FORD AA5A-AA Connecting Rod 3.5L 3.7L AA5E

( Manufacturer Part Number: AA5A-AA ), ( Type: Connecting Rod ), ( Oe/oem Part Number: Aa5a-aa, Rfaa5e-aa ), ( Items Included: Piston ), ( Material: Steel ), ( Vintage Part: No ), ( Finish: Polished ), ( Item Weight: 2 Lb )

Review FORD 3.5l 3.7l Connecting Rod Oem fits F150 2011–2016

The **Ford AA5A-AA (2011 2016 F-150 3.5L & 3.7L EcoBoost Engine Connecting Rods, Part # AA5E)** are precision-engineered, high-performance components designed to deliver unmatched durability and reliability in Ford s iconic 3.5L and 3.7L EcoBoost V6 powerplants. These rods are meticulously crafted from **forged 4340 steel**, a material renowned for its exceptional strength, fatigue resistance, and ability to withstand the extreme stresses of forced induction and high-performance applications. Each rod is **heat-treated and stress-relieved** to ensure optimal dimensional stability, minimizing the risk of catastrophic failure under heavy loads, aggressive throttle inputs, or prolonged high-RPM operation. The **AA5E rods** feature a **full-floating design**, allowing for smoother operation and reduced wear on the rod bolts and bearings, which is critical for maintaining peak engine efficiency and longevity especially in turbocharged or modified setups where cylinder pressures can exceed stock specifications.

Beyond their structural integrity, these rods are engineered with **precision machining** to exacting tolerances, ensuring a perfect fit within the Ford EcoBoost engine s crankshaft journals and main bearings. The **AA5A-AA rod set** includes **big-end caps with precision-machined oil holes**, promoting superior lubrication and reducing friction in high-stress applications. Whether you're restoring a stock F-150 to factory specifications or pushing it beyond factory limits with a turbo kit, nitrous oxide, or aggressive tuning, these rods provide the **critical reinforcement** needed to handle the increased torque and horsepower without compromising reliability. Built to withstand the demands of both daily driving and spirited performance, the **AA5E connecting rods** are an essential upgrade for anyone seeking to maximize the potential of their Ford EcoBoost V6 while maintaining the confidence of knowing their engine is protected against failure.

### **Pros and Cons of Buying a Ford F-150 (2011 2016) with the 3.5L/3.7L EcoBoost (AA5A-AA5E) Engine**

#### **Pros**

1. **Strong Performance and Towing Capacity**

The 3.5L (AA5A) and 3.7L (AA5E) EcoBoost engines deliver significant power for their displacement, producing **300 375 hp** and **375 430 lb-ft of torque**. This makes them well-suited for towing, hauling, and off-road use, especially when paired with the proper drivetrain (4x4 or heavy-duty models).

2. **Turbocharged Efficiency**

Unlike naturally aspirated V8s, these engines use forced induction, improving fuel economy compared to older Ford V8s. In real-world driving, they typically achieve **15 20 MPG city** and **18 22 MPG highway**, which is better than many older F-150s with V8s.

3. **Modern Technology for the Era**

These engines feature **direct injection, variable valve timing, and high-pressure fuel systems**, which were advanced for their time. They also include **Ford s EcoBoost tuning**, which optimizes performance and efficiency.

4. **Durability (When Maintained Properly)**

The EcoBoost engines are generally robust if they receive **regular oil changes (synthetic, high-quality), proper cooling system maintenance, and timely turbocharger servicing**. Many owners report **200,000 miles** with minimal issues if cared for.

5. **Available in Multiple Configurations**

The F-150 was offered in **regular cab, super cab, and crew cab** versions, as well as **short/long beds**, making it versatile for different needs. The **3.5L (AA5A) was standard in many trims**, while the **3.7L (AA5E) was in higher-performance models** (e.g., FX4, Limited).

6. **Good Resale Value (Compared to Older F-150s)**

Since these engines were relatively new when introduced, they hold up better in value than older Ford V8s (e.g., 4.6L, 5.4L). However, resale depreciates over time, so buying used still offers a good deal.

7. **Off-Road and Overlanding Potential**

The **3.5L/3.7L EcoBoost** was available in **4x4 trims**, making it a solid choice for off-roaders and overlanders, especially when paired with **trailer brake controllers, locking differentials, or lift kits**.

---

#### **Cons**

1. **Turbocharger and Cooling System Weaknesses**

The **most common failure point** in these engines is the **turbocharger and associated cooling system**. Many owners report **turbo wastegate failures, oil leaks, and overheating** due to **clogged oil coolers or radiators**. This requires **frequent maintenance** (cleaning oil coolers, checking for leaks, and replacing turbos if necessary).

2. **Oil Consumption Issues**

Some **3.5L (AA5A) engines** (especially pre-2015) are known for **oil burning**, leading to **low oil levels and blue smoke from the exhaust**. This is often due to **worn piston rings or valve seals**. The **3.7L (AA5E) is slightly better** but still not immune.

3. **Transmission Problems (Especially in Early Models)**

The **6-speed automatic transmission (6F35)** paired with these engines has had **reputation issues**, including **rough shifting, delayed engagement, and premature wear**. Some owners report needing **transmission fluid flushes every 30K 50K miles** to prevent failure.

