2017 Ford Escape 1.5 Ecoboost Engine Replacement
Replacing the 1.5L EcoBoost engine in a 2017 Ford Escape is a significant project often necessitated by the well-documented coolant intrusion issue within the cylinder block. This guide provides a comprehensive roadmap for sourcing a redesigned replacement engine, navigating the mechanical swap, and ensuring your vehicle returns to the road with long-term reliability.
Dealing with a sudden engine failure on your 2017 Ford Escape can feel like a total loss, especially when you learn about the notorious coolant intrusion problems. You might be seeing white smoke from the exhaust or experiencing a persistent misfire that just won’t go away.
This guide will walk you through the entire 2017 ford escape 1.5 ecoboost engine replacement process, helping you understand your options for new or used units. We promise to provide the technical clarity you need to decide if this is a DIY project for your home garage or a job for a professional shop.
We will cover everything from the specific tools required to the critical steps of transferring your turbocharger and intake manifold to the new block. By the end of this article, you will have a clear, actionable plan to get your Escape back in peak performing condition.
Understanding the Need for a 2017 Ford Escape 1.5 EcoBoost Engine Replacement
Before turning a single wrench, it is vital to understand why these engines fail so frequently. The 1.5L EcoBoost engine in the 2017 model year often suffers from a design flaw in the engine block deck.
Small grooves between the cylinder bores allow engine coolant to seep into the combustion chamber. This leads to hydro-locking, cracked spark plugs, and eventually, catastrophic engine failure that cannot be fixed with a simple head gasket swap.
If your vehicle is consuming coolant without any visible external leaks, you are likely facing the need for a full replacement. Ford has released several Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) regarding this, often recommending a completely redesigned long block as the only permanent solution.
Identifying the Symptoms of Coolant Intrusion
The most common sign is a “Coolant Low” warning on your dashboard that keeps returning even after you top it off. You may also notice a rough idle immediately after a cold start, which is caused by coolant pooling in the cylinders overnight.
Check your oil dipstick for a milky, “chocolate milk” appearance. This indicates that coolant has mixed with the oil, which will rapidly destroy the main bearings and the turbocharger if left unaddressed.
The Solution: The Redesigned Block
When sourcing your replacement, look for the updated block design that eliminates the cooling slits between cylinders. Ford updated the casting to a closed-deck style or modified the cross-drilled cooling passages to prevent the metal from fatiguing and leaking.
Using an older “new old stock” engine may just result in the same failure 30,000 miles down the road. Always verify the part number with a reputable dealer to ensure you are getting the latest revision.
Sourcing Options: New, Remanufactured, or Used?
Choosing the right replacement unit is the most critical decision in this process. Your budget and how long you plan to keep the vehicle will dictate which path you take for your 2017 ford escape 1.5 ecoboost engine replacement project.
A brand-new crate engine from Ford is the gold standard for reliability. These units come with a 3-year/unlimited-mile warranty, which provides incredible peace of mind for daily drivers.
Remanufactured engines from companies like Jasper or Powertrain Products are also excellent choices. These builders often address the factory flaws during the rebuild process, offering a product that is sometimes better than the original factory unit.
The Risks of Used Engines
Buying a used engine from a salvage yard is the cheapest option, but it is also the riskiest. Since the 2017-2019 model years all shared the same 1.5L design flaw, a used engine may already have the beginnings of a block crack.
If you go the used route, try to find a 2019 or late-production engine with low mileage. Always perform a leak-down test and a cooling system pressure test while the engine is still on the pallet if possible.
What is Included in a Long Block?
Most owners should opt for a long block rather than a short block. A long block includes the cylinder head, camshafts, and valvetrain already assembled and timed.
A short block is just the bottom end (pistons and crank), requiring you to swap your old head over. Given that the head on a failing 1.5L EcoBoost is often warped from overheating, a full long block is the safer bet.
Preparation and Essential Tools for the Job
Replacing an engine in a modern, transverse-mounted SUV like the Ford Escape requires a specific set of tools and a safe workspace. You will need a heavy-duty engine hoist and a leveler to tilt the engine during removal.
Because the Escape has a very tight engine bay, you will be removing the entire front “clip” of the car. This includes the bumper, headlights, and the radiator support assembly to create enough room to pull the engine forward.
Ensure you have a high-quality set of Torx and E-Torx sockets. Ford uses these extensively on the bellhousing and accessory brackets. A digital torque wrench is also mandatory for the final assembly of critical components.
Safety First: Fuel and Electrical
Before you begin, disconnect the negative battery terminal and wait at least ten minutes. This allows the SRS (Airbag) system to discharge and prevents accidental deployment while you are working near the front sensors.
The 1.5L EcoBoost uses Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI), which operates at extremely high pressures. Use a fuel pressure bleed-off tool or let the car sit overnight before cracking the high-pressure fuel lines to avoid injury.
Fluids and Waste Management
You will be draining several gallons of coolant, oil, and potentially transmission fluid. Have large, clean catch pans ready and plenty of shop towels.
Keep the fluids separate so you can inspect them for metal shavings or debris. This can give you a better idea of the health of your turbocharger and transmission before you bolt them onto the new engine.
2017 ford escape 1.5 ecoboost engine replacement: Step-by-Step Breakdown
Now we get into the heart of the mechanical work. This process typically takes an experienced DIYer about 15 to 20 hours of labor over a long weekend. Step 1: Front End Disassembly. Remove the front bumper cover and the plastic splash shields. Unbolt the core support and move the AC condenser to the side without disconnecting the lines if possible; this saves you from having to recharge the AC system later. Step 2: Disconnect the Harness. Label every electrical connector with masking tape. The 1.5L EcoBoost has a complex wiring loom that runs across the top of the valve cover and down to the transmission sensors.
