The Ford C9DB is a 2,967 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1999 and 2004 as part of the Ford Duratec family. It features a 24-valve DOHC configuration, sequential multi-point fuel injection, and aluminium construction, delivering smooth power delivery and reduced weight. Its design emphasizes refinement and linear throttle response for executive driving applications.
Fitted to models such as the DE Mondeo, DN Scorpio, and FN S-Max, the C9DB engine was engineered for comfort-oriented performance in larger Ford vehicles. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), enabling Euro 3 compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is premature camshaft wear under extended oil change intervals, highlighted in Ford Service Action 02M05. This issue stems from inadequate lubrication at the cam lobes during cold starts and increased valvetrain stress. From 2001, revised camshaft profiles and upgraded hydraulic lash adjusters were implemented to improve durability in later production units.
All production years (1999–2004) meet Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3567).
The Ford C9DB is a 2,967 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-size and large platforms (1999–2004). It combines sequential multi-point injection with dual overhead camshafts to deliver refined power delivery and smooth operation. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it balances drivability with acceptable fuel consumption for its class.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,967 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 79.5 mm | |
| Power output | 147–154 kW (200–210 PS) | |
| Torque | 275–285 Nm @ 4,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Siemens Simos 7.1 sequential multi-point injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain (front-mounted; wear-prone under poor maintenance) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C913-A (10W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 168 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable throttle response ideal for relaxed driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Ford WSS-M2C913-A (10W-40) to prevent camshaft and lifter wear. The Siemens Simos 7.1 injection system demands high-octane petrol (95 RON minimum) to prevent pre-ignition under sustained load. Extended idling and short-trip driving increase carbon buildup on intake valves and EGR components. Post-2001 models feature improved cam profiles; pre-2001 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 02M05. EGR and catalytic converter systems require periodic inspection to maintain emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-A (10W-40) specification (Ford SIB 02M05). Meets ACEA A3/B3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all C9DB models (1999–2004) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3567).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across model years (Ford TIS Doc. B31602).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B31021, B31105, B31602, SIB 02M05
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3567)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford C9DB was used across Ford's DE/DN platforms with transverse mounting and shared design elements with Volvo for global scalability. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—longer intake manifolds in the S-Max and revised cooling in the Scorpio—and from 2001 the facelifted Mondeo adopted the updated camshaft profile, creating interchange limits. Partnerships enabled Volvo's 2.9L inline-six to share core valvetrain and injection technology. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front cylinder block near the alternator mounting (Ford TIS B31090). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('V' for C9DB series). Pre-2001 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2001 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from AJD-V6: Original C9DB has Siemens Simos 7.1 ECU with rectangular diagnostic port under hood, while AJD-V6 uses Bosch MD17.8.8 with circular port. Service parts require production date verification—camshafts for engines before 04/2001 are incompatible with later units due to profile redesign per Ford SIB 02M05.
The C9DB's primary reliability risk is camshaft and lifter wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in stop-start urban use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2003 noted a significant share of pre-2001 engines requiring valvetrain repair before 160,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a notable portion of emissions-related MOT failures to EGR clogging in city-driven vehicles. Cold-start cycles and short-trip driving increase cam and lifter stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2001–2004) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD C9DB.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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