Ford 5.0 Coyote Engine Problems: Explained

Lauren H
Jan 22, 2021

Are you looking for a Ford vehicle but are wondering about the Ford 5.0 Coyote engine problems you’ve been hearing so much about?

Then you’ve come to the right place.

Ford vehicles are extremely popular; however, just like any other brand, they have their fair share of problems.

Are there any Ford 5.0 Coyote engine problems?  

Yes, there are. Here are the most common Ford 5.0 Coyote engine problems:  

  • Oil leakage 
  • Ignition coil failure 
  • Bad spark plugs 
  • Malfunctioning exhaust gas recirculation valve 
  • Faulty electronic throttle  
  • Vehicles built without a roll pin 
  • Transmission slips, shudders, and clunks 

Next, we’ll give you a brief overview of the Ford 5.0 Coyote engine. Then we will go over each of the Ford 5.0 Coyote engine problems in a little more detail.

A Quick Overview of the Ford 5.0 Coyote Engine

The Ford Coyote engine is a 5.0-liter V8 engine. It’s used to power the Ford Mustang and the F-150 pickup trucks. It uses a dual overhead cam in a “V” configuration. The Ford Coyote motor has been in production since 2011.

The Ford Coyote engine has had six different upgraded versions over the years. These include:

  • Coyote Generation 1
  • Coyote Generation 3
  • Voodoo, Roadrunner
  • Aluminator
  • Predator

All have varying HPs, torque, displacement, and max rpms to add to its already stellar performance.

The Seven Most Common Ford 5.0 Coyote Engine Problems

Oil Leakage

Auto Mechanic Pouring An Oil

There are reports that oil is leaking in the head gasket on some of the Ford 5.0 Coyote motors. You can perform a quick fix using an engine block sealer; however, this isn’t a permanent fix.

The only way to get a permanent fix is to have the part replaced. If you don’t get it fixed, it could potentially result in damaging the gasket completely.

Ignition Coil Failure

Ignition coil failure could also cause problems for the engine, which shows itself when the dashboard check engine light illuminates. Of course, the check engine light could come on for other reasons also.

The only option is to take your vehicle to a mechanic for a diagnostic test to identify the problem.

Bad Spark Plugs

Bad spark plugs can’t be fixed they have to be replaced. So, if you notice a drop in the acceleration, the engine misfiring, lower gas mileage, or if your vehicle is getting hard to start, take it to a mechanic immediately to have the spark plugs replaced.

Malfunctioning Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve

A faulty gas recirculation valve causes a drop in vehicle performance, and it’s sometimes known to fail without any prior warnings or alert indicators. If left unrepaired, the component will wear out quickly.

Your best bet is to immediately have the exhaust gas recirculation valve replaced if it is deemed faulty.

Faulty Electronic Throttle

This issue is a serious problem and the problem will be more severe for some year models more than others. For example, the 2015 F-150 is known for being affected by this issue. The failure occurs while you are driving and are forced to suddenly reduce your speed. To fix this issue, you will need a new electronic throttle body.

Vehicles Built Without a Roll Pin

This issue isn’t a faulty component. The problem is some of these engines weren’t built with a roll pin at all. This could cause unintentional movement or roll — meaning your vehicle might not be where you last parked it especially if you don’t usually use the emergency parking brake.

Transmission Slips, Shudders, and Clunks

Car Transmission Closeup

People have reported the transmission slipping which also can be described as a shuddering or clunking noise. This usually happens when the transmission or engine mount fractures, breaks, or loses its firmness.

The noise you hear is the clunking of the transmission when there is a change in the vehicle’s speed. To fix this issue, the entire transmission will have to be replaced.

Owner Reviews

accountCircle David S on May 22, 2023
The Coyote does not have an EGR Valve.
This is the second article I have seen that mentions a faulty EGR valve as a common problem. Yes, if one finds that their EGR valve is not working, it is because there isn't an EGR valve on a Coyote engine. Are people just copying and pasting from the modular motors? Do they really know anything about this engine at all? PS: I had to give a rating just to be able to post this. This is not a review of the truck in question, it's a review of the author.
accountCircle David S on May 22, 2023
A coyote engine has NO EGR Valve!
This information must be copied and pasted from the non-coyote modular motors because the author clearly knows nothing about these engines. I had to give a rating in order to post this even though I am reviewing the author, not the truck.
accountCircle Dave on August 1, 2023
Waterpump
As soon as my warranty expired the waterpump and the ac compressor failed .. This vehicle never in the shop for any type or repair
avatar Lauren H
Lauren H. has sold new and used cars, negotiated numerous car deals, has a thorough knowledge of the best and worst vehicles produced, and has spent the last 10-years as an automotive writer.
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