What causes Ford cam phasers to fail?

Ford cam phasers can fail due to a variety of reasons. Here are some common causes of cam phaser failure in Ford vehicles:
1. Eroded timing chain: Camshaft phasers can fail if the timing chain becomes eroded.
2. Low oil pressure: Insufficient oil pressure can cause cam phasers to fail.
3. Engine-related issues: Various engine-related issues can contribute to cam phaser failure.
4. VCT solenoid damage: When cam phasers go bad, the VCT solenoids can get damaged, leading to engine failure.
5. Ignition timing issues: Failed cam phasers can result in ignition timing problems, which can lead to engine failure.
6. VCT system malfunction: A failed cam phaser can damage the Variable Control Timing (VCT) system and the Engine Control Unit (ECU).
7. Wear inside the cam phasers: Wear inside the cam phasers can prevent proper oil control and the computer’s ability to control variable cam timing.
8. Wear in the engine: Wear in the engine can result in insufficient oil reaching the cam phasers, even if they are replaced.
9. Faulty locking pins: The locking pins in the cam phasers can fail, allowing the camshaft sprocket to rotate separately from the chain, causing the phaser to jump back and forth at lower RPMs.
10. Oil pump issues: Weak oil pump performance can lead to marginal oil pressure reaching the cam phasers, causing failures.
It’s important to note that cam phaser failure can cause engine damage, engine failure, and other related issues. If you suspect cam phaser problems in your Ford vehicle, it is recommended to consult with a qualified mechanic for diagnosis and repair.

How do I know if my cam phasers are going out?

This will cause the check engine light to come on clicking noise the failed cam sensor will frequently start to make an audible clicking sound that is unlike anything most drivers have ever heard this

Why do f150 cam phasers fail?

There are two main reasons why phasers fail – wear inside the cam phasers and wear in the engine, typically it’s a combination that causes excessive phaser noise. Wear inside the phaser means the oil cannot be properly controlled and the computer cannot control the variable cam timing.

Does Ford have a recall on cam phasers?

Worst of all, this recall was active until January 2023. If your vehicle is showings signs of cam phaser issues after this deadline has passed, you may need to replace the cam phasers on your own dime.

What causes Ford cam phasers to go bad?

It can happen when the engine’s oil pump is not functioning properly or when there is not enough oil in the engine. When the cam phasers are not properly lubricated, they can become damaged and worn. As a consequence, the engine will perform poorly, fuel consumption will increase, and emissions will increase.

What Ford engines have cam phaser problems?

A well known problem with the Ford 5.4 3V engines is the dreaded ‘phaser rattle’ This happens when the variable cam timing phasers can no longer be controlled by the ECU due to wear in the phaser or lack of oil pressure / volume being delivered to them.

Will bad cam phasers throw a code?

What will happen in this situation is the ECU will do everything possible to protect the engine. It will go into safe (or limp) mode, which will in most cases, and stop the engine from going over a certain RPM. It will also throw a code and illuminate the check engine light.

Did Ford fix the cam phaser problem?

The fix has been out for years, 2020. Tons of threads on this topic. Fix is a PCM update for cam phaser parking that needs to be done BEFORE the rattle starts. After the rattle there are updated parts.

How much does it cost to replace a cam phaser?

Cam phasers adjust the position or the “phase” of the camshaft in relation to the crankshaft. Common symptoms of a failing cam phaser include an illuminated check engine light, poor engine performance, and rattling noises from the engine. It costs somewhere between $800 and $2,500 to replace cam phasers.

What happens if a cam phaser goes bad?

The engine runs poorly. You will notice poor acceleration in some cases, especially when you ask for a lot of speed. In other cases, the engine might run rough. You hear a tapping or rattling noise at idle when the engine is hot.

Can you test a cam phaser?

The stator unit is connected to a drive, which can shift the phaser or hold it in a fixed angular position. For testing, a component-compatible test oil is used, in which its properties simulate those of engine oil. The temperature and pressure of the test oil are according to the specification.