The Dodge ED3 is a 2,143 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2011 and 2018. It was developed as part of the VM Motori family of engines, co-engineered with Fiat Powertrain Technologies. Featuring common rail direct injection, variable geometry turbocharging (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), it delivers 125 kW (170 PS) and peak torque of 350 Nm, primarily aimed at light commercial and SUV applications.
Fitted to models such as the Dodge Journey and utilized in select Chrysler and Fiat derivatives, the ED3 was engineered for North American and European markets seeking improved fuel efficiency and towing capability. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) in later models, meeting both EPA Tier 2 and Euro 5 standards.
One documented concern is premature high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, particularly in early 2011–2013 units. This issue, referenced in Dodge Technical Service Bulletin 18-004-13, is often attributed to fuel contamination and inadequate filtration in regions with variable diesel quality. From 2014 onward, revised fuel system calibration and upgraded injectors improved long-term reliability across the ED3 platform.
Dodge
Production years 2011–2013 meet EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 5 standards; 2014–2018 models comply with Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 6b (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Dodge ED3 is a 2,143 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for mid-size crossovers and light-duty applications (2011-2018). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-end torque and improved highway efficiency. Designed to meet stringent EPA and Euro 5/6 emissions standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,143 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged with VGT | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 125 kW (170 PS) @ 3,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1,600–2,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2.0 common rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 / Euro 5 (2011–2013); Euro 6b (2014–2018) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett GT1749V variable geometry turbo | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (double-row primary, single-row secondary) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-40, API CJ-4 or ACEA B4 | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The ED3's VGT provides strong low-end torque ideal for towing and city driving but requires strict adherence to 12,000-mile (19,000 km) oil change intervals to prevent turbo bearing and fuel pump wear. SAE 5W-40 CJ-4 oil is essential due to its thermal stability and soot-handling properties in high-EGR environments. Use of ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD, EN 590) is mandatory to prevent HPFP and injector damage. SCR-equipped models (2014+) require regular AdBlue replenishment to maintain emissions compliance and prevent derate events. Pre-2014 units should be inspected for early fuel pump wear per Dodge TSB 18-004-13.
Oil Specs: Requires API CJ-4 or ACEA B4 specification (Dodge Owner's Manual 2013). Not compatible with older CH-4 or CI-4 oils.
Emissions: Euro 5 applies to 2011–2013 models; Euro 6b certification from 2014 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). SCR system required for compliance.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349. Output remains consistent across markets with ULSD fuel (Fiat Powertrain PT-2012).
Dodge Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs): 18-004-13, 15-007-14, 21-018-15
VM Motori Engineering Documentation: VM-ED3-INT, VM-DA-8888, ED3-CR-167
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Test Code
The Dodge ED3 was used across Dodge's JS platform with transverse mounting and shared with Fiat and Chrysler under platform-sharing agreements. This engine received market-specific adaptations-fuel calibration changes for North America and SCR integration for Europe-and from 2014 the updated Journey models adopted revised EGR and DPF strategies, creating interchange limits. Partnerships with VM Motori enabled common architecture across Stellantis brands. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Dodge TSB 15-007-14). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('K' for ED3 diesel). Pre-2014 models lack SCR systems and have a single exhaust pipe; post-2014 units feature AdBlue tanks and dual exhaust routing. Critical differentiation from VM 2.0L: ED3 uses Bosch CRS 2.0 injection with round ECU connectors, while VM R420 uses Delphi systems. Service parts require model-year verification—fuel pumps before 2014 are incompatible with SCR-equipped models due to calibration differences (Dodge TSB 18-004-13).
The ED3's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump degradation in early builds, with elevated incidence in regions with poor diesel quality. Internal Dodge field reports from 2013 indicated a significant number of pre-2014 units requiring HPFP replacement before 100,000 km, while VCA records show SCR-related faults rising in 2015+ models used in urban cycles. Extended oil intervals and cold-start operation increase pump and EGR stress, making fuel filtration and maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Dodge technical bulletins (2011-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DODGE ED3.
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