Some 2019-2020 Edge/Nautilus vehicles equipped with a 2.7L EcoBoost, 2020 Aviator vehicles equipped with a 3.0L EcoBoost or 3.0L plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) engine, 2020 Explorer vehicles equipped with a 3.0L EcoBoost, and 2020 F-150 vehicles equipped with a 2.7L EcoBoost engine may exhibit a ticking/tapping or rattle type noise from the top front cover area of the engine. This noise may occur on initial start-up after a cold soak of 6 hours or more that may last for 2-5 seconds. This may be due to an internal component of the variable cam timing (VCT) unit. If diagnostics lead to the VCTs as the source of the noise, refer to the 2024 F-150 Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-00 >
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2020 Ford F-150 engine problems
moderate 67 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $3,100 · see engine across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
67
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$3,100
1fire
When does it fail?
Of the 67 engine complaints filed for the 2020 Ford F-150, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 25,000-50,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Owners have filed 67 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 2020 Continental, 2020-2024 Edge/Nautilus, 2020-2025 Explorer/Aviator/Escape/Corsair/F-150/F-Super Duty/Ranger/Transit/E-Series, 2021-2025 Bronco, and 2022-2025 Maverick vehicles may require an engine cooling system flush to be performed for various concerns. Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-03 has been updated to eliminate the need to remove and install the radiator assembly to perform a radiator flush.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 2020-2024 F-150, 2021-2024 Bronco, and 2024 Ranger vehicles equipped with a 2.7L or 3.0L EcoBoost engine may exhibit a ticking/tapping or rattle type noise from the top front cover area of the engine on initial start-up after a cold soak of 6 hours or more that may last for 2-5 seconds. This may be due to a stuck internal component of the variable cam timing (VCT) unit.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This article supersedes TSB 22-2260 to update the vehicle applications. Some 2018-2020 F-150 vehicles equipped with a 2.7L EcoBoost may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0420 and/or P0430 stored in the powertrain control module (PCM). This may be due to calibration and controls sensitivity.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Some 2020-2024 F-150 and 2021-2024 Bronco vehicles equipped with a 2.7L or 3.0L EcoBoost engine may exhibit a ticking/tapping or rattle type noise from the top front cover area of the engine on initial start-up after a cold soak of 6 hours or more that may last for 2-5 seconds. This may be due to a stuck internal component of the variable cam timing (VCT) unit. To correct the condition, replace all 4 of the VCT units following Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-01. For claiming, use causal part 6C525 and applicable labor operations in Section 6 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual. If labor times are not available, claim M-time.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
Owners report the Auto Start-Stop system shutting down the engine mid-drive even when the feature is manually disabled—no warning lights, no check engine codes, just a dashboard message and total loss of power. This happens at various speeds from parking lots to highways, creating serious safety hazards at intersections. Dealers cannot replicate or fix it despite multiple service visits.
Excessive oil consumption is pervasive across the fleet, starting as early as 5,000 miles. Owners burn 1–3 quarts per 1,300–5,000 miles with no visible leaks. Ford's TSB 19-2365 (dipstick replacement and PCM software update) provides minimal relief. Some dealers acknowledge receiving multiple complaints but have no solution. Owners have found metal shavings in the short block, suggesting internal engine damage.
Cam phasers fail repeatedly, producing rattling or grinding noise on cold start or idle. Some owners report the same component failing three times during ownership. Acceleration becomes poor, and vehicles struggle to keep up with traffic.
Oil pressure sensor diagnostics prove frustrating—one owner's truck required dipstick, oil pressure sensor, and instrument cluster replacements across three dealer visits without resolving the low oil pressure warning.
Catalytic converter failures and engine knock sensor codes appear in the 50,000–90,000 mile range. One owner's engine seized with cracked crankshaft and oil pan. Another vehicle caught fire while parked. Dealers frequently cannot diagnose or repair these failures. Ford's responses typically reference warranty exclusions or refer owners to NHTSA rather than offer support.
Same Ford F-150 engine reports on nearby years: 2017 · 2018 · 2019 · 2021
Failure modes owners describe
Auto Start-Stop malfunction with unintended engine shutdown
Engine shuts off while driving despite Auto Start-Stop feature being manually disabled or disengaged. Occurs during normal driving, turns, or traffic stops. Vehicle displays 'Auto Start-Stop Shift to P, then Restart Engine' message. No warning lights appear before failure.
