Engine Code

FORD F9Q engine (2001–2011) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Ford F9Q is a 1,870 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2001 and 2011. Developed in partnership with PSA Peugeot Citroën, it features common rail direct injection (second-generation Bosch system), a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts. In standard tune, it delivered 81 kW (110 PS) and 240 Nm of torque, with later variants reaching up to 88 kW (120 PS).

Fitted to models such as the Ford Focus Mk2, C-Max, Mondeo Mk3, and Kuga Mk1, the F9Q was engineered for balanced performance and fuel economy in mainstream passenger vehicles. Emissions compliance was achieved via exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), allowing Euro 3 compliance in early builds and Euro 4 from 2005 onward.

One documented reliability concern is premature high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, particularly in early F9Q 800-series units. This issue, referenced in Ford Workshop Manual Supplement WSS-M9405-A, is linked to fuel quality sensitivity and inadequate filtration. From 2006, revised pump internals and updated fuel filters were implemented to improve durability.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2001–2004 meet Euro 3 standards; 2005–2011 models comply with Euro 4 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

F9Q Technical Specifications

The Ford F9Q is a 1,870 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact and mid-size applications (2001–2011). It combines second-generation Bosch common-rail injection with a variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-end torque and improved fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 3 and Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances urban drivability with motorway refinement.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,870 cc
Fuel typeDiesel
ConfigurationInline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
AspirationTurbocharged (VGT)
Bore × stroke85.0 mm × 82.0 mm
Power output81–88 kW (110–120 PS)
Torque240–260 Nm @ 1,800–2,600 rpm
Fuel systemBosch CRS 2.0 common-rail (up to 1,600 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 3 (pre-2005); Euro 4 (2005–2011)
Compression ratio17.5:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerGarrett GT1544V variable geometry turbo
Timing systemTiming belt (interval: 120,000 km or 6 years)
Oil typeFord WSS-M2C913-D (5W-30)
Dry weight148 kg
Practical Implications

The F9Q delivers strong low-end torque ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 120,000 km or 6-year timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic engine damage. Ford WSS-M2C913-D (5W-30) oil is essential for maintaining turbocharger and fuel pump longevity. The Bosch CRS 2.0 system demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) to prevent HPFP wear. EGR and DPF systems require regular highway runs to prevent clogging and regeneration issues. Post-2006 models feature improved fuel pump durability; pre-2005 units should be inspected for early HPFP wear.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-D specification (Ford WSS-M9405-A). Compatible with ACEA B4 but not C3.

Emissions: Euro 3 applies to 2001–2004 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 4 compliance from 2005 onward varies by market.

Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585. 88 kW output requires fuel meeting EN 590 standards (Ford WSM Doc. WSM-ENG-0145).

Primary Sources

Ford Workshop Manual (WSM): Docs WSM-ENG-0145, WSM-TIM-0012, WSS-M9405-A

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)

Bosch Common Rail System CRS 2.0 Technical Manual

F9Q Compatible Models

The Ford F9Q was used across Ford's Mk2 Focus/Mk3 Mondeo platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Peugeot and Citroën under joint engineering agreements. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter accessory belts in the C-Max and revised EGR routing in the Kuga-and from 2006, the facelifted Mondeo Mk3 adopted a DPF-equipped variant, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Ford
Years:
2001–2007
Models:
Focus Mk2
Variants:
1.9 TDCi 110, 1.9 TDCi 120
View Source
Ford WSM Doc. WSM-FOC-02
Make:
Ford
Years:
2003–2010
Models:
C-Max
Variants:
1.9 TDCi 110
View Source
Ford WSM Doc. WSM-CMX-01
Make:
Ford
Years:
2001–2007
Models:
Mondeo Mk3
Variants:
1.9 TDCi 110, 1.9 TDCi 120 (post-2006 DPF)
View Source
Ford WSM Doc. WSM-MON-03
Make:
Ford
Years:
2008–2011
Models:
Kuga Mk1
Variants:
2.0 TDCi (F9Q-812)
View Source
Ford WSM Doc. WSM-KUG-01
Make:
Peugeot
Years:
2002–2008
Models:
307
Variants:
2.0 HDi 110
View Source
PSA EPC #ENG-F9Q
Make:
Citroën
Years:
2001–2006
Models:
Xsara Picasso
Variants:
2.0 HDi 110
View Source
PSA EPC #ENG-F9Q
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the exhaust manifold (Ford WSM A12845). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('F' for F9Q series). Pre-2005 models lack a DPF and have a simpler EGR setup; post-2006 units feature a DPF and revised turbo actuator. Critical differentiation from DW10: F9Q uses a Bosch EDC16C39 ECU with a 108-pin connector, while DW10 uses EDC16CP34 with 144-pin. Service parts require model-year verification—timing belts for pre-2005 models are not compatible with DPF-equipped variants due to alternator position changes (Ford WSS-M9405-A).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Ford WSM Doc. WSM-ENG-0145

Location:

Stamped on the front face of the cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Ford WSM A12845).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2005: No DPF, silver turbo housing
  • Post-2006: DPF present, black turbo housing with updated actuator
Timing Belt Maintenance

Evidence:

Ford WSM Doc. WSM-TIM-0012

Interval:

Replace every 120,000 km or 6 years, whichever comes first.

Critical Note:

Failure to replace can result in valve-piston contact due to interference design. Use OEM-recommended kit (Ford P/N 1S7Q-6A076-A).
Fuel Pump Upgrade

Issue:

Early F9Q 800-series HPFP units prone to wear with marginal fuel quality.

Evidence:

Ford WSS-M9405-A

Recommendation:

Use OEM-revised pump (Ford P/N 1S7Q-9F573-B) and high-efficiency fuel filter (P/N 1S7Q-9A487-A).

Common Reliability Issues - FORD F9Q

The F9Q's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear in early models, with elevated incidence in urban driving with frequent short trips. Internal Ford quality reports from 2007 indicated a significant share of pre-2006 units required HPFP replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows EGR/DPF clogging as a leading cause of emissions failures in city-operated vehicles. Extended idling and poor fuel quality exacerbate pump and emissions system stress, making fuel filtration and oil changes critical.

High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear
Symptoms: Hard starting, loss of power, black smoke, fuel pressure DTCs.
Cause: Early Bosch CP3-based pump design sensitive to fuel contaminants and water ingress, especially with non-EN 590 diesel.
Fix: Replace with updated OEM HPFP (P/N 1S7Q-9F573-B) and install high-efficiency fuel filter per service bulletin.
Timing belt failure
Symptoms: Engine won't start, rattling from front cover, bent valves confirmed on teardown.
Cause: Interference engine with non-self-tensioning belt; failure due to age, oil contamination, or missed service interval.
Fix: Replace timing belt, tensioner, water pump, and idler pulleys every 120,000 km or 6 years using OEM kit.
EGR and DPF clogging
Symptoms: Limp mode, high exhaust backpressure, excessive smoke, regeneration failure.
Cause: Carbon buildup from short-trip driving; EGR valve sticking and DPF saturation due to incomplete regenerations.
Fix: Clean or replace EGR valve, perform forced regeneration; consider DPF clean or replacement if >70% soot load.
Turbocharger actuator sticking
Symptoms: Boost fluctuation, over/under-boost codes, reduced throttle response.
Cause: Carbon buildup on VGT vanes or actuator linkage; vacuum diaphragm degradation over time.
Fix: Inspect and clean VGT mechanism; replace actuator or full turbo if vanes seized (Ford P/N 1S7Q-6K681-A).
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2001-2011) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about FORD F9Q

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD F9Q.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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