The Ford DHF is a 1,998 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It belongs to Ford's Dynamic Force engine family, designed for mid-size vehicle applications with emphasis on thermal efficiency and reduced emissions. Featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16-valve layout, and Ti-VCT (Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing), it delivers smooth power delivery and strong mid-range torque suitable for daily driving.
Fitted to models such as the Focus Mk4 (C519), Kuga Mk3 (CUx), and Edge, the DHF was engineered for balanced urban and highway performance with minimal maintenance requirements. Emissions compliance was achieved through integrated exhaust manifolds and a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter, enabling Euro 6d compliance across its production run. The engine's transverse layout supports front-wheel-drive and intelligent all-wheel-drive configurations with optimized packaging.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly under extended oil change intervals or frequent short-trip driving. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 19S09, is linked to inadequate lubrication flow in early-production tensioner assemblies. From 2020, Ford implemented a revised tensioner design and updated oil specification to mitigate risk, improving long-term reliability.
Production years 2018–2023 meet Euro 6d standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Ford DHF is a 1,998 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for mid-size passenger vehicles (2018–2023). It combines Ti-VCT variable valve timing with a high-pressure fuel injection system to deliver linear power delivery and responsive throttle response. Designed to meet Euro 6d emissions standards, it balances drivability with improved fuel economy and reduced particulate emissions in real-world conditions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 93.2 mm | |
| Power output | 125 kW (170 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
| Compression ratio | 12.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-B (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 123 kg |
The Ti-VCT system provides smooth throttle response but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear and cam phaser clogging. Ford WSS-M2C949-B (5W-30) oil is essential due to its shear stability and detergent formulation protecting the chain tensioner. Extended idling or frequent short trips may accelerate sludge formation in the valve train. The MPI fuel system is tolerant of variable fuel quality but performs optimally with 95 RON (Premium Unleaded). Post-2020 models feature upgraded tensioner assemblies; pre-2020 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 19S09. Catalytic converter longevity depends on consistent closed-loop lambda control and avoidance of oil/fuel contamination.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-B (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 19S09). Supersedes ACEA A5/B5 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all 2018–2023 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades meeting 95 RON minimum (Ford TIS Doc. F13203).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F12878, F13104, SIB 19S09
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford DHF was used across Ford's C519/CUx platforms with transverse mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Kuga and revised engine mounts in the Edge-and from 2020 the facelifted Focus Mk4 adopted minor ECU recalibrations, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Ford TIS F12892). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for 2.0L Dynamic Force). Pre-2020 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2020 units use all-black covers. Critical differentiation from turbocharged variants: DHF has no intercooler or boost piping, and uses MPI instead of GDi. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 06/2020 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Ford SIB 19S09).
The DHF's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in stop-start urban use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2019 noted a significant share of pre-2020 engines requiring tensioner replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show a notable increase in emissions-related MOT failures linked to lambda sensor degradation in high-mileage units. Short-trip driving and delayed oil changes increase chain and phaser stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2018-2022) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2019-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD DHF.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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