The oil filter on the 2014 F-150 with a 3.5 EcoBoost is not in a traditional spin-on canister you see on older engines. It sits in a remote filter housing on the engine’s passenger side, integrated with the oil cooler, and is not immediately visible from the top of the engine bay. Access may require a little extra clearance, such as removing panels or reach from near the wheel well.
Understanding this setup helps when performing routine oil changes or replacing the filter. Ford’s EcoBoost 3.5L uses a cartridge-style filtration retained in a remote housing, which means the exact access point can vary slightly depending on engine bay layout, shields, and accessories installed on your F-150. The following guide outlines how to locate and access the filter in typical 2014-spec trucks.
Where to look in the engine bay
The filter housing on the 3.5 EcoBoost is mounted on the engine block on the passenger side, adjacent to the oil cooler lines. It is typically a black plastic housing with a cap or plug that can be unscrewed to service the cartridge inside. In many trucks, you may need to check from above with the hood open, but it can require removing the right front wheel well liner or splash shield to gain adequate access.
Access and service steps
Before the following steps, ensure the engine is cool and the vehicle is securely supported if you need to work from underneath. The steps below describe a typical approach to locating and servicing the filter housing.
Before performing any work, identify the remote oil filter housing on the passenger side of the engine and confirm you have the correct service manual or owner’s manual guidance for your exact build. The steps below cover common access methods used on many 2014 F-150 3.5 EcoBoost trucks.
- Locate the remote oil filter housing on the passenger side of the engine, near the firewall, connected to the oil cooler lines.
- From above, look for a black plastic cap or cap-and-housing assembly; this is where the cartridge or filter element resides.
- If the filter is cartridge-based, use the appropriate tool to loosen the cap and remove the old cartridge element from within the housing.
- Install a new cartridge or replace the filter as specified by Ford’s service procedure, ensuring any seals or O-rings are properly seated.
- Reinstall the housing cap, wipe away any oil spills, and start the engine to check for leaks. Check the oil level and top off as needed.
- If you cannot access the housing from above, you may need to remove the right front wheel and inner fender splash shield to gain clearance for the filter cap.
Access procedures can vary by vehicle options and aftermarket modifications, so consult the factory manual for exact torque specs and tool sizes. The general approach above covers the typical locations and steps for many 2014 F-150 3.5 EcoBoost models.
Maintenance tips and considerations
To keep the oil system in good condition, follow Ford’s recommended maintenance intervals and use the OEM-recommended oil and filter. Since the filter is in a remote housing, proper resealing and cleanliness during filter changes are important to prevent leaks.
Summary
On the 2014 Ford F-150 with a 3.5 EcoBoost, the oil filter is housed in a remote unit on the engine’s passenger side, integrated with the oil cooler, and not a visible top-mounted spin-on. Access may require removing protective shields or panels. When servicing, follow the vehicle’s manual for the exact steps, use the correct cartridge or filter element, and verify there are no leaks after reassembly.