19 Most Reliable Ford Engines Ever. Some Lasts Over 500k Miles

Ford Windsor V8 (289, 302, 351)

The Ford Windsor V8 engine family includes the 289, 302, and 351 cubic inch engines. Let’s take a closer look at what makes these engines unique and why they are considered some of the most dependable Ford powerplants.

Reliability Score: 9/10 Power Range: 200-300 HP

Ford Windsor V8 engines possess four distinct characteristics that contribute to their reliability and lasting appeal:

1. Durable materials: Ford used high-quality cast iron for the engine block and cylinder heads, providing a strong foundation for high performance.
2. Simple design: These engines have a straightforward overhead valve design, making them easy to work on and maintain.
3. Wide parts availability: Due to their long production run and popularity, aftermarket parts for Windsor V8s are readily available, allowing for easy repairs and upgrades.
4. Versatility: They can be used in a variety of Ford vehicles, ranging from Mustangs to trucks, making them a go-to choice for many builds.

It’s not uncommon for them to reach minimum mileages of 150,000 miles, with some examples even surpassing maximum mileages of 570,000 miles or more.

Ford 300 Inline Six

This engine has a solid reputation, often being cited as one of the most reliable Ford engines ever built. Reliability Score: 4.5/5 Power: Up to 170 HP

There are four key features that make the Ford 300 inline six engine stand out:

1. Longevity: Many Ford 300 inline six engines have been known to last for well over 200,000 miles, with some even reaching 500,000 miles and more!
2. Versatility: These engines have been used in various Ford vehicles, such as trucks, vans, and some cars, making it a highly versatile choice.
3. Simple Design: The Ford 300 inline six has a straightforward design, which means that maintenance and repairs can be more straightforward and cost-effective.
4. Low-end Torque: This engine is known for its low-end torque, making it a strong workhorse, especially for hauling and towing tasks.

Flathead V8: The Engine That Revolutionized the Auto Industry

The Flathead V8 was one of Ford’s most reliable engines of its time. With a reliability score of 8.5/10 and a power output of 65-125 horsepower, this unique engine indeed played a significant role in revolutionizing the auto industry.

The Flathead V8 engine had four major distinguishing characteristics that set it apart from other engines. These unique features were:

1. A simple yet effective cylinder head design that made it affordable and accessible to the masses.
2. It’s ability to achieve a smooth and reliable performance without the added complexity of overhead valves.
3. The exhaust passages were designed to run through the block, ensuring a constant and efficient flow of exhaust gases.
4. The iconic L-head configuration with the valves positioned next to the pistons, providing a compact design.

In terms of longevity, owners of Ford vehicles equipped with the Flathead V8 reported a wide range of mileage. With proper maintenance and timely tune-ups, these engines could reach anywhere between 50,000 and 300,000 miles.

Ford 7.3L Power Stroke V8 (1994-2003)

With a reliability score of 9/10. This engine can produce 235 to 275 horsepower, depending on the specific year and model of your truck.

There are four unique aspects that contribute to this engine’s reputation:

1. Longevity
2. Easy maintenance
3. Impressive towing capacity
4. Fuel economy

Owners of the 7.3L Power Stroke V8 have reported achieving anywhere from 150,000 to 500,000 miles on their trucks.

289 V8 Small-Block

Ford’s 289 V8 Small-Block engine has been known for its reliability and power since its introduction in 1963. With a reliability score of 8.5/10, you can trust this engine to perform well. It was designed as an entry-level V8 that offers decent power while being lightweight and compact.

There are four unique features to consider about the 289 V8 Small-Block engine:

1. Lightweight: With a weight of just 506 lbs, this engine is easy for you to handle.
2. Improved Design: The Ford 289 replaced the Ford 260 V8, providing better performance for 1963 full-size Ford sedans.
3. Power: The base 2-barrel carburetor version of the 289 Small-Block engine churned out around 200 horsepower.
4. Iconic Legacy: The Ford Mustang’s legacy is closely tied to this engine, as it served as the Mustang’s original powerhouse.

In terms of its lifespan, the 289 V8 Small-Block engine can last between minimum 150,000 miles to a maximum of 300,000 miles if properly maintained.

Ford 6.7 Power Stroke Diesel

The Ford 6.7 Power Stroke Diesel engine boasts an impressive reliability score of 4.5 out of 5 and offers a power output of 475 hp at 2,600 rpm. In terms of uniqueness, you’ll find that this engine has some outstanding traits:

1. Best-in-class diesel horsepower: As of 2021, the 6.7L Power Stroke has topped the charts in diesel horsepower, making it a powerful choice for Ford Super Duty trucks.
2. In-house design and manufacturing: Ford took over engine production from Navistar, which allowed them to fully control the design and manufacturing process.
3. Third-generation improvements: This engine is a noticeable improvement over previous generations, as it addressed many issues found in the 6.0 and 6.4 models.
4. Fuel efficiency: The 6.7 Power Stroke is known for its great fuel efficiency without compromising on power.

