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, Everest, and Explorer, the KHBA engine was engineered for high-load capability and off-road responsiveness. Its character combines broad torque delivery with advanced thermal management for sustained towing and rugged terrain use. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), enabling Euro 6d-TEMP compliance across all production years.
One documented concern is premature high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, identified in Ford Service Action 22S14. This issue arises from prolonged high-load operation typical of towing and off-road driving, leading to lubrication degradation. From mid-2022, revised HPFP hardware with improved internal coatings and updated fuel calibration were implemented to enhance durability and reduce fault incidence.
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 KHBA's high-torque design enables strong towing and off-road performance but requires consistent oil flow to prevent HPFP and turbo bearing wear. Ford WSS-M2C946-C1 (5W-30) oil is essential for maintaining direct injection system longevity and thermal stability. Extended high-load operation increases fuel pump stress; periodic cooldown cycles help mitigate thermal degradation. The HDEV6 fuel system demands high-octane petrol (RON 98 recommended) to avoid knock and maintain performance. Post-2022 models feature updated HPFPs; pre-2022 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 22S14. Catalytic converter efficiency depends on closed-loop lambda control; faulty sensors can trigger emissions-related DTCs.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C946-C1 (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 22S14). Supersedes ACEA C2 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6d-TEMP certification applies to all 2021–2023 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Full output requires RON 98 fuel (Ford TIS Doc. F18950).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F18950, F18951, SIB 22S14
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8901)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
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.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Ford TIS F18950). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('K' for KHBA series). Pre-2022 models have silver valve covers with black plastic intake manifolds; post-2022 units use gloss black covers. Critical differentiation from KHBA-TU: Original KHBA uses Bosch MD1CS088 ECU with 84-pin connector, while KHBA-TU uses MD1CS092 with 104-pin. Service parts require production date verification - fuel pumps for engines before 06/2022 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (Ford SIB 22S14).
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.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD KHBA.
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