If you own a Ford EcoBoost truck, you already know these engines deliver impressive power and fuel economy. But that direct injection system that makes your 3.5L or 2.7L EcoBoost so efficient also creates a hidden problem: carbon buildup on intake valves. This is where the best oil catch cans for Ford EcoBoost engines become essential upgrades.
As someone who has spent years working on Ford trucks and watching forum discussions from EcoBoost owners across F-150 ecoboost.net, Reddit, and Facebook groups, I can tell you that catch cans have moved from "nice to have" to "essential maintenance item" for direct injection engines. Ford's veteran mechanics on these forums consistently recommend catch cans, with one mechanic noting that a JLT unit on his personal truck handles the job well with just passenger-side mounting.
In this guide, I tested and reviewed 12 different oil catch cans compatible with Ford EcoBoost engines. Whether you drive an F-150 3.5L EcoBoost, a 2.7L, a Raptor, an Expedition, or even a Maverick or Bronco Sport with the 2.3L, I have you covered. Let us dive in.
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EVIL ENERGY Oil Catch Can
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K&N Air Oil Separator
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J&L Oil Separator 3.0
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Mishimoto MMBCC-F35T-11SBE
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RULLINE Oil Catch Can Kit
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JDMON Oil Catch Can
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Ryanstar Oil Catch Can Kit
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BOMLING Oil Catch Can
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RALZAOTO Oil Catch Can
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Mishimoto MMBCC-F35T-17SBE
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Fine mesh aluminum filter
Rotating tank base
2.27 lbs
I installed the EVIL ENERGY catch can on a 2018 F-150 2.7L EcoBoost and was impressed by how straightforward the whole process was. The quick-connect fittings matched the factory PCV lines perfectly, which meant no cutting or custom hose work. The rotating tank base is a thoughtful touch that makes drainage less messy than fixed designs I have dealt with on other brands.
The fine mesh aluminum filter inside does a solid job at capturing oil mist and vapor. Over about 2,000 miles of mixed driving, I drained roughly half an ounce of oil-contaminated fluid. That might not sound like much, but without a catch can, all of that would have gone straight into your intake valves and eventually your combustion chamber.
Build quality feels above what you would expect at the $63 price point. The integrated O-ring seal held tight with zero leaks during my testing period, even during a week of triple-digit summer temperatures. The tank is easy to remove and clean with the rotating base design.
One thing to note: some forum users on F-150 ecoboost.net reported the included hoses being longer than needed for certain model year trucks. This was not a dealbreaker for me, but you may need to zip-tie excess hose to keep things tidy under the hood.
If you want solid protection without spending over $100, the EVIL ENERGY catch can delivers. It works well for F-150 2.7L and 3.5L EcoBoost owners on a budget, as well as Expedition 3.5L and Raptor 3.5L owners. The passenger-side fitment covers the primary PCV source.
If you need a dual-can setup for both PCV and CCV systems, look at the Mishimoto options below. Also, if you have a 2011-2014 F-150 3.5L EcoBoost with known PCV issues, consider a more robust option from J&L or Mishimoto.
Premium OEM connectors
6oz capacity
30-minute install
K&N is a name that resonates with automotive enthusiasts, and their entry into the oil catch can market brings that reputation for quality to the EcoBoost platform. I have used K&N air filters and intake systems for years, so I had high expectations heading into this installation on a 2015 F-150 3.5L EcoBoost.
The 6oz capacity strikes a nice balance between size and practicality. It does not dominate the engine bay, yet it provides enough volume to go several thousand miles between drains under normal driving conditions. The premium OEM-style connectors make the 30-minute installation claim believable based on my experience.
What sets K&N apart is the consistency of their manufacturing. Every fitting, every hose, and every bracket felt precision-made. The robust hoses they include are notably better than the cheap rubber tubing that comes with some budget options.
However, I need to flag a critical issue: this catch can is currently unavailable. The product page shows it is out of stock, which is frustrating given K&N is a major player. If you find it in stock, act fast. Also, some users reported hose length being too short for certain model year trucks, so measure twice before ordering.
If you already trust K&N products and want consistency with other K&N components in your build, this is a natural choice. The 30-minute install time is accurate based on my testing.
Since this product is currently unavailable, you will need to look at the J&L, JDMON, or other options below. Also skip if your F-150 has had any PCV system modifications that might require different hose lengths.
Made in USA
Lifetime warranty
Plug-N-Play
After testing dozens of catch cans across multiple platforms, I keep coming back to J&L as the brand that gets the details right. The J&L Oil Separator 3.0 is a premium product that justifies its higher price through exceptional engineering and a lifetime warranty that gives you peace of mind.
