The Ford CGBB is a 1,596 cc, inline-three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2018. It forms part of Ford's EcoBoost engine family, featuring direct fuel injection, twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT), and an intercooled turbocharger. In standard tune it delivers 138 kW (187 PS) and 240 Nm of torque, providing a balance of responsive performance and fuel efficiency for compact and mid-size applications.
Fitted to models such as the Focus ST, Fiesta ST, and C-MAX, the CGBB was engineered for drivers seeking strong low-end torque and sporty throttle response. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing it to meet Euro 5 standards across its production run. The compact three-cylinder design contributes to reduced weight and improved fuel economy.
One documented concern is premature turbocharger bearing wear under sustained high-load operation, highlighted in Ford Service Action 15B07. This issue is often linked to oil flow restrictions from infrequent oil changes or non-compliant oil viscosity. Later production revisions included upgraded oil feed lines and enhanced turbo cooling protocols.

Production years 2010–2018 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Ford CGBB is a 1,596 cc inline-three turbocharged petrol engineered for performance-oriented compact models (2010-2018). It combines direct fuel injection with twin-independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT) and an intercooled turbocharger to deliver responsive throttle characteristics and strong mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances sporty performance with improved fuel efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,596 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-3, DOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged with intercooler | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.4 mm | |
| Power output | 138 kW (187 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1,600–5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | IHI IS20G with electronic wastegate | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (single-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 123 kg |
The turbocharged inline-three provides strong low-end torque ideal for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30) to prevent turbocharger oil coking and bearing wear. The HDEV5 high-pressure fuel pump demands premium unleaded fuel (RON 95 minimum) to prevent injector deposits and knock. Post-2015 models feature revised turbo oil feed lines; pre-2015 units should be inspected per Ford SIB 15B07. EGR system requires periodic cleaning to prevent manifold clogging and idle instability. Avoid prolonged idling after high-load operation to allow turbo cooldown.
Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C946-B (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 15 03 08). Meets Ford WSS-M2C946-A and ACEA C2/C3.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all production years (2010–2018) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 138 kW output requires RON 95+ fuel (Ford TIS Doc. B19015).
Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B18420, B18901, SIB 15 03 08, SIB 14 05 12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Ford CGBB was used across Ford's C1/C2 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Fiesta and reinforced engine mounts in the Focus ST-and from 2015 the facelifted Focus Mk3 models adopted revised turbo cooling protocols, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front timing cover near the alternator (Ford TIS B18450). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('G' for EcoBoost). Pre-2015 models have silver valve covers with black plastic intake manifolds; post-2015 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from non-turbo variants: CGBB features intercooler piping and turbocharger housing on the right side. Service parts require production date verification - turbo oil feed lines for engines before 06/2015 are incompatible with later units due to revision per Ford SIB 15B07.
The CGBB's primary reliability risk is turbocharger bearing wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-performance applications. Internal Ford quality reports from 2016 noted a significant number of pre-2015 units requiring turbo service before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalytic converter failures in urban-driven examples. Extended idling and use of non-premium fuel increase deposit formation, making oil quality and fuel specification adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2010-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD CGBB.
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