The Ford G6DE is a 2,360 cc, inline-five naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2004 and 2010. Part of the Ford Duratec family, it was engineered for smoothness and linear power delivery in mid-to-large vehicles. Featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and 20-valve configuration, it delivered 127 kW (173 PS) and 223 Nm of torque, utilising variable cam timing (Ti-VCT) to enhance low-end responsiveness and high-RPM efficiency.
Fitted primarily to the Ford Mondeo (Mk3), the G6DE was designed for drivers seeking refinement and relaxed cruising. Its five-cylinder layout provided inherent balance and a distinctive exhaust note while meeting Euro 4 emissions standards. Emissions control was achieved through port fuel injection, a three-way catalytic converter (TWC), and closed-loop lambda control, ensuring compliance across European markets during its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, which in rare cases led to chain slippage and valve train damage. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 07B03, is attributed to early tensioner design limitations under prolonged thermal cycling. From 2007, revised tensioner assemblies with improved hydraulic stability were introduced to enhance chain retention.
Production years 2004–2010 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8891).
The Ford G6DE is a 2,360 cc inline-five petrol engine engineered for mid-size passenger vehicles (2004–2010). It combines Ti-VCT variable cam timing with port fuel injection to deliver smooth throttle response and consistent fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances refinement with long-term serviceability for high-mileage applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,360 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-5, DOHC, 20-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 76.0 mm | |
| Power output | 127 kW (173 PS) @ 6,250 rpm | |
| Torque | 223 Nm @ 4,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Port fuel injection (PFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (front-mounted, single-row) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 168 kg |
The inline-five configuration provides inherent balance and smooth power delivery but requires consistent oil pressure to maintain cam phaser function; extended oil intervals can lead to sluggish response and timing errors. Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-30) specification oil is essential for maintaining hydraulic actuator performance and reducing chain wear. Use of non-approved oils increases risk of tensioner degradation, especially during cold starts. The port fuel injection system is less prone to carbon buildup than direct injection but still benefits from periodic fuel system cleaning. Post-2007 revisions improved oil flow; pre-2007 engines should be monitored for tensioner wear via oil analysis or compression testing.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-C (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 07B03). Supersedes ACEA A5/B5.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all G6DE production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8891).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades (RON 95 minimum).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D27430, D26103, SIB 07B03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8891)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford G6DE was used across Ford's CD3 platform with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Volvo pre-2010 derivatives. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Mondeo and revised exhaust routing in the S-MAX-and from 2007 received internal timing chain upgrades to address early tensioner wear, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block, near the starter motor (Ford TIS D27430). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for 2.3L DOHC). Pre-2007 units have silver valve covers with black coil packs; post-2007 models use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from four-cylinder variants: G6DE uses an inline-five layout with longer engine bay footprint and unique exhaust manifold geometry. Service parts require production date verification—timing chain kits for pre-2007 engines are not interchangeable with later units due to revised tensioner design (Ford SIB 07B03).
The G6DE's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner degradation on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for short journeys. Internal Ford quality reports from 2008 indicated a small but notable proportion of pre-2007 engines showing tensioner spring failure before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows increased misfire-related failures linked to valve timing drift. Frequent cold starts and delayed chain service increase wear, making adherence to service intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2005-2010) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2011-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD G6DE.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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