Ford has earned a strong reputation for producing reliable engines, with standout performers like the 5.4-liter Triton V8, which is celebrated for its longevity, often exceeding 400,000 miles with proper care.
Backed by decades of engineering expertise, Ford has built a variety of engines known for their durability, with several capable of reaching the 500,000-mile mark. This longstanding commitment to quality and performance has solidified Ford’s position as a trusted name in the automotive industry.
To showcase this reliability, a list of the ten most dependable Ford engines has been compiled, highlighting where each one can be found. The selections were made through detailed research, using reliability data from sources like J.D. Power and CarSurvey.
Ratings were based on average owner-reported scores, while mileage records came from CarSurvey entries. The list, updated in March 2024 to ensure accuracy, includes a newly added engine based on its strong reliability performance. All technical specifications were verified using official Ford data.
10. 300 Cubic-Inch Inline-Six
The Ford 300 inline-six engine, produced from 1965 to 1996, stands as a testament to durability and versatility in Ford’s engine lineup. With a displacement of 4.9 liters (300 cubic inches), this gasoline-powered workhorse generated between 101 and 170 horsepower and 223 to 283 lb-ft of torque.
Though often overshadowed by Ford’s V8 engines, the 300 Six proved its mettle in numerous roles—powering F-Series trucks and Broncos, as well as being a popular choice in industrial applications like generators, tractors, woodchippers, and even dump trucks.
Despite its age, the Ford 300 Six has maintained a solid reputation for reliability. According to six owner reviews on Carsurvey, the engine scored an impressive average reliability rating of 8.7 out of 10.
Individual reviews highlighted consistent performance over decades, with top scores of 10/10 from both a 1984 and a 1995 F-150, underscoring the engine’s long-term dependability. Even lower-scoring reviews still rated it a respectable 7/10, indicating a consistently strong performance across different model years.
Reported mileage from owners further reinforces the engine’s durability. Vehicles powered by the 300 Six commonly exceeded 200,000 miles, with two reviews reporting mileage above 300,000. For example, a 1994 F-150 was still running strong at 325,000 miles, while a 1984 model had clocked in at 300,000.
These high-mileage examples illustrate the engine’s legendary longevity and make it a standout choice for those prioritizing reliability and endurance in a powertrain.
9. 351 Windsor
The Ford 351 Windsor (351W) V8 engine, produced between 1969 and 1997, became one of the most widely produced and respected engines in Ford’s history.
With a 5.8-liter displacement and power output ranging from 153 to 300 horsepower, it was a versatile powerhouse used in a variety of vehicles, including the Mustang SVT Cobra R, F-150 Lightning, Ford Bronco, Thunderbird, and LTD.
Known for delivering up to 380 lb-ft of torque, the 351W’s robust design made it ideal for both performance and utility applications.
The 351W not only delivered impressive performance but also gained a reputation for long-term reliability, helping to dispel the stereotype of Ford’s engines being high-maintenance. It wasn’t uncommon for these engines to surpass 300,000 miles, a testament to their engineering durability.
Owners frequently praised the engine’s ability to keep running strong across decades, contributing to its reputation as one of the longest-lasting Ford engines. This widespread usage and dependability made it a favorite among enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike.
According to reviews from five vehicle owners on Carsurvey, the 351 Windsor earned an average reliability score of 9.2 out of 10. Most reviews rated it a perfect 10/10, with the lowest scores still being a solid 8/10. Reported mileage ranged from 68,000 to a remarkable 356,810 miles, further underscoring the engine’s endurance.
These high satisfaction ratings and mileage figures make the 351W a standout example of Ford’s ability to build engines that combine power, reliability, and longevity.
8. 351 Cubic-Inch Cleveland V8
The Ford 351 Cleveland V8, produced between 1970 and 1974, was a performance-focused engine that emerged during the golden era of American muscle cars. With a displacement of 5.8 liters and power output ranging from 260 to 330 horsepower, it delivered substantial torque figures between 355 and 380 lb-ft.