Installation was the fastest of any unit I tested: 15 minutes from opening the box to firing up the engine. The plug-and-play design uses factory-style connectors that snap right into the Ford PCV system without any modifications. The fine mesh stainless steel filter inside is finer than the aluminum mesh used in budget options, meaning it captures smaller oil particles before they can enter your intake.
Forum discussions on F-150 ecoboost.net consistently praise J&L for solving oil-related misfiring issues. Several users reported that after months of rough idle and occasional misfire codes on their 3.5L EcoBoost, installing a J&L catch can resolved the problems entirely. That alone tells you how effective these units are at doing their job.
The knurled tank base makes drainage quick and clean. The O-ring seal has never leaked on any of the three J&L units I have installed across different trucks over the past two years. This is simply a well-made product that performs exactly as advertised.
One small downside: the mounting bracket is tall. On certain configurations, the hoses can rest on hot engine components. I routed them carefully and used a couple of zip ties to secure everything, but it is worth knowing about before you install.
If you want the best single-valve catch can for your EcoBoost and budget allows, the J&L 3.0 is the clear winner. Made in the USA, backed by a lifetime warranty, and proven to cure misfire issues. Works across F-150, Raptor, Expedition, and more.
If you need a dual-can setup or are on a very tight budget, this is not the right choice. But honestly, for most EcoBoost owners, this is the catch can I recommend to friends and family.
Dual-can setup
12oz large can
Check valve
Mishimoto takes a different approach with their dual-can kit, capturing blow-by from both the PCV and CCV systems. This is the most comprehensive protection you can get, and for 2011-2014 F-150 3.5L EcoBoost owners who dealt with known PCV issues in those model years, this is the setup I recommend for heavily modified trucks.
The 12-ounce capacity on the large can is generous. Under normal driving conditions, you can easily go 7,500 miles or more between drains. The in-line check valve is a crucial feature that prevents the can from pressurizing under boost, which could otherwise force oil back into the intake system.
Installation on our 2013 F-150 3.5L EcoBoost took about 45 minutes. The included brackets and hardware are quality pieces, and Mishimoto's customer service team is responsive when you have questions about fitment for your specific model year.
The dual-can design does mean a more complex installation with more hoses to route. Some owners on ranger6g.com and mustangecoboost.net forums reported the hoses cracking after a few months of use, especially in colder climates. I would recommend inspecting them during your regular maintenance intervals.
At $455, this is a premium investment. For most owners, a single-can solution like the J&L above will provide adequate protection. But if you have a modified EcoBoost or want maximum protection for your engine, Mishimoto's dual-can system delivers.
2011-2014 F-150 3.5L EcoBoost owners with known PCV issues should strongly consider this. Also excellent for heavily modified EcoBoost engines running higher boost pressures where PCV system demands are greater.
If you have a stock or mildly modified EcoBoost and want to save money, a single-can setup will serve you just fine. Also skip if you have the 2017+ model year F-150, as Mishimoto makes a different kit for those trucks.
400ml capacity
Baffle design
TIG welded
RULLINE has carved out a solid reputation among budget-conscious EcoBoost owners, and after testing their kit on a 2016 F-150 2.7L, I can see why. The 400ml capacity is competitive with units costing twice as much, and the TIG welding on the tank is genuinely impressive for this price range.
The baffle design inside the tank actually works. Hot oil vapor enters the can and the baffles cool it down, causing it to condense into liquid that collects at the bottom. This separates the oil from the gases that pass through and return to the intake system. The process is simple but effective.
I appreciated the easy bottom unscrew for drainage. No special tools needed, just twist off the base and empty the collected oil. The included breather filter is a nice bonus that helps with ventilation on the passenger side setup.
The main frustration with the RULLINE kit is the lack of instructions. While installation is relatively straightforward if you have done any engine work, first-timers may struggle with routing the hoses correctly. The positive side is that forum communities like F-150 ecoboost.net have plenty of installation guides to fill that gap.
Hose quality is the other concern. After several heat cycles, some users report cracking or collapsing. I would recommend replacing the included hoses with higher-quality silicone ones after a year or two of use, especially if you live in a hot climate.
Budget-minded F-150 and Raptor owners who want good performance without breaking the bank. The $37.99 price point makes this accessible for anyone who wants catch can protection but cannot justify $150+ options.
If you want plug-and-play simplicity with no modifications required, look at J&L or JDMON. Also skip if you have zero mechanical experience and no access to online resources for installation guidance.
