Why Are Some Ford F-150 Owners Worried About Excessive Oil Consumption?
If you’ve ever owned a Ford F-150 with the 5.0-liter Coyote V8, you might have heard the rumblings—literally and figuratively—about engines burning through oil faster than expected. A group of frustrated owners from nine states has banded together, filing a class action lawsuit in Michigan that puts Ford’s popular pickup under the microscope. Their claim? The engine’s thirst for oil isn’t just inconvenient—it’s a sign of a deeper problem that could spell trouble for performance and long-term reliability.
What’s Actually Happening Under the Hood?
Let’s get into the nuts and bolts. According to the lawsuit, these F-150s are guzzling oil at a rate that’s anything but normal for a modern truck. Owners report having to top off oil between scheduled changes, sometimes as soon as 3,000 miles after a fresh fill. That’s not just a hassle—it’s a red flag. The complaint argues that this excessive oil consumption isn’t just about cost or inconvenience. It can lead to reduced fuel economy, diminished performance, and—if left unchecked—potential engine damage.
But there’s more. The suit alleges that the engine’s oil control system isn’t doing its job. Instead of keeping oil where it belongs (lubricating moving parts), some of it slips past the piston rings and burns off in the combustion chamber. The result? Not only do you lose oil, but you also get carbon buildup inside the engine. Over time, those deposits can wreak havoc, leading to rough running, misfires, or even costly repairs.
Is There a Problem With the Owner’s Manual or Maintenance Guidance?
Here’s where things get even messier. Plaintiffs say the F-150 owner’s manual contains mistakes about how much oil the engine actually uses and how often it should be topped off. The truck’s intelligent oil life monitor, designed to make maintenance easier, sometimes lights up far earlier than expected—leaving drivers scratching their heads and wondering if they’re doing something wrong.
This confusion isn’t just annoying. If owners rely on inaccurate guidance, they might delay oil changes or miss early warning signs of trouble. That’s a recipe for bigger headaches down the road.
Did Ford Know About This Issue—And Did They Try to Hide It?
One of the most serious allegations is that Ford has known about the oil consumption problem for years but failed to come clean with customers. According to the lawsuit, the company hasn’t issued a recall, and some dealerships have reportedly refused to perform repairs—even when trucks were still under warranty.
This isn’t just a technical issue; it’s a trust issue. When owners feel like they’re being left in the dark, frustration builds. And when that frustration turns into a lawsuit, it’s clear the stakes are high.
How Widespread Is the Issue, and Who’s Affected?
The class action currently includes 12 named plaintiffs, each owning a 2018, 2019, or 2020 F-150. But the problem could be much broader. Online forums and consumer complaint sites have seen a steady trickle of similar stories from across the country. While not every truck is affected, the pattern is hard to ignore.
It’s worth noting that excessive oil consumption isn’t unique to Ford. Other automakers have faced similar lawsuits in recent years. Still, for a brand as iconic as the F-150—America’s best-selling vehicle for decades—this kind of issue hits especially hard.
What Can Owners Do If They Suspect Their Truck Is Burning Oil?
If you’re noticing your oil level dropping faster than it should, don’t ignore it. Start by keeping detailed records: mileage, oil changes, and how much you’re adding between services. If your truck is still under warranty, bring it to a dealer and ask for a consumption test. Be persistent—sometimes it takes more than one visit to get results.
You might also want to check for technical service bulletins (TSBs) related to oil consumption. While a TSB isn’t a recall, it can provide guidance to dealers on how to address known issues.
Is There Any Hope for a Fix or Compensation?
Legal experts say class action lawsuits like this can take time to resolve. If the court finds in favor of the plaintiffs, Ford could be required to offer repairs, extended warranties, or even compensation. But don’t hold your breath—these cases can drag on for years.
In the meantime, staying proactive with maintenance is your best defense. Using the correct oil grade, changing oil at recommended intervals, and monitoring levels closely can help minimize risk.
What’s the Real-World Impact for F-150 Owners?
For many drivers, the F-150 isn’t just a truck—it’s a workhorse, a family hauler, and sometimes even a lifeline for small businesses. When reliability comes into question, it’s more than just an inconvenience. It can mean lost time, unexpected expenses, and a lot of stress.
The big takeaway? Engine issues like this aren’t about perfection—they’re about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week—maybe tracking your oil use or double-checking your maintenance schedule—and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end. Sometimes, it’s the small tweaks that keep your truck (and your peace of mind) running strong.