by Admin | Oct 20, 2025 | Ford, Ford F-150
As master technicians with over 20 years servicing Ford trucks here in Sunnyvale, we’ve diagnosed countless F-150 engine power loss cases that leave drivers stranded on Highway 101 or struggling up the Santa Cruz Mountains. The sudden loss of power while driving isn’t just inconvenient—it’s dangerous, especially in our stop-and-go Silicon Valley traffic.
The Root Causes Behind Power Loss
The most common culprit we encounter is carbon buildup in the EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) system. Ford’s EcoBoost engines, particularly the 3.5L twin-turbo V6, are notorious for this issue. California’s emissions regulations mean these engines run lean, causing excessive carbon deposits that clog the EGR valve and intake manifold runners. When this happens, the engine management computer pulls timing and reduces boost pressure, resulting in that dreaded power drop.
Turbocharger wastegate actuator failure is another major issue we see, especially in trucks with 40,000+ miles. The electronic actuator that controls boost pressure develops internal leakage, causing erratic power delivery. Symptoms include a distinctive whistling sound under acceleration and sudden power cuts during highway merging—particularly dangerous on our busy freeways.
Mass airflow sensor contamination is exacerbated by our dusty Central Valley winds and construction zones throughout the Bay Area. When the MAF sensor reads incorrectly, the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) compensates with overly rich or lean fuel mixtures, triggering limp mode.
Professional Diagnostic Approach
Our diagnostic process starts with a comprehensive scan using Ford’s IDS (Integrated Diagnostic System) to pull pending codes and examine live data streams. We specifically monitor long-term fuel trims, boost pressure readings, and EGR flow rates while road testing under various load conditions.
For EGR-related issues, we perform an intake manifold inspection using a borescope camera to assess carbon buildup severity. Complete cleaning involves removing the intake manifold, media blasting the EGR passages, and installing updated Ford TSB components.
Turbocharger diagnosis requires boost leak testing using regulated shop air and a specialized smoke machine to identify wastegate actuator problems or intercooler leaks.
The Fix and Prevention
Proper repairs currently run $1,800-$2,800 depending on component replacement needs. We always recommend switching to the best gasoline and performing intake cleaning services every 30,000 miles—especially important given our California fuel formulations and driving conditions. Regular maintenance at A1 Performance Auto Repair is your best defense against these costly failures.
by Admin | May 20, 2025 | Ford F-150
If you own an F150 pickup truck, you might be experiencing what people are calling the F150 Death Rattle. This is definitely something you should be concerned about.
Which F150s Has the Death Rattle?
This problem, or series of problems, is typically with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engines or 5.4L Triton V8 engine from the 2000s models.
3.5L EcoBoost V6 engines
The Death Rattle affects 2017-2020 models and happens as soon as you start the cold truck in the morning. You’ll hear it rattling immediately. You won’t have to wait!
While various things could cause a rattling sound, the Death Rattle involves the Cam Phaser. It sometimes can begin when the truck is brand new, but typically it happens between 80,000-100,000. But there’s reports of it happening with trucks at well over 200,000 miles.
Other issues that cause rattling are a timing chain stretch and carbon buildup. These can happen anywhere from 40,000-100,000 miles.
5.0L Coyote V8
With this model it is the 2018 year that the Death Rattle usually affects.
Typically, the rattle arrives when it is brand spanking new, from day one, it is a piston slap problem that gives the truck a cold start knock. It’s very annoying and concerning, but doesn’t do any damage.
More commonly, at 80,000 miles on trucks that have sloppy maintenance schedules the timing chain starts acting up. Definitely get that fixed ASAP, because it will strand you on the side of the road at the most inconvenient time.
Cam Phaser Problems
This is a very tricky problem and Ford has had a very tough time figuring it out. It is one of those things that you fix one thing and it breaks two others.
Dealers have been going in circles trying to find a perfect fix and so far Ford appears to be chasing their own tail. While there are fixes, you likely need other new parts because the fix wore it out so fast.
Ford did offer an extended warranty to the affected trucks, but that is expired now.
The Short Story
Don’t buy the Ford F150 Pickups that have 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engines, 5.4L Triton V8 or 5.0L Coyote engines. At least not until those problems disappear, you want a model that doesn’t have the Death Rattle.
If you are hearing a rattle with your Ford F150, call us for an appointment and our skilled mechanics will check it out. Maybe it is something easy to fix and we’ll get that taken care of.
by Admin | Dec 20, 2024 | Ford, Ford F-150
In America, trucks are declarations of horsepower independence. Perhaps there’s some good feeling in the US with curbside parking that feels like docking a ship.
The Ford F-Series, poised to clinch its 48th consecutive year as America’s best-selling vehicle, embodies a phenomenon that goes far beyond mere transportation.
It’s a rolling testament to the American dream, packaged in steel, chrome, and horsepower.
Ford F-Series as the Ultimate Big Truck in the US
In just nine months, over 528,000 F-Series trucks zoomed off the lots.
The 2024 model has a huge 12-inch screen and digital dashboard. But even so, these trucks aren’t just about fancy tech—they stand for something bigger.
More Than Just Machines
More likely than not, the F-Series and their ilk have been said to reflect American culture.
In a country where bigger often means better, pickups like the F-Series are the wheels that carry our national spirit. They’re bold statements of freedom, strength, and a certain kind of toughness that many people admire.
The All-in-One Vehicle
But is it all about toughness on the road and parking lots?
Well, not exactly. The magic is in their versatility. They’re just as comfortable on a dusty construction site as they are cruising down Main Street. Work trucks have come a long way!
They’re workhorses and showpieces, family cars and adventure machines all rolled into one. Maybe we can think of them as the Swiss Army knives of the car world?
