vehicles equipped with a 5.0L engine may exhibit a ticking noise at idle after an engine oil change. It is often referred to as typewriter noise because of its similarity to the sound of a mechanical typewriter. The noise in question may be heard on some engines when engine temperatures reach 150F (65àâÂÂC) or higher and engine speed is at idle up to approximately 1700 RPMs. It can typically be heard at the front wheel well and is often isolated to the transmission bell housing or oil pan area. The typewriter noise is not detrimental to the engine function or durability and has no short or long term effects on the engine. This an operating characteristi
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This SKU is an Oil Dipstick. The customer communication requested return of unsold inventory to inspect the dipstick tube. The dipstick tube inner diameter may be small enough that it prevents installation of the OE dipstick.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗SSM 47948 - 2010-2019 Various Vehicles - Turbocharged Engines - Oil Supply Filter Replacement When Replacing The Turbocharger Or The Turbocharger Oil Supply Tube For 2010-2019 vehicles equipped with turbocharged engines, when diagnosing and/or replacing turbo related concerns, all steps within the Workshop Manual (WSM) procedure must be followed including replacement of all mandatory discarded parts. When specified in the WSM, the turbocharger oil supply filter must be replaced whenever the turbocharger or the turbocharger oil supply tube are replaced. Turbocharger bearing failure may occur if oil starvation occurs due to a restricted filter.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 5.0L 4V engines may exhibit a tick/tap/rattle or knock immediately after secondary timing chain tensioner installation. In some cases the secondary timing chain tensioners are not fully released during installation.To confirm, remove both valve covers and inspect the secondary timing chains and tensioners. If the chain is loose fitting and the tensioner does not appear to be extended, using your hand depress the chain/guide and tensioner several times or until the tensioner releases taking up the slack in the chain. If the chain does not have slack, follow Workshop Manual Section 303-00 to diagnose. The Workshop Manual section 303-01C has been updated to reflect the installation releasi
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2014 F-150 engine—particularly the 3.5L turbocharged models—shows a pattern of systemic failures that Ford has acknowledged but declined to recall. Exhaust manifolds warp from engine heat as early as 45,000 miles, snapping studs and destroying gaskets; owners pay $3,400+ to replace both sides. Timing chains wear prematurely (75,000–100,000 miles), triggering diagnostic code P0016 and loss of power on hills and merges. Ford issued a technical service bulletin for this but denies warranty coverage to used-car buyers. Electronic throttle bodies fail repeatedly—one owner had his replaced at 62,000 miles and again at 111,000—leaving drivers stranded with zero accelerator response at highway speed while the engine idles. Turbochargers leak coolant from connectors at 100,000+ miles; multiple owners report parts backlogs due to the volume of identical failures. Rough idle and misfires plague these trucks, especially in rain, with factory spark plugs gapped incorrectly from the factory. Dealers acknowledge "this is a known issue" but offer no remedies. Owners cite multiple hotline calls and online forums documenting hundreds of complaints for the same failures, yet no recall has materialized.
Same Ford F-150 engine reports on nearby years: 2011 · 2015 · 2017
Failure modes owners describe
Exhaust manifold warping
Cast exhaust manifolds warp due to insufficient hardening, causing broken exhaust studs, damaged gaskets, and severe exhaust leaks. Heat from the engine deforms the metal, compromising the seal.
When: Varies; reported as early as 45,000 miles; some vehicles well-maintained in storage still affected
Symptoms owners cite: Loud clicking noise on acceleration that progresses to clicking mixed with whistling; Loud chirping or screaming sound when accelerating (described as bird-like or wild animal noise); Severe exhaust leak; Potential engine damage if not repaired
Repairs/costs cited: Requires replacement of warped manifold and broken studs/gaskets; owner reported quotes of $1,700 per manifold × 2 ($3,400 total); parts and labor intensive
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford acknowledged the problem to at least one owner, stated materials aren't holding up to driving conditions, and began redesigning manifolds for aftermarket purchase; no recall issued
Timing chain and phaser failure
Worn primary timing chain and defective variable camshaft timing (VCT) phasers cause loss of engine timing control. Timing chain tensioner may also fail. Diagnostic code P0016 indicates camshaft timing misalignment.
