The Ford SHO is a 2,997 cc, V6 twin-turbo petrol engine introduced in 2023 as a high-performance variant within Ford’s EcoBoost family. It features a DOHC 24‑valve layout, direct fuel injection, and twin twin‑scroll turbochargers with an integrated intercooler. In standard form it produces 272–294 kW (370–400 PS) with torque between 510–560 Nm, offering aggressive mid‑range thrust and sustained high‑rpm power.
Fitted exclusively to the Ford Explorer ST and Edge ST in select global markets, the SHO was engineered for performance SUV applications requiring strong towing and dynamic response. Emissions compliance is achieved through a gasoline particulate filter (GPF), cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and precise lambda control, enabling full Euro 6d certification from launch (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/10511).
One documented concern is premature wear of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) cam lobes on the intake camshafts, noted in Ford Service Bulletin TSB‑24‑1105. This stems from high-frequency actuation under sustained boost and marginal lubrication during aggressive driving. Ford addressed this in Q1 2025 by revising camshaft metallurgy and updating the HPFP drive profile via ECU calibration.
All production years (2023–present) meet Euro 6d standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/10511).
The Ford SHO is a 2,997 cc V6 twin-turbo petrol engineered for performance SUV applications (2023–present). It combines direct injection with twin twin-scroll turbochargers to deliver aggressive low-end torque and sustained high-rpm power. Designed to meet Euro 6d from launch, it balances sporty character with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,997 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (ULP 98 RON min) | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged (twin‑scroll) | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 272–294 kW (370–400 PS) | |
| Torque | 510–560 Nm @ 2,500–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDP6 high‑pressure direct injection (up to 350 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled with dual electric pumps and auxiliary oil cooler | |
| Turbocharger | Twin twin‑scroll (Honeywell Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted, maintenance‑free design) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS‑M2C949‑A (SAE 0W‑20) | |
| Dry weight | 210 kg |
The twin-turbo V6 provides aggressive throttle response and strong towing capability but demands high-quality 98 RON unleaded petrol to prevent knock and HPFP wear. Oil must meet Ford WSS-M2C949-A (0W-20) to ensure GPF compatibility and proper chain lubrication. Extended high-load operation (e.g., towing or track use) without cooldown periods can accelerate cam lobe wear—Ford recommends post-drive idle for 60–90 seconds after aggressive use. The GPF requires occasional highway driving (>60 km/h for 20+ minutes) to enable passive regeneration. Early SHO units (pre-01/2025) should be inspected for HPFP cam lobe wear per TSB‑24‑1105.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-A (0W-20) specification (Ford Owner’s Manual). Not interchangeable with older 5W-30 specs.
Emissions: Full Euro 6d compliance from launch (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/10511).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 294 kW output requires 98 RON fuel for durability (Ford TIS Doc. F25‑6130).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F25‑6102, F25‑6105, TSB‑24‑1105
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/10511)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford SHO was used exclusively in Ford's CD6 platform SUVs with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—enhanced cooling and reinforced mounts in the Explorer ST—and from Q1 2025 the Edge ST adopted updated ECU calibration for cam lobe durability, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crank pulley (Ford TIS F25‑6005). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine displacement ('S' for 3.0L V6 EcoBoost). All SHO engines feature a black plastic intake manifold with “3.0 EC BOOST V6” embossed and twin intercooler pipes. Critical differentiation from earlier 3.0L V6 EcoBoost (e.g., M2DA): SHO uses updated Bosch ECU (ME17.5.46) and revised HPFP cam lobe geometry. Early vs. late camshaft: Pre-01/2025 units use standard cam lobes; post-date use nitrided steel per Ford TSB‑24‑1105.
The SHO's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) cam lobe wear on both intake camshafts under sustained high-load or aggressive driving conditions. Ford internal data from 2024 indicated elevated HPFP-related warranty claims in pre-Q1-2025 builds, while UK DVSA records show minimal emissions-related failures due to robust GPF control. Aggressive driving without cooldown cycles and marginal fuel quality amplify wear, making fuel specification and post-drive idle critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2023–2025) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2023–2025). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD SHO.
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