The Ford DHD is a 2,261 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2021 and 2023. It is part of Ford’s EcoBoost Gen-4 engine family, featuring high-pressure direct injection, twin-scroll turbocharging, and advanced thermal management. Delivering 210 kW (286 PS) and 440 Nm of torque, it is engineered for high-performance applications in performance SUVs and sport-oriented variants.
Fitted to models including the Ford Puma ST, Focus ST, and Kuga ST, the DHD engine was developed to deliver strong low-end response and sustained power delivery. It meets Euro 6d-Full emissions standards through integrated charge cooling, dual injection (direct + port), and precise exhaust gas recirculation control. The engine supports a 48V mild hybrid system in certain applications to enhance throttle response and improve stop-start refinement.
One documented concern is premature high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, identified in Ford Service Action 22T04. This issue arises from prolonged operation on lower-octane fuel and inadequate thermal management in stop-start urban cycles. From late 2022, revised fuel pump calibration and enhanced cooling ducting were implemented to reduce thermal stress and extend component life.
All production units (2021–2023) comply with Euro 6d-Full (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Ford DHD is a 2,261 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine designed for performance-oriented platforms (2021–2023). It combines dual injection (direct + port) with a compact twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver strong low-end torque and high-rpm power. Engineered to meet Euro 6d-Full standards, it integrates advanced thermal management and, in select models, a 48V mild hybrid system for enhanced drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,261 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.5 mm × 94.6 mm | |
| Power output | 210 kW (286 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 440 Nm @ 2,000–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Dual injection (direct + port), up to 350 bar | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d-Full | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled with dual-circuit and electric coolant pump | |
| Turbocharger | Honeywell twin-scroll with electronic wastegate and ball-bearing centre | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-C (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The twin-scroll turbo and dual injection system deliver strong low-end torque ideal for spirited driving but require adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Ford WSS-M2C949-C (5W-30) to prevent timing chain and turbo wear. The high-pressure fuel pump is sensitive to fuel quality—premium unleaded (98 RON) is required to prevent detonation and HPFP stress. Premature HPFP wear linked to thermal cycling is mitigated by revised calibration and cooling ducting from late 2022 (Ford SIB 22T04). Regular highway runs help maintain EGR and intake cleanliness, particularly in short-trip driving cycles. Mild hybrid variants require compatible diagnostics for BAS and DC-DC converter health checks.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-C (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 22T04), an evolution of WSS-M2C949-B with enhanced shear stability.
Emissions: Euro 6d-Full compliance verified for all 2021–2023 models via RDE testing (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Full torque delivery requires premium fuel (98 RON); operation on 95 RON may result in derated performance (Ford PT-2022).
Ford Worldwide Service Specification (WSS): WSS-M9433-C, WSS-M2C949-C
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford DHD was used across Ford's C2 and CD4 platforms with transverse mounting and integrated performance tuning. This engine received model-specific calibrations—aggressive throttle mapping in the Focus ST and revised torque delivery in the Puma ST—and from late 2022, updated HPFP cooling and calibration were implemented, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Ford WSS-M9433-C). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('X' for 2.3L EcoBoost performance variant). All DHD units have red-painted valve covers with '2.3L EcoBoost' labeling. Critical differentiation from non-ST units: Performance models include larger intercooler, upgraded exhaust, and (in Kuga) 48V BAS system. Service parts require model-year verification—HPFP units before late 2022 are incompatible with post-update calibration (Ford SIB 22T04).
The DHD's primary reliability risk is premature high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, with higher incidence in vehicles operated on regular unleaded or subjected to frequent short trips. Ford internal service reports from 2023 indicated a notable number of pre-late-2022 units required HPFP replacement before 80,000 km, while VCA data shows increased fuel system-related faults in urban environments. Low exhaust temperatures and poor fuel quality promote thermal stress and injector coking, making adherence to service intervals and use of premium fuel critical for system longevity.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2021–2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2022–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD DHD.
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