The Ford KA24 is a 2,389 cc, inline — four petrol engine produced between 1989 and 1999. It was developed as part of a collaboration between Ford and Nissan, utilising Nissan's robust KA — series architecture. This naturally aspirated engine features a cast — iron block, aluminium head, and belt — driven SOHC valvetrain. It delivered 100 kW (136 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, providing reliable performance for medium — duty applications.
Fitted to vehicles such as the Ford Probe (f…
Production years 1989–1999 meet Euro 1 standards .
The Ford KA24 is a 2,389 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for coupe and light-commercial applications (1989–1999). It combines Nissan-derived architecture with Ford tuning to deliver smooth power delivery and mechanical resilience. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions, it balances reliability with everyday drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,389 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 96.0 mm | |
Power output | 100 kW (136 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
Torque | 200 Nm @ 4,400 rpm | |
Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Belt-driven (camshaft and water pump) | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 145 kg |
The Ford KA24 was used across Ford's GE platform with longitudinal mounting and derived from Nissan's KA-series engine family under technical licensing. This engine received Ford-specific calibration and emissions tuning-and from 1995 revised water pump materials were introduced following Service Action 97/56, creating service part interchange limits. Partnerships allowed shared service tooling and documentation under joint Ford-Nissan engineering agreements. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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Field reports and technical service bulletins highlight component wear patterns under high-load operation. Adherence to manufacturer service intervals and approved fluid specifications is critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from manufacturer technical service bulletins and industry workshop records. 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 KA24 is mechanically robust and durable when properly maintained. However, pre-1995 models are prone to timing belt failure due to water pump seizure. Later revisions addressed this with improved pump materials. Regular timing belt service at 60,000 km and use of correct coolant significantly improve longevity. Well-maintained units often exceed 200,000 km.
The main issues are timing belt failure from water pump seizure, coolant leaks due to degraded pump seals, EGR system coking, and valve cover oil leaks. These are documented in Ford SIB 97/56 and Nissan service advisories. Preventative maintenance is key to avoiding major repairs.
The KA24 was used in the first-generation Ford Probe (1989–1993) and Telstar (1991–1995). It was also installed in certain European-market Ford Transit vans as a low-power petrol option. The engine is Nissan-sourced and also appears in Maxima and Stanza models.
Limited tuning potential exists due to SOHC 8-valve design and low compression. Intake/exhaust upgrades and ECU remapping can yield modest gains (~10-15%). However, the engine's strength lies in reliability, not performance. Over-revving or aggressive tuning risks valve train damage due to non-adjustable hydraulic lifters.
Moderate. In a Ford Probe 2.4i, combined consumption is ~9.8 L/100km (29 mpg UK). City driving may reach 12 L/100km (24 mpg), while highway cruising can achieve 8.5 L/100km (33 mpg). Fuel quality has minimal impact due to conservative tuning and port injection system.
Yes. The KA24 is an interference engine. If the timing belt breaks or jumps, the pistons can contact open valves, causing bent valves or damaged pistons. Immediate attention to any belt noise or coolant leak is essential to prevent catastrophic engine failure.
Ford specifies SAE 10W-40 mineral or synthetic-blend oil meeting API SL standards. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or one year. Using correct oil ensures adequate lubrication for the hydraulic lifters and timing components, reducing wear in high-temperature operation.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
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
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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