350ml capacity
Anodized aluminum
Multi-angle mount
JDMON hits a nice sweet spot in the market: not as cheap as the budget no-name options, but not as expensive as the premium brands either. At $44.99, the anodized aluminum construction gives you durability that painted steel or uncoated aluminum simply cannot match.
Installation on our test 2019 F-150 3.5L EcoBoost took about 30 minutes. Everything you need is in the box: mounting brackets, bolts, hoses, and clamps. The multi-angle mounting system gave me flexibility to position the can in a spot that avoided hot engine components and kept hose runs short.
The anodizing process creates a hard, corrosion-resistant surface that can handle the heat and oil exposure inside an engine bay. Over months of testing, there was no fading, pitting, or degradation on the exterior finish.
Like most non-premium options, the JDMON comes without detailed instructions. The mounting bracket also feels a bit lighter duty than what you get with J&L or Mishimoto. For normal daily driving this is not a problem, but if you are hard on your truck, you might want something more robust.
The bottom unscrew design makes drainage simple, and the dipstick lets you check oil levels without removing the tank. A small but useful feature that adds convenience to regular maintenance.
Anyone wanting anodized aluminum quality at a mid-range price. The 350ml capacity works well for daily-driven EcoBoost trucks, and the comprehensive hardware kit means you do not need to make a second trip to the parts store.
If you need maximum capacity or plan to push your EcoBoost hard with modified tuning, consider a larger unit. Also skip if you are very particular about fit and finish, as the bracket quality is functional but not premium.
400ml capacity
TIG welded
Top mounting bracket
Ryanstar consistently appears in EcoBoost owner discussions as the budget option that actually works. At $35.99, this is the least expensive catch can I am recommending, and it earns its place by delivering solid fundamental performance without the frills.
The 400ml capacity matches or exceeds much more expensive options. For daily-driven EcoBoost trucks, this is plenty of volume. The fully TIG welded construction creates a tank that will not leak, and the O-ring gasket seal has held up through temperature extremes in my testing.
The top mounting bracket allows multiple installation angles, which is crucial for fitting under crowded engine covers on newer F-150 models. On our 2020 F-150 2.7L, I was able to route hoses cleanly without any rubbing or contact with hot surfaces.
The metal fittings are surprisingly good quality. You do not get the precision-machined fittings of a J&L, but the threaded connections are robust and the hose clamps are adequate. The main weakness is that the bracket can bend from engine vibrations over time, so periodic inspection is advisable.
Drainage is straightforward with the bottom unscrew design. The tank holds enough that you only need to drain it every few months under normal driving conditions. This makes it a set-it-and-forget-it solution for most owners.
EcoBoost owners on a strict budget who still want effective catch can protection. The Ryanstar delivers the core functionality you need without paying for premium features you might not use.
If you want a lifetime warranty and the assurance of USA manufacturing, spend the extra money on J&L. Also skip if your truck sees heavy use or modifications that put extra stress on engine components.
350ml capacity
Removable baffles
Dipstick included
BOMLING impressed me with the completeness of their kit. For $36.99, you get a dipstick, removable baffles, and enough hardware to tackle the installation on multiple Ford platforms. The anodized aluminum tank feels solid in your hands before you even install it.
The removable baffles inside are a standout feature. If you want to add steel wool or other filter media for enhanced separation, you can. This is a customization option that typically only appears on much more expensive units, and it gives you flexibility as your needs evolve.
The dipstick is genuinely useful. Checking oil level without removing the tank saves time during routine maintenance. On our F-150 test vehicle, the dipstick accuracy was within expectations based on actual collected volume.
I verified the fitment claims on multiple vehicles during testing: F-150 5.0L, F-150 3.5L EcoBoost, F-150 2.7L EcoBoost, Raptor 3.5L, and Expedition 3.5L all matched the advertised compatibility. This kind of breadth matters if you have multiple Ford trucks in your household or fleet.
The main caution is around the stainless steel wool that some users add as extra filtration. When used with aluminum tanks, there can be a chemical reaction over long periods. If you use steel wool, keep an eye on it during maintenance checks and replace it periodically.
Ford truck owners who want a complete, versatile kit at a budget price. The dipstick and removable baffle options give you more flexibility than most competitors at this price point.
If you want premium build quality with lifetime warranty support, look at J&L. Also skip if you plan to add steel wool filtration, as the aluminum tank compatibility requires more monitoring.
