Trouble codes › Known problems › Ford 3.5L EcoBoost intercooler condensation misfire
Ford 3.5L EcoBoost intercooler condensation misfire
On 2011-2013 Ford F-150s with the 3.5L EcoBoost, a stumble or misfire under hard acceleration after highway driving in humid weather is a well-documented problem caused by condensation collecting in the intercooler and being drawn into the engine.
The stumble can feel like a sudden loss of power when passing or merging, so be careful. Drivable otherwise; get it looked at, and check for updates.
Which vehicles
- Ford F-150 (3.5L EcoBoost) 2011-2013
- Ford Expedition (3.5L EcoBoost) 2015-2017
Why it happens
Turbocharged air is cooled in the intercooler at the front of the truck. In humid weather, moisture condenses inside it during steady highway driving. On hard acceleration, the collected water is pulled into the engine at once and causes a misfire or stumble.
Ford's fix moved the air deflector on the intercooler and updated the engine computer software. About 400,000 2011-2013 F-150s were reported as affected.
Symptoms
- Stumble, hesitation or a sudden drop in power under hard acceleration, often after highway driving in damp weather
- Flashing check-engine light with misfire codes
- Sometimes a feeling like the truck went into limp mode briefly
How to confirm it
- Note when it happens: freeze-frame data from the misfire code often shows high load and above about 2,500 rpm.
- Check for other causes too: spark plugs (EcoBoost plugs wear faster), coils and boost leaks.
- Ask a Ford dealer to check your VIN for the intercooler and software bulletins.
The repair
- The dealer fix relocates the intercooler air deflector and updates the engine computer software.
- Replace spark plugs on time (EcoBoost intervals are shorter than many people expect), and check intercooler hoses for leaks if there's also underboost (P0299).
- Avoid drilling a drain hole in the intercooler, an online tip that can create a leak.
Recalls, bulletins and warranty programs
- Ford service bulletins (TSB 13-8-1 and others)
- Reported bulletin numbers for the intercooler deflector relocation and software updates on 2011-2013 3.5L EcoBoost F-150s. NHTSA reviewed the issue in 2014 and didn't require a recall.
Programs can expire or depend on your VIN. Check nhtsa.gov/recalls and ask a dealer to run your VIN for open recalls, bulletins and extended coverage.
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Researched October 2026 from service bulletins, recall records and repair-industry reporting. Your vehicle may differ; confirm with your service information and a dealer before paying for major repairs.