The Ford M9R is a 2,993 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine co-developed with Renault and produced between 2008 and 2019. It features common rail direct injection (up to 1,800 bar), a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and DOHC 16-valve architecture. In standard configurations, it delivers 103–132 kW (140–180 PS), with peak torque ranging from 340 to 400 Nm, providing strong low-end pull ideal for commercial and high-load applications.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Transit (2006–2013), Transit Custom (2012–2018), and Ranger (2012–2018), the M9R was engineered for durability, fuel efficiency, and high-torque output in both commercial and off-road environments. Emissions compliance was achieved via cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection, enabling Euro 4, Euro 5, and later Euro 6 compliance depending on model year and calibration.
One documented reliability concern is premature turbocharger actuator failure, particularly in early Euro 5 variants. This issue, referenced in Ford Technical Service Bulletin SSM 14 07 01 (based on Renault PSA B14A077), is attributed to carbon buildup and thermal fatigue in the VGT control mechanism. From 2014, revised actuator designs and updated ECU mappings were implemented across Ford and Renault applications to improve longevity.
Production years 2008–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2015 models comply with Euro 5; 2016–2019 units meet Euro 6d-TEMP (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford M9R is a 2,993 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for light commercial vehicles and SUVs (2008–2019). It combines high-pressure common-rail injection with variable geometry turbocharging to deliver robust low-RPM torque and efficient load-carrying performance. Designed to meet Euro 4 through Euro 6 standards, it balances commercial-grade reliability with evolving emissions requirements.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,993 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (VGT) | |
| Bore × stroke | 96.0 mm × 103.0 mm | |
| Power output | 103–132 kW (140–180 PS) | |
| Torque | 340–400 Nm @ 1,500–2,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2.0 common-rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 to Euro 6d-TEMP | |
| Compression ratio | 16.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett GT1749V variable geometry turbo (VGT) | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (service interval: 180,000 km or 10 years) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C946-B1 (5W-30) or ACEA C3 | |
| Dry weight | 198 kg |
The M9R's VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for towing and commercial loads but requires strict adherence to 180,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic interference failure. Ford WSS-M2C946-B1 (5W-30) oil is essential to maintain turbocharger and high-pressure fuel system longevity. Extended idling and short trips increase EGR and DPF clogging risk, necessitating periodic highway regeneration. AdBlue system functionality must be maintained to avoid SCR-related limp mode. Turbo actuator failures in pre-2014 models are mitigated by updated hardware per Ford SSM 14 07 01.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C946-B1 (5W-30) specification (Ford SSM 14 07 01). Equivalent to ACEA C3; low-SAPS formulation critical for DPF protection.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to 2010–2015 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 6d-TEMP compliance verified for 2016–2019 models in UK market.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. 132 kW output requires Euro 5+ fuel quality and functional SCR system (Renault TDS M9R-ME17).
Renault Technical Documentation System (TDS): Docs M9R-ME17, M9R-ENG-001
Ford Technical Service Bulletins (SSM): SSM 14 07 01, MS-F27
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
Bosch Common Rail System CRS 2.0 Technical Manual
The Ford M9R was used across Ford's Transit, Transit Custom, and Ranger platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared with Renault under OEM partnership agreements. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-higher-torque calibration in the Ranger and SCR integration in Transit Custom-and from 2016 the Euro 6 update introduced dual-loop EGR and revised AdBlue dosing, creating interchange limits. Partnerships enabled shared development with Renault's M9R units in Master and Alaskan models. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block near the starter motor (Renault TDS M9R-ME17). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('K' for M9R series in Ford applications). Pre-2014 models use a single EGR valve and Bosch EDC17C64 ECU; post-2016 Euro 6 units feature dual-loop EGR and Continental EDC17CP54. Critical differentiation from earlier Duratorq units: M9R has a rear-mounted timing belt cover and integrated AdBlue injector in the exhaust manifold. Service parts require model-year verification—turbo actuators and ECUs are not interchangeable between Euro 5 and Euro 6 calibrations (Ford SSM 14 07 01).
The M9R's primary reliability risk is turbocharger actuator failure on early Euro 5 models, with elevated incidence in urban and stop-start applications. Internal Ford field reports from 2015 indicated over 12% of pre-2014 units required actuator replacement before 150,000 km, while VCA MOT data shows EGR and DPF faults as leading causes of emissions-related failures in commercial fleets. Frequent short trips and poor regeneration cycles increase carbon buildup, making regular highway driving and AdBlue system maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2010–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014–2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD M9R.
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