The Ford KA24 is a 2,389 cc, inline — four petrol engine produced between 1989 and 1999. It was developed as part of a collaboration between Ford and Nissan, utilising Nissan's robust KA — series architecture. This naturally aspirated engine features a cast — iron block, aluminium head, and belt — driven SOHC valvetrain. It delivered 100 kW (136 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, providing reliable performance for medium — duty applications.
Fitted to vehicles such as the Ford Probe (f…
Production years 1989–1999 meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford KA24 is a 2,389 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for coupe and light-commercial applications (1989–1999). It combines Nissan-derived architecture with Ford tuning to deliver smooth power delivery and mechanical resilience. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions, it balances reliability with everyday drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,389 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 96.0 mm | |
Power output | 100 kW (136 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
Torque | 200 Nm @ 4,400 rpm | |
Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Belt-driven (camshaft and water pump) | |
Oil type | SAE 10W-40, API SL | |
Dry weight | 145 kg |
The Ford KA24 was used across Ford's GE platform with longitudinal mounting and derived from Nissan's KA-series engine family under technical licensing. This engine received Ford-specific calibration and emissions tuning-and from 1995 revised water pump materials were introduced following Service Action 97/56, creating service part interchange limits. Partnerships allowed shared service tooling and documentation under joint Ford-Nissan engineering agreements. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The KA24's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure linked to water pump seizure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained units. Internal Ford field reports from 1998 indicated over 15% of pre-1995 engines suffered belt-related damage before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show a notable share of MOT failures involved coolant leaks from degraded pump seals. Extended service intervals and infrequent use increase corrosion risk, making proactive pump replacement critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (1990-1999) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The KA24 is mechanically robust and durable when properly maintained. However, pre-1995 models are prone to timing belt failure due to water pump seizure. Later revisions addressed this with improved pump materials. Regular timing belt service at 60,000 km and use of correct coolant significantly improve longevity. Well-maintained units often exceed 200,000 km.
The main issues are timing belt failure from water pump seizure, coolant leaks due to degraded pump seals, EGR system coking, and valve cover oil leaks. These are documented in Ford SIB 97/56 and Nissan service advisories. Preventative maintenance is key to avoiding major repairs.
The KA24 was used in the first-generation Ford Probe (1989–1993) and Telstar (1991–1995). It was also installed in certain European-market Ford Transit vans as a low-power petrol option. The engine is Nissan-sourced and also appears in Maxima and Stanza models.
Limited tuning potential exists due to SOHC 8-valve design and low compression. Intake/exhaust upgrades and ECU remapping can yield modest gains (~10-15%). However, the engine's strength lies in reliability, not performance. Over-revving or aggressive tuning risks valve train damage due to non-adjustable hydraulic lifters.
Moderate. In a Ford Probe 2.4i, combined consumption is ~9.8 L/100km (29 mpg UK). City driving may reach 12 L/100km (24 mpg), while highway cruising can achieve 8.5 L/100km (33 mpg). Fuel quality has minimal impact due to conservative tuning and port injection system.
Yes. The KA24 is an interference engine. If the timing belt breaks or jumps, the pistons can contact open valves, causing bent valves or damaged pistons. Immediate attention to any belt noise or coolant leak is essential to prevent catastrophic engine failure.
Ford specifies SAE 10W-40 mineral or synthetic-blend oil meeting API SL standards. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or one year. Using correct oil ensures adequate lubrication for the hydraulic lifters and timing components, reducing wear in high-temperature operation.
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.