Though its production run was short compared to the 351 Windsor, the Cleveland quickly earned a reputation for high performance, especially in vehicles like the Ford Gran Torino and Mercury Cougar.
Despite being a high-performance engine, the 351 Cleveland was also built to last. Thanks to its cast iron block and cylinder heads, many owners have reported reaching over 300,000 miles with proper care and maintenance.
This strong construction has contributed to its enduring popularity among classic car enthusiasts and collectors. The engine’s reliability, paired with its muscle car roots, makes it a standout example of engineering from that era.
According to five reviews on Carsurvey, the 351 Cleveland boasts an impressive average reliability rating of 9.4 out of 10. Most reviewers gave it near-perfect scores, citing dependable performance and longevity.
Reported mileage ranged from over 100,000 to 210,000 miles, with many examples still running strong after decades. These reviews reflect the engine’s solid build quality and ability to withstand the test of time, cementing its legacy as one of Ford’s most admired V8s.
7. Ford 6.8L Triton Engine
The Ford 6.8L Triton V10 engine, produced from 1997 to 2021, is Ford’s largest modular engine, designed to handle the heavy demands of Ford’s larger trucks and vans. With a displacement of 6.8 liters and producing between 275 and 362 horsepower, the engine also delivers between 425 and 460 lb-ft of torque.
It shares many features with the 5.4L Triton V8, including a similar bore and stroke but with two additional cylinders. The 6.8L Triton was used in a variety of vehicles, including the Ford F250 Super Duty, Excursion, E250/E350 Econoline, and F53 stripped chassis, making it a versatile option for commercial and heavy-duty applications.
The engine’s design emphasizes durability and performance, incorporating features like a split-pin crankshaft, a balance shaft to reduce vibrations, and a single overhead camshaft valvetrain. Additionally, it utilizes aluminum cylinder heads and a cast iron block for strength.
Throughout its production, the engine saw enhancements, particularly from 2005 onward, when the number of valves per cylinder increased from 2 to 3, improving airflow and overall performance. This robust construction helped ensure that the 6.8L Triton could withstand the stress of heavy-duty applications over long periods.
With a remarkable reliability rating of 9.5/10, the 6.8L Triton engine has earned high praise from owners, particularly for its ability to deliver the “Built Ford Tough” experience.
Reviews from users of vehicles powered by this engine, such as the 1999 Ford F250 Super Duty and the 2001 Ford Excursion, frequently mention its strength and dependability.
High-mileage examples also demonstrate its longevity, with a 2000 Ford Econoline E350 Super Duty reaching over 331,000 miles. These factors have made the 6.8L Triton a trusted engine for commercial and heavy-duty users who require a tough, long-lasting powertrain.
6. 5.0-liter Coyote V8
The 5.0L Coyote V8 engine from Ford, introduced in 2011, has become known for its impressive performance and durability. With a displacement of 5.0 liters, this naturally aspirated engine produces anywhere from 360 to 500 horsepower and 380 to 487 lb-ft of torque, depending on the application and model year.
Initially debuting in the Ford Mustang GT, the Coyote engine has since powered a range of Ford vehicles, including the Mustang Boss 302, F-150, and the 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse.
Over the years, the engine has gone through four generations of upgrades, improving its performance and technology, all while maintaining a reputation for reliability.
The 5.0L Coyote V8 engine has received high marks for reliability, with an impressive average rating of 9.6 out of 10 based on user reviews from Carsurvey. Reviewers consistently praise the engine’s performance and dependability, with many owners reporting minimal issues even after years of use.
For example, a 2013 Ford Mustang GT Premium with the Coyote V8 had 120,300 miles, while a 2014 Ford F-150 with the same engine had just over 64,000 miles. The engine’s robust design and performance make it one of Ford’s most reliable and sought-after powertrains.
