The Ford F65A is a 1,998 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2020 and 2025. It belongs to the EcoBoost 2.0L Gen-3 family, engineered for performance and efficiency in mid-size and performance-oriented applications. Featuring twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT), direct fuel injection, and integrated exhaust manifold, it delivers 184 kW (250 PS) and 373 Nm of torque, providing strong mid-range pull and responsive throttle delivery.
Fitted to models including the CX492 Mustang, C519 Puma ST, and CD537 Focus ST, the F65A was designed for dynamic driving with enhanced thermal efficiency and reduced turbo lag. Emissions compliance is achieved via a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter and dual lambda sensors, enabling Euro 6.3 certification across its production run. The engine features a reinforced block, forged internals, and an electronically controlled wastegate for improved durability under high-load conditions.
One documented concern is premature wear of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) drive cam on early-build units, particularly in high-mileage applications. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 21S08, is attributed to insufficient case hardening of the cam follower surface. From 2022, Ford introduced a revised HPFP camshaft with improved metallurgy, reducing reported failures in later production models.

Production years 2020–2025 meet Euro 6.3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Ford F65A is a 1,998 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for performance models (2020–2025). It combines direct injection with Ti-VCT and a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver strong mid-range torque and refined throttle response. Designed to meet Euro 6.3 standards, it balances sporty performance with emissions compliance in Ford's global ST and performance lineup.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.5 mm × 83.1 mm | |
| Power output | 184 kW (250 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 373 Nm @ 3,000–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (GDI) + port injection (dual-mode) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6.3 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | BorgWarner twin-scroll, electronically controlled wastegate | |
| Timing system | Chain (dual-row; front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-C (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The dual injection system provides strong low-end torque and reduced carbon buildup but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to protect the turbocharger and high-pressure fuel pump. Ford WSS-M2C949-C (5W-30) oil is essential due to its high-temperature stability and anti-wear additives. Extended high-load driving or track use increases thermal stress on the turbo and intercooler, necessitating adequate cool-down periods. The integrated exhaust manifold improves warm-up times but increases cylinder head temperatures, making coolant system integrity critical. Post-2022 models feature revised HPFP camshaft; pre-2022 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 21S08. Catalytic converter longevity depends on avoiding prolonged rich running and misfire conditions.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-C (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 21S08). Supersedes ACEA A5/B5.
Emissions: Euro 6.3 certification applies to all F65A models (2020–2025) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades (Ford TIS Doc. B16001).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B15650, B15789, SIB 21S08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Test method for fuel consumption
The Ford F65A was used across Ford's CX492/CD537 platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Lincoln for North American performance applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—higher boost calibration in the CX492 Mustang and revised intercooler routing in the CD537 Focus ST—and from 2022 the updated C519 Puma ST adopted a revised HPFP camshaft, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS B15700). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('M' for 2.0L EcoBoost). Pre-2022 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2022 units use gloss black valve covers with red Ford lettering. Critical differentiation from non-ST variants: F65A features a high-pressure fuel pump mounted directly on the cylinder head with a cam-driven plunger. Service parts require production date verification - HPFP assemblies for engines before 06/2022 are not compatible with later units due to camshaft redesign (Ford SIB 21S08).
The F65A's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) cam wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or aggressive driving applications. Internal Ford quality reports from 2021 indicated a notable share of pre-2022 engines exhibiting HPFP noise or fuel pressure faults before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalytic converter failures in poorly maintained examples. Extended high-load cycles and low-oil pressure exacerbate wear, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2020–2024) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2021–2025). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD F65A.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with FORD or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
FORD Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialFORD documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.