Step 3: Plumbing and Accessories. Remove the air intake box, the intercooler piping, and the heater hoses. You will need to unbolt the power steering pump and the alternator, but you can usually leave them tucked in the engine bay so you don’t have to open the hydraulic circuits.
Separating the Engine and Transmission
Support the transmission from below using a floor jack and a block of wood. You must remove the torque converter bolts through the access hole at the bottom of the bellhousing.
Be extremely careful not to let the torque converter slide forward out of the transmission. If it unseats from the pump, you could destroy the transmission when you bolt the new engine in place.
Lifting the Engine Out
Attach your hoist chains to the factory lift points. Slowly apply tension and double-check that no wires or hoses are still attached. Tilt the engine slightly upward on the pulley side to clear the frame rails as you pull it forward and out.
Once the engine is out, place it on a stable engine stand. This makes it much easier to transfer the external components to your new 2017 ford escape 1.5 ecoboost engine replacement unit.
Transferring Components and Reassembly
Unless you bought a “complete” engine, you will need to move several parts from the old block to the new one. This is the perfect time to inspect these parts for wear and replace them if necessary.
The turbocharger is the most important component to check. Look for “shaft play” or oil pooling in the compressor housing. If the turbo is failing, installing it on a new engine is a recipe for disaster.
Clean the intake manifold thoroughly. GDI engines are prone to carbon buildup on the intake valves. Since the manifold is already off, use some intake cleaner to ensure the runners are clear of oily residue.
Installing New Gaskets and Seals
Never reuse gaskets. Buy a complete conversion gasket set which includes the water pump gasket, exhaust manifold gasket, and the various O-rings for the cooling system.
Apply a small amount of clean engine oil to the O-rings before installation to prevent them from tearing. This is especially important for the fuel injector seals, which must hold back thousands of pounds of pressure.
The Importance of the Rear Main Seal
Most long blocks come with a new rear main seal installed, but if yours didn’t, do not skip this. It is a $20 part that requires removing the entire engine and transmission to fix if it leaks later.
Ensure the crankshaft flange is perfectly clean and dry before pressing the seal into place. Use a dedicated seal driver tool to ensure it sits perfectly square in the block.
Post-Installation and the Critical First Start
Once the engine is back in the car and all connections are tight, you must follow a specific startup procedure. This ensures the new internal components are lubricated before they are subjected to the heat of combustion.
Fill the engine with the manufacturer-recommended 5W-20 or 5W-30 synthetic oil. Use a high-quality FL-910S Motorcraft filter or an equivalent that features a proper anti-drainback valve.
Before starting the engine, pull the fuel pump fuse and crank the engine in 5-second bursts. This builds oil pressure and primes the turbocharger bearings without the engine actually firing up.
Bleeding the Cooling System
The 1.5L EcoBoost is notorious for trapping air in the heater core. Use a vacuum coolant refiller if you have access to one. This tool pulls a vacuum on the entire system and sucks the coolant in, eliminating air pockets.
If you don’t have a vacuum tool, use a “no-spill” funnel and run the engine with the heater on full blast. Watch the temperature gauge closely and keep the reservoir topped off as the air bubbles work their way out.
The Break-In Period
For the first 500 miles, avoid full-throttle acceleration and constant speeds. Varying the RPM helps the new piston rings seat against the cylinder walls properly.
Change the oil and filter after the first 500 to 1,000 miles. This removes any assembly lubes or microscopic metal “glitter” produced during the initial break-in of the new components.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2017 Ford Escape 1.5 EcoBoost Engine Replacement
How much does a 2017 ford escape 1.5 ecoboost engine replacement cost?
If you take the vehicle to a dealership, expect to pay between $6,000 and $8,000 for parts and labor. A DIY replacement using a high-quality remanufactured long block typically costs between $3,500 and $4,500 including fluids and tools.
Can I upgrade to the 2.0L EcoBoost instead?
While the 2.0L is a more reliable engine, it is not a “plug-and-play” swap. You would need the 2.0L wiring harness, PCM (Engine Computer), different transmission mounts, and potentially a different transmission. It is generally more cost-effective to install the redesigned 1.5L block.
How long does the replacement engine last?
With the redesigned block (Version 2), the coolant intrusion issue is largely solved. If you maintain the engine with 5,000-mile oil changes and high-quality coolant, the engine should easily last 150,000 miles or more.
Will Ford pay for my engine replacement?
Ford has offered Customer Satisfaction Programs (like 21N06) that extend coverage for this specific issue. Check your VIN on the Ford owner portal or call a dealer to see if your vehicle qualifies for a free or subsidized replacement before spending your own money.
Final Thoughts on Your Engine Swap Project
Completing a 2017 ford escape 1.5 ecoboost engine replacement is a massive undertaking, but it is the only way to truly save a vehicle suffering from block failure. By choosing a redesigned unit and following a meticulous installation process, you can turn a broken SUV into a reliable daily driver once again.
Remember to take your time, document your progress with photos, and never force a connection that doesn’t feel right. Working on modern EcoBoost engines requires patience and precision, but the reward of hearing that new engine roar to life is worth every hour spent in the garage.
Stay safe, keep your workspace clean, and enjoy the satisfaction of a job well done. Your Ford Escape still has plenty of adventures left in it!
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