Engine Code

FORD KL11 engine (2023–2025) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Ford KL11 is a 1,998 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2023 and 2025. It forms part of Ford's EcoBoost Gen-4 engine family, featuring direct fuel injection, twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT), and an integrated exhaust manifold. In standard tune, it delivers 182 kW (248 PS) and 400 Nm of torque, combining high performance with advanced thermal management and emissions control.

Fitted to models including the Focus ST, Puma ST, and Mustang Dark Horse, the KL11 engine was engineered for high-performance driving dynamics and track-ready responsiveness. Its design includes reinforced internals, enhanced cooling, and a high-flow turbocharger to sustain output under aggressive driving conditions. Emissions compliance is achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalyst and gasoline particulate filter (GPF), enabling Euro 6d-ISC compliance across all production years (UK VCA Type Approval #VCA/FORD/9301).

One documented concern involves intermittent high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) rail pressure fluctuation under sustained high-load operation, noted in Ford Service Action 24A05. This issue arises from early-design HPFP plunger wear due to thermal stress and low-lubricity fuel, leading to lean misfire and power reduction. From early 2025, an updated HPFP with improved plunger coating and recalibrated fuel map was implemented to enhance durability and consistency.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years (2023–2025) meet Euro 6d-ISC emissions standards (UK VCA Type Approval #VCA/FORD/9301).

KL11 Technical Specifications

The Ford KL11 is a 1,998 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine designed for high-performance applications (2023–2025). It combines direct injection with twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT) to deliver strong mid-range torque and responsive throttle delivery. Engineered to meet Euro 6d-ISC standards, it balances track-focused capability with regulatory compliance in compact and performance platforms.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,998 cc
Fuel typePetrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min)
ConfigurationInline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
AspirationTurbocharged
Bore × stroke87.5 mm × 83.1 mm
Power output182 kW (248 PS) @ 5,800 rpm
Torque400 Nm @ 2,500–4,500 rpm
Fuel systemBosch HDEV6 direct injection (up to 350 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 6d-ISC (2023–2025)
Compression ratio10.0:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerSingle-scroll turbo with electronic wastegate control
Timing systemTiming chain (front-mounted)
Oil typeFord WSS-M2C949-B (5W-30)
Dry weight135 kg
Practical Implications

The KL11 delivers strong mid-range torque ideal for performance driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent turbocharger and timing chain wear. Ford WSS-M2C949-B (5W-30) oil is essential due to its thermal stability and protection against turbo coking. High-pressure fuel pump degradation under sustained load increases risk of lean misfire, particularly in track or spirited driving. The gasoline particulate filter (GPF) necessitates regular highway runs to support passive regeneration and avoid clogging. Post-2025 models feature revised HPFP hardware and calibration per Ford SIB 24A05, improving reliability. Use of 98 RON fuel enhances knock resistance and allows full power delivery under load.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-B (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 24A05). Supersedes ACEA C5 and API SP.

Emissions: Euro 6d-ISC certification applies to all 2023–2025 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/FORD/9301).

Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. 182 kW output requires 98 RON fuel for optimal performance (Ford TIS Doc. WSA-2023-KL11).

Primary Sources

Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs WSA-2023-KL11, SIB 24A05

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/FORD/9301)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Test Code

KL11 Compatible Models

The Ford KL11 was used across Ford's CD4 and C2 platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Volvo for certain European performance applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Focus ST and revised intercooler routing in the Mustang Dark Horse-and from 2025 the facelifted Puma ST adopted the KL11 variant with enhanced cooling and GPF monitoring, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Ford
Years:
2023–2025
Models:
Focus
Variants:
2.0L EcoBoost ST
View Source
Ford Group PT-2023
Make:
Ford
Years:
2023–2025
Models:
Puma
Variants:
2.0L EcoBoost ST
View Source
Ford TIS Doc. WSA-PUMA-ST03
Make:
Ford
Years:
2024–2025
Models:
Mustang
Variants:
Dark Horse (Euro-spec)
View Source
Ford TIS Doc. WSA-MUSTANG-DH01
Make:
Volvo
Years:
2024–2025
Models:
S60
Variants:
T6 (248 PS)
View Source
Volvo VDS #VDS-512
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block near the starter motor (Ford TIS WSA-2023-KL11). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('V' for KL11 series). All units have gloss-black valve covers with red ST lettering. Critical differentiation from JQMA: KL11 has turbocharging and higher output, while JQMA is naturally aspirated hybrid unit. Service parts require production date verification—high-pressure fuel pumps before 02/2025 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (Ford SIB 24A05).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Ford TIS Doc. WSA-2023-KL11

Location:

Stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block near the starter motor (Ford TIS WSA-2023-KL11).

Visual Cues:

All models: Gloss-black valve cover with red ST branding
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Ford SIB 24A05

G P F System:

GPF-equipped models (all years) require compatible diagnostics for regeneration cycles. Early models lack adaptive learning; later units feature improved soot load monitoring.

Turbocharger:

Turbo actuators for pre-2025 KL11 engines are not compatible with post-facelift models due to electronic wastegate control differences.
Fuel Pump Upgrade

Issue:

Early KL11 engines experienced high-pressure fuel pump rail pressure fluctuation due to plunger wear under sustained high-load conditions.

Evidence:

Ford SIB 24A05

Recommendation:

Install updated HPFP hardware per Ford SIB 24A05 and perform ECU recalibration to restore fuel delivery stability.

Common Reliability Issues - FORD KL11

The KL11's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump degradation, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent high-load operation. Internal Ford quality reports from 2025 indicated a significant number of pre-2025 units required HPFP replacement before 90,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows increased lean-mixture-related MOT failures in performance variants. Aggressive driving and delayed oil changes increase turbo and GPF stress, making maintenance adherence critical.

High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) rail pressure fluctuation
Symptoms: Lean misfire, loss of power, stored P0171 or P0008 fault codes, hesitation under load.
Cause: Wear on HPFP plunger due to extended high-load operation and inadequate lubrication from low-quality fuel.
Fix: Replace with revised OEM HPFP per service bulletin; recalibrate fuel pressure control via diagnostics.
Gasoline particulate filter (GPF) clogging
Symptoms: Reduced fuel economy, increased regeneration frequency, DPF warning light, engine hesitation.
Cause: Insufficient highway driving prevents passive regeneration; low-quality fuel increases soot loading.
Fix: Initiate forced regeneration via diagnostic tool; advise owner on driving patterns. Severe cases require GPF replacement.
Intake manifold carbon buildup
Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires, reduced airflow, check engine light with MAF-related codes.
Cause: Oil vapour from PCV system combines with combustion byproducts, forming deposits on intake runners and valves.
Fix: Clean intake manifold and ports; renew PCV valve and hoses per OEM procedure. Consider catch can in high-mileage applications.
Timing chain tensioner wear
Symptoms: Ticking noise at cold start, cam timing faults, reduced compression in extreme cases.
Cause: Early-design tensioner with reduced spring force may allow chain slack under cold oil conditions.
Fix: Install updated tensioner and guide set per technical service bulletin; verify chain stretch and cam alignment.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2023-2025) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2024-2025). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about FORD KL11

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD KL11.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialFORD documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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