2015 Ford Police Interceptor Utility
The 2015 Ford Police Interceptor Utility, based on the Ford Explorer, is a popular choice for law enforcement agencies due to its spacious interior, robust build, and available all-wheel drive. Engine options included a 3.7L Ti-VCT V6 producing around 304 horsepower and 279 lb-ft of torque and a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 generating approximately 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Common praises include its practicality and durability, while complaints often revolve around maintenance costs, fuel economy, and some reported reliability issues, particularly with high-mileage vehicles that have endured heavy use.
Engine
3.7L Ti-VCT V6
- Water Pump Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Internal water pump failure can lead to coolant leaking into the engine oil, causing overheating, engine damage, and potential engine failure. Symptoms may include rising temperature gauge, coolant loss, and milky-colored oil.
- Solution: Replacement of the internal water pump, coolant flush, and oil change. In severe cases, engine replacement may be required if coolant contamination has caused significant internal damage.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+ depending on extent of damage.
- Recalls: None Found
- Ignition Coil Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, and decreased engine performance. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to misfires may be present.
- Solution: Identify and replace the faulty ignition coil(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per coil, depending on labor.
- Recalls: None Found
3.5L EcoBoost V6
- Turbocharger Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive smoke from the exhaust, unusual noises from the turbocharger area.
- Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+ per turbocharger.
- Recalls: None Found
- Coolant Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can develop from various locations, including the water pump, hoses, and fittings. Low coolant levels, overheating, and visible leaks are common symptoms.
- Solution: Identify the source of the leak and replace the affected components. Pressure testing the cooling system is helpful.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the location and complexity of the repair.
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic (6F50)
- Harsh Shifting/Slipping
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting between gears, slipping during acceleration, and delayed engagement. Diagnostic trouble codes related to transmission performance may be present.
- Solution: Fluid flush and fill, possible valve body replacement, or transmission rebuild/replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200+ for fluid flush, $500 - $1,500+ for valve body, $3,000 - $5,000+ for rebuild/replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, vibrations, and abnormal noises coming from the transmission area, particularly at lower speeds. Can also cause transmission overheating.
- Solution: Torque converter replacement. Often accompanied by a transmission fluid flush and filter replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+.
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Suspension Sag/Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Rear end of the vehicle sagging, especially when loaded, indicating worn or damaged rear springs or shocks. This leads to poor handling and ride quality.
- Solution: Replacement of the rear springs and/or shocks.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000+ depending on parts and labor.
- Recalls: None Found
- Wheel Bearing Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Humming, grinding, or roaring noises emanating from the wheels, especially when turning. Excessive play in the wheel when lifted.
- Solution: Wheel bearing replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$800+ per wheel bearing depending on labor.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Wiring Harness Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as malfunctioning lights, sensors, or other electronic components. Often caused by chafed or damaged wiring harnesses due to the high demands of law enforcement use and the installation of aftermarket equipment.
- Solution: Inspection and repair or replacement of damaged wiring harnesses.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the location and extent of the damage.
- Recalls: None Found
- Alternator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery not charging, warning lights on the dashboard, and eventual stalling.
- Solution: Alternator replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rust Around Wheel Wells and Underbody
- Description/Symptoms: Visible rust formation, especially in areas prone to moisture and salt exposure.
- Solution: Rust repair, including sanding, patching, and repainting. Application of rust inhibitor to prevent further corrosion.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+ depending on the severity and extent of the rust.
- Recalls: None Found
- Headlight Condensation
- Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight lenses, reducing visibility and potentially damaging the headlight assembly.
- Solution: Removal and cleaning of the headlight assembly, sealing any cracks or leaks. Replacement of the headlight assembly if the damage is severe.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per headlight.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- HVAC Blower Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Weak or no airflow from the vents, unusual noises from the blower motor area.
- Solution: Blower motor replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+.
- Recalls: None Found
- Door Lock Actuator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Door locks failing to lock or unlock properly, requiring manual operation.
- Solution: Door lock actuator replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per door.
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2015 Ford Police Interceptor Utility, while a robust and capable vehicle, can experience several issues, particularly given its demanding operational environment. The most concerning are the potential for engine problems such as water pump failure in the 3.7L and turbocharger issues in the 3.5L EcoBoost, along with transmission problems like harsh shifting. The cost of repairs can vary significantly depending on the issue, but engine and transmission repairs can be quite expensive, potentially reaching several thousand dollars. Suspension and electrical problems are also common, while exterior and interior issues are less severe but can still require attention. Overall, potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle, especially those with high mileage, and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic to assess the condition of critical components.