Experiencing frustrating engine issues with your 2019 F-150 Limited? You’re not alone. This post details a perplexing problem encountered with a Certified Pre-Owned 2019 Ford F-150 Limited, equipped with the High Output 3.5L EcoBoost engine, and seeks insights from the community.
Persistent Engine Problems After Dealership Repairs on a 2019 F-150 Limited
The owner of this 2019 F-150 Limited purchased the truck with 42,000 miles as a Certified Pre-Owned vehicle. Currently, with just over 64,000 miles, the truck began exhibiting serious engine performance issues. Initially, a K&N cold air intake was the only aftermarket modification. However, about three weeks ago, a solid Check Engine Light (CEL) illuminated, accompanied by significant drivability problems.
The symptoms included a noticeable loss of power across the rev range, particularly at low end. The engine idled roughly, almost to the point of stalling. A strange symptom was the sound of air being expelled from the intake when releasing the throttle under heavy acceleration, described as similar to a quiet, constrained blow-off valve.
Diagnostic alerts appeared in the FordPass app, indicating:
- “Engine Control System has detected that one of the engines internal components is not responding as expected. This can be caused by improper engine oil pressure or improperly operating timing components.”
- “Engine Control System has detected a misalignment between the engines internal components. This fault can also occur from improper oil usage or improper engine oil maintenance.”
Despite a recent oil change less than 2,000 miles prior, a service appointment was scheduled with the local Ford dealership.
Cam Phaser and Solenoid Replacements Fail to Resolve 2019 F-150 Limited Engine Issues
During the first dealership visit, the diagnosis pointed to faulty cam phasers. These components, crucial for controlling engine timing in modern vehicles, were deemed responsible for the described symptoms. The technician explained that cam phasers are essential for engine timing, replacing the function of distributors in older engines, and their malfunction would likely cause the observed problems. As a precautionary measure, all six spark plugs were also replaced.
However, within just ten miles of driving after picking up the 2019 F-150 Limited, the solid CEL reappeared, and all the original symptoms returned. The truck was immediately taken back to Ford.
On the second visit, the dealership identified a faulty solenoid, another component involved in engine timing control. The technician suggested that the solenoid was likely becoming clogged as the engine reached operating temperature, leading to its failure. This component was replaced.
Disappointingly, the same pattern repeated. Within another ten miles, the CEL and engine performance issues recurred. The 2019 F-150 Limited is now back at the Ford dealership for a third assessment.
Seeking Community Expertise for Persistent 2019 F-150 Limited Engine Problem
At this stage, with cam phasers and a solenoid already replaced, the root cause of the engine problems in this 2019 F-150 Limited remains unresolved. The owner is reaching out to the community for any shared experiences or expert insights. Has anyone encountered similar issues with the 3.5L EcoBoost HO engine in their F-150, particularly after cam phaser and solenoid replacements? Any guidance or information based on personal experience would be greatly appreciated as the diagnosis continues.
