The Ford KLBA is a 2,998 cc, V6, twin-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 dual high-flow turbochargers to deliver high-performance output. In standard tune, it produces 294 kW (400 PS) and 563 Nm of torque, paired exclusively with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Fitted to the Mustang Mach 1 and F-150 Raptor, the KLBA engine was engineered for maximum power and towing capability. Its character combines aggressive throttle response with robust thermal management for sustained high-load operation. Emissions compliance was achieved through close-coupled three-way catalytic converters 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 22S18. This issue arises from prolonged high-RPM operation typical of performance 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.
Ford
All production years 2021–2023 meet Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).
The Ford KLBA is a 2,998 cc V6 twin-turbocharged petrol engine engineered for high-performance applications (2021–2023). It combines direct fuel injection with Ti-VCT and dual turbocharging to deliver strong acceleration and sustained power output. Designed to meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards, it balances track-capable performance with modern emissions control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 93.0 mm × 73.5 mm | |
| Power output | 294 kW (400 PS) @ 5,750 rpm | |
| Torque | 563 Nm @ 3,500–5,000 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 | Dual Garrett GT2260V variable-vane turbos with external wastegates | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (front-mounted, non-interference) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C946-C1 (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 198 kg |
The KLBA's twin-turbo design enables strong mid-to-high range power ideal for performance and towing 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-RPM 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 22S18. 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 22S18). Supersedes ACEA C2 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6d-TEMP certification applies to all 2021–2023 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Full output requires RON 98 fuel (Ford TIS Doc. F20960).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F20960, F20961, SIB 22S18
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9012)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford KLBA was used across Ford's CD6 platform with longitudinal mounting and shared architecture with Lincoln for select North American applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced oil pans in the F-150 Raptor and revised cooling paths in the Mustang Mach 1-and from 2022 the facelifted Mustang adopted the KLBA-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 F20960). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('K' for KLBA series). Pre-2022 models have silver valve covers with black plastic intake manifolds; post-2022 units use gloss black covers. Critical differentiation from KLBA-TU: Original KLBA uses Bosch MD1CS108 ECU with 84-pin connector, while KLBA-TU uses MD1CS112 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 22S18).
The KLBA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, with elevated incidence in performance and towing 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 KLBA.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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