The Ford DHA is a 2,261 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It belongs to the third generation of Ford's EcoBoost engine family, featuring direct fuel injection, twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT), and an intercooled turbocharger. In standard tune it delivers 213 kW (290 PS) and 440 Nm of torque, offering high performance for sport-oriented and larger vehicle applications.
Fitted to models such as the Mustang EcoBoost, Edge ST, and Explorer, the DHA was engineered for drivers seeking strong low-end torque and aggressive throttle response. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing it to meet Euro 6d-Full standards across its production run. The engine features a high-flow turbocharger and reinforced internals for sustained high-load operation.
One documented concern is premature high-pressure fuel pump (HDEV6) wear under aggressive driving conditions, highlighted in Ford Service Information Bulletin 19 07 05. This issue is often linked to fuel quality and oil degradation. Later production revisions included updated fuel pump drive lobes and revised ECU fueling strategies to mitigate premature wear.
Production years 2018–2023 meet Euro 6d-Full standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Ford DHA is a 2,261 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engineered for performance and mid-size SUV applications (2018-2023). It combines direct fuel injection with twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT) and an intercooled turbocharger to deliver strong low-end torque and high specific output. Designed to meet Euro 6d-Full standards, it balances performance with emissions compliance and drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,261 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged with intercooler | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 92.7 mm | |
| Power output | 213 kW (290 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 440 Nm @ 3,000–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV6 direct injection (up to 250 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d-Full | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett GT2260R with electronic wastegate | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (double-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C946-C (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 152 kg |
The turbocharged inline-four provides strong low-end torque ideal for performance driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Ford WSS-M2C946-C (5W-30) to prevent turbocharger oil coking and timing chain wear. The HDEV6 high-pressure fuel pump demands premium unleaded fuel (RON 95 minimum) to prevent injector deposits and knock. Aggressive driving and low fuel quality increase HDEV6 wear; Ford SIB 19 07 05 recommends inspection of fuel pump drive lobes at 120,000 km. Avoid prolonged idling after high-load operation to allow turbo cooldown. The double-row timing chain is robust but remains sensitive to oil degradation under sustained high-RPM use.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C946-C (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 19 07 05). Meets Ford WSS-M2C946-B and ACEA C2/C3.
Emissions: Euro 6d-Full certification applies to all production years (2018–2023) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 213 kW output requires RON 95+ fuel (Ford TIS Doc. D23015).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D22610, D22901, SIB 19 07 05, SIB 18 07 14
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford DHA was used across Ford's CD6/UN platforms with transverse and longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Mustang and enhanced cooling in the Explorer-and from 2020 the facelifted Edge ST models adopted updated ECU calibrations, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS D22610). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('G' for EcoBoost). Pre-2020 models have silver valve covers with black plastic intake manifolds; post-2020 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from non-turbo variants: DHA features intercooler piping and turbocharger housing on the right side. Service parts require production date verification - ECU calibrations for engines before 03/2020 are incompatible with later units due to revision per Ford SIB 19 07 05.
The DHA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HDEV6) wear, with elevated incidence in performance-driven examples. Internal Ford quality reports from 2021 noted a significant number of pre-2020 units requiring fuel pump replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalytic converter failures in high-mileage applications. Aggressive driving and use of non-premium fuel increase wear, making fuel specification and maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2018-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD DHA.
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