The Ford CFBA is a 2,360 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2001 and 2007. It belongs to the Ford "Duratec HE" engine family, a DOHC design developed for European mid-size applications. Featuring a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC), 16-valve configuration and multi-point fuel injection (MPI), it produced 110 kW (150 PS) in standard tune. Its engineering emphasized improved breathing, higher revving capability, and reduced emissions for refined performance.
Fitted primarily to the Ford Mondeo MkIII (CDW27) and S-MAX, the CFBA was engineered for responsive performance and smooth drivability in family and fleet applications. It provided linear power delivery and strong mid-range torque, making it suitable for motorway cruising and urban commuting. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and integrated EGR system, meeting Euro 3 standards on all post-2004 models (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1346).
One documented concern is inlet manifold runner flap failure due to plastic hinge fatigue or vacuum actuator degradation. This issue, highlighted in Ford Service Communication 02/22, can result in erratic idle, power loss, or check engine lights. From 2005, Ford introduced a revised manifold design with reinforced flaps and updated vacuum actuators to improve reliability across the Duratec HE engine range.
Production years 2001–2003 meet Euro 2 benchmarks; 2004–2007 models comply with Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1346).
The Ford CFBA is a 2,360 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for mid-size saloon and MPV applications (2001–2007). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver refined performance and improved efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances responsiveness with long-term serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,360 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 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 @ 4,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Siemens ECU) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 (2001–2003); Euro 3 (2004–2007) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic | |
| Dry weight | 152 kg |
The DOHC 16-valve design provides smooth, high-revving performance ideal for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to 100,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic failure. SAE 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil is recommended for optimal valve train lubrication. Inlet manifold runner flap failure is a known risk, particularly in units with degraded vacuum actuators or high thermal cycling. Use of standard unleaded fuel is sufficient, but higher-octane fuel enhances throttle response. Post-2005 models benefit from reinforced manifold flaps, reducing failure rates. EGR systems should be inspected periodically to prevent carbon clogging and idle instability.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic specification (Ford SIB 02/22). Compatible with API SG standards.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to 2004–2007 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1346). Pre-2004 models meet Euro 2 standards.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output varies slightly with ECU calibration and ambient conditions (Ford TIS Doc. J20123).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs J90123, J20123, SIB 02/22
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/1346)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Ford CFBA was used across Ford's CD/WA platforms with transverse mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-MPI tuning variations for emissions and altitude-and from 2005 the facelifted Mondeo MkIII FL adopted revised intake manifolds and EGR calibration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right side of the cylinder block, just below the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS J90123). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('F' for 2.3L Duratec HE). Pre-2005 models have silver valve covers with MPI manifolds; post-2005 units use black plastic covers with revised runner flaps. Critical differentiation from Zetec SE: The CFBA has a larger displacement and different intake manifold design. Service parts require model-year verification - inlet manifolds for pre-2005 models are not compatible with post-facelift units due to flap hinge revisions (Ford SIB 02/22).
The CFBA's primary reliability risk is inlet manifold runner flap failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or thermally stressed units. Ford internal field reports from 2006 indicated a significant number of pre-2005 engines required manifold replacement before 130,000 km, while VCA MOT records show vacuum system neglect as a contributing factor in over 50% of related failures. Frequent short trips and infrequent servicing increase plastic fatigue, making routine inspection critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2001-2007) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2004-2009). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD CFBA.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with FORD or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
FORD Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialFORD documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
