The Ford KHBA is a 2,498 cc, inline — four, turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2021 and 2023. It forms part of Ford's EcoBoost family, featuring direct fuel injection, twin — independent camshaft timing (Ti — VCT), and a high — flow turbocharger to deliver strong performance in larger vehicles. In standard tune, it produces 213 kW (290 PS) and 440 Nm of torque, primarily paired with a 10 — speed automatic transmission.
Fitted to models including the Ranger Raptor, Ev…
All production years 2021–2023 meet Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
The Ford KHBA is a 2,498 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for high-performance utility applications (2021–2023). It combines direct fuel injection with Ti-VCT and robust cooling systems to deliver consistent power under extreme conditions. Designed to meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards, it balances off-road capability with modern emissions control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,498 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 102.0 mm | |
Power output | 213 kW (290 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
Torque | 440 Nm @ 3,000–4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch HDEV6 direct injection (up to 350 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6d-TEMP | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled with dual-circuit thermal management | |
Turbocharger | Garrett GT2260V variable-vane turbo with external wastegate | |
Timing system | Timing chain (front-mounted, non-interference) | |
Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C946-C1 (5W-30) | |
Dry weight | 178 kg |
The Ford KHBA was used across Ford's T6 platform with longitudinal mounting and shared architecture with Land Rover for select global markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced oil pans in the Ranger Raptor and revised cooling paths in the Everest-and from 2022 the facelifted Explorer adopted the KHBA-TU variant with enhanced fuel pump durability, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The KHBA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, with elevated incidence in towing and off-road use. Ford's internal quality report from 2022 indicated a significant share of pre-2022 engines required HPFP service before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalytic converter failures linked to lean-running conditions under load. High-load cycles and infrequent cooldowns increase thermal stress, making fuel quality and operational discipline critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2021-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2022-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The KHBA engine is generally robust when maintained properly, though pre-2022 models have documented HPFP wear issues. Later revisions (post-2022) show improved durability with updated hardware. Regular oil changes using Ford WSS-M2C946-C1 (5W-30) and use of high-octane fuel help prevent carbon buildup and ensure longevity. Well-maintained units reliably exceed 150,000 km.
The most frequent issues are high-pressure fuel pump wear, intake carbon buildup, and coolant leaks from the thermostat housing. Less common are cold-start timing chain rattle and MAF sensor contamination. These are documented in Ford service bulletins and addressed through updated parts and maintenance procedures.
The KHBA engine is used in the Ford Ranger Raptor (2021–2023), Everest (2021–2023), and Explorer (2022–2023) in 2.5L EcoBoost form. It also appears in Land Rover Defender 130 models (2023) due to platform sharing. All applications are four-wheel drive with longitudinal engine layout and meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards.
Yes. The KHBA responds well to ECU remapping, with stage 1 tunes typically adding +40–50 kW safely. Stock internals handle increased torque, but supporting modifications (intercooler, exhaust) are recommended for higher stages. Tuning must preserve EGR and emissions functions to remain road-legal and avoid DPF-related faults.
In combined driving, the KHBA achieves approximately 10.5–11.8 L/100 km (24–27 mpg UK). Highway efficiency improves to ~9.0 L/100 km (~31 mpg UK), while city driving may reach 13.0 L/100 km (~22 mpg UK). Real-world consumption depends on driving style, with aggressive or off-road use reducing efficiency significantly.
No. The KHBA uses a non-interference valvetrain design. If the timing chain fails or skips, piston-to-valve contact does not occur, preventing catastrophic engine damage. However, drive loss will disable the engine, so chain and tensioner maintenance remains important for operational reliability.
Ford specifies 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting WSS-M2C946-C1 standard. This low-SAPS formulation protects turbo bearings, GDI injectors, and variable cam timing systems. Oil changes should occur every 15,000 km or annually, using only OEM-approved brands to ensure compatibility and longevity.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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