Ford F-150, Expedition & Navigator Camshaft Guide (2017-2024 3.5L EcoBoost)

Engine & Vehicle Applicability

This article specifically covers the camshafts and related timing components for the second-generation 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine found in the following North American market vehicles:

• 2017-2024 Ford F-150
• 2018-2024 Ford Expedition
• 2018-2024 Lincoln Navigator

Symptoms of Camshaft & Cam Phaser Failure

In these Ford models, camshaft issues are almost always linked to the Variable Cam Timing (VCT) system, specifically the cam phasers. While the camshaft itself is a durable metal shaft, the phasers attached to them are a known point of failure. The most common complaint is a distinct noise from the engine.

1. Cold Start Rattle

The most notorious symptom is a loud rattling or tapping noise from the front of the engine that occurs on a cold start, especially after the vehicle has been sitting for several hours. This noise typically lasts for 2-5 seconds and then goes away as oil pressure builds. The sound is caused by a faulty locking pin inside the cam phaser. When the engine is off, this pin is supposed to lock the phaser in a base position. When it fails, oil drains out of the phaser, allowing the internal rotor to move around freely on startup until oil pressure stabilizes it, creating the rattle.

2. Rough Idle and Poor Performance

As the phaser issues worsen, you may notice a rough or unstable idle. The engine might feel sluggish, hesitate on acceleration, or exhibit a general loss of power. This happens because the failed phasers are unable to accurately control the camshaft timing, leading to inefficient engine operation. In some cases, this can also lead to engine stalling.

3. Check Engine Light

A failing camshaft or phaser will often trigger the Check Engine Light. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) constantly monitors the position of the camshafts relative to the crankshaft. If the positions are out of sync due to a stretched timing chain or a malfunctioning phaser, it will store diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). Common codes include:

• P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019: These codes indicate a Crankshaft Position - Camshaft Position Correlation error for one of the four camshafts. They are a strong indicator of a stretched timing chain or a stuck cam phaser.
🎬 See how these correlation codes lead to engine failure.
• P0011, P0012, P0021, P0022: These codes point to the camshaft position being over-advanced or over-retarded.

4. Metal Debris in Engine Oil

In severe cases of camshaft or lifter wear, tiny metal particles can shear off and circulate in the engine oil. When changing the oil, you might see a metallic sheen in the used oil or find metal shavings on the magnetic drain plug. This is a sign of a critical internal engine problem that requires immediate attention.

Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls

The cam phaser rattle is a widely recognized problem. Ford has issued several Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) and a Customer Satisfaction Program to address it.

• TSB 21-2119: This bulletin supersedes previous versions and applies to 2017-2020 F-150, Expedition, and Navigator models built on or before October 31, 2019. It addresses the cold start rattle by calling for the replacement of all four VCT units (cam phasers).
• Customer Satisfaction Program 21N03: This program extended warranty coverage for the cam phasers on affected vehicles. It was intended for owners who still experienced noise after a previous PCM software update (21B10). The program had specific conditions and expiration dates.

It's important to note that these are not safety recalls. Ford has stated that a noisy cam phaser does not affect vehicle safety, performance, or emissions, though many owners report drivability issues.

Buying a Used Engine Camshaft

When buying a used camshaft for your 3.5L EcoBoost, you are often purchasing it as part of a complete cylinder head assembly. It is rare to find just the camshaft sold individually from a recycler. Given the known issues with this engine's timing system, careful inspection is crucial.

What to Physically Inspect:

• Lobe Surfaces: Carefully examine the surface of each cam lobe (the egg-shaped bumps). They should be perfectly smooth and polished. Run your finger over them. Any signs of pitting, scoring (scratches), grooves, or a rough texture indicate excessive wear or lubrication failure.
• Journal Surfaces: The journals are the smooth, machined surfaces where the camshaft rests in the cylinder head. Like the lobes, these should be free of scoring or discoloration.
• Straightness: While difficult to check without specialized tools, a bent camshaft is unusable. Damage from shipping or a catastrophic engine failure can cause this.
• Included Components: If buying a cylinder head, check the condition of the lifters (followers) and rocker arms. It is always recommended to replace lifters when replacing a camshaft.

Compatibility and Verification:

• Part Numbers are Key: The 3.5L EcoBoost has different camshafts for intake and exhaust, and they are specific to the left (driver) and right (passenger) side. The initial data provided contained a mix of part numbers for different engines. For the 3.5L EcoBoost, a right side intake camshaft is part number HL3Z-6250-F, and a right side exhaust camshaft is HL3Z-6250-L. Always verify the exact part number you need for your specific application (intake/exhaust, left/right).
• Mileage vs. Maintenance: Mileage is less important than maintenance history. An engine with 100,000 miles that had regular, high-quality oil changes is a better bet than a 50,000-mile engine with a poor service record. Lack of oil changes is a primary cause of timing system failure. Ask the supplier for the VIN of the donor vehicle to check its history if possible.
• Why Used OEM is a Good Choice: A used OEM camshaft from a reputable recycler is often a better choice than a cheap aftermarket part. OEM parts are made to Ford's exact specifications for material hardness and profile. A good-condition used OEM part has a proven track record of performance and durability.

Cost Breakdown for Camshaft Replacement

Replacing the camshafts is a labor-intensive job that involves removing the front timing cover. Because of this, it is highly recommended to replace all related timing components at the same time, including the cam phasers, timing chains, guides, and tensioners. The costs below reflect a complete timing job, which is the standard repair for these symptoms.

Replacement Difficulty & Procedure

• Difficulty Rating: 5 out of 5 (Expert/Professional)
• Estimated Time: 9.5 - 10 hours
• DIY Feasible: No. This is not a job for a DIY mechanic. It requires specialized tools to hold the camshafts and crankshaft in time, and extensive disassembly of the engine's front end is required. An error in timing can lead to catastrophic engine damage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)