The Ford M9DB is a 2,495 cc, inline-five petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2010. It features naturally aspirated design, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and sequential multi-port fuel injection. This engine was engineered to deliver smooth power delivery and high-revving performance, producing 147 kW (200 PS) and 240 Nm of torque.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Focus ST and Volvo S40/V50 (due to shared platform agreements), the M9DB was designed for drivers seeking a balance of spirited performance and daily usability. Emissions compliance was achieved through closed-loop lambda control and a three-way catalytic converter, allowing Euro 4 compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly under high-temperature operating conditions. This issue, highlighted in Ford Service Action 07B06, is linked to material degradation in early tensioner designs. In 2008, Ford issued revised tensioner components and updated oil change intervals to mitigate the risk.
Production years 2005–2010 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford M9DB is a 2,495 cc inline-five naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for performance compact and family vehicles (2005–2010). It combines dual overhead camshafts with sequential multi-port fuel injection to deliver high-revving responsiveness and linear power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances driving engagement with regulated efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,495 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-5, DOHC, 20-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 80.0 mm | |
| Power output | 147 kW (200 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C913-D (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The naturally aspirated inline-five delivers smooth, high-revving performance ideal for spirited driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain tensioner wear. Ford WSS-M2C913-D (5W-30) oil is critical due to its thermal stability protecting the front-mounted chain system. Extended high-RPM operation should be followed by cool-down periods to reduce thermal stress. The engine's sensitivity to fuel quality means premium unleaded (RON 98) is recommended to maintain optimal combustion and prevent knock. Post-2008 models feature upgraded tensioner materials; pre-2008 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 07B06. The three-way catalytic converter requires undiluted exhaust for efficient operation, so short-trip driving should be minimized.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C913-D (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 07B06). Meets ACEA A3/B4 standards.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all M9DB models (2005–2010) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Full output requires RON 98 fuel (Ford TIS Doc. F26100).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F25890, F26012, SIB 07B06
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford M9DB was used across Ford's C170 platform with transverse mounting and shared under Ford's alliance with Volvo for longitudinal applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Focus ST and revised exhaust manifolds in the V50-and from 2008, updated tensioner hardware created interchange limits. Partnerships enabled shared engineering with Volvo's inline-five units. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Ford TIS F25901). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('B' for M9DB series). Pre-2008 models have silver cam covers with black intake manifolds; post-2008 units use black cam covers. Critical differentiation from Volvo B5254S: M9DB has a Ford-specific ECU (Siemens SID803) and transverse orientation, while Volvo units are longitudinally mounted. Service parts require production date verification - tensioner kits for engines before 06/2008 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (Ford SIB 07B06).
The M9DB's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-temperature or high-RPM operation. Internal Ford quality reports from 2007 noted a significant share of pre-2008 engines requiring tensioner replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalytic converter failures in urban-driven examples. Extended high-RPM use and delayed oil changes increase thermal and mechanical stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2006-2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD M9DB.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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FORD Official Site
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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
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VCA Certification Portal
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