The Dodge ESF is a 3,596 cc, V6 gasoline engine produced between 2015 and 2020. Developed as part of the Chrysler Pentastar engine family, it features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT), and direct fuel injection. In standard tune, it delivers 292 kW (395 PS) and 420 Nm of torque, providing strong acceleration and towing capability in full-size SUV and light-truck applications.
Fitted to the Dodge Durango SRT and Ram 1500, the ESF was engineered for high-performance utility use with a focus on responsive throttle delivery and highway stability. It meets U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 6 emissions standards through advanced exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a three-way catalytic converter, and precise fuel-air ratio control via closed-loop oxygen sensing.
One documented concern is premature intake manifold runner actuator failure, particularly in 2015–2017 units operating under heavy load cycles. This issue, referenced in Dodge Service Information Bulletin 18-014-17, results in erratic airflow control and reduced low-end torque. From 2018 onward, revised actuator materials and updated calibration were implemented to improve durability.
Production years 2015–2020 meet U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Dodge ESF is a 3,596 cc V6 gasoline engine engineered for high-performance SUVs and trucks (2015–2020). It combines direct fuel injection with variable valve timing to deliver strong mid-range torque and smooth power delivery. Designed to meet Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 6 standards, it balances performance with regulated emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,596 cc | |
| Fuel type | Gasoline | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 96.0 mm × 83.0 mm | |
| Power output | 292 kW (395 PS) @ 6,400 rpm | |
| Torque | 420 Nm @ 4,100 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 / Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, dual VVT (intake and exhaust) | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (dual-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Mopar SAE 5W-20 (MS-6395) | |
| Dry weight | 205 kg |
The ESF's dual VVT provides strong mid-range pull ideal for towing and highway overtaking but demands strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals using Mopar MS-6395 5W-20 oil to protect the timing chain and variable valve actuators. Use of 87 AKI (RON 91) minimum fuel is required to prevent pre-ignition. Intake manifold runner actuator wear is common in 2015–2017 models; inspection per Dodge SIB 18-014-17 is advised. Carbon buildup on direct-injection injectors may occur after 80,000 km, requiring periodic cleaning. EGR and catalytic converter efficiency should be monitored to avoid misfire codes and emissions test failures.
Oil Specs: Requires Mopar SAE 5W-20 (MS-6395) specification (Dodge SIB 18-014-17). Substitutes must meet MS-6395 standard.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all export models (2015–2020) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). U.S. models meet EPA Tier 2 Bin 5.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349. Output varies slightly between Ram 1500 and Durango SRT due to exhaust tuning (Dodge TIS D/ESF/PERF/010).
Dodge Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D/ESF/ARCH/002, D/ESF/VVT/005, SIB 18-014-17
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
Chrysler Pentastar Engineering: P6-3600-ME
The Dodge ESF was used across Dodge's Durango SRT and Ram 1500 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-tuned exhaust manifolds in the Durango SRT and reinforced engine mounts in the Ram 1500-and from 2018 the updated actuator hardware introduced revised vacuum diaphragm materials, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the right-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Dodge TIS D/ESF/ID/005). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('E' for ESF series). Pre-2018 models have black intake manifolds with silver actuator housings; post-2018 units feature all-black actuators. Critical differentiation from Pentastar EGG: ESF uses Bosch EDC17CP45 ECU with trapezoidal diagnostic connector, while EGG uses EDC17CP14. Service parts require model-year verification—intake actuators and fuel rails are not interchangeable between pre- and post-2018 models (Dodge SIB 18-014-17).
The ESF's primary reliability risk is intake manifold runner actuator failure in early builds, with elevated incidence in mixed city/highway use. Internal Dodge data from 2017 reported a significant share of pre-2018 engines requiring actuator replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records link emissions-related failures to EGR and catalytic converter degradation in high-mileage units. Extended oil intervals and low-octane fuel increase valve train and ignition stress, making fluid quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Dodge technical bulletins (2015-2019) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DODGE ESF.
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