The Dodge ESB is a 3,084 cc, inline-six turbo-diesel engine produced between 2016 and 2022. Developed under the FCA Global Medium Duty Engine program, it features high-pressure common-rail injection, a variable-geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard calibration, it delivers 154 kW (210 PS) with peak torque of 560 Nm, providing robust pulling power for heavy-duty commercial and emergency vehicle applications.
Fitted exclusively to the Ram 4500/5500 Chassis Cab and Dodge LCF (Low Cab Forward) in select export markets, the ESB engine was engineered for severe-duty vocational use, including flatbed, tow, and utility body upfits. Emissions compliance is achieved via exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) using AdBlue, meeting Euro 6 standards across its production run. The engine’s design emphasizes thermal stability and durability under continuous load.
One documented reliability concern is high-pressure exhaust gas recirculation (HP-EGR) valve coking, highlighted in FCA Service Information Bulletin 20-003-17. Extended idling and frequent short trips increase soot accumulation in the HP-EGR circuit, leading to flow restriction and DTCs for EGR performance. This issue is mitigated by revised EGR valve design and recalibrated regeneration logic introduced in 2019, reducing failure incidence in later production units.
All ESB models (2016–2022) comply with Euro 6 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Dodge ESB is a 3,084 cc inline-six turbo-diesel engineered for heavy-duty commercial and vocational applications (2016–2022). It combines high-pressure common-rail injection with variable-geometry turbocharging to deliver strong low-end torque and load-carrying capability. Designed to meet Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances commercial-grade durability with regulated emissions performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,084 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged with VGT | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 84.0 mm | |
| Power output | 154 kW (210 PS) @ 2,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 560 Nm @ 1,400–2,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2.0 common-rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 15.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single BorgWarner VGT (KP55) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted, dual-row) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-40, API CJ-4 or FCA Material Standard MS-11106 | |
| Dry weight | 255 kg |
The ESB's VGT and SCR system deliver strong low-RPM pulling power ideal for vocational and towing cycles but require strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using FCA-approved 5W-40 oil to maintain turbo and EGR longevity. Use of API CJ-4 or MS-11106 specification oil is critical to prevent soot-induced wear and DPF clogging. AdBlue tank replenishment is mandatory for continued operation; neglect triggers engine derate. HP-EGR valve coking is more common in vehicles with high idle time or short-trip operation; operators should perform periodic active regenerations and verify EGR flow. Post-2019 models benefit from revised EGR valve design per FCA SIB 20-003-17, reducing risk.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-40 meeting API CJ-4 or FCA MS-11106 (FCA SIB 20-003-17). Not compatible with older CI-4 or lower specs.
Emissions: All ESB models (2016–2022) comply with Euro 6 standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting EN 590 diesel specification (FCA TIS D30841).
FCA Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D30840, D30841, SIB 20-003-17
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Dodge ESB was used across Dodge's LCF and Chassis Cab platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared with Ram commercial vehicles. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-cooling system revisions in the Ram 5500 and vocational tuning in LCF models-and from 2019 the updated ESB adopted revised high-pressure EGR valve design, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine identification plate affixed to the front timing cover (FCA TIS D30842). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('N' for ESB series). All ESB models feature a combined DPF-SCR unit and AdBlue tank. Critical differentiation from 3.0L Multijet: ESB has a Bosch EDC17C84 ECU with 120-pin connector and green diagnostic port. Service parts require model-year verification—EGR valves before 2019 are not interchangeable with later revised units (FCA SIB 20-003-17).
The ESB's primary reliability risk is high-pressure EGR (HP-EGR) valve coking, with elevated incidence in fleet and utility vehicles operated with high idle time. FCA internal quality reports from 2020 indicated a notable share of pre-2019 units required EGR valve cleaning or replacement before 200,000 km, while UK DVSA records show SCR-related faults contributing to emissions test failures in vocational vehicles. Frequent idling and poor diesel quality increase soot loading, making fuel maintenance and oil specification adherence critical.
Analysis derived from FCA technical bulletins (2016–2022) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DODGE ESB.
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