I’ve got a 2017 Ford F-150 XLT 2.7L with 172,000 miles on it. Carvana says it’s worth about $6,500, but the truck has started acting up. Took it to two shops, and they say the issue is coolant leaking into the engine or turbo.
Here’s what I’ve been told:
There’s coolant leaking into the turbo or engine. It’s causing white smoke with a sweet smell.
This could mean a damaged turbo, catalytic converter, or a cracked engine head.
Both shops quoted me anywhere from $10,000 to $22,000 depending on what’s actually wrong. Best case: replace the turbo and catalytic converter. Worst case: replace the engine.
I’ve already spent $5,000 on repairs last year. I love this truck, and it’s been great for my work in construction, but this is starting to feel like a money pit. On the flip side, I’m shocked at how expensive both new and used trucks are right now. The same model with 50,000 miles is selling for the same price I paid new seven years ago.
Should I repair the truck and hope it lasts a bit longer, or is it time to cut my losses and invest in something else? I could buy another vehicle, but it would hit my savings hard. Would love any advice. Thanks!
Thanks for posting your question on this forum! Be sure to include your truck’s details like year, model, and mileage so others can better help you. Looks like you’ve done that—good luck!
Wei said:
You could find a used engine with less than 100k miles for around $5k, and those usually come with turbos. Check out car-part.com for options.
If you go this route, it might be worth rebuilding the turbos while you’re at it. Saves a headache down the line.
A 2017 F-150 with 4x4 is worth a lot more than $6,500 in my area. Dealers here are selling them for $18,000 to $20,000, even with higher mileage. Maybe Carvana is lowballing you? Check local listings before deciding.
Run it until the engine dies, then find a junkyard engine and turbo. You could rebuild it yourself if you’re up for the challenge, or just swap it out when the time comes.
Joss said:
Run it until the engine dies, then find a junkyard engine and turbo. You could rebuild it yourself if you’re up for the challenge, or just swap it out when the time comes.
Be careful though—opening up a junkyard engine usually voids the warranty they offer. Something to keep in mind.
This could be from a crack in the exhaust manifold, which is cast into the head on these engines. Replacing the turbos or catalytic converter probably won’t fix it. Surprisingly, K Seal coolant sealant has had success with this issue—might be worth a shot.
Honestly, it’s worth fixing. Even if you sell it after, used trucks are still going for $18k-$28k depending on the condition. Find a diesel shop that can handle replacing the head gaskets or maybe even swap in a low-mileage engine.
Ask for a cylinder leak-down test. That will give you a clear answer on where the issue is. Shops might just be throwing parts at the problem to make money.