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…
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 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.
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.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The ED3 offers solid performance but early models (2011-2013) are prone to high-pressure fuel pump failures, especially with poor diesel quality. Later models (2014+) with SCR and updated pumps are more robust. Regular oil changes, use of ULSD, and adherence to service intervals significantly improve longevity.
Key issues include HPFP failure (pre-2014), EGR and intake carbon buildup, DPF/SCR system faults, and timing chain guide wear. These are documented in Dodge TSBs 18-004-13 and 15-007-14. Fuel quality and maintenance are critical factors in preventing early failures.
The ED3 was used in the Dodge Journey (2011-2018) and Chrysler Town & Country (2012-2016). It also appears in Fiat Ducato variants. In Europe, it was offered with SCR; North American models used EGR/DPF only until 2014, after which SCR was phased in.
Yes, the ED3 responds well to ECU remapping. Stage 1 tunes typically add +20-30 kW safely. However, over-tuning can strain the stock turbo and fuel system. Supporting mods like upgraded intercoolers and exhausts are recommended for higher power levels.
In the Dodge Journey, the ED3 achieves approximately 7.1 L/100km (33 mpg US) in city driving and 5.8 L/100km (41 mpg US) on highways. Real-world mixed driving yields 6.0–6.8 L/100km (35–40 mpg US), depending on load and terrain.
Yes, the ED3 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, piston-to-valve contact is likely, resulting in severe internal damage. Proper maintenance and timely replacement of chain components are essential to prevent catastrophic failure.
The ED3 requires SAE 5W-40 diesel-rated oil meeting API CJ-4 or ACEA B4 specifications. Oil changes every 12,000 miles (19,000 km) are critical to protect the turbocharger, fuel pump, and timing system from wear.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with DODGE or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
DODGE Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialDODGE documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed”.
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.