When: 75,000–148,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light illuminates; Vehicle slows down or loses power while driving uphill or at highway speeds; Rattling or loud knocking noise from engine, especially during cold starts; Loss of power and hesitation upon acceleration; Engine shuddering and severe shake
Codes mentioned: P0016
Repairs/costs cited: Timing chain replacement required; one owner reports phaser replacement needed within days of chain work; another had camshaft and timing belt/chain replaced at 148,000 miles
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) issued for 2011–2014 F-150 models with 3.5L GTDI engine built on or before 10/10/2014 covering worn primary timing chain; some owners advised to contact manufacturer for recall; out-of-warranty vehicles denied coverage
Electronic throttle body failure and limp mode
Electronic throttle body malfunctions or sticks, forcing the vehicle into limp mode (reduced power mode) to protect the engine. Owners report sudden, recurring loss of power and inability to accelerate, with or without warning codes. Engine remains running but fuel delivery is cut off or severely restricted.
When: 32,000–216,000 miles; one owner had failure at 62,000 miles and again at 111,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Complete loss of engine power while driving at various speeds (highway, city, merging); Engine continues running but accelerator pedal unresponsive; Orange service wrench indicator on dashboard; Check engine light illuminated (sometimes); Vehicle limited to idle speed or 30–35 MPH; Vehicle goes into limp mode; No fault codes retrieved by dealership scanner in some cases
Codes mentioned: P2112
Repairs/costs cited: Electronic throttle body replacement; costs quoted at $400; one owner had to replace unit twice (at 62,000 and 111,000 miles); some vehicles show no fault codes initially, delaying diagnosis
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealers acknowledge this is a known issue; one dealer indicated Ford knew about it years ago but claimed it's no longer common; parts placed on back order due to high volume of similar claims; some owners referred to NHTSA Hotline
Turbocharger coolant leaks
Both driver and passenger side turbochargers leak coolant, typically from the radiator pipe connector or turbo housing itself. Coolant leaks onto engine components, exhaust, or skid plate, creating fire and engine damage risk.
When: 119,000–140,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Abnormal coolant odor while parked; Coolant warning light illuminates; Visible coolant leaking from turbo area onto skid plate or exhaust; Check engine light may illuminate; Steam or smoke from engine bay
Repairs/costs cited: Turbocharger replacement required; parts unavailable due to high demand during cold weather; one owner experienced repeated leaks even after hose and o-ring replacement; mechanic advised vehicle unsafe to drive
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealer acknowledged turbocharger coolant leak but did not diagnose; one contact referred to NHTSA Hotline; manufacturer acknowledged issue was widespread (parts shortage reported)
Vacuum pump and rear main seal leaks
Multiple gasket and seal failures allow oil and coolant to leak onto turbochargers, oxygen sensors, and other engine bay components. Vacuum pump, rear main cover gasket, and other seals fail prematurely.
When: 131,300–140,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light illuminates; Oil or coolant pooling on engine or leaking onto turbos and oxygen sensors; Loss of power or hesitation
Repairs/costs cited: Turbos, oxygen sensors, vacuum pump, and rear main cover gasket replacement needed; repairs not completed in reported cases
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealer diagnosed the failures but no warranty assistance offered; manufacturer referred contact to NHTSA
Misfire and rough idle
Engine misfires during idle and acceleration, especially in rain or when attempting to pass traffic. Vehicle shakes and stutters. Spark plugs factory-gapped incorrectly. Multiple sensor replacements (coil packs, MAP sensor, oxygen sensor bank-1) have not resolved the issue.
When: 35,000–75,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Engine shakes and shutters during idle; Misfires during acceleration or when passing; Check engine light flashing; Severe shaking when attempting to merge or pass; Vehicle goes into limp mode after misfire; More pronounced during rainy conditions
Repairs/costs cited: Factory spark plugs gapped incorrectly; owners replaced coil packs, spark plugs, and MAP sensors without resolving misfire; one owner pending throttle body replacement
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recalls or TSBs referenced for this issue
Internal engine failure (connecting rod, piston, timing chain)
Engine internal components fail catastrophically, including connecting rod failure, timing chain tensioner damage, or complete engine seizure. Results in loss of power and potential engine replacement.
