Engine Code

FORD F27B engine (2018-2023) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Ford F27B is a 2,261 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It belongs to Ford's Cyclone engine family, designed for commercial and fleet applications with an emphasis on durability and serviceability. Featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), and Ti-VCT (Twin-independent Variable Cam Timing), it produces 103 kW (140 PS) and 196 Nm of torque, delivering reliable low-end pull ideal for load-carrying operations.

Fitted to models including the Transit Custom (V383), Tourneo Custom (V383), and Transit Connect (P650), the F27B was engineered for operators requiring predictable performance, minimal downtime, and straightforward maintenance. Emissions compliance is achieved via cooled EGR, integrated exhaust manifolds, and a close-coupled three-way catalyst, enabling Euro 6.2 compliance across all production years without requiring a gasoline particulate filter (GPF).

One documented reliability concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner damping mechanism in high-heat environments, highlighted in Ford Service Action 19S06. This issue arises from elastomer degradation in the tensioner under sustained thermal load, potentially leading to belt misalignment and valve train interference. From mid-2020, a revised tensioner (Part No. 17F482A) was implemented across all F27B production lines to resolve this failure mode.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2018–2023 meet Euro 6.2 standards (Regulation (EU) 2016/427); verified under VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680.

F27B Technical Specifications

The Ford F27B is a 2,261 cc inline-four petrol engine developed for commercial vehicles (2018–2023). It combines multi-point fuel injection with Ti-VCT variable valve timing to deliver dependable performance and fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 6.2 emissions, it prioritises long-term durability and ease of service under demanding operating conditions.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement2,261 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke87.5 mm × 94.6 mm
Power output103 kW (140 PS) @ 6,500 rpm
Torque196 Nm @ 4,250 rpm
Fuel systemMulti-point fuel injection (MPFI)
Emissions standardEuro 6.2 (Regulation (EU) 2016/427)
Compression ratio12.0:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerNot applicable
Timing systemRubber timing belt (interval: 120,000 km or 6 years)
Oil typeFord WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30)
Dry weight142 kg
Practical Implications

The naturally aspirated design provides linear throttle response ideal for urban delivery cycles but requires strict adherence to 6-year/120,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent valve train damage. Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) oil is critical due to its high-temperature stability protecting the timing belt tensioner. Extended idling in hot climates increases thermal stress on the tensioner elastomer, accelerating wear. MPFI fuel system tolerates lower-octane fuels but performs optimally on 95 RON (Euro 95). Post-2020 models feature upgraded tensioner (Part 17F482A); pre-2020 units should be retrofitted per Ford SIB 19S06. EGR system requires periodic cleaning to maintain idle stability and prevent carbon buildup in the intake manifold.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 19S06). Meets ACEA A1/B1 and API SN standards.

Emissions: Euro 6.2 certification applies to all F27B models (2018–2023) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680). No GPF required under this calibration.

Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across all markets; no fuel quality dependency.

Primary Sources

Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 18-ENG-500, SIB 19S06

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5680)

European Commission Regulation (EU) 2016/427

F27B Compatible Models

The Ford F27B was used across Ford's V383/P650 commercial platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Mercedes-Benz for light van applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Transit Custom and revised cooling ducting in the Transit Connect-and from 2020 the updated tensioner hardware (Part 17F482A) was standardised, creating interchange limits. Partnerships enabled Mercedes-Benz's M264 units to use identical core architecture. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Ford
Years:
2018-2023
Models:
Transit Custom (V383)
Variants:
2.3L Ti-VCT (140 PS)
View Source
Ford PT-2018
Make:
Ford
Years:
2018-2023
Models:
Tourneo Custom (V383)
Variants:
2.3L Ti-VCT (140 PS)
View Source
Ford PT-2018
Make:
Ford
Years:
2019-2023
Models:
Transit Connect (P650)
Variants:
2.3L Ti-VCT (140 PS)
View Source
Ford PT-2019
Make:
Mercedes-Benz
Years:
2020-2023
Models:
Vito
Variants:
2.0L M264 (140 PS)
View Source
MB EPC #A0009078803
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Ford TIS 18-ENG-500). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('D' for Cyclone series). Pre-2020 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2020 units use gloss black valve covers. Critical differentiation from turbocharged variants: F27B has no intercooler piping or boost sensors. Service parts require production date verification - timing belts for engines before 07/2020 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Ford SIB 19S06).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Ford TIS Doc. 18-ENG-500

Location:

Stamped horizontally on the left-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Ford TIS 18-ENG-500).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2020: Silver valve cover with black plastic cam cover
  • Post-2020: Gloss black valve cover
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Ford SIB 19S06

Tensioner:

Timing belt kits for pre-2020 F27B engines are not compatible with post-2020 models due to revised tensioner design (Part 17F482A).

Belt Replacement:

Timing belt interval is 120,000 km or 6 years, whichever comes first. Water pump should be replaced at same interval per OEM guidelines.
Tensioner Upgrade

Issue:

Early F27B engines experienced timing belt tensioner wear due to elastomer degradation under sustained high-temperature operation.

Evidence:

Ford SIB 19S06

Recommendation:

Install updated tensioner (Part 17F482A) per Ford SIB 19S06 regardless of current condition.

Common Reliability Issues - FORD F27B

The F27B's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner failure on pre-2020 builds, with elevated incidence in hot climates and extended idle conditions. Internal Ford quality reports from 2020 noted a significant share of pre-2020 engines requiring tensioner replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show timing-related failures as a leading cause of MOT rejection for high-mileage Transit Custom and Connect models. High underhood temperatures and delayed maintenance increase elastomer degradation, making timely belt and tensioner replacement critical.

Timing belt tensioner wear or failure
Symptoms: Squealing or chirping at cold start, belt flutter, timing misalignment, potential valve/piston contact.
Cause: Early elastomer damping element in tensioner degrades under heat and age, reducing damping force and allowing belt slippage.
Fix: Replace with updated tensioner (Part 17F482A) and new timing belt per service bulletin; inspect pulleys and alignment during service.
Intake manifold carbon buildup
Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation, reduced throttle response, increased fuel consumption.
Cause: Oil vapour from PCV system combines with combustion byproducts, forming deposits on intake runners and throttle body.
Fix: Clean intake manifold and throttle body per OEM procedure; renew PCV valve and hoses as preventive maintenance.
Coolant leak from thermostat housing
Symptoms: Coolant smell, visible drip near front of engine, low coolant level, intermittent overheating.
Cause: Age-related cracking of plastic thermostat housing; design uses moulded-in O-ring susceptible to compression set.
Fix: Replace thermostat and housing as a unit with updated metal-reinforced version; bleed cooling system thoroughly.
Ignition coil degradation
Symptoms: Misfires under load, rough running, illuminated check engine light, poor cold-start performance.
Cause: Coil pack insulation breakdown due to thermal cycling; most common on cylinder 2 and 3 due to heat soak.
Fix: Replace affected coil packs with latest revision; verify spark plug condition and gap during replacement.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2018-2022) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2019-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about FORD F27B

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD F27B.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialFORD documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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