Ford 7.3 Gas Problems
We examine everything related to Ford 7.3 gas problems: common issues and how much they cost to fix, how to avoid these problems, and more.
The Ford 7.3 gas engine is a newer selection on the market, first appearing in 2019. The goal was to make a more economical engine system that offered power without traditional diesel in trucks. While the power was there, durability proved an issue for the Ford 7.3. Thus, if you want a car with this system, you should know about significant Ford 7.3 gas problems.
A comprehensive understanding of an engine system will help you know if a car is worthwhile, what to anticipate with an engine, and what problems you could see. The Ford 7.3 isn’t the worst, but there are some serious troubles to consider. Read on to better understand the most frequent troubles with the Ford 7.3, the cost to repair them, and how to avoid trouble.
The Most Common Problems With the Ford 7.3 Gas:
- Transmission Troubles. Cost to Fix: $300-$1,400
- Wiring Harness Failure. Cost to Fix: $700-$1,800
- Unsmooth Start. Cost to Fix: $150-$1,100
- Cylinder Scoring and Stock Lifters. Cost to Fix: $500-$700
- Fumes Inside the Cab. Cost to Fix: $100-$500
Transmission Troubles
Problem:
When the 7.3 engine was released, Ford decided to pair the system with a Torq Shift transmission. Since the system was newer, it was prone to more trouble than older transmission selections. It’s a complicated system and suffers from faults like lower performance, inability to shift, and rough shifting.
Luckily, transmission troubles seem less frequent than other struggles in the Ford engine. Listen for odd noises, problems with shifting, or poor performance to hunt out a transmission issue.
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Cost:
For most Ford vehicles, transmission troubles have protection under a warranty for a few years. However, those without a warranty will have a significant cost. The price for transmission troubles ranges from $300-$1,400, depending on the severity. If you need a complete replacement, it will be on the higher end of the spectrum.
Wiring Harness Failure
Problem:
Next on our list of Ford 7.3 gas problems is a failure in the wiring harness. In an engine, the wiring harness is part of the core. It transmits signals and ensures the engine functions properly. Unfortunately, there can be trouble in this area that usually arises from faults in the spark plug wiring.
There could be lower performance, odd sounds, or more vibration than anticipated if this fails. You will also see torn, frayed, or excessively worn wires. Check under the hood and if you see anything strange, contact your local mechanic to ensure they can get everything back on track.
Cost:
The replacement cost for wires isn’t very high, but the maintenance can take it to another degree. In the worst-case scenario with high maintenance costs, it can take $700-$1,800 to work in this area.
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Unsmooth Start
Problem:
At first, there might not seem to be any issues with the Ford 7.3 start. However, after a while, there seems to be trouble with the system coming to life. It could take the system a few seconds to turn on or it might not turn on at all. There could also be a rough idling situation. Both are irritating and can waste fuel when getting the car to function.
You will have issues with the engine working or notice unfortunate motion on the start if you’re having trouble. Ideally, take your car to a mechanic to determine the problem and have them provide a solution.
Cost:
The price of repair differs depending on what’s wrong with your system. It can range from $150-$1,100 based on the labor and other details.
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Cylinder Scoring and Stock Lifters
Problem:
Lifters permit your engine to function by helping with the opening valves. If there is trouble here, the cylinders won’t work as they should and can cause scoring inside the engine. These are scratches and odd discoloration, which aren’t just aesthetic faults. They can create a seizure in the piston.
Luckily, there are ample symptoms to listen for. Watch for troublesome signs like soot in the engine oil, misfires, sooty tailpipes, audible ticks, soot on the bumper, and an increase in oil consumption to indicate trouble.
Cost:
It can be pricey to invest in cylinder scoring and stock lifters, but it isn’t as expensive as other selections. Expect to pay around $500-$700 to deal with these items.
Fumes Inside the Cab
Problem:
One of the most troublesome Ford 7.3 gas problems reported is the smell of fumes inside the cab. No one wants to smell gas while on the road, and it can even be dangerous in some conditions. The first thing to do if you smell gas inside your cab is to pull over, get to a safe spot, and exit as soon as possible. Roll down the windows if possible - it’s dangerous.
Most of the time, fumes inside the cab come from harm to the exhaust pipes or a leak built into the fuel system. It will be easy to notice a gas scent if it becomes prominent. If left unchecked, it can be dangerous and deadly.
Cost:
Take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible if you smell gas. The price point for dealing with this issue ranges from $100-$500, making it a more affordable problem.
Avoiding Ford 7.3 Issues
Ideally, the best way to keep Ford 7.3 troubles at bay is to listen and watch for troubles and take them to a professional as soon as possible. Some might want to tackle the projects themselves, but if you don’t know much about vehicles, you risk adding more damage to the system.
The older an engine gets, the more troubles you are bound to experience. Take your vehicle for regular maintenance to ensure you catch something as early as possible.
Final Thoughts
While the Ford 7.3 has a strong presence in a vehicle’s system, there are some significant Ford 7.3 gas problems. Keep your eyes peeled for faults like transmission troubles, wiring harness failure, rough starts, cylinder scoring and stock lifters, and fumes inside the cab. They can grow into dangerous troubles.
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