While critics of the big trucks may loudly say that they’re unnecessary, most can’t resist a test drive.
Often, it’s about the possibilities—towing big things, hauling loads, or exploring off the beaten path—even if most drivers don’t use all that power.
The Road Ahead
As we look forward, electric cars are becoming a big deal, and even pickup trucks are changing with the times. But one thing is crystal clear: America’s love for big trucks isn’t going anywhere.
It’s deeply rooted in who we are, like a rolling symbol of our wide-open spaces and the endless opportunities of the American dream.
by Admin | Jan 20, 2024 | Car Blog, Ford F-150, Used Cars
While we all love that “new car” smell and feel, buying a new set of wheels right now is a big expense. Bigger than ever! You see, interest rates are soaring, and it’s almost like the sky’s the limit in this economic time.
So, is there a way around the 14% interest for 60 months for a new ride when you don’t have that 825 FICO score? We tend to look at what we don’t have and not the treasure that’s already in our hands.
What’s this obsession with hoarding the new shiny?
Did you know that working on your current ride is like starting from a position of strength?
There are inexpensive DIY add-ons you can install to make your used car feel new and updated. And with a little creativity and elbow grease, you can upgrade your existing vehicle’s look, comfort, tech, and convenience right in your garage.
Interior LED Lights
Swapping out standard bulb lighting with battery-powered removable LED stick-on lights illuminates the cabin with a fresh modern glow. Use them to see passengers, items, and awkward corners better at night. There are options for colorful ambient lighting too.
Seat Covers
Dingy upholstery gets new life with the addition of cushy seat pads and breathable, protective seat covers. Choose patterns and materials that upgrade your interior’s look. Enjoy a refreshed seating experience, and the driving becomes enjoyable as well.
Decorative Chrome Accents
Peel-and-stick trims can chrome out vents, handles, knobs, and gauges on the cheap. It’s an easy way to modernize the aesthetic.
More ideas cover things like hands-free phone holders, backup cameras for safety, custom-fit floor mats, mini vacuums, Bluetooth music adapters, and exterior detailing. With small upgrades like these, older cars gain significant style and function. The journey feels as good as the destination!
Need help with upgrading or maintenance of your trusty ride? We can help. Contact us at A1 Performance Auto Repair, and we’ll give your car the TLC it deserves.
by Admin | Sep 20, 2023 | Ford, Ford F-150
Rewarding yourself with a Ford F-150 may be the nicest thing you can do for yourself. Forget fuel efficiency and other discouraging talk; a part in the back, even if you do it yourself, is a nice feeling.
However, there are some issues that come with such a large truck. More is expected from whom more is given! Do you agree?
Users have complained that the Ford F-150 is more prone to cabin noise than smaller vehicles.
Where the F-150 Cabin Noise is Coming From
Some F-150 owners have reported excessive wind, road, and engine noise.
The wind noise can be particularly noticeable at high speeds. This is because the F-150 has a large windshield and a tall body, which creates a lot of wind drag.
The road noise can also be noticeable, especially on rough roads, mainly because the F-150 has large tires that transmit much road noise into the cabin.
On the other hand, you may notice some engine noise, especially when under heavy load. But what do you expect from such a powerful engine, particularly when it’s overworking?
How To Reduce Engine Noise
Several things can be done to reduce cabin noise in the F-150. Some of the most common methods include using sound-deadening materials. These materials absorb sound waves and can be applied to the vehicle’s interior, including the floor, roof, and doors.
You may also consider investing in a quality sound system. A well-designed sound system can help to mask cabin noise. For the best result, place the speakers strategically and properly tune the system.
Most people overlook this, but a well-maintained vehicle will be less likely to produce noise. Make sure to keep your tires properly inflated, have a good tread pattern, and ensure the brakes are in good condition.
If you’re concerned about cabin noise in your F-150, you should talk to your dealer or a qualified mechanic. They can help you identify the noise source and recommend solutions. Talk to us at A1 Performance Auto Repair about your Ford F-150 issues, and we’ll fix them for you.
by Admin | May 4, 2021 | Ford F-150
Even though Ford F-150 is more youthful than the likes of Toyota Tundra, it packs more punch to embarrass peers in the job site and off-roading. The first generation Raptor came with a powerful 5.4-liter V8 and upgraded in 2014 to a 6.2-liter V8 with 411 hp and 434 lb-ft of torque.
A later F-150 came with EcoBoost 3.5 l V6 twin-turbo making an impressive 450 hp and 510 lb-ft of torque. Its grunt and ferocious surge forward gives the owners some deserved bragging rights. Acceleration is incredible. Even on the beaten path, you can easily forget you are in a 5500-ton pick-up.
Raptor is a desert racer and comes with the tools to do just that. This comes in handy when you need a proven work truck when the job is far away from civilization.
What about its Ability to Haul Stuff?
The 5.5-foot load bed has a decent 52.8 cubic feet capacity to haul enough materials. With the capability to carry up to 1000 lbs. for the SuperCab and up to 1200 lbs. for the the SuperCrew, you have no reason not to transport the stuff in one fell swoop.
A few can outperform the Raptor in its ability to haul stuff, but it makes up for the slight difference through its off-road capability. Of course, most gearheads or contractors would choose a blend of off-road capability and power to carry lots of stuff.
At 36.4 inches off the ground, some will complain the tailgate is too high, but the Raptor comes with a power lock.
Owning a Ford F-150 is a dream come true for most off-road enthusiasts. But it is also a match made in heaven for the worksite, considering its impressive horsepower and torque. The only shortcoming is its price tag. It does not come on the cheap, but the best never does, does it?
