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Which Ford engines have a wet belt?

Ford engines with wet belts, also known as timing belts, are a specific type of engine design that utilizes a belt-driven system to synchronize the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft. This system is found in various Ford engine models and is known for its efficiency and durability.


What is a Wet Belt?


A wet belt, or timing belt, is a rubber-reinforced belt that connects the crankshaft and camshaft in an engine. Unlike a traditional timing chain, which is a metal chain, the wet belt is designed to be lubricated by the engine's oil. This lubrication helps to reduce wear and tear on the belt, extending its lifespan and improving the engine's overall reliability.


Ford Engines with Wet Belts


Several Ford engine models feature wet belt systems, including:



  • Ford Duratec engines: These engines, found in various Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury models, utilize a wet belt system to synchronize the camshaft and crankshaft.

  • Ford EcoBoost engines: The EcoBoost line of turbocharged engines, used in many Ford vehicles, also employ wet belt timing systems.

  • Ford Modular engines: The Modular engine family, which includes the 4.6L, 5.4L, and 6.8L V8 engines, utilizes wet belts for timing.


The use of wet belts in these Ford engines provides several benefits, including improved fuel efficiency, reduced maintenance requirements, and a quieter overall engine operation.


Maintenance and Replacement


Like any engine component, the wet belt in Ford engines will eventually need to be replaced. Ford recommends replacing the timing belt at specific mileage intervals, typically around 60,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on the engine model and driving conditions. Failure to replace the belt at the recommended interval can lead to catastrophic engine damage, as the belt is responsible for synchronizing the critical engine components.


It's important to follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule and have the wet belt inspected and replaced by a qualified mechanic to ensure the continued reliable operation of your Ford engine.

Is the 2.3 EcoBoost a wet belt?


Affected Models: The 1.0L EcoBoost uses a “wet belt” (timing belt running in oil), while the larger engines use timing chains.



What Ford engines use a wet belt?


The 1.0 litre EcoBoost engine has a wet timing belt instead of a traditional timing belt. Since 2012 this engine has been fitted to several Ford models including the Fiesta, Focus, Transit Connect Van and the B-Max.



Does the 1.5 EcoBoost have a wet belt?


Ford introduced wet timing belts in many of their EcoBoost engines, especially the 1.0L, 1.5L, and 1.6L variants. While this innovative approach has its advantages, it also comes with specific maintenance needs. Over time, oil exposure can degrade the material of the belt, leading to the need for timely replacement.



How do I know if my car has a wet belt?


Any Ford vehicle that features an Ecoboost or Ecoblue engine will have this troublesome belt inside. The best way to tell if your car is fitted with a wet belt is to check inside the engine. If it is fitted with a standard timing belt then it will be on the outside of the engine and should be visible when observing.



What year did Ford stop using wet belts?


Dear Customer, Ford Focus Ecoboost engines manufactured prior to 2019 used a wet belt for the camshaft drive, which runs inside the engine and requires periodic overhauls.



Which Ford engines to stay away from?


We'll be talking about the 2003 – 2007 Ford Super Duty 6.0-Liter Power Stroke V8 Engine, 2011 – 2023 5.0-Liter Coyote Naturally Aspirated V8 Engine, 2008 – 2010 Ford Super Duty 6.4-Liter Power Stroke Engine, 1986 – 1995 Ford 5.0-Liter (302 CID) EFI High Output V8 Engine, 1965 – 1977 V4 Essex Engine, 1965 – ...



Which Ford engines don't have a wet belt?


It's very limited in terms of wet belt avoidance unless you're looking for vehicles with bigger/slightly older engines. The only common variants in newer ones would be the - Ford Kuga 2.0L EcoBoost Petrol (Timing chain) and the 2.5L Duratec Hybrid (Petrol-electric hybrid with a timing chain).



Which models have a wet belt?


What Vehicles Have a Wet Belt Engine? Ford pioneered the EcoBoost wet belt engine, using it in popular models such as the Fiesta, Focus, and the ever-reliable Transit van. Soon, other manufacturers followed suit, including the French PSA Group (covering brands like Peugeot, Vauxhall, Citroën, Opel, and DS).



Are Ford recalling wet belts?


The BBC's consumer show Watchdog has been reporting problems associated with Ford EcoBoost engines for a while now. Recently, in February 2024, Watchdog pointed out that Ford issued a recall notice in December 2023 for certain EcoBoost models, including older Ford Focuses, due to a problematic wet belt.



How to tell if EcoBoost has a wet belt?


Any Ford vehicle that features an Ecoboost or Ecoblue engine will have this troublesome belt inside. The best way to tell if your car is fitted with a wet belt is to check inside the engine. If it is fitted with a standard timing belt then it will be on the outside of the engine and should be visible when observing.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.