When: Various speeds (10-70 MPH), occurring across mileage ranges from 4,000 to 126,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Engine cuts off without warning while driving; Loss of all power and power steering; Inability to accelerate or maintain vehicle control; Dashboard message 'Auto Start-Stop Shift to P, then Restart Engine'; Sometimes rapid blinking turn signal or buzzing from dashboard; No check engine light before failure
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers unable to replicate or diagnose. No TSBs or fixes documented. Some owners note the service advisor mentioned receiving other complaints but no solutions available.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall issued. Manufacturers contacted but referred owners to NHTSA Hotline.
Excessive oil consumption without external leaks
Engine consumes excessive amounts of oil without evidence of leaks. Oil level drops significantly between oil changes. Owners report consuming 1-3+ quarts per 1,300-5,000 miles. Problem occurs early in vehicle life and persists after dealer service attempts.
When: Begins as early as 5,000 miles and continues through 80,000+ miles
Symptoms owners cite: Oil dipstick shows low level between scheduled changes; No visible oil leaks detected; Check engine light may illuminate; Engine rattling or noise on cold start or load; Some vehicles burn oil without visual smoke
Codes mentioned: P0327
Repairs/costs cited: TSB 19-2365 (dipstick replacement and PCM software update) applied to many vehicles but provides minimal or no relief. Some dealers recommend longer dipstick; others have no repair. Oil consumption tests performed but repair not covered under warranty in many cases.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: TSB 19-2365 issued for 2018-2020 model years but ineffective. Owners referenced TSB 19-2338 and 19-23650. Ford stated 'less than 1 quart per 3,000 miles is normal' (contradicting owner experience). Class action lawsuit mentioned by at least one dealer.
Cam phaser failure
Cam phasers fail causing rattling or grinding engine noise, poor acceleration, and engine stalling. Some owners report multiple failures of the same component within vehicle life. Occurs primarily on cold start or low RPM operation.
When: 70,000-137,000 miles; one owner reported three failures
Symptoms owners cite: Abnormal rattling or grinding sound from engine on cold start or idle; Rough idle; Check engine light illumination; Poor acceleration, vehicle cannot keep up with traffic; Engine stalling; Noise ceases after engine reaches operating temperature
Repairs/costs cited: Cam phasers replaced by dealers under warranty in some cases. One owner reported all three replacements covered by powertrain warranty; owner concerns about warranty expiration and future costs.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford Campaign 21N03 (Cam Phaser Replacement) issued but many VINs excluded. Customer Satisfaction Program referenced. Manufacturer stated some VINs not covered by recall or campaign.
Oil pressure warning light and sensor issues
Low oil pressure warning light illuminates while driving; vehicle decelerates independently or check engine light follows. Initial diagnosis often points to multiple parts (dipstick, oil pressure sensor, instrument cluster), with repeated failures after each repair.
When: Around 24,100 miles; one case at 60,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Low oil pressure warning light illumination while driving; Vehicle deceleration; Check engine light illumination after restart; Abnormal rattling sound at low speeds; Engine compartment rattle with check engine light
Repairs/costs cited: Repairs attempted include: dipstick replacement, oil/filter service, PCM update, oil pressure sensor replacement, and instrument cluster replacement. Failure persisted after each repair.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer informed but did not resolve the issue across multiple dealer visits.
Catalytic converter failure
Check engine light illuminates and vehicle lacks power or hesitates upon acceleration. Diagnostics point to catalytic converter failure. Some cases show this occurred shortly after PCM recall was performed.
When: 50,000-90,400 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light illumination; Loss of power or hesitation on acceleration despite pedal depression; Transmission shudder; Vehicle unable to reach normal speed
Codes mentioned: P0390
Repairs/costs cited: Catalytic converter replacement recommended. One case: vehicle not repaired due to cost. Another: owned by contact who received tune-up first (ineffective), then diagnosed with converter failure.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer notified in some cases. One case: contact advised to file NHTSA complaint.
Engine knock sensor and related failure
Check engine light illuminates with DTC P0327 retrieved. Diagnosis indicates engine knock sensor failure with additional gasket and part replacements needed.
When: Around 48,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine warning light; Message 'Check the engine' on mobile app
Codes mentioned: P0327
Repairs/costs cited: Engine knock sensor A, three unknown gaskets, and unknown parts identified for replacement. Vehicle not repaired.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer stated vehicle not covered under warranty and VIN not included in recall.
Crankshaft and engine block catastrophic failure
Engine seizes while driving; crankshaft cracks and oil pan cracks. Short block shows metal shavings indicating internal engine damage. Requires full engine replacement.
When: Around 80,000-183,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle fails to accelerate while pedal depressed; Engine seizes or loses power; Oil warning light illumination; Oil gauge reads zero
Repairs/costs cited: Independent mechanic diagnosed cracked crankshaft between cylinders #2 and #3, cracked oil pan, and metal shavings in short block. Engine replacement required but not performed due to cost.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer notified. Contact referred to NHTSA Hotline.
