You might be wondering if the Ford 6.4 diesel engine is a good choice for your truck or work needs. From my experience and what many owners say, this engine is strong but has some things to watch out for. In this article, you will find a clear and easy guide about the Ford 6.4 diesel, including its strengths, problems, and what makes it good or bad for you.
What Makes the Ford 6.4 Diesel Engine Popular?
The Ford 6.4 diesel engine first came out in 2008. It is a big V8 engine used mostly in Ford Super Duty trucks. Many people like it because it has a lot of power and good towing ability. If you need to pull heavy trailers or carry big loads, this engine can handle that. It uses diesel fuel, which means it gives more torque and better fuel economy than some gas engines.
One reason for its popularity is the size of the engine. It has a 6.4-liter capacity, which helps it create strong power. Ford also put a turbocharger on it. This helps the engine get more air inside, which makes it stronger. The 6.4 diesel is also known for being more reliable than some other diesel engines Ford made before.
People who drive trucks with this engine often say it works well for hard jobs like construction, farming, or towing. It can last for many miles if taken care of right. Many owners like how it feels when driving, with smooth power and strong acceleration.
But, there are also some things you need to know before deciding. The engine uses a special system called a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). This helps reduce pollution, but it can also cause some trouble if not maintained properly. Some owners have had problems with the DPF getting clogged, which can make the engine run badly.
Here are the key points that make this engine popular:
- Big V8 engine with 6.4 liters size
- Turbocharged for extra power
- Strong torque for towing and hauling
- Generally reliable if cared for well
- Good fuel economy for a diesel engine
- Used in many Ford Super Duty trucks
Knowing these things will help you decide if this engine fits your needs. In the next section, we will look at how this engine performs in real life, both good and bad.
How Does the Ford 6.4 Diesel Perform on the Road?
When you drive a truck with the Ford 6.4 diesel engine, you want it to feel strong and smooth. Many drivers say this engine delivers power in a way that makes heavy loads feel easier to handle. The turbocharger helps the engine give good speed even when the truck is full or towing a trailer.
In normal driving, the engine is quiet for a diesel, which many drivers appreciate. It doesn’t make the loud clattering noise some diesel engines have. This means better comfort on long trips. The 6.4 diesel can also start well in cold weather, which is important if you live in a chilly place.
One of the best things about this engine is its towing power. It can pull heavy trailers with ease, which is why many people who work with big loads like it. The engine produces a lot of torque, which is the force that helps move heavy things from a stop. This makes it great for jobs that need strength more than speed.
However, some drivers have said that the engine can be a little less smooth at very high speeds. Also, the fuel economy is better than many gas engines, but not the best among diesels. If you want to save every drop of diesel, this engine might not be the absolute best.
Maintenance is very important for performance. The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and other emission parts need to be cleaned or replaced sometimes. If these parts get dirty, the engine can lose power or run rough. Regular oil changes and checks will help keep the engine running like new.
Here is what makes the Ford 6.4 diesel perform well or less well:
- Smooth and quiet driving for a diesel
- Strong torque for towing heavy loads
- Good in cold weather starts
- Slight roughness at high speeds for some
- Fuel economy better than gas but not the best diesel
- Needs regular care for emission parts like DPF
With good care, this engine gives strong and reliable power. But ignoring maintenance can cause problems, which we will talk about next.
Common Problems and Repairs for the 6.4 Diesel Engine
Like all engines, the Ford 6.4 diesel has some common problems that owners should know about. Knowing these can help you avoid big repair bills and keep your truck running well.
One big issue is the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). This filter catches tiny soot particles to keep the air clean. Over time, it gets clogged and needs cleaning or replacement. If ignored, the engine may lose power or show warning lights.
Another problem can be the fuel injectors. These small parts spray fuel into the engine and must work right. If they get dirty or fail, the engine might run rough or lose power. Replacing fuel injectors can be expensive, so regular fuel system cleaning helps.
