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 see…
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 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.
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.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The M9DB offers engaging performance and smooth operation, but early models (2005-2007) had reliability concerns, particularly timing chain tensioner wear. Later revisions (post-2008) improved component durability, so well-maintained examples can exceed 200,000 km. Regular servicing and using correct oil (5W-30 Ford WSS-M2C913-D) are essential for longevity.
The most common issues are timing chain tensioner wear, intake manifold carbon buildup, knock sensor failures, and coolant leaks from the thermostat housing. These are documented in Ford service bulletins and field reports. Carbon buildup is more prevalent in short-trip driving, while tensioner issues are linked to oil quality and change intervals.
The M9DB was primarily used in the Ford Focus ST170 (2005-2008). It was also shared with Volvo under platform agreements, appearing in the S40 and V50 2.5i models (2005-2010). The engine was not used in other Ford passenger models in Europe.
Yes, though naturally aspirated, the M9DB responds well to performance modifications. ECU remaps, intake and exhaust upgrades, and camshaft swaps can yield gains of +30-50 kW. However, the engine's high-RPM nature means reliability depends on meticulous maintenance. Forced induction conversions are complex due to block and head design limitations.
Moderate. In the Focus ST170, official consumption is ~9.8 L/100km (city) and ~6.2 L/100km (highway), around 33 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures vary significantly with driving style—aggressive use can exceed 12 L/100km. Expect 28-34 mpg (UK) in mixed driving for a well-maintained example.
Yes. The M9DB is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons will contact open valves, resulting in severe internal damage. This makes tensioner and chain maintenance critical—any unusual rattle at startup should be investigated immediately.
Ford specifies a 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting Ford WSS-M2C913-D (or newer) specification. Use of correct oil is vital for timing chain lubrication and high-temperature protection. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or one year, whichever comes first, to ensure component longevity.
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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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