4. **Exhaust Manifold and Head Gasket Concerns**

**Exhaust manifold cracks** (especially on the passenger side) and **head gasket failures** have been reported, particularly in **higher-mileage examples**. This can lead to **coolant mixing with oil or exhaust leaks**.

5. **Electrical and Sensor Issues**

Like many modern Ford trucks, these models can suffer from **electrical gremlins**, including **faulty sensors (MAF, TPS), check engine lights, and transmission control module failures**. This requires **diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and potential repairs**.

6. **Higher Maintenance Costs Than Naturally Aspirated V8s**

While the **3.5L/3.7L EcoBoost is more efficient than a 5.0L or 6.2L V8**, the **turbocharger, intercooler, and cooling system components are more expensive to replace** than traditional Ford V8 parts.

7. **Rust and Body Issues (Especially in Snow-Belt Regions)**

Many **2011 2016 F-150s** (especially those from **2011 2013**) have **rust concerns**, particularly in the **wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage**. A **pre-purchase inspection** is crucial to check for rust damage.

8. **Limited Long-Term Reliability Data**

Since these engines are only **10 14 years old (as of 2024)**, there is **less long-term data** compared to Ford s **5.0L Triton V8**, which has proven itself over decades. Some owners report **unexpected failures** after **150K 200K miles**.

---

### **Key Considerations Before Buying**

1. **Check Maintenance History**

- **Oil changes (synthetic, every 5K 7.5K miles)**

- **Turbocharger and intercooler condition**

- **Transmission fluid flushes (if applicable)**

- **Cooling system (radiator, oil cooler, hoses)**

2. **Inspect for Common Issues**

- **Turbo wastegate leaks (common in AA5A)**

- **Exhaust manifold cracks (especially passenger side)**

- **Oil consumption (check for blue smoke)**

- **Transmission smoothness (no rough shifts or delays)**

3. **Test Drive and Listen for Problems**

- **Turbo lag under acceleration**

- **Unusual noises (knocking, rattling, whining)**

- **Check engine light (scan for codes)**

4. **Consider a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI)**

- A **mechanic familiar with Ford EcoBoost engines** can catch hidden issues.

5. **Budget for Potential Repairs**

- **Turbo replacement ( $1,500 $2,500)**

- **Transmission rebuild ( $2,000 $3,500)**

- **Head gasket or exhaust manifold repair ( $1,000 $2,000)**

---

### **Final Recommendation**

You **find a well-maintained example** with **full service records**, especially **oil changes and cooling system upkeep**.

You **plan to drive it moderately** (not extreme towing/off-roading without proper maintenance).

You **budget for potential turbo or transmission issues** and are prepared for **higher maintenance costs** than a naturally aspirated V8.

You **prioritize fuel efficiency and modern tech** over the reliability of a proven V8.

You **can t afford unexpected repairs** (turbo, transmission, cooling system).

The **seller has no maintenance history** or the truck shows **signs of neglect** (oil leaks, overheating, rough shifting).

You **need a bulletproof, low-maintenance truck** consider a **used 2015 F-150 with the 5.0L EcoBoost (AA2D) or a 2011 5.0L Triton V8** instead.

- **2014 2016 F-150 3.5L (AA5A) with a 6-speed auto** (if well-maintained).

- **2015 2016 F-150 3.7L (AA5E) in FX4 or Limited trim** (better reliability refinements).

- If **reliability is the top priority**, a **used 2011 F-150 with the 5.0L EcoBoost (AA2D)** or a **2009 5.0L Triton V8** may be a safer bet.

- If **towing/hauling is critical**, ensure the truck has **heavy-duty suspension, cooling, and transmission** (e.g., **Super Duty or high-torque 3.5L models**).

### **Conclusion**

The **2011 2016 Ford F-150 with the 3.5L/3.7L EcoBoost** is a **capable truck** with **strong power and efficiency**, but it comes with **higher maintenance risks** than older Ford V8s. **Buying one is

Details:

Shipped with UPS Ground. 2011 - 2016 Ford F150 3.5L 3.7L Connecting Rod AA5E AA OEM. Condition is Used.

part #: aa5a-aa prices

• $29.99-$30.95

specifications pistonrinro:

• for models: F150
• for makes: Ford
• for years: 2011-2016
• mpn: Aa5a-aa
• type: Connecting Rod
• oe/oem part number: Aa5a-aa, Rfaa5e-aa
• items included: Piston
• material: Steel
• vintage part: No
• finish: Polished
• item weight: 2 Lb

returns pistonrinro:

• policy: Returns Accepted
• paid by: Buyer
• time: 30 Days

general pistonrinro:

• Car Truck Parts Accessories > Engines Engine Parts > Connecting Rods Parts
• condition: Used

payments pistonrinro:

• other
• credit card: Visa
• wallet: Google-pay

shipping pistonrinro:

• transit: 3-8 Days
• type: Calculated
• cost: $9.16
• carrier: UPS, FedEx
• class: Standard, Economy
• service: UPS Ground, FedEx Ground Economy

offer pistonrinro:

• quantity: 1
• started: February 17, 2026
• sold: 0
• options: Ship-to-home
• availability: In Stock

seller pistonrinro:

• city: Seattle, Washington
• rating: 98.9%
• # reviews: 861

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