The turbocharger is a strong part but can fail if oil changes are missed. It spins very fast, and dirty oil can cause damage. A broken turbo means less power and can be costly to fix.
The EGR valve (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) is another part that sometimes clogs. It helps reduce pollution but can cause rough running if dirty.
Owners also mention that the engine needs good oil and regular changes to last long. Using cheap oil or skipping service can cause engine wear or damage.
The good news is that with regular care, many of these problems can be avoided. If you keep up with maintenance, the engine can last hundreds of thousands of miles.
Common problems to watch for:
- DPF clogging and the need for cleaning or replacement
- Fuel injector issues causing rough running
- Turbocharger failure if oil changes are missed
- Clogged EGR valve causing poor performance
- Need for regular oil changes and good quality oil
Taking care of these parts will help you avoid trouble and keep your engine strong.
How to Maintain the Ford 6.4 Diesel for Long Life
To get the most from your Ford 6.4 diesel engine, regular maintenance is key. This engine is strong but needs care to stay that way.
First, change the oil and oil filter regularly. Good quality diesel oil is very important. This keeps the engine parts smooth and stops wear.
Next, keep an eye on the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). Drive the truck at highway speeds sometimes so the DPF can burn off soot. If you mostly drive in town, the DPF can clog faster, so special cleaning might be needed.
Check and replace the fuel filter regularly. Clean fuel means the injectors work better and last longer.
The turbocharger oil supply is very important. Use the right oil and change it on time. Avoid harsh driving right after starting the engine to protect the turbo.
Cleaning the EGR valve and intake system can help prevent rough running and keep emissions low.
Regularly check the coolant system and air filters to keep the engine cool and breathing well.
Also, listen for any unusual sounds or changes in performance. Fix problems early before they get worse.
To sum up good maintenance practices:
- Regular oil and oil filter changes with good diesel oil
- Monitor and clean the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)
- Replace fuel filter on schedule
- Protect turbocharger with good oil and gentle warm-up
- Clean EGR valve and intake system periodically
- Check coolant and air filters
- Watch for unusual sounds or warning lights and fix quickly
Following these simple steps will help your engine live longer and work better.
Comparing the Ford 6.4 Diesel to Other Diesel Engines
Many people ask how the Ford 6.4 diesel compares to other popular diesel engines, like the Cummins 6.7 or the Duramax 6.6. Each engine has its own strengths and weaknesses.
The Cummins 6.7 is known for very long life and fewer problems. It is a favorite for people who want very heavy towing and long-term durability. The Ford 6.4 diesel has more power but may need more attention to emissions parts.
The Duramax 6.6 is smooth and quiet, with good fuel economy. It competes closely with the Ford 6.4 in power and reliability. Duramax trucks also tend to have fewer emission issues.
The Ford 6.4 diesel shines with its strong torque and power. It is a good choice for people who need big towing strength but are ready to do regular maintenance. Some drivers like the sound and feel of the Ford engine better.
Fuel economy varies, but the Cummins often has a slight edge for better mileage. The Duramax and Ford are close in this area.
When comparing costs, repairs on the Ford 6.4 can be more expensive if emission parts fail. Cummins and Duramax sometimes have simpler emission systems.
Summary of comparisons:
- Cummins 6.7: Very reliable, great for long life, fewer emission problems
- Duramax 6.6: Smooth, quiet, good fuel economy, fewer repairs
- Ford 6.4: Strong power and torque, needs regular care, more emission parts
- Fuel economy: Cummins slightly better, Duramax and Ford close
- Repair costs: Ford can be higher if DPF or turbo fails
Your choice depends on what you value most: power, ease of care, or fuel savings.
What to Know Before Buying a Ford 6.4 Diesel Truck
If you plan to buy a truck with a Ford 6.4 diesel engine, there are a few things you should know to make a smart choice.
First, check the maintenance history. A well-kept truck with regular oil changes and DPF care will last much longer. Ask for records of fuel injector and turbocharger service if possible.
