The Ford 169A1000 is a 1,596 cc, inline-three petrol engine produced between 2013 and 2018. It forms part of Ford's EcoBoost family, featuring turbocharging and direct fuel injection to deliver responsive performance and improved fuel efficiency. This engine was engineered with a focus on compact packaging and thermal efficiency, supporting Ford's downsizing strategy across its B- and C-segment vehicles.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Fiesta (Mk7), Ford Focus (Mk3), and Ford C-MAX, the 169A1000 was designed for urban and mixed driving conditions, balancing drivability with emissions compliance. It achieves Euro 5 compliance through precise direct injection, cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and a close-coupled catalytic converter. The compact three-cylinder layout contributes to reduced engine mass and improved cabin packaging.
One documented concern is premature turbocharger bearing wear observed in early production units, particularly in high-temperature operating environments. This issue, referenced in Ford Service Action 15S08, is attributed to marginal oil flow under sustained high-load conditions. From 2015, revised oil feed lines and upgraded turbo housings were implemented to improve lubrication and durability.
Production years 2013–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2018 models comply with Euro 6b depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford 169A1000 is a 1,596 cc inline-three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and subcompact models (2013–2018). It combines direct fuel injection with turbocharging to deliver responsive low-end torque and efficient highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 5 and later Euro 6b standards, it balances everyday performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,596 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-3, DOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.4 mm | |
| Power output | 103–110 kW (140–150 PS) | |
| Torque | 200–240 Nm @ 1,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (pre-2015); Euro 6b (2015–2018) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (Honeywell GT1246) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (integrated front cover) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The single-scroll turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent turbo bearing and timing chain wear. Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) oil is critical due to its high-temperature stability and compatibility with the direct injection system. Extended idling and short trips can lead to carbon buildup on intake valves due to absence of fuel washing. The Bosch HDEV5 fuel pump demands consistent fuel quality meeting EN 228 standards to prevent injector coking. Post-2015 models feature improved oil feed lines; pre-2015 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 15S08. EGR and catalytic converter systems require periodic cleaning to maintain efficiency and prevent DTCs.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 15S08). Supersedes ACEA A1/B1 and A5/B5.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to pre-2015 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 6b compliance applies to 2015–2018 builds depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 110 kW output requires premium fuel (RON 98) (Ford TIS Doc. A32150).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A32100, A32105, A32110, SIB 15S08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford 169A1000 was used across Ford's Mk7 Fiesta/Mk3 Focus platforms with transverse mounting and front-wheel drive. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Fiesta and revised cooling layouts in the C-MAX-and from 2015 the facelifted Focus ST-Line models adopted the 169A1000 with sport-tuned engine mounts and revised ECU mapping, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block near the starter motor (Ford TIS A32100). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('D' for 1.6L EcoBoost). Pre-2015 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2015 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from 169A1001: Original 169A1000 uses Honeywell GT1246 turbo with cast iron manifold, while 169A1001 uses BorgWarner unit with integrated exhaust housing. Service parts require production date verification - turbo oil feed lines before 06/2015 are incompatible with later units due to revised routing and fittings (Ford SIB 15S08).
The 169A1000's primary reliability risk is turbocharger bearing wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-temperature and stop-start urban use. Internal Ford quality reports from 2016 noted increased turbo failures in units operating in ambient temperatures above 35°C, while UK DVSA records show a notable portion of emissions-related MOT failures linked to EGR clogging in city-driven examples. Frequent short trips and delayed oil changes increase turbo and intake stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2013-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD 169A1000.
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)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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