The Dodge ESD is a 2,143 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2015 and 2022. Developed as an evolution of the VM Motori ED3 platform, it features common rail direct injection, variable geometry turbocharging (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard tune, it delivers 140 kW (190 PS) and peak torque of 400 Nm, targeting mid-size SUVs and light commercial applications requiring strong low-end pulling power.
Fitted to the Dodge Journey and utilized in select Chrysler Pacifica and Fiat Scudo variants, the ESD was engineered for North American and European markets seeking improved fuel efficiency and towing capability. Emissions compliance is achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection, meeting both EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 6c standards.
One documented concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) degradation in early 2015–2017 units, particularly when operated with marginal diesel quality. This issue, referenced in Dodge Technical Service Bulletin 20-008-17, is attributed to inadequate filtration and thermal stress. From 2018 onward, revised fuel rail calibration and upgraded Bosch HPFP components significantly improved long-term reliability across the ESD platform.
Production years 2015–2017 meet EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 6b; 2018–2022 models comply with Euro 6c (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Dodge ESD is a 2,143 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for mid-size SUVs and light commercial use (2015–2022). 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 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 | 140 kW (190 PS) @ 3,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1,600–2,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2.0 common rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 / Euro 6b (2015–2017); Euro 6c (2018–2022) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett GT1749V VGT with integrated EGR cooling | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (double-row primary, single-row secondary) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-40, API CJ-4 or ACEA B4 | |
| Dry weight | 187 kg |
The ESD'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 (2015+) require regular AdBlue replenishment to maintain emissions compliance and prevent derate events. Pre-2018 units should be inspected for early fuel pump wear per Dodge TSB 20-008-17.
Oil Specs: Requires API CJ-4 or ACEA B4 specification (Dodge Owner's Manual 2017). Not compatible with older CH-4 or CI-4 oils.
Emissions: Euro 6b applies to 2015–2017 models; Euro 6c certification from 2018 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). SCR system required for compliance.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349. Output remains consistent across markets with ULSD fuel (Fiat Powertrain PT-2015).
Dodge Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs): 20-008-17, 17-009-16, 23-020-18
VM Motori Engineering Documentation: VM-ESD-INT, VM-DA-8888-R2, ESD-CR-165
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Test Code
The Dodge ESD 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 2018 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 17-009-16). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('K' for ESD diesel). Pre-2018 models have a single exhaust pipe and no AdBlue tank; post-2018 units feature AdBlue filler behind rear wheel and dual exhaust routing. Critical differentiation from ED3: ESD uses revised Bosch HPFP (P/N 0445010007) and updated ECU calibration. Service parts require model-year verification—fuel pumps before 2018 are incompatible with 2018+ SCR models due to calibration differences (Dodge TSB 20-008-17).
The ESD'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 2017 indicated a significant number of pre-2018 units requiring HPFP replacement before 100,000 km, while VCA records show SCR-related faults rising in 2018+ 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 (2015-2022) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DODGE ESD.
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