Next, listen carefully when you test drive. The engine should run smooth without strange noises or warning lights. Pay attention to turbo boost and acceleration to make sure the engine is strong.
Look for signs of DPF problems like black smoke or frequent warning messages on the dashboard.
Consider the truck’s use. If it was mostly city driving, the DPF might need cleaning soon. Highway-driven trucks tend to have fewer emission issues.
Also, think about repair costs. Some repairs on this engine can be expensive, so set money aside for maintenance.
If you want a long-lasting truck, make sure you are ready to do or pay for regular care. Buying from a trusted seller or dealer can help avoid surprises.
Key tips before buying:
- Check full maintenance history and records
- Test drive and listen for smooth running and power
- Watch for DPF issues like black smoke or warnings
- Know the truck’s past use: city vs. highway driving
- Be ready for some repair costs and regular care
- Buy from trusted sources to avoid problems
Knowing these points will help you find a Ford 6.4 diesel truck that works well for many years.
Ford 6.4 Diesel Engine Specs and Comparison Table
| Feature | Ford 6.4 Diesel | Cummins 6.7 Diesel | Duramax 6.6 Diesel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | V8 Turbocharged Diesel | Inline 6 Turbo Diesel | V8 Turbocharged Diesel |
| Displacement | 6.4 liters | 6.7 liters | 6.6 liters |
| Horsepower (hp) | Around 350-400 | Around 370-400 | Around 360-445 |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 650-800 | 800-1000 | 650-910 |
| Fuel Economy | Good but not best | Best among these | Good |
| Emission System | DPF, EGR, SCR | SCR, EGR | DPF, EGR, SCR |
| Common Issues | DPF clogging, turbo | Injector wear | DPF and turbo issues |
| Maintenance Cost | Moderate to high | Moderate | Moderate |
| Known For | Strong torque, power | Reliability, durability | Smoothness, economy |
Final Thoughts
The Ford 6.4 diesel engine is a strong and powerful choice for many truck owners. It has great towing ability and smooth driving for a diesel. But it also needs good care, especially for its emission parts like the DPF and turbocharger. If you keep up with regular maintenance, this engine can last a long time and give you solid performance. It is not perfect, but it is a good engine for people who want power and are ready to take care of it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it normal for the Ford 6.4 diesel to use a lot of fuel?
Yes, diesel engines generally use more fuel than gas engines, but the Ford 6.4 diesel offers better fuel economy than many big gas engines. Still, it uses more fuel than some newer diesel engines, especially when towing heavy loads. Regular maintenance and careful driving can help improve fuel use.
Can I remove the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) from the 6.4 diesel?
Removing the DPF is not legal in many places because it helps reduce pollution. It can also cause your truck to fail emissions tests. It is better to maintain and clean the DPF regularly rather than removing it.
Do I need special oil for the Ford 6.4 diesel?
Yes, using good quality diesel engine oil is very important. The engine needs oil that can handle high heat and pressure. Using the wrong oil can cause damage, especially to the turbocharger.
Is it expensive to repair the turbocharger on this engine?
Turbo repairs can be costly because the part is complex and important for power. However, regular oil changes and proper warm-up can help avoid turbo problems and save money.
Can the Ford 6.4 diesel engine last over 300,000 miles?
Yes, with proper maintenance, this engine can last over 300,000 miles. Many owners have trucks with very high mileage that still run well. Keeping up with oil changes, fuel system care, and DPF cleaning is key.
Do I need to drive on highways to keep the DPF clean?
Yes, highway driving at steady speeds helps the DPF burn off soot naturally. If you mostly drive short city trips, the DPF can clog faster and need cleaning.
Is it difficult to find parts for the Ford 6.4 diesel engine?
No, because this engine is common, parts are widely available. Ford and many aftermarket companies make parts, so repairs are easier than for rare engines.
Can I tow heavy trailers safely with the Ford 6.4 diesel?
Yes, this engine is built for heavy towing. It offers strong torque and power to pull big trailers safely. Just be sure your truck and brakes are also up to the job.