The Ford G8DA is a 3,496 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2016 and 2021. It belongs to Ford's Cyclone engine family, featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable cam timing (Ti-VCT), and port fuel injection. In standard tune, it delivers 224 kW (305 PS) and 353 Nm of torque, primarily aimed at providing smooth high-speed performance in full-size utility and performance applications.
Fitted to models such as the Mustang, F-150, and Ranger Raptor, the G8DA was engineered for linear power delivery and towing capability in high-load conditions. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing Euro 6 compliance across all production years, verified under EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007.
One documented concern is premature wear of the intake manifold runner control (IMRC) actuators, highlighted in Ford Service Action 18S07. This issue arises from vacuum diaphragm degradation under sustained high-temperature operation, particularly in hot climate regions. From 2018, Ford introduced revised actuator materials and updated ECU logic to reduce actuator cycling frequency.
Production years 2016–2021 meet Euro 6 standards (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007, Amended by (EU) 2018/858). VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/G8DA/7754.
The Ford G8DA is a 3,496 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine designed for performance and utility applications (2016–2021). It combines port fuel injection with twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT) to deliver broad torque delivery and operational smoothness. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it prioritizes durability and throttle response in high-utilisation environments.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,496 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 92.2 mm × 86.2 mm | |
| Power output | 224 kW (305 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 353 Nm @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Port fuel injection (Bosch multipoint) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 (Regulation (EU) 2018/858) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | N/A | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (dual-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C947-A (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 198 kg |
The G8DA's naturally aspirated design provides linear power delivery ideal for towing and high-speed stability but demands adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Ford WSS-M2C947-A (5W-30) to prevent timing chain and cam wear. Port injection minimizes intake valve carbon buildup. However, sustained high-temperature operation increases risk of IMRC actuator failure. Ford recommends inspection of the intake manifold system every 60,000 km per TIS F16900. Post-2018 models benefit from revised actuator materials and reduced ECU cycling, improving longevity. Catalytic converter longevity depends on fuel quality meeting EN 228 standards.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C947-A (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 18S07). Supersedes ACEA A5/B5 and API SN.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all G8DA models (2016–2021) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/G8DA/7754).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Full power output requires 95 RON minimum fuel (Ford TIS Doc. F16630).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F16630, F16900, SIB 18S07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/G8DA/7754)
European Commission: Regulation (EU) 2018/858
The Ford G8DA was used across Ford's CD6 and TU3 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-tuned intake manifolds in the Mustang and enhanced cooling in the Ranger Raptor-and from 2018 the facelifted F-150 models adopted revised ECU calibration for improved emissions control, creating software compatibility limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the right-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS F16810). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('H' for G8DA series). Pre-2018 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2018 units use gloss black valve covers. Critical differentiation from G8DE: G8DA uses port fuel injection with sequential injectors (black connectors), while G8DE uses direct injection (silver connectors). Service parts require VIN verification - IMRC actuators before 07/2018 are incompatible with later units due to ECU calibration changes (Ford SIB 18S07).
The G8DA's primary reliability risk is intake manifold runner control (IMRC) actuator failure, with elevated incidence in hot climate and towing use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2019 indicated a notable share of pre-2018 engines required actuator service before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a significant portion of emissions-related MOT failures to EGR and catalytic converter faults in fleet-driven vehicles. Sustained high-load operation and extended idling increase thermal stress, making cooling system maintenance and driving pattern awareness critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2016-2021) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2017-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD G8DA.
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.
