The Ford F9DB is a 2,495 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2014 and 2020. It was engineered as a durable, smooth powerplant for Ford’s larger vehicles, featuring twin independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT), sequential multi-port fuel injection, and an aluminium block and head. In standard tune it delivered 147 kW (200 PS) and 255 Nm of torque, offering balanced performance for towing and highway cruising.
Fitted primarily to the Ford Transit Custom (2014–2020) and Transit (2014–2019) vans, the F9DB was designed for commercial operators requiring dependable mid-range power and ease of maintenance. It met Euro 5 emissions standards through precise air-fuel ratio control and an advanced exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system, with certain 2017–2020 models achieving Euro 6 compliance in select markets. The engine’s design prioritised durability under high-mileage conditions.
One documented concern is intake manifold carbon buildup, particularly affecting models used in urban delivery cycles. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 17B06, stems from oil vapour ingress via the crankcase ventilation (CCV) system under frequent idle and low-load operation. From 2017, revised CCV routing and updated ECU calibrations were introduced to mitigate deposits.
Production years 2014–2016 meet Euro 5 standards; 2017–2020 models may have Euro 6 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford F9DB is a 2,495 cc V6 petrol engine engineered for light commercial vehicles (2014–2020). It combines Ti-VCT with sequential multi-port injection to deliver smooth mid-range power and predictable throttle response. Designed to meet Euro 5 (and select Euro 6) standards, it balances operational reliability with emissions control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,495 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 147 kW (200 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 255 Nm @ 4,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (pre-2017); Euro 6 (market-dependent, 2017–2020) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (dual overhead camshafts) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C946-A (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The naturally aspirated V6 provides linear power delivery ideal for loaded van operation but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to maintain valve train and timing chain longevity. Ford WSS-M2C946-A (5W-30) oil is essential for proper hydraulic lifter function and wear protection. Extended idling and short-trip cycles promote carbon buildup in the intake manifold due to CCV oil carryover. Regular cleaning of the intake tract and EGR valve is recommended for city-driven units to prevent rough idle and reduced airflow. Post-2017 models feature revised CCV routing per Ford SIB 17B06, reducing deposit formation. Use only 95 RON or higher unleaded fuel to prevent knock and ensure optimal ECU calibration.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C946-A (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 17B06). Supersedes ACEA A1/B1 standards.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to pre-2017 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Some 2017–2020 models meet Euro 6 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output varies slightly with ambient conditions and fuel quality (Ford Technical Portal Doc. ENG-F9DB-001).
Ford Technical Portal: Docs ENG-F9DB-001, TIMING-DB-09, SIB 17B06
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford F9DB was used across Ford's Transit Custom and Transit platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated mounting points for van body variants and revised cooling for high ambient operation-and from 2017 the facelifted Transit Custom (Gen 2) adopted updated ECU calibrations and CCV routing, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front lower edge of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Ford Technical Portal Doc. ENG-F9DB-001). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('D' for Duratec V6). Pre-2017 models have silver valve covers with black plastic intake manifolds; post-2017 units retain similar styling but feature revised CCV hose routing from the rear valve cover. Critical differentiation from 2.0L EcoBoost: F9DB is a 2.5L V6 without turbocharger or intercooler. Service parts require production date verification - intake manifolds for pre-2017 models are incompatible with post-facelift units due to internal port revisions (Ford SIB 17B06).
The F9DB's primary reliability risk is intake manifold carbon buildup, with elevated incidence in urban delivery use. Ford's internal field reports from 2018 indicated a significant number of pre-2017 models required cleaning before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA records show related misfire and idle faults contributing to MOT advisories. Extended idling and short trips increase oil carryover, making intake maintenance and oil quality adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2014-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD F9DB.
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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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