Ford Ranger 2.3L EcoBoost Engine Valve Cover Gasket Replacement Guide (2019-2020)
A comprehensive guide to diagnosing and replacing the valve cover gasket on your 2019-2020 Ford Ranger.
- A burning oil smell is the most common symptom of a failing valve cover gasket on the 2.3L EcoBoost Ranger.
- Replacement is a moderately difficult job because the intake manifold must be removed for access.
- The OEM Motorcraft gasket is very affordable, but quality aftermarket brands like Elring are also a reliable choice.
- Thoroughly cleaning the mating surfaces on the head and valve cover is critical to prevent the new gasket from leaking.
Is Your Ranger Leaking Oil? Understanding the Valve Cover Gasket
If you're smelling burning oil or seeing drips under your 2019-2020 Ford Ranger, a failing valve cover gasket is a likely culprit. This rubber or silicone seal works hard in an environment of constant heat changes, and over time, it can become hard, brittle, and crack. This allows motor oil to seep out, causing a variety of issues. While not a catastrophic failure at first, it's a leak that should be addressed promptly to avoid bigger problems.
Warning: Fire Hazard
A leaking valve cover gasket can drip oil directly onto the hot exhaust manifold or turbocharger. This creates a significant fire risk and a strong burning oil smell inside and outside the truck. Do not let this symptom go unchecked.
Symptoms of a Failing Valve Cover Gasket
- Burning Oil Smell: This is the most common symptom, caused by oil dripping onto hot engine parts.
- Visible Oil Leaks: You may see wet, dark areas of grime and fresh oil on the side of the engine, just below the plastic engine cover.
- Low Engine Oil: A steady leak will require you to top off your oil more frequently between changes.
- Oil in Spark Plug Wells: If the integrated spark plug tube seals fail, oil can pool around the spark plugs. This can cause engine misfires and a check engine light.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Gasket
When replacing the gasket, you have a choice between the original Ford part and quality aftermarket options.
- OEM/Motorcraft: The original gasket from Ford (Motorcraft part number K2GZ-6584-C) is a direct-fit replacement. It's surprisingly affordable and guarantees compatibility. 🎬 See a 2.3L EcoBoost valve cover reseal and part numbers For many owners, sticking with the factory part is a safe bet.
- Aftermarket (Elring): Brands like Elring have a strong reputation, often as an original equipment supplier for German car manufacturers. They are known for producing high-quality seals that meet or exceed OEM specifications. An Elring gasket is a reliable aftermarket alternative that can be trusted for this repair.
For a simple but critical part like a valve cover gasket, both the OEM Motorcraft and a reputable aftermarket brand like Elring are excellent choices. The decision often comes down to price and availability.
Pro Tip: Proper Preparation is Key
The success of this repair depends on a clean surface. After removing the old gasket, take the time to thoroughly clean both the valve cover and the cylinder head mating surfaces. Any old gasket material or oil residue left behind can cause the new gasket to leak. Use a plastic scraper and brake cleaner to ensure the surfaces are spotless before installing the new gasket.
Replacement Cost
| Part Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Motorcraft) | $16 - $25 |
| New Aftermarket (Elring) | $48.26 |
| Shop Labor | $375 - $1000 |
Pricing is estimated and can vary based on location, retailer, and vehicle specifics. Labor costs are based on an estimated 3-5 hours of work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is replacing the valve cover gasket a DIY job?
For an experienced DIY mechanic, yes. However, on the 2.3L EcoBoost engine, the intake manifold must be removed to access the valve cover, making the job moderately complex. 🎬 Watch this walkthrough of the 2.3L EcoBoost engine disassembly If you are not comfortable with that level of disassembly, it is best to leave this job to a professional shop.
Are there any recalls for the Ranger valve cover gasket?
No. As of early 2026, there are no specific recalls from Ford or NHTSA for a leaking valve cover gasket on the 2019-2020 Ford Ranger.
Do I need to use RTV sealant with the new gasket?
Yes. A small amount of high-temperature RTV sealant is required at the corners and junctions where the timing cover meets the cylinder head. Follow the service manual's instructions for the precise locations to avoid leaks.
My truck is leaking oil, but it's not the valve cover. What else could it be?
On turbocharged engines, oil leaks can also come from the turbocharger's oil feed and drain lines. It's also possible for the front crankshaft seal or timing cover to leak. It's important to clean the engine and trace the leak to its highest point 🎬 Watch: How to track down the source of oil leaks to correctly identify the source.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: K2GZ-6584-C K2GZ-6584-A
Set includes main valve cover gasket and spark plug tube seals. Made of molded rubber designed for high-temperature environments.
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Ford Ranger: