The Ford 7.3-liter Godzilla engine is a V8 powerhouse built by Ford, earning its “Godzilla” nickname from enthusiasts for its sheer strength and impressive output.
Delivering up to 253 horsepower and a massive 505 lb-ft of torque, this engine isn’t just about numbers—it’s built to handle heavy towing and hauling with ease.
Known for its durability and reliability, the 7.3 Godzilla has quickly become a favorite among truck owners and performance enthusiasts alike who need power that lasts.
That said, like any powerhouse, it comes with its quirks and potential issues, which are worth knowing before you dive in.
In this guide, we’ll break down the Ford 7.3 Godzilla’s reliability, common problems, and everything you need to know to keep this beast running smoothly.
How Reliable is Ford 7.3 Godzilla Engine?
I’ll never forget the first time I got behind the wheel of a Ford with the 7.3-liter Godzilla.
Honestly, I half expected a V8 this big to sound like a monster waking up—and it didn’t disappoint.
But what really caught my attention wasn’t just the roar or the torque—it was how effortlessly it handled a fully loaded trailer without even breaking a sweat.
Produced from 1999 to 2007, this gasoline V8 powered everything from the F-250, F-350, and F-450 to the Excursion, not to mention the Econoline vans and E-Series cutoff trucks.
Drivers like me have put over 300,000 miles on these engines without any major headaches—talk about a workhorse that refuses to quit.
And while it’s not a fuel-sipping Prius, it still manages a respectable 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway, which is nothing to sneeze at for a truck that can haul, tow, and basically double as a small planet.
Even though Ford has moved on, the 7.3 Godzilla remains a legend.
If you’re looking for an engine that laughs in the face of heavy loads, long hauls, and years of use, you can’t go wrong. Trust me—I’ve lived it, and my truck hasn’t let me down yet.
Common Problems with Ford 7.3 Godzilla Engine
Now, I’ll be honest—the 7.3L Godzilla is still pretty new on the scene, having launched in 2020.
That means we don’t have decades of “what breaks first” data like some older engines. Most of these trucks are still under warranty, and so far, nothing catastrophic has popped up.
Looking at the engineering of the block and internals, I’d bet my morning coffee that the major components are rock solid.
That said, every engine has its quirks. The one that has popped up most frequently is the spark plug wiring harness.
In simple terms, these wires connect your spark plugs to the ignition coils, giving them the juice to make the engine fire.
Some early owners noticed random cylinder misfires, which turned out to be traced back to a faulty harness.
The good news? It’s a cheap fix—under $30—but if it fails completely, your truck won’t start or could be undriveable.
Ford has acknowledged this as a manufacturer defect, and thanks to updates from the third-party supplier, the corrected harness is available at dealerships under warranty.
Outside of that, it’s mostly smooth sailing. There have been a few isolated cases of stuck lifters or cylinder scoring, but those seem rare.
A handful of engines have faced catastrophic failure, but overall, the 7.3 Godzilla is proving to be a strong, reliable beast.
Personally, I wouldn’t hesitate to trust one for long hauls or heavy towing—just keep an eye on those spark plug wires, and you’ll likely never have a hiccup.
How to Replace a Ford 7.3 Godzilla Engine with a New One?
If your 7.3-liter Godzilla is showing signs of serious wear—or you just want a fresh start—it might be time to swap it out.
Luckily, you’ve got a few paths to get there, each with its own pros and cons.
First, you can go the straightforward route and buy a new or used engine. The key here is research—make sure you’re dealing with a reputable seller, and check with your local Ford dealer for stock or certified engines.
A new engine is obviously pricier, but it comes with peace of mind.
If you’re feeling hands-on—or want to save some money—you can also rebuild your existing engine.
There are plenty of rebuild kits available, and a ton of online videos and guides walk you through the process step by step. It’s a bit of work, but for many, it’s a satisfying way to breathe new life into a trusted engine.
No matter which route you choose, replacing a 7.3 Godzilla isn’t a quick weekend project. It’s a serious undertaking, but with the right preparation, research, and care, you can have your beast back on the road running strong.
Personally, I always like to triple-check parts and guides before diving in—better safe than stranded on the highway!
Can I put a supercharger on my 7.3?
Yes, you can put a supercharger on your 7.3-liter Godzilla engine. There are a few different kits available that will allow you to do this. Be sure to do your research to find a kit that is compatible with your engine and your vehicle.
You should also consult with a qualified mechanic to make sure the installation is done correctly.
How much does it cost to rebuild a 7.3 engine?
A 7.3-liter engine is equal to 445 cubic inches. This is a popular engine size for many Ford trucks and SUVs.
The cost to rebuild a 7.3-liter Godzilla engine will vary depending on the extent of the damage and the type of parts that need to be replaced. You can expect to pay anywhere from $3,000 to $5,000 for a complete engine rebuild.
Be sure to consult with a qualified mechanic to get an estimate for your specific situation.
Final Thoughts
The Ford 7.3-liter Godzilla engine is a gasoline V8 that was used in the Ford F-250, F-350, and F-450, along with the Econoline van and E-Series cutoff truck.
The 7.3 Godzilla engine is a reliable engine that is known for its longevity and durability. But it showed some problems and failures too.
While the 7.3 Godzilla engine is no longer in production, it remains a popular choice for drivers who are looking for a reliable and durable engine for their Ford truck or SUV.