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5. 4.6-Liter Modular V8
The 4.6-liter Modular V8, produced by Ford from 1991 to 2014, played a significant role in the resurgence of American V8 engines during the 1990s. It found its way into a wide array of Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles, including the Lincoln Town Car, Mercury Grand Marquis, Ford Crown Victoria, and various Ford Mustangs.
As the first engine in Ford’s Modular family, the 4.6L V8 set the stage for future innovations in Ford’s powertrain lineup. Despite not being as extreme as the legendary Boss 429, the 4.6L offered strong power, ranging from 190 to 390 horsepower, and was known for its smooth operation and reliability.
The 4.6L Modular V8 gained a reputation for durability, with many owners reporting high-mileage vehicles that continue to perform well. This engine was praised for its unwavering reliability, a crucial factor that contributed to its popularity among everyday drivers and car enthusiasts alike.
Its long-lasting nature made it a reliable choice in various vehicles, including the Ford Mustang GT/Bullitt, Mustang SVT Cobra, and Ford F150, where it was widely used in models like the F150 XLT 4×4 and Expedition XLT.
With an average reliability score of 9.6/10 from Carsurvey reviews, the 4.6L Modular V8 is considered one of Ford’s most dependable engines. Many owners reported impressive mileage, with examples such as a 1997 Ford F150 XLT 4×4 reaching over 304,000 miles.
The engine’s strong construction and consistent performance over time are key reasons for its longevity, with several models, including the 1996 Ford Mustang GT and the 2003 Ford F150 Lariat Supercrew, also achieving high mileage without major issues.
This robust performance has made the 4.6L V8 a staple of Ford’s lineup throughout its production run.
4. Ford 6.7-Liter PowerStroke V8
The 6.7-liter PowerStroke V8, introduced by Ford in 2011, is a highly durable diesel engine that has earned a reputation for reliability. Featuring a compacted graphite iron (CGI) block and cylinder heads, a nodular iron crankshaft, and forged-steel connecting rods, the engine is built to withstand high stress and deliver long-lasting performance.
Additionally, it includes advanced components like cast-aluminum pistons with oil squirting jets, enhancing its durability and efficiency.
This engine can produce up to 500 horsepower and 1,200 lb-ft of torque, making it ideal for heavy-duty tasks like towing large loads, with a maximum towing capacity of up to 40,000 pounds when paired with a gooseneck trailer.
Despite its robust construction and impressive performance, the 6.7-liter PowerStroke V8 has a more modest reliability rating of 7 out of 10, based on user reviews, such as one from a 2013 Ford F-250 Super Duty owner.
While this engine is generally reliable, its performance may vary depending on maintenance and usage. The reported mileage for the engine in some vehicles, such as the 2013 Ford F-250 Super Duty, has been relatively low, with one review indicating 1,989 miles at the time of reporting.
Nonetheless, the 6.7-liter PowerStroke V8 remains a trusted option for those seeking a high-performance, heavy-duty diesel engine for demanding tasks.
3. 390 Cubic-Inch FE V8
The Ford 390 cubic-inch FE V8 engine, produced from 1961 to 1976, became a standout during the muscle car era, directly competing with GM’s 396 V8. Known for its impressive performance, it delivered between 255 and 401 horsepower and 376 to 430 lb-ft of torque.
This engine was featured in iconic cars such as the 1969 Ford Mustang and 1968 Mercury Cyclone GT, making a major mark during the horsepower battle of the 1960s and early 1970s.
Although production ceased in 1975, the 390 FE V8 continues to be a favorite among muscle car enthusiasts due to its renowned reliability and power output.
The 390 FE V8’s reputation for reliability is exceptional, with an impressive average reliability rating of 9.8 out of 10 based on reviews from owners of vehicles equipped with this engine.
Many of the reviews praise the engine’s durability and consistent performance over the years. For example, owners of the 1964 Ford Galaxie 500 XL, 1968 Ford Fairlane 500, and 1969 Ford F-250 Ranger all rated their experiences highly, often providing perfect scores for the engine’s dependability.
