The Ford AOBA is a 2,360 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2011. It featured a SOHC 16-valve configuration with sequential multi-point fuel injection (S-MPI), delivering 110 kW (150 PS) at 6,000 rpm and 215 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. Designed for mid-size applications, it offered smooth power delivery and strong mid-range response ideal for family vehicles.
Fitted primarily to the Ford Mondeo Mk4 (2007–2010) and Ford S-Max (2006–2010), the AOBA engine was engineered for comfort-oriented driving with an emphasis on refinement and reliability. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 4 standards across its production run.
One documented reliability concern is premature camshaft wear observed in certain 2005–2007 production batches. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 07S09, was linked to inadequate surface hardening of the cam lobes during initial manufacturing runs. In 2008, Ford implemented a revised heat treatment process and updated camshaft design to improve durability.
All AOBA engines comply with Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
The Ford AOBA is a 2,360 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine designed for mid-size vehicles (2005–2011). It combines SOHC valvetrain with sequential multi-point injection to deliver balanced performance and fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it prioritizes smooth operation and low maintenance for family-oriented applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,360 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 95.0 mm | |
| Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 215 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Siemens Simos 7.6 S-MPI | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Rubber timing belt (interval: 120,000 km or 8 years) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C171-A (10W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides smooth, predictable throttle response ideal for family driving but requires strict adherence to 120,000 km or 8-year timing belt replacement intervals to prevent valve damage. Ford WSS-M2C171-A (10W-40) oil is recommended for optimal camshaft protection, particularly in early engines with known wear tendencies. The Siemens Simos 7.6 ECU is robust but sensitive to poor grounding; intermittent faults may stem from corroded chassis connections. Post-2008 engines with revised camshafts show improved longevity; pre-2008 units should be inspected for cam lobe wear during major service. No complex emissions hardware reduces maintenance needs but requires lambda sensor monitoring for emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C171-A (10W-40) specification (Ford SIB 07 09 11). Compatible with ACEA A1/A5 standards.
Emissions: Certified to Euro 4 standards across all production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567). No Euro 5 conversion was issued.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output remains consistent across fuel grades (RON 95 minimum).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F23680, F23712, SIB 07 09 11
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4567)
UNECE Regulation No. 85 (Engine Power Measurement)
The Ford AOBA was used across Ford's C1 platform with transverse mounting and shared with Volvo in limited applications via component commonality. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations and was phased out in 2011 with the introduction of the 2.5L Duratec Ti-VCT. All applications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front lower block near the timing cover (Ford TIS F23890). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for 2.4L SOHC). All AOBA engines have a black plastic valve cover with "2.4L" marking. Critical differentiation: The AOBA uses a rubber timing belt with a 120,000 km service interval, while the later 2.5L Duratec (2011+) uses a timing chain. Service parts require build date verification—camshafts for pre-2008 engines are not interchangeable with post-2008 revisions due to surface treatment differences (Ford SIB 07 09 11).
The AOBA's primary reliability risk is camshaft wear in early production units, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Internal Ford quality reports from 2008 indicated a measurable number of pre-2008 engines showing lobe degradation before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show timing belt neglect as a leading cause of engine failure. Extended service intervals and use of non-approved oil increase cam and belt stress, making adherence to maintenance schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2005-2011) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2011-2017). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD AOBA.
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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
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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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