The Ford DHC is a 2,687 cc, twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine produced between 2021 and 2024. It forms part of Ford's EcoBoost engine family, featuring direct fuel injection, twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT), and an integrated exhaust manifold. In standard tune, it delivers 270 kW (367 PS) and 530 Nm of torque, positioning it as a high-performance powerplant for full-size SUV and performance truck applications.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Explorer ST and Mustang Mach-E GT, the DHC was engineered for strong acceleration and towing capability with refined mid-range delivery. Emissions compliance is achieved through close-coupled three-way catalytic converters and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 6d standards across its production run. The engine supports torque vectoring, adaptive throttle calibration, and cylinder deactivation under light load.
One documented concern is premature high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear under sustained high-load operation, highlighted in Ford Service Action 22S10. This issue stems from thermal stress on the HDEV6 injection system during repeated towing or track use. In 2023, Ford revised the HPFP cooling jacket and updated ECU fueling strategies to reduce thermal cycling, improving reliability in later production units.
All production years (2021–2024) comply with Euro 6d (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8891).
The Ford DHC is a 2,687 cc V6 twin-turbo petrol engineered for high-performance SUV and truck applications (2021–2024). It combines high-pressure direct injection with twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT) to deliver strong low-to-mid range torque and responsive throttle delivery. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards, it balances performance with emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,687 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.5 mm × 73.1 mm | |
| Power output | 270 kW (367 PS) @ 5,750 rpm | |
| Torque | 530 Nm @ 3,000–5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV6 direct injection (up to 350 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Twin Garrett GT1749V variable-nozzle turbos (VNT) | |
| Timing system | Dual chain (front-mounted; robust with proper maintenance) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C950-B (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The twin VNT turbos provide strong low-end torque ideal for towing and spirited driving but require adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent turbo bearing and HPFP wear. Ford WSS-M2C950-B (5W-30) oil is essential due to its thermal stability and protection of the high-pressure fuel system. Cold-start idling should be minimized to maintain oil pressure at critical components. The HDEV6 fuel system demands premium unleaded (98 RON minimum) to prevent injector coking. Post-2023 models feature revised HPFP cooling jacket; pre-2023 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 22S10. EGR system requires periodic cleaning to prevent intake carbon buildup. Cylinder deactivation (Active Valve Management) enhances highway efficiency but requires clean oil to prevent solenoid sticking.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C950-B (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 22S10). Replaces prior WSS-M2C949-B standards.
Emissions: Euro 6d compliance confirmed for all 2021–2024 production (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8891).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output requires 98 RON fuel for sustained performance (Ford TIS Doc. F20502).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F20110, F20305, SIB 22S10
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8891)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford DHC was used across Ford's U725 and CD670 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific tuning—enhanced cooling paths in the Explorer ST and revised torque delivery in the Mustang Mach-E GT—and from 2023 the facelifted Explorer adopted the DHC variant with improved cylinder deactivation logic, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the right cylinder head (Ford TIS F20120). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('H' for 3.0L EcoBoost). Pre-2023 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2023 units use gloss black valve covers. Critical differentiation from DHB: DHC features twin Garrett VNT turbos with vacuum actuators, while DHB uses single fixed-geometry turbo. Service parts require production date verification—fuel pumps for engines before 05/2023 are incompatible with later units due to cooling jacket redesign (Ford SIB 22S10).
The DHC's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in towing and performance driving conditions. Internal Ford quality reports from 2022 indicated a notable share of pre-2023 engines requiring HPFP inspection before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a significant portion of drivability-related MOT failures to fuel system faults in high-performance units. Sustained high-load cycles and extended idling increase pump and bearing stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2021–2024) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2022–2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD DHC.
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