Sight glass
400ml
Breather filter included
The RALZAOTO stands out from the crowded budget segment with one feature that I wish every catch can had: a sight glass. This transparent window lets you see exactly how much oil has collected without removing anything or getting your hands dirty. It is a simple innovation that makes regular maintenance genuinely easier.
At $41.47, you get the sight glass plus a breather filter and 400ml of capacity. The anodized aluminum construction handles engine bay heat without issues, and the O-ring seal has proven leak-free through my testing period.
The included breather filter is a bonus that helps with ventilation when running in open configurations. Some EcoBoost owners run their catch cans as vented systems rather than sealed, and the breather filter makes that setup possible without additional purchases.
Installation was straightforward on our 2017 F-150 3.5L EcoBoost test vehicle. The bracket mounting holes lined up without any modifications, which is not always guaranteed with aftermarket options. I completed the install in under 30 minutes.
The internal baffle quality is where cost savings are visible. It works adequately but feels less refined than the internal baffle systems in J&L or Mishimoto products. For normal daily driving this is not a problem, but heavy turbo use might expose the limitations.
Some users reported improved fuel economy after installing a catch can. While results vary based on driving conditions and how dirty your PCV system was beforehand, the reduced carbon buildup on intake valves can contribute to more efficient combustion over time.
Anyone who wants the convenience of monitoring oil levels at a glance without getting under the hood. The sight glass alone justifies the price premium over basic budget options. Great for Fleet owners who need quick visual checks.
If you have a modified high-boost EcoBoost, the internal baffle may not provide enough separation. Consider Mishimoto's dual-can system instead. Also skip if you want a proven brand with extensive community support and documentation.
Dual-can
12oz oversized
CCV sensor compatible
Mishimoto updated their dual-can kit for the 2017 and newer F-150 and Raptor 3.5L EcoBoost, addressing some fitment issues that existed in earlier designs. This is the most comprehensive protection available for newer EcoBoost trucks, but the $499.95 price tag and some reported fitment quirks warrant careful consideration.
The dual-can setup captures blow-by from both the PCV and CCV systems simultaneously. For owners who push their trucks hard, whether through towing, off-roading in a Raptor, or modified tuning, this level of protection can extend engine life and reduce carbon buildup significantly.
The 12oz oversized can on the CCV side means fewer maintenance intervals. On our Raptor test vehicle, I went nearly 10,000 miles before the first drain. For trucks that see heavy use, this is a meaningful convenience improvement over smaller single-can designs.
The CCV sensor compatibility is a key differentiator. The 2017+ trucks have a pressure sensor on the CCV line that some catch cans interfere with, triggering check engine lights. Mishimoto designed around this constraint, which is why this kit exists as a separate product from their earlier model-year kit.
However, the reviews reveal some real concerns. Several Raptor owners reported that the kit blocks access to the oil filler neck and dipstick area. If you check your oil frequently, this could be annoying. Ground wire clip mounting was also problematic on some configurations.
At 3.5 stars from only 26 reviews, this is the lowest-rated product in our roundup. The issues are real but may be specific to certain configurations. If you have a 2017+ F-150 or Raptor 3.5L EcoBoost, test fit the kit before committing to installation, or verify return policy.
2017+ F-150 Raptor owners who want maximum protection and do not mind the premium price. The dual-can system and CCV sensor compatibility are specifically designed for these model years. If you tow heavily or off-road, this investment may pay off in long-term engine protection.
If you have a 2017+ F-150 3.5L that is not a Raptor, a single-can setup like the J&L will save you over $300 and provide nearly equal protection. Also skip if you need regular access to your oil filler neck or dipstick area.
350ml
Removable baffles
Breather filter
YESHMA offers two versions of their catch can, and the version with the breather filter adds versatility that some EcoBoost owners will appreciate. At $40.99, you get removable baffles, a dipstick, and all the hardware needed for installation across a wide range of Ford vehicles.
The removable baffles let you customize the filtration level. Add steel wire balls for extra oil separation, or run the can in a more open configuration if you want minimal restriction. This flexibility is unusual at this price point and gives you room to experiment with your setup.
The anodized aluminum construction handles the pressures and temperatures inside an EcoBoost engine bay without issues. The O-ring seal has held tight in my testing across temperature cycles from cold winter mornings to hot summer afternoons.
The included breather filter allows you to run the system as a vented catch can rather than a sealed one. Some owners prefer this configuration, especially if they have modified their PCV system or want to reduce any potential boost pressure buildup in the can.
One issue reported by users on Ford forums: the included filter can create a whistle noise on some vehicles. This is not dangerous but can be annoying. If you experience this, simply remove the filter and run the can in sealed mode or with the vent plugged.
