Pros:
* Powerful: When running correctly, it's a very powerful engine.
* Torquey: Delivers strong torque for towing and hauling.
Cons:
* Head gasket issues: A major and expensive problem, prone to failure, particularly in earlier models.
* Injector issues: High-pressure fuel injectors can fail and are costly to replace.
* EGR cooler problems: The exhaust gas recirculation cooler can crack and leak coolant into the engine.
* Oil cooler issues: Similar to the EGR cooler, it can fail and cause significant damage.
* Complexity: It's a sophisticated engine, requiring specialized knowledge and tools for maintenance and repair.
Overall:
The 6.0L Power Stroke *can* be a good engine, but only if properly maintained and ideally, with preventative maintenance addressing its known weaknesses. Many of the problems are directly related to poor maintenance or lack of attention to known issues. A well-maintained 6.0L can last a long time, but neglecting its needs will lead to very costly repairs. Buying a used vehicle with this engine requires significant due diligence, a thorough inspection by a mechanic experienced with this engine, and likely a higher budget for potential repairs. If you're not mechanically inclined or comfortable with potentially significant repair bills, it might be best to avoid this engine.