Engine overheat with cam sensor failure
Cam sensor fails causing engine to overheat. Engine becomes extremely hot, produces burning odor and smoke with loud screeching sound upon restart.
When: Around 102,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Abnormal burning odor from engine; Check engine light illumination; Smoke from engine compartment; Loud screeching sound
Repairs/costs cited: Cam sensor identified as defective and cause of overheat. Engine found low on oil despite recent oil change. Vehicle not repaired.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer confirmed VIN not under recall and no financial assistance available.
Engine fire while parked
Vehicle bursts into flames while parked for six hours. Fire consumed vehicle down to frame in less than five minutes.
When: Around 61,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle catches fire while unattended; Fire spreads rapidly
Repairs/costs cited: Vehicle declared total loss by insurance. Towed to yard.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer made aware. Contact advised to file NHTSA complaint.
Engine acceleration hesitation and poor power
Vehicle hesitates or jerks upon accelerator pedal depression at various speeds. Check engine light illuminates. Multiple repair attempts (catalytic converter replacement, transmission service, tune-ups) do not resolve issue.
When: Around 88,000-90,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Hesitation or jerking on acceleration; Check engine warning light; Reduced power output; Abnormal rattling sound from engine
Repairs/costs cited: Catalytic converter and oxygen sensors replaced, but check engine light returned with rattling sound. One case remained unrepaired; another received tune-up without resolution.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer notified in some cases. Contact referred to NHTSA Hotline.
Oil pump failure with metal shavings
Oil pump fails while driving. Metal shavings found in engine indicating internal wear or damage.
When: Around 140,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light illumination; Oil pressure warning light illumination
Repairs/costs cited: Diagnosis: oil pump failure with metal shavings in engine. Vehicle not repaired.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer made aware.
Inadequate oil fill and engine damage following service
After oil change service, check engine light illuminates. Subsequent inspection finds engine severely low on oil (5.5 quarts low). Technician opinion that oil was not properly filled during service. Engine damage suspected; subsequent inspection at 3,000 miles reveals full engine replacement necessary.
When: At 69,392 miles after oil change; failure diagnosed at ~72,000 miles (3,000 miles post-service)
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light comes on; Engine damage requiring full replacement
Repairs/costs cited: PCM reprogrammed, dipstick replaced, and engine fully replaced at cost of $11,007.10. Ford paid $5,000 under goodwill; owner paid $5,369.19 out-of-pocket. Owner suspects Ford TSB 19-2365 was ignored during 10+ inspections.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Ford agreed to pay $5,000 goodwill after contact with service manager and Ford customer relations.
Transmission shudder and power loss during recall service
Transmission shudders and vehicle loses power. Failure occurred immediately after PCM recall repair was performed.
When: Approximately 90,400 miles (day after recall repair)
Symptoms owners cite: Transmission shudder; Loss of power/acceleration; Check engine light
Repairs/costs cited: Vehicle received unknown recall PCM reprogramming the day before failure. Catalytic converter failure diagnosed but not repaired.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer made aware. Contact referred to NHTSA Hotline.
Communication error fault with no diagnostic code
Engine suddenly shuts down while driving. Diagnostic computer shows 'Communication Error Fault' but technician did not record the specific code number. Loss of all electrical power.
When: At 9,546 miles (July 18, 2021)
Symptoms owners cite: Engine sudden shutdown while driving; Rapid blinking turn signal; Buzzing from under dashboard near glove box; Red battery warning light; Loss of all electrical power; Multiple restart failures
Repairs/costs cited: Ford service dealer confirmed and connected diagnostic computer. Code number not recorded on service report.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Confirmed by Ford service dealer where vehicle was purchased.
Synthesized from 67 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 3 most recent
1. What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Auto StartStop., Yes 2. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? My 2020 Ford F150 turned off while driving on freeway and 2nd occasion, I was on a major street with traffic. 3. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? No 4. Has the…
Transmission shifts hard and searches for a gear. Loud noises from power train when stopping
The contact owns a 2020 Ford F-150. The contact stated that the message "Check the engine" was displayed on the mobile App. The contact stated upon starting the vehicle, the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where diagnostic trouble code: P0327 was retrieved. The dealer determined that the engine knock sensor A, three unknown gaskets, and unknown…
Had engine trouble with your 2020 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 2020 Ford F-150?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 67 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 35 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most engine failures cluster between 23,900 and 90,400 miles, with the median around 63,085. A quarter of owners report trouble before 23,900; a quarter make it past 90,400. 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/2020/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.