This high reliability score reflects its solid construction and the engine’s ability to stand the test of time, making it a popular choice for vintage car collectors.
In terms of longevity, the 390 FE V8 has been known to rack up impressive mileages. One owner reported 220,000 miles on their 1965 Ford Galaxie 500, while another 1967 Ford Fairlane GTA owner mentioned reaching 160,000 miles with the same engine.
This is a testament to the engine’s ability to endure high-mileage use, further cementing its place as one of Ford’s most respected and reliable powerplants of its era. Despite being discontinued over four decades ago, the Ford 390 V8 continues to be remembered and revered by those who appreciate classic American muscle cars.
2. 5.4-liter Modular V8
The 5.4L Triton V8 engine, produced by Ford from 1997 to 2017, is known for its durability and reliability. It has been featured in a variety of Ford and Lincoln vehicles, including the F-Series trucks, E-Series vans, Mustang SVT Cobra R, Lincoln Navigator, and Lincoln Blackwood.
The engine is recognized for handling tough conditions and delivering impressive performance, with power outputs ranging from 235 to 550 horsepower and torque from 330 to 510 lb-ft. Its robust construction and reliability have made it a popular choice for both workhorse vehicles and performance models.
One of the key reasons the 5.4L Triton V8 is so highly regarded is its longevity, with many owners reporting over 400,000 miles on the engine. This reliability has earned it high praise from users, reflected in its impressive reliability rating of 9.8/10, based on reviews from Carsurvey.
The engine’s ability to endure for hundreds of thousands of miles without major issues has contributed to its reputation as one of Ford’s most dependable engines.
Despite its discontinued production in 2017, the 5.4L Triton V8 remains a well-respected powertrain. It has proven to be a solid choice for both daily drivers and heavy-duty vehicles, with numerous reports of vehicles still running strong with high mileage.
This engine’s combination of performance, durability, and longevity has solidified its place in Ford’s history and continues to be a favorite among car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike.
1. 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6
The 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, produced by Ford since 2009, is a key component of the company’s EcoBoost lineup, designed for both power and fuel efficiency. It has been featured in a range of popular vehicles such as the Ford F-150, F-150 Raptor, Ford GT, Lincoln Navigator, and the Ford Taurus SHO.
The engine combines performance with environmental sustainability, offering between 310 and 647 horsepower and 350 to 550 lb-ft of torque. This makes it a versatile choice for both high-performance vehicles and heavy-duty trucks, excelling in demanding tasks.
The 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 is renowned for its reliability and longevity, with a perfect reliability score of 10/10 based on reviews from owners on Carsurvey. Its ability to perform well under challenging conditions and last for many miles has made it a favorite among Ford drivers.
The engine’s performance in both everyday driving and more demanding applications like towing and off-roading has contributed to its reputation for toughness and dependability.
Ford’s commitment to creating eco-conscious yet powerful engines is reflected in the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, which has earned widespread praise for its reliability and performance.
With many owners reporting high satisfaction and long-term durability, this engine remains a standout in Ford’s lineup. Whether in the F-150 Raptor or the Lincoln Navigator, the 3.5 EcoBoost V6 delivers on its promise of power, efficiency, and lasting reliability.
Ford’s commitment to engineering durable and reliable engines has consistently set the brand apart in the automotive world. From the workhorse 5.4-liter Triton V8 to the high-performance 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, Ford has built a legacy of powertrains that not only deliver impressive performance but also stand the test of time.
These engines, often achieving mileage figures well beyond 300,000 miles, showcase the brand’s dedication to producing long-lasting, dependable powertrains for a wide variety of vehicles.
Whether it’s for everyday drivers or heavy-duty applications, Ford’s reliable engines continue to earn the trust and admiration of drivers worldwide, solidifying the company as a leader in the automotive industry.
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