2017 Ford Lobo
The 2017 Ford Lobo, the Mexican market version of the F-150, is a popular truck known for its versatility and capability. Engine options include the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (375 hp, 470 lb-ft of torque), the 5.0L V8 Coyote (385 hp, 387 lb-ft of torque), the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 (325 hp, 375 lb-ft of torque), and the 3.5L Naturally Aspirated V6 (282 hp, 253 lb-ft of torque). Transmission options are either a 6-speed automatic or a 10-speed automatic, depending on the engine and trim level. Owners often praise the Lobo for its comfortable ride, strong towing capacity, and modern technology. However, some common complaints revolve around potential engine issues, transmission problems (particularly with the 10-speed), and electrical glitches.
Engine
3.5L EcoBoost V6
- Cam Phaser Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Ticking or rattling noise upon cold start, rough idling, loss of power, and potential stalling. This occurs due to wear or failure of the cam phasers, which are crucial for variable valve timing.
- Solution: Replacement of the cam phasers, timing chain, and related components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Turbocharger Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine, loss of power, excessive smoke, and potentially a check engine light. This is usually due to wear or damage to the turbocharger’s internal components.
- Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the turbocharger(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
- Recalls: None Found
5.0L V8 Coyote
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Low oil levels, needing to add oil frequently between oil changes, blue smoke from the exhaust (indicating burning oil), and potential engine damage if left unaddressed. This issue is related to piston ring design in some early 5.0L Coyote engines.
- Solution: Involves replacing the piston rings with an updated design. In some cases, the entire engine needs to be rebuilt or replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $7,000+
- Recalls: None Found
2.7L EcoBoost V6
- Coolant intrusion
- Description/Symptoms: Cylinder head cracking causing coolant intrusion into the cylinder. White smoke on startup, coolant loss, rough running engine.
- Solution: Engine Replacement
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $7,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
10-Speed Automatic (10R80)
- Rough Shifting/Slipping
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, noticeable slipping between gears, clunking noises during gear changes, and hesitation when accelerating. This can be caused by valve body issues, worn clutches, or problems with the CDF drum.
- Solution: Replacement of valve body, CDF drum replacement, or full transmission rebuild/replacement
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+ depending on the severity and the required repair.
- Recalls: None Found
- Shuddering
- Description/Symptoms: A vibrating or shuddering sensation, especially at lower speeds. It is often caused by contaminated or degraded transmission fluid.
- Solution: Fluid change. In severe cases, a complete transmission replacement
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $5,000+ depending on the severity and the required repair.
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- No Issues Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Freezing/Glitches (SYNC 3)
- Description/Symptoms: The SYNC 3 infotainment system freezing, lagging, or experiencing intermittent glitches. This includes unresponsive touchscreens, Bluetooth connectivity problems, and navigation issues.
- Solution: Software updates, or replacement of the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module)
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (if software update resolves the issue) - $500 - $1,000+ (if APIM replacement is needed).
- Recalls: None Found
- Backup Camera Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Backup camera displaying a black screen, distorted image, or not functioning at all. This is often due to a faulty camera, wiring issues, or software glitches.
- Solution: Replacement of the backup camera or repair of the wiring harness.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: 2023-049 - Recall Subject : Backup Camera May Not Display
Exterior
- Power Running Board Malfunction (if equipped)
- Description/Symptoms: Power running boards failing to deploy or retract properly, making unusual noises, or getting stuck in one position. This can be due to motor failure, damaged hinges, or sensor issues.
- Solution: Replacement of the running board motor, hinges, or sensors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Seat Heater Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters not working or providing inconsistent heat. This could be due to a faulty heating element, wiring issues, or a problem with the control module.
- Solution: Replacement of the heating element, repair of the wiring, or replacement of the control module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2017 Ford Lobo offers a capable and comfortable driving experience, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues. Engine problems, particularly with the 3.5L EcoBoost (cam phaser and turbo failure) and the 5.0L Coyote (oil consumption), can be costly to repair. The 10-speed transmission can also present issues related to shifting. While electrical glitches and minor interior problems are also present, they are usually less severe. Overall, prospective buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle’s service history, and consider a pre-purchase inspection to identify any potential problems before buying.