When it comes to mileage, you can expect a minimum of 150,000 miles on the lower end for this engine and up to 500,000 miles with proper maintenance and care.

Ford 2.3L EcoBoost

With a reliability score of 8/10 and producing 310 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque, this engine provides a great balance of performance and dependability.

The engine can be found in different Ford and Lincoln models like the Ford Mustang EcoBoost and the 2020+ Lincoln Corsair.

There are four key aspects that make the Ford 2.3L EcoBoost unique:

1. Turbocharged Performance: This engine utilizes a turbocharger to increase power output without needing a larger engine size.
2. Direct Injection: This technology allows for more precise fuel delivery, resulting in improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
3. Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT): This feature helps optimize power, torque, and fuel efficiency across a wide range of engine speeds.
4. Lightweight Design: The use of aluminum and other lightweight materials ensures that the 2.3L EcoBoost contributes less weight to the overall vehicle.

In terms of longevity, the Ford 2.3L EcoBoost has been known to provide consistent performance for minimum 100,000 miles – maximum 500,000 miles.

Ford 5.2 Liter V8 Voodoo

This engine has a reliability score of 8.5 out of 10, and it produces 526 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque at its peak.

With proper maintenance, you can expect your Voodoo engine to last between 100,000 to 450,000 miles.

There are four significant factors that make the Voodoo engine unique:

1. Flat-plane crankshaft – This design allows for quicker acceleration and an unforgettable exhaust note.
2. High-revving nature – Unlike most other engines, the Voodoo can rev up to an impressive 8,000-plus rpm.
3. Naturally aspirated – In a world of turbocharging and supercharging, the Voodoo stays true to its roots, drawing vast power without forced induction.
4. Exclusive to Mustang Shelby GT350 and GT350R – Ford reserves this engineering masterpiece for its high-performance pony cars.

With a reliability score of 8/10 and power ranging from 210 to 305 horsepower, depending on the specific model and configuration, this engine is a trustworthy and popular choice for many Ford enthusiasts.

There are four unique aspects associated with this engine:

1. It was the first member of Ford’s Modular overhead camshaft engine family.
2. The engine has both SOHC and DOHC valve-trains.
3. The cylinder heads are made of aluminum.
4. The blocks can be either aluminum or cast iron, with iron blocks mainly used in SOHC versions and aluminum ones in DOHC models.

You can expect the Ford 4.6L Modular V8 to last anywhere between 100,000 to 500,000 miles when properly maintained.

Ford Cleveland V8

With a reliability score of 9.0 out of 10 and impressive power ranging from 250 to 370 horsepower, it’s no wonder it has remained popular among Ford enthusiasts.

So, what makes the Ford Cleveland V8 unique? First of all, its design features include a large, efficient port head, which improves airflow and increases power.

Second, the engine has a reputation for high-rpm capability, allowing you to push your vehicle’s limits with confidence.

Third, with high displacement and a strong torque curve, the Cleveland V8 offers exceptional power for its size. And finally, the engine’s versatility has allowed it to be adapted for use in various types of vehicles, from muscle cars to pickup trucks.

When it comes to longevity, the Ford Cleveland V8 engine can potentially last between 100,000 and 500,000 miles if properly maintained.

428 Cobra Jet

First introduced in the late 1960s, the 428 Cobra Jet is a 7.0-liter V8 engine known for its durability, power, and affordability. With a reliability score of 8.5 out of 10, it produces 335 hp at 5200 rpm, but some analysis claims it could reach up to 410 hp at 5600 rpm.

There are four unique aspects that make the 428 Cobra Jet stand out:

1. It was Ford’s response to Chevrolet’s 427 V8 and Pontiac’s engines.
2. Its availability made it popular among midsize Ford-Mercury muscle models.
3. It shared the same horsepower rating as the smaller 390 V8 with a four-barrel carb.
4. Over 10,000 Mustangs were sold with the powerful Cobra Jet V8 engine.

The 428 Cobra Jet can easily last for a minimum of 100,000 miles, and with proper maintenance, some can go as far as 3500,000 miles.

Ford 3.8L Essex V6

Its reliability score is quite high, and it offers a good amount of power for its size. This engine has some unique features that make it worth considering for your Ford vehicle.

• Mileage Range: 100,000 – 250,000 miles

The 3.8L Essex V6 is known to offer a wide range of mileage, from a minimum of 100,000 miles to a maximum of 250,000 miles. This is quite impressive, considering the general expectation for engines in its class.

Some key features and characteristics that make this engine stand out include:

1. It was designed to be a potent V6 option for various Ford cars.
2. The engine has a compact, lightweight design, which makes installation and maintenance efficient.
3. The Essex V6 boasts a strong and durable construction, ensuring excellent performance throughout its lifespan.
4. It is known for delivering a smooth and steady power supply, providing a comfortable driving experience.

Ford 6.7L Power Stroke V8 (2011-present)