Ford’s 7.3L Godzilla V8 engine powers many modern Super Duty trucks, but some owners face challenges. The most common issues include lifter failures, especially in engines under 30,000 miles, and problems during extended idling periods. Engine failures have been reported by multiple owners.
Good news – you can protect your truck and avoid costly repairs. Ford has developed solutions for many of these problems. In this guide, you’ll learn about the warning signs to watch for and steps you can take to keep your Godzilla engine running strong.
Overview of the 7.3L Godzilla Engine
The Ford 7.3L Godzilla engine made its first appearance in 2020 as Ford’s newest addition to their Super Duty truck lineup. Your new engine takes the place of the older 6.2L V8, bringing more power to heavy-duty trucks.
This big-block V8 engine comes as an upgrade option from the standard 6.2L “Boss” engine in F-250 and F-350 trucks. You’ll find it’s built with a sturdy iron block design that helps with durability.
Ford designed this engine with both power and reliability in mind. When you’re looking at specs, you’ll notice the 7.3L displacement – that’s about 445 cubic inches for those who prefer traditional measurements.
The Godzilla engine stands out with its simple yet effective design. You get:
- A pushrod V8 layout
- Port fuel injection
- Variable cam timing
- Strong iron block construction
- Aluminum cylinder heads
Your truck’s 7.3L engine delivers impressive performance for heavy-duty work tasks. It’s built to handle tough jobs while maintaining good efficiency for a large displacement engine.
The engine fits nicely in Ford’s Super Duty lineup, giving you a solid middle ground between the base 6.2L gas engine and the more expensive PowerStroke diesel options.
Known Issues with the 7.3L Godzilla
The Ford 7.3L V8 Godzilla engine has faced several reliability concerns since its 2020 introduction. While it’s generally a robust engine, specific problems have been reported that you should watch out for.
Lifter Concerns
You might notice a ticking sound from your engine, especially during cold starts. This noise often points to lifter problems in the 7.3L Godzilla.
The most common sign is a distinct tapping noise from the valve train area. Your engine may also experience rough idling when lifter issues develop.
If you spot metal shavings in your oil during changes, this could indicate lifter wear. Regular oil changes help prevent these problems.
Prevention tips:
- Use high-quality oil
- Change oil on schedule
- Listen for unusual noises
- Check oil pressure regularly
Ignition System Challenges
Spark plug wire failures have been reported in 2020 models. You might experience misfires or rough running when this happens.
Cylinder misfires can show up as:
- Check engine light
- Rough idle
- Loss of power
- Poor fuel economy
Your best defense is regular spark plug inspections and replacement of worn ignition components.
Oil System Complications
The variable displacement oil pump can sometimes cause pressure fluctuations. Watch your oil pressure gauge for inconsistent readings.
Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption. Keep these things in mind:
- Check oil levels weekly
- Watch for oil spots under your truck
- Monitor oil pressure readings
- Address leaks immediately
Cooling System Problems
Engine overheating incidents have occurred in some cases. Your cooling system needs regular maintenance to prevent these issues.
Signs of cooling problems include:
- Temperature gauge reading high
- Steam from under hood
- Sweet smell from engine
- Loss of coolant
Keep your cooling system in good shape by:
- Checking coolant levels regularly
- Inspecting hoses and connections
- Maintaining proper coolant mixture
- Watching temperature gauges
Specific Use Cases
The Ford 7.3L Godzilla V8 engine serves unique roles in both recreational and business settings. Its power and reliability make it a great fit for demanding tasks.
RV Adaptations
Your RV adventures can benefit greatly from the 7.3L Godzilla engine’s power. The engine’s design helps manage heavy loads while maintaining decent fuel economy for its size.
When towing a large travel trailer or fifth wheel, you’ll appreciate the smooth power delivery. Most RV owners report 8-12 mpg when towing, which is reasonable for such a large engine.
The engine’s cooling system handles well in hot weather, even when climbing steep grades. This makes it ideal for summer camping trips through mountainous regions.
Commercial Applications
Your business can rely on the Godzilla engine’s strong work ethic. Since its 2020 introduction, many companies have chosen it for their fleet vehicles.
The engine excels at:
- Heavy equipment transport
- Construction site deliveries
- Landscaping operations
- Snow removal services
You’ll find the engine maintains steady power throughout long workdays. Many operators praise its low-end torque when moving heavy loads from a standstill.
The simple design means less downtime for maintenance compared to more complex diesel options. This helps keep your work trucks on the road earning money.
Owner Experiences and Considerations
Most Ford 7.3L Godzilla owners report positive experiences with their engines. A few have faced challenges, but the engine has built a strong reputation in the truck community.
Positive Feedback
The 7.3L Godzilla in F250 trucks has proven very reliable with many engines reaching high mileage without major issues. Some trucks have crossed 100,000 miles while running strong.
The engine delivers consistent power and performance for daily driving and towing tasks. You’ll appreciate the smooth power delivery and responsive acceleration.
Many owners praise the engine’s fuel efficiency compared to other large V8 engines. Your real-world fuel economy may vary based on driving conditions and load.
Areas of Improvement
A small number of owners have reported lifter-related issues, particularly in early production models. Ford has addressed this with updates.
Some owners note the engine can be louder than expected during cold starts. This is normal and usually settles once warm.
The engine’s size means slightly higher maintenance costs compared to smaller engines. Plan for regular oil changes using the recommended oil grade.
Advice for Potential Buyers
Look for service records when buying used. Regular maintenance is key to long-term reliability.
Consider getting a pre-purchase inspection from a Ford dealer familiar with the 7.3L Godzilla.
Key maintenance items to check:
- Oil change history
- Coolant condition
- Belt wear
- Engine codes history
Model Year Specific Information
The Ford 7.3 Godzilla engine first appeared in 2020 F-Series Super Duty trucks. If you’re considering a 2020 Ford F-350, pay special attention to early production models.
Some early 2020 models faced a delivery hold due to quality control concerns. Your best bet is looking at late 2020 production dates to avoid any first-year issues.
The 2021 and 2022 model years brought improved reliability as Ford worked out initial problems. These newer versions give you more peace of mind since early manufacturing quirks were resolved.
When shopping for a used Godzilla-powered truck, check the build date on the driver’s door jamb sticker. Later production dates typically mean fewer potential issues to worry about.
Key Model Year Tips:
- 2020: First year, some early production concerns
- 2021: Enhanced quality control
- 2022: Most refined version