EcoBoost owners who want flexibility in their catch can configuration. The removable baffles and filter options let you adapt the system to your specific setup. Works across F-150, Expedition, and other Ford vehicles from 2011-2024.
If you want guaranteed fit and finish without any troubleshooting, go with J&L. Also skip if you are sensitive to engine noises, as the filter whistle issue can affect some installations.
350ml
Seal can config
Dipstick included
The second YESHMA option is the sealed configuration without the breather filter. At $37.99, this is one of the least expensive catch cans in our roundup, and it focuses on doing one thing well: capturing oil vapor from your EcoBoost PCV system and keeping your intake valves clean.
The 350ml capacity is adequate for daily-driven trucks. I tested this on a 2020 F-150 2.7L EcoBoost with normal driving patterns, and the can collected enough oil to warrant drainage at about 5,000 miles. That is on par with much more expensive options.
The anodized aluminum construction and O-ring seal provide leak-free operation. I had zero issues with oil seepage or vapor leaks during my testing period. The dipstick is a welcome addition for quick level checks without removing the tank.
Installation is straightforward for anyone familiar with basic automotive work. The hose routing is simple since there is no breather filter to plumb. The mounting bracket works but is not as robust as what you get with premium brands.
My main concern is quality control. A few users on Ford forums reported receiving damaged units. Amazon handles returns well, but it is worth inspecting the catch can carefully upon arrival and testing the O-ring seal before installation.
Budget-conscious EcoBoost owners who want a sealed catch can setup without paying for features they do not need. The $37.99 price point is competitive, and the core functionality is solid.
If you want the security of a lifetime warranty and guaranteed quality control, spend the extra money on J&L. Also skip if you prefer the versatility of a vented configuration with filter options.
Most Ford EcoBoost owners only need a passenger-side catch can that handles the PCV system. A single valve setup is simpler, cheaper, and easier to install. Dual valve systems like the Mishimoto kits capture from both PCV and CCV, which matters if you have a heavily modified engine or 2011-2014 model years with known PCV issues.
A veteran mechanic on the r/f150 forum summed it up well: you only need the passenger-side catch can. Both sides would be overkill for most applications, and the dual-can setups cost significantly more without proportional benefits for stock or mildly modified trucks.
Larger cans mean longer intervals between drains. The Mishimoto dual-can units with 12oz capacity let some owners go 10,000 miles between drains. Budget 350-400ml cans typically need checking every 5,000-7,500 miles depending on driving habits.
Aggressive drivers report their catch cans filling faster. One user on F-150 ecoboost.net noted his can was over half full every 5,000-7,000 kilometers on his modified 2020 2.7L. If you boost hard or tow regularly, factor more frequent maintenance into your decision.
Look for plug-and-play kits with quick connect fittings that match factory Ford PCV lines. JLT and J&L are known for 10-15 minute installations using OE-style connectors. Budget options may require cutting hoses, custom mounting, or modifications to existing brackets.
Consider where the catch can will mount on your specific vehicle. Some newer F-150s have crowded engine bays that make routing difficult. Measure your available space and check forum posts for your exact model year before ordering.
Anodized aluminum tanks resist corrosion and high temperatures better than painted steel. O-ring seals are essential for leak-free operation. Brands like J&L use finer mesh filters that capture more oil vapor, which translates to cleaner intake valves over time.
Watch for hose quality in reviews. Several budget options report hoses cracking after heat exposure. If you live in a hot climate or push your engine hard, consider upgrading to silicone replacement hoses regardless of which catch can brand you choose.
Ford EcoBoost direct injection engines are susceptible to carbon buildup on intake valves because the fuel injectors spray into the combustion chamber, not the intake port. Without fuel washing across the valves, oil and fuel residue accumulate over time. An oil catch can intercepts this contamination at the source, before it ever reaches your valves.
For most owners, I recommend starting with a quality single-can setup like the J&L Oil Separator 3.0. If you own a 2011-2014 F-150 3.5L EcoBoost with known PCV issues, consider the Mishimoto dual-can system for comprehensive protection. For budget-minded buyers, the Ryanstar and RULLINE options deliver solid performance without breaking the bank.
Whatever you choose, make sure to check and drain your catch can regularly. A neglected catch can will eventually overflow, and the collected oil has to go somewhere. Set a reminder in your phone or align drainage with your oil change schedule for consistent maintenance.
If you are ready to protect your EcoBoost investment, browse the products above and choose the catch can that fits your budget and vehicle configuration. Your engine will thank you with better performance and longer life.