The Ford A9A is a 2,198 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2010 and 2016. It forms part of Ford's Duratorq TDCi engine family, featuring double overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and common-rail direct fuel injection. In standard tune, it delivers 120 kW (163 PS) and 400 Nm of torque, offering strong low-end pulling power ideal for commercial and family applications.
Fitted to models including the C519 Mondeo, CD3 Kuga, and S189 Transit Connect, the A9A was engineered for responsive mid-range performance and motorway efficiency. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection, enabling Euro 5 compliance across its production run.
One documented concern involves high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failures, noted in Ford Service Action 14B07. This issue, primarily affecting units operating on marginal fuel quality, can lead to no-start conditions and limp mode. From 2013, revised fuel pump calibration and updated injectors were implemented to improve system durability.
Production years 2010–2016 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
The Ford A9A is a 2,198 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engine engineered for mid-size and commercial platforms (2010–2016). It combines common-rail injection with a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) to deliver strong low-RPM torque and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance through SCR-based aftertreatment.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,198 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 85.0 mm × 96.6 mm | |
| Power output | 120 kW (163 PS) @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 2,000–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2000 common-rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 with SCR/AdBlue | |
| Compression ratio | 16.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (VGT) | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (front-mounted, hydraulic tensioner) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for towing and urban driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent DPF clogging and turbo degradation. Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30) oil is critical due to its low-ash formulation protecting the SCR system. Extended idling or short-trip driving inhibits DPF regeneration, increasing soot load. The Bosch CRS 2000 fuel system demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting EN 590 standards to prevent HPFP and injector wear. Post-2013 models feature revised fuel calibration; pre-2013 units should be checked for HPFP firmware updates per Ford SIB 14B07. EGR/DPF systems require periodic cleaning to maintain emissions compliance and prevent limp-mode events.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 14B07). Supersedes ACEA C3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2010–2016 models with SCR (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across EU diesel grades (Ford WSM Doc. 307-02-01).
Ford Workshop Manual (WSM): Docs 307-02-01, 303-04-01, SIB 14B07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8901)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford A9A was used across Ford's C519/CD3 platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Land Rover for mid-size SUV applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Transit Connect and revised cooling paths in the Mondeo-and from 2013 the facelifted Kuga models adopted updated fuel system hardware, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side engine block near the starter motor (Ford WSM 307-02-01). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('L' for 2.2L Duratorq). Pre-2013 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2013 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from A9AA: Original A9A has Bosch EDC17CP51 ECU with rectangular diagnostic port, while A9AA uses EDC17C54 with trapezoidal port. Service parts require production date verification - fuel pumps for engines before 04/2013 are incompatible with later units due to calibration changes (Ford SIB 14B07).
The A9A's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles operating on non-compliant diesel. Internal Ford quality reports from 2015 indicated a significant share of pre-2013 engines required HPFP replacement before 160,000 km, while UK DVSA records show DPF-related faults contribute to a notable portion of emissions-related MOT failures. Short-trip driving and delayed oil changes increase soot accumulation, making DPF regeneration and oil quality adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2012-2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2017-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD A9A.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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FORD Official Site
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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