When: 86,000–98,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Loud knocking noise from engine; Vehicle loses motive power or stalls while parked or driving; Oil pressure light illuminates; Check engine light illuminates; Engine failure to restart or inability to maintain operation
Repairs/costs cited: Connecting rod failure requires full engine replacement; timing chain tensioner failure results in engine damage requiring replacement; costs not specified but full engine replacement required
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer advised filing NHTSA complaint; no recall or warranty assistance offered
Coolant hose and connector leaks
Lower degas hose and connectors leak coolant, causing the vehicle to overheat. Issue particularly pronounced during cold weather and affects multiple vehicles simultaneously (indicating systemic defect).
When: 32,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Coolant leaking from vehicle; Overheating risk; Coolant warning light or check engine light may illuminate
Repairs/costs cited: Hose and o-ring replacement; parts unavailable due to widespread demand; one owner reported hose replacement did not resolve leak and new hose/o-rings also leaking
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Acknowledged parts shortage due to multiple vehicles with the same failure; no further assistance provided
Temperature gauge malfunction
Engine temperature gauge reads high then drops to zero, or fluctuates erratically while driving at various speeds or at idle. No diagnostic trouble codes present.
When: 160,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Temperature gauge suddenly reads high then drops to zero; Temperature gauge fluctuates while driving and at idle; No warning lights
Repairs/costs cited: Not diagnosed or repaired; cause unknown
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer referred contact to NHTSA Hotline
Fuse box and electrical system failures
20-amp fuse box melts due to electrical overload or defect, causing the fuse to melt and fail to fit correctly when replaced. Low voltage message displayed. Electrical system becomes unreliable.
When: 106,305 miles
Symptoms owners cite: 20-amp fuse box melted; Low voltage message displayed; Service engine warning light illuminated; Steering wheel locked up and difficult to turn; Vehicle stalled at low speeds
Repairs/costs cited: Fuse relay kit replacement and replacement fuse needed; fuse did not fit correctly after repair; dealer and Ford split repair costs
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer made aware; cost-sharing arrangement with dealer
Exhaust manifold shield failure
Driver and passenger side exhaust manifold heat shields fail or rattle loose, creating noise and vibration. Shields are in process of failing on both sides.
When: 149,499 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Rattling sound from hood/engine area
Repairs/costs cited: Driver-side shield requires replacement; passenger-side shield in early failure stage
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Not notified
Valve cover crack
Right valve cover develops a crack, allowing oil to leak.
When: 117,400 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Oil leak from valve cover
Repairs/costs cited: Valve cover replacement required; estimate provided but not repaired
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recalls or warranties available
Water pump failure
Water pump fails and leaks coolant, usually without warning.
When: 67,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Abnormal noises from engine while driving; Coolant leaks after vehicle is restarted
Repairs/costs cited: Water pump replacement scheduled
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Not notified
Turbocharger oil leak
Turbocharger leaks oil, causing oil to pool on engine or drip onto exhaust manifold. Creates smoke and burning smell.
When: Approximately 140,000 miles or less
Symptoms owners cite: Smoke coming from hood after oil change; Burning oil smell inside cabin with heater running; Engine shaking; Check engine light blinking; Oil burning off turbo
Repairs/costs cited: Turbo replacement scheduled
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealer to schedule repair
Synthesized from 94 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 0 most recent
Had engine trouble with your 2014 Ford F-150?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the engine problem on the 2014 Ford F-150?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 94 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $3,100 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the engine typically fail?
Across the 71 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most engine failures cluster between 39,000 and 103,000 miles, with the median around 75,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 39,000; a quarter make it past 103,000. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $3,100 for engine repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to engine?
No active recalls currently cover engine issